In order to ensure the availability of influenza vaccine for administration early in the fall of 2004, physicians and providers should begin to order supplies of influenza vaccine immediately. Last year, large numbers of cases of influenza began to appear in October, and activity was widespread. Anticipation of increased demand for vaccine in the fall of 2004 makes it imperative that physicians and providers who care for Medicare beneficiaries and others at high risk for complications from influenza begin to prepare for the 2004-2005 influenza season immediately.
While the recently enacted Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement and Modernization Act of 2003 changed the Medicare payments for many covered drugs and biologicals, the basis for Medicare payment of influenza vaccine will continue to be 95% of the average wholesale price.