Mass Vaccinations at the United States Naval Academy
Abstract
We analyzed the mass influenza vaccination clinic process at the United States Naval Academy to identify gaps and implement changes for improvement. The Lean Six Sigma methodology was employed. Total number of staff members working the clinic and total hours worked were measured at baseline in August 2013 and after implementation in August 2014 to determine improvement. The clinic was moved from a hallway to an auditorium, and a linear patient flow was established. Staff members wore vests for easy identification, and the supply box was reorganized. Training was standardized and given to all staff members before working in the clinic. These changes decreased the number of staff members required to work in the clinic from 62 to 40 (–35.5%) and decreased the total number of hours worked from 558 to 360 (–35.5%). The changes successfully improved the mass vaccination clinic by decreasing staffing and hours required. These changes can be adopted in other settings to increase community capacity and readiness.
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Copyright 2016, Mary Ann Liebert, Inc.
History
Published in print: November/December 2016
Published online: 1 December 2016
Published ahead of print: 10 November 2016
Accepted: 6 July 2016
Revision received: 24 June 2016
Received: 3 March 2016
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