Primary care professionals' support for Covid-19 vaccination mandates: Findings from a US national survey

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Infectious Disease Epidemiology
• Healthcare Policy

Background:

• Healthcare organizations rapidly adopted COVID-19 vaccine mandates to combat the pandemic.
• Pediatric primary care professionals (PCPs) play a crucial role in public health initiatives.
• Understanding PCP perspectives on vaccine mandates is vital for effective implementation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the level of support for COVID-19 vaccine mandates among U.S. pediatric primary care professionals (PCPs).
• To identify factors associated with PCPs' support for vaccine mandates for healthcare workers.

Main Methods:

• A national online survey was conducted in February-March 2021.
• 1,047 PCPs (71% physicians) participated in the survey.
• Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to assess correlates of support for vaccine mandates.

Main Results:

• A significant majority of PCPs (83%) supported COVID-19 vaccine mandates for healthcare workers.
• Support was higher among PCPs who perceived healthcare workers at highest risk for COVID-19.
• Clinic vaccination recommendations and requirements strongly correlated with increased support for mandates.
• Conversely, clinic-offered incentives for vaccination were associated with decreased support.

Conclusions:

• Pediatric primary care professionals largely support COVID-19 vaccine mandates for healthcare workers.
• Clinic-level policies, such as recommendations and requirements, can bolster support for mandates.
• Incentive programs might inadvertently reduce support by suggesting alternatives to mandates.