Understanding Vaccine Hesitancy at Montefiore Medical Center: Implications for Public Health Preparedness

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Epidemiology
• Health Services Research

Background:

• Vaccine hesitancy among healthcare workers (HCWs) presents a significant public health challenge, especially during health crises.
• Understanding factors influencing HCW vaccination decisions is crucial for effective public health strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the determinants of vaccine hesitancy among HCWs at Montefiore Medical Center.
• To inform the development of targeted vaccination campaigns and enhance public health initiatives.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of electronic health record (HER) data (2021-2023) from Montefiore Medical Center.
• Linear logistic and multiple regression analyses correlating demographic variables (age, race, job category, residence) with influenza and COVID-19 vaccine uptake.
• Inclusion of 21,331 diverse HCWs, with imputation for missing demographic data.

Main Results:

• Prior influenza vaccination was associated with a 6.2% increased likelihood of COVID-19 vaccine uptake.
• Younger HCWs and Black/biracial employees showed higher vaccine hesitancy.
• Asian HCWs demonstrated higher vaccine acceptance rates.

Conclusions:

• Personalized communication and educational interventions are vital for addressing vaccine hesitancy in specific HCW demographics.
• Enhancing trust and transparency is essential for increasing vaccine acceptance and achieving public health goals.