The flu affects millions of people each year and can lead to absenteeism, serious illness, or even death. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one of the best ways to prevent the flu is by getting vaccinated each year.
Did you know flu shots are FREE for medical plan members?
In conjunction with the Affordable Care Act (ACA), Preventive Services are covered at 100% by all health plans. When performed in a clinical setting, most health plans currently include flu shots as a preventive care service. In addition, many PPO and HDHP/HSA members can obtain their vaccine at a number of retail locations, making this benefit a very convenient option!
What can employers do to ensure their employees have been vaccinated?
Although it may be covered by your medical plan, the perceived inconvenience of making an appointment or travel time to and from the pharmacy often leads employees to skip getting their flu shots. With that in mind, many employers are sponsoring onsite flu vaccination clinics in efforts to maintain a healthy workforce. The increased demand from employees, coupled with the abundance of vendor options available, may understandably lead to confusion as to which solution makes sense.
Several factors influence the decision for a specific flu shot vendor, including office size, geographic location, health plan offering, cost of administering the vaccine, and time-constraints (to name a few). The following vendor comparison was designed to assist employers in determining which vendor may best fit the needs of their unique culture and criteria.
