Vaccine hesitancy among health paraprofessionals: A mixed methods study

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Vaccinology
• Healthcare Workforce Studies

Background:

• Vaccine hesitancy is a significant global health threat.
• Healthcare paraprofessionals are crucial patient-facing staff.
• Mandates during the COVID-19 pandemic impacted healthcare employees.

Purpose of the Study:

• To survey healthcare paraprofessionals on vaccine attitudes.
• To explore opinions on general and COVID-19 vaccines specifically.

Main Methods:

• A 25-question, mixed-methods, cross-sectional email survey was conducted.
• Participants were recruited from a non-profit organization's mailing list in the Midwest.
• The organization supports healthcare paraprofessionals in direct patient care.

Main Results:

• Respondents were generally informed about vaccines and used credible resources.
• Physicians and pharmacists were identified as trusted information sources.
• Qualitative data revealed qualified support for vaccines and problematic communication.

Conclusions:

• Healthcare paraprofessionals generally hold positive vaccine attitudes but express concerns.
• Concerns focus on the quality and communication of vaccine information.
• Additional vaccine-related continuing professional development is indicated for this group.