Addressing Vaccine Hesitancy with Motivational Interviewing: A Pilot Study

Abstract

Statement of the problem: The unprecedented 2019 Measles outbreaks in the US and the current COVID 19 global pandemic highlight the necessity of addressing vaccine hesitancy. Improving vaccine confidence requires strategic communication approaches that focus on addressing the complex reasons for vaccine hesitancy. Purpose: The purpose of this project was to improve both provider’s understanding of the complex factors involved in vaccine hesitancy and confidence in using motivational interviewing to address vaccine hesitancy. Intervention: An educational presentation for advanced practice nurses was conducted with the purpose of highlighting the benefits of using motivational interviewing in vaccine hesitant patients. Results: The presentation to nurse practitioners in San Diego led to improvement in ability to assess for vaccine hesitancy and improvement in knowledge of motivational interviewing. Conclusions: This project shows that continued research into effective interventions is a necessary approach in confronting the complex challenges of vaccine hesitancy.