Influenza has the potential to kill vulnerable populations, especially those in hospitals. The National Advisory Committee on Immunization of Canada suggests that health-care workers (HCW) be vaccinated against influenza in order to prevent infecting high-risk populations. However, influenza vaccination rates among healthcare workers remain low. Health officials in British Columbia (B.C.) established a province-wide influenza prevention strategy in 2012, requiring HCW to be vaccinated or wear a mask when in patient-care areas throughout the influenza season. This article presents the second of two studies that focused on what was learnt during the policy’s second and third years. This policy implementation event was investigated using a case study method. Data from interviews and documents were analysed using framework analysis and Prior’s method, respectively. Policy implementation differed by geographic location, and gaps in vaccination tracking and noncompliance punishment remain. The debate about the scientific data used to justify the programme drives opposition from some organisations. Despite these obstacles, data indicate that the policy has become habitual, owing primarily to persistent policy aims.
The necessity of continuing inter-professional and cross-sectoral programme assessment is emphasised in this study. While adherence may be normal for many, implementation processes must continue to adapt to contextual challenges in order to close the gap in policy implementation and to involve stakeholders in order to assure compliance.
Reference: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/21645515.2019.1692561
