Unfortunately, misinformation, myths, and misconceptions about the efficacy and safety of vaccinations often contribute to vaccination hesitancy. Vaccine hesitancy is defined as the reluctance or refusal to obtain a vaccination despite the availability of vaccinations. The literature reveals that factors influencing whether an individual decides not to obtain a vaccination may be complex and multifactorial. A lack of confidence in vaccination efficacy and safety, fear/concerns about the components of vaccines and adverse effects, and personal beliefs and attitudes about vaccination are often cited as examples of principal factors that contribute to vaccination hesitancy. Barriers to vaccination also contribute to low vaccination rates and may be classified as personal, provider, or health system–related.
A recent article in Human Vaccinations and Immunotherapeutics revealed that barriers impacting vaccination uptake among at-risk populations include the lack of awareness about recommended routine vaccinations, safety concerns, limited access to healthcare, costs associated with vaccination, absence of insurance coverage, and insufficient provider recommendations. The authors also noted that these barriers represent missed opportunities for vaccination of individuals in at-risk populations, and implementing continued education, clear guideline recommendations, and policies may foster vaccination uptake.
By using evidence-based information, pharmacists can educate patients about vaccinations, dispel common myths and misconceptions, and alleviate concerns about adverse effects. Recommendations from pharmacists can aid in augmenting vaccination rates and combating vaccination hesitancy.
Pharmacists are well poised to identify and address vaccination hesitancy and barriers. When counseling patients about vaccinations, pharmacists can:
• Utilize open-ended questions to identify patient concerns and fears and address these issues by providing evidence-based safety and efficacy data
• Describe the purpose of vaccinations and provide information regarding the benefits versus risks of not getting vaccinated
• Discuss potential adverse effects associated with the vaccination and the recommended management and employ fact sheets available from the CDC or other reputable health organizations, such as the Immunization Action Coalition, as patient-education tools
• Establish trust with patients by sharing personal experiences with vaccinations
• Provide personalized recommendations based on patients' medical history and address any questions that they may have
• Advise patients to consult their primary healthcare provider to discuss their individual vaccination needs.
By actively engaging patients in conversation, pharmacists can educate individuals about vaccinations by highlighting clinical benefits and addressing concerns about risks, which will enable them to make informed decisions. By identifying and addressing common myths and misconceptions and expanding awareness, pharmacists can encourage patients to receive the recommended vaccinations, ultimately improving overall health and well-being and reducing the incidence and related complications associated with vaccination-preventable diseases.
The experts from the Healthy People 2030 initiative indicate that educating patients about the importance of vaccinations, assessing individual vaccination status, sending reminders about vaccinations, and making vaccinations more accessible are critical to increasing vaccination rates, especially among adults.
The content contained in this article is for informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. Reliance on any information provided in this article is solely at your own risk.
