[Voluntary inoculation of hepatitis B vaccine at pediatric medical institutions]

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Public Health
• Vaccinology

Background:

• Hepatitis B (HB) vaccination is critical for preventing liver disease.
• Voluntary vaccination policies present challenges in achieving high immunization rates.
• Understanding pediatricians' perspectives on HB vaccination is essential for improving public health strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess pediatricians' current practices and attitudes regarding voluntary hepatitis B (HB) vaccination for children.
• To identify barriers and facilitators influencing HB vaccine recommendation by healthcare providers.
• To determine desired changes in vaccination policies and support systems.

Main Methods:

• A questionnaire survey was administered to healthcare providers at 79 pediatric clinics.
• Data collected included vaccination rates, target populations, recommendation strategies, and perceived challenges.
• Analysis focused on current practices, desired vaccination targets, and requests for policy or informational support.

Main Results:

• The voluntary hepatitis B (HB) vaccination rate was 65.2%.
• 84.8% of clinics desired universal infant vaccination, yet 80.0% recommended vaccination only upon patient request.
• Barriers included the voluntary nature of vaccination (38.9%), with key requests for expanded routine vaccination (60.9%) and enhanced information dissemination (54.3%).

Conclusions:

• Pediatricians largely support universal hepatitis B (HB) vaccination but face challenges due to voluntary policies.
• Active recommendation strategies and addressing parental concerns are vital for increasing vaccine uptake.
• Policy changes, such as expanding the scope of routine vaccination, and improved information provision are necessary.