Dr. Moore of Nationwide maintains that immunization is the most cost-effective treatment in medicine. for example, vaccinating children against the influenza virus averages a savings (including health care costs, parents’ missed work, etc.) of up to $35 per vaccine recipient.

And experts predict that estimate is low, because it doesn’t take into account the rapid spread of the flu.

The American Association of Family Doctors’ Web site, www.aafp.org, offers a recommended adult immunization schedule developed by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices.

This schedule, tiered by age and chances of exposure, recommends diphtheria, tetanus, influenza, pneumonococcal, hepatitis B, hepatitis C, measles, mumps and rubella, varicella and meningococcal vaccinations.

Ideas to incorporate prevention and early detection –  

• Hold a health fair and invite organizations that provide screening services for such conditions as blood pressure, blood iron, cholesterol, BMI  and diabetes.

• Offer educational materials about well-baby care and immunizations.

• Pick healthcare coverage plans that include wellness check-ups and immunizations.

• Offer onsite mammograms for staff members.

• Sponsor on-site flu shots to coincide with flu season.