Abstract
<h3>Purpose</h3> As the COVID pandemic continues, transplant (Tx) and left ventricular assist device (LVAD) programs have been forced to contend with the challenges of vaccine hesitancy. To guide discussions regarding vaccine requirement, we sought to define provider perspectives and institutional policies. <h3>Methods</h3> We distributed a 5-question electronic survey from 9/17 - 9/24/21 to Tx and LVAD providers in the US. <h3>Results</h3> A total of 121 respondents completed the survey, which included Cardiologists (n = 77), Cardiac Surgeons (n =12), Advanced Practice Providers and Coordinators (n = 24), as well as other advanced heart failure team members (n = 8). 113 responses included geographic data, which was converted to Midwest, Northeast, Southeast, Southwest and West for regional comparison. Statistically significant regional variation was noted in COVID vaccine requirements for patients in order to be listed for transplant and those that are active on the transplant list [Figure]. The highest proportion of vaccine requirements for patients active on the transplant list were noted in the Northeast and Southwest (69% and 64%). The lowest proportion of vaccine requirements were noted in the Midwest, Southeast, and West (29%, 34%, and 35%). Providers in the Northeast were noted to have a significantly higher rate of requiring vaccination for patients active on the Tx list when compared to providers in all the other regions (69% vs. 37%, p = 0.026) and a trend towards having a vaccination requirement to be listed (63% vs. 36%, p=0.057). There were no regional differences observed in requiring potential LVAD recipients or caregivers to be vaccinated. When asked if they would favor a vaccine requirement for these populations, the overwhelming majority of respondents answered in the affirmative, however there were no differences noted based on region. <h3>Conclusion</h3> COVID vaccination requirements across LVAD and Tx programs vary by region, policies remain heterogeneous despite positive provider perspectives towards vaccination.
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