Building vaccine confidence through empathy and evidence-based communication

Abstract

With a resurgence of vaccine-preventable diseases and increasing vaccine disinformation, vaccine hesitancy is a serious threat to public health around the world. Through an empathetic approach to vaccine conversations, sharing a strong recommendation, and using strategies like motivational interviewing, clinicians can partner with patients and families to improve vaccine confidence. Extending evidence-based approaches to vaccine communication and immunization delivery across patient populations can improve vaccination coverage from infancy through old age. Talking about and administering vaccines in hospital settings expands opportunities to address vaccine hesitancy and increase vaccination uptake.