Degree Type
Open Access Capstone
Publication Date
Summer 8-23-2026
Abstract
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) causes substantial morbidity, hospitalization, and mortality among older adults, yet vaccination uptake remains low in Massachusetts. Current Massachusetts data indicate that only 13.4% of adults aged 50–74 years and 41.7% of adults aged 75 years and older have ever received an RSV vaccine (Mass.gov, 2026).
Disparities in RSV vaccination are also associated with socioeconomic and demographic characteristics, suggesting that populations experiencing greater social vulnerability may be less likely to receive this preventive service (Gaffney et al., 2024; Surie et al., 2025). At the same time, RSV vaccination provides meaningful protection against severe disease. A multicenter study of 6,958 adults aged 60 years and older found that one RSV vaccine dose was 58% effective against RSV-associated hospitalization over two RSV seasons and 72% effective against invasive mechanical ventilation or death (Surie et al., 2025).
This policy brief recommends that Upham’s Corner Health Center (UCHC), a community-based healthcare facility in Boston, Massachusetts, implement a standardized, team-based RSV vaccination workflow for eligible older adults. The policy would combine EHR-based identification, standardized provider recommendations, standing orders, same-visit vaccination, culturally appropriate education, and targeted outreach. This approach would reduce missed vaccination opportunities, improve health equity, and integrate RSV prevention into routine primary care
Recommended Citation
APA
Comments
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