[Remuneration for HPV Vaccination Service in Germany - A Relevant Factor for the HPV Immunization Rate?]

Although HPV vaccination has been recommended in Germany since 2007, vaccination rates for completed HPV vaccination series are still low and there are significant regional differences. Remuneration for vaccination services is being discussed as one of the factors influencing the HPV vaccination rate in Germany. However, data on remuneration of HPV vaccination services show significant differences regarding the amount and way of remuneration depending on the Statutory Health Insurance region in Germany which are not obviously associated with the regional vaccination rate. This suggests that currently the remuneration of HPV vaccination services does not play a significant role in HPV immunization rates. In order to increase HPV vaccination rates, other interventions that have been shown to be effective for this purpose should therefore be prioritized, with policy supporting a comprehensive approach through legislation, the creation of structural frameworks and the provision of resources.