Implementation of a motivational interviewing-based decision tool to improve childhood vaccination rates: Pilot study protocol

Abstract

Background: Parental concerns regarding the safety and efficacy of vaccines have been on the rise over the past decade, resulting in a decline in comprehensive vaccine coverage in children. Healthcare practitioners face many challenges when recommending childhood vaccinations, with many parents refusing vaccination due to these and other concerns. Effective communication strategies and tools can equip providers to communicate with vaccine hesitant parents, but validated tools are currently lacking.

Objectives: This study aims to develop a validated parental communication tool utilizing motivational interviewing to increase vaccination adherence in children ages 6 years and younger.

Methods: The MOTIVE (Motivational Interviewing Tool to Improve Vaccination Adherence) tool will first be developed based on the most recent literature regarding vaccine hesitancy and related health beliefs. Following tool development, the tool will be reviewed via an external review process to ensure practicality of the tool for use in clinical practice. In implementing the MOTIVE tool, providers and clinic staff will be trained regarding vaccine hesitancy and motivational interviewing. The tool will then be implemented in routine well-child appointments. The primary outcome of this study is the percentage of children 0-6 years of age completing all recommended doses of the core vaccine series after implementation of the MOTIVE tool as compared to prior vaccination years. Secondary outcomes will also include parental attitudes towards vaccines and provider knowledge regarding motivational interviewing components and vaccine hesitancy.

Project impact: Following completion of this study, the MOTIVE tool will be made available for other providers for use in their own clinical practice. The availability of effective communication tools will allow healthcare providers to engage in productive conversations regarding vaccination, aiming to increase vaccine uptake.

Keywords: Health beliefs; MANUSCRIPT; Motivational interviewing; Vaccine hesitancy.