Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association (BCBSA) and several Blue Cross and Blue Shield companies, in support of National Influenza Vaccination Week (December 4-10, 2011), support efforts to raise awareness about the importance of getting vaccinated against the flu and increasing vaccination rates overall — especially among minorities, the uninsured, and the elderly, a press released issued by the company states.
"While vaccination coverage continues to increase, it is important that we take steps to remove any barriers and provide additional and coordinated resources to increase the availability of seasonal flu vaccinations for uninsured and underserved populations," Dr. Allan Korn, BCBSA senior vice president and chief medical officer, said, according to the press release.
"We commend efforts such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) National Influenza Vaccination Week and other national and local initiatives that address misconceptions around vaccination risks, and for promoting greater access to vaccinations and sharing information about vaccine availability."
According to the press release, several Blue Cross and Blue Shield companies have implemented seasonal flu vaccination initiatives targeting the uninsured, underinsured and minorities. Some of the initiatives include:
