How can a medical educational initiative address the evolving problem of vaccine hesitancy?

Abstract

Background Current surveillance data suggests that vaccine coverage rates (VCRs) in children are declining, potentially contributing towards outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases at levels not commonplace in the UK in recent years. This observed decline in VCRs can be attributed to a number of reasons, one of which is the increasing momentum in vaccine hesitancy. Insights we have obtained from healthcare professionals (HCPs) demonstrated a paucity of accessible medical education specifically addressing this complex issue. This led Sanofi Pasteur to develop a contemporary, non-promotional ‘Vaccination Educational Initiative’ for HCPs, called Lumiere, part of which focuses on increasing vaccine confidence and addressing vaccine hesitancy. Objective Equip HCPs with evidence-based techniques which help them address the concerns of the public and improve vaccine confidence amongst patients. Method Five symposia were held across the UK. The faculty comprised both academic experts and specialist nurses with relevant clinical experience who presented proven techniques that can help increase vaccine confidence. Attendee feedback from the first symposium suggested additional examples on how to apply these techniques in clinical practice would be helpful. Subsequent symposia were modified to include real life cases. Summary of results The symposia attracted a total of 443 attendees of which 37% (162) completed evaluation forms. 92% of respondents rated the symposia as good or excellent with 93% indicating they would change clinical practice based on their learnings. From the initial roll out of Lumiere we have demonstrated that medical education can help support HCPs play an active role in restoring vaccine confidence.