Publication Date
5-1-2025
DOI
10.31986/issn.2578.3343_vol6iss1.5
First Page
32
Last Page
38
Abstract
ABSTRACT
Background: Immunization rates among pediatric patients are declining, largely due to growing vaccine hesitancy among parents and guardians. Addressing public health concerns related to vaccines is critical to preventing a significant reduction in vaccination coverage.
Objective: This critical review examines the effectiveness of training physicians in communication strategies, such as motivational interviewing, on improving vaccine acceptance.
Methods: A systematic search was conducted in PubMed using MeSH terms “Training AND (Motivational Interviewing OR Online Systems) AND Vaccination Hesitancy NOT COVID-19.” The search yielded 26 results, from which 7 studies met the inclusion criteria for full-text review, focusing on training interventions aimed at addressing vaccine hesitancy among healthcare providers.
Results: The studies reviewed consistently reported that training programs focusing on motivational interviewing significantly improve physicians' ability to communicate effectively with vaccine-hesitant parents. Providers trained in MI showed increased confidence, better patient engagement, and greater proficiency in addressing concerns, which contributed to higher vaccine acceptance rates among parents. Furthermore, the review identified that longer, repeated training sessions had a more sustained impact on providers' skill retention and application.
Conclusion: Training healthcare providers in motivational interviewing and tailored communication strategies appears to be a valuable approach for addressing vaccine hesitancy. By equipping physicians with the necessary skills and confidence, these programs may help bridge the gap between parental concerns and scientific evidence, ultimately improving immunization rates among pediatric populations. Future research should focus on standardizing training formats and evaluating long-term outcomes to enhance the applicability and effectiveness of such interventions.
Recommended Citation
Fasano, Brooke M.; Ameda, Chelsey; and Ruiz, Juan G.
(2025)
"Addressing Pediatric Vaccine Hesitancy Through Medical Education: A Critical Review,"
Cooper Rowan Medical Journal: Vol. 6:
Iss.
1, Article 5.
DOI: 10.31986/issn.2578.3343_vol6iss1.5
Available at:
https://rdw.rowan.edu/crjcsm/vol6/iss1/5
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This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.
