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Physicians' attitudes and behaviors regarding hepatitis B immunization
1Division of Family Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles.
The Journal of Family Practice
|February 1, 1993
Summary
Many physicians, especially residents, received hepatitis B vaccination (HBV). Offering HBV vaccination programs effectively reduces infection risk, but targeted efforts are needed for fully trained physicians.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Infectious Diseases
- Occupational Health
Background:
- Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infections pose a significant public health risk in the US, with around 18,000 reported cases annually.
- Vaccination rates among healthcare providers remain suboptimal, ranging from 17% to 68%.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify key factors influencing HBV vaccination uptake among physicians in an academic medical center.
- To assess physician attitudes and concerns regarding HBV vaccination post-recombinant vaccine introduction.
Main Methods:
- A survey was administered to 1282 house staff and attending physicians at a university medical center.
- Vaccination history, physician characteristics, attitudes, and concerns were compared between vaccinated and non-vaccinated groups.
Main Results:
- Out of 813 respondents, 54% were vaccinated against HBV.
- Vaccination rates were highest among early-career residents (91.9%) and lowest among attending physicians (32.2%).
- Physician sex, years since graduation, training level, specialty, and vaccine offer were significant predictors of vaccination status.
Conclusions:
- Physician HBV vaccination rates are higher in earlier training stages within academic medical centers.
- Programs offering HBV vaccination can effectively decrease infection risk for healthcare professionals.
- Targeted strategies are essential to improve vaccination coverage among physicians who have completed their training.