Recommendations for innovation in vaccination services for adults with haematological malignancies: an Australian...

People affected by haematological malignancies are at high risk of vaccine-preventable diseases due to the immunosuppressive effects of their cancer, treatment and reduced immunogenicity. However, evidence suggests that members of this population suboptimally complete suggested vaccination schedules during and after treatment. This study was undertaken to identify barriers, enablers, and preferences to vaccination to inform service innovation.

An online cross-sectional survey was disseminated in Australia. A non-probabilistic sample of people who had received treatment for a haematological malignancy were invited to take part via advertisements through relevant support organisations. The survey was specifically designed from previous research undertaken by the authorship team and comprised 5 sections and 30 short answer, single and multiple choice, and rating items. Topics explored included: participant characteristics, experiences of primary care and vaccination, perceptions of barriers and enablers, and preferences regarding vaccination delivery models. All quantitative survey items were analysed descriptively and presented in tables and graphs as appropriate. Qualitative open-text items were analysed using content analysis.

A total of 87 responses were included in analysis. Survey responses confirmed that financial and time costs of vaccinations were considerable barriers to uptake, and concerns regarding fear of side effects and reduced immunogenicity were common. While people saw potential convenience benefits of shared care models, remaining linked into specialist care was perceived to be crucial. Findings were synthesised to produce recommendations.

This study has generated world-first evidence investigating the barriers, enablers, and preferences of people affected by haematological malignancies regarding vaccination to inform more acceptable, accessible, and appropriate models of delivery.