Increasing HPV Vaccination Rates in the Primary Care Setting

Abstract

Background: Globally, cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in females, with more than 70% caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) genotype 16/18. The high mortality rate could be reduced with early intervention through the administration of the HPV vaccine. Objective: The purpose of this project was to increase the HPV vaccination rates in the primary care setting by bundling the HPV vaccine with routine vaccines (Tdap), meningococcal, and influenza. Method:The electronic medical record was used to identify patients due for the HPV vaccine series. Each patient received a vaccine reminder letter detailing each vaccine recommended during the visit and their rights to accept or decline the vaccines. Results: Findings revealed bundling the vaccine increased the HPV vaccination rates up to 400% when compared with the previous year. Conclusion: This implementation process has the potential to improve the health of the population by increasing the HPV vaccination rates and decreasing the high mortality rates and costs associated with cervical cancers or precancers. Implications for Nursing: The evidence-based practice of bundling the HPV vaccine, educating the staff, and providing written information to the patients is recommended for advanced practical registered nurses to improve the health of the population.

Keywords: HPV; bundling; cervical cancer; primary care.