Patient Engagement Strategies for COVID-19 Vaccine Enthusiasm

As COVID-19 vaccines have become more accessible, vaccine enthusiasm has plateaued. The communication guide aims to help physicians increase vaccine adherence through effective patient-provider communication practices.

Physicians can communicate these messages during appointments as well as virtually through social media posts and emails, the authors noted.

Increasing vaccine confidence also requires that physicians address concerns about the vaccine’s rapid development and side effects.

Another way to highlight the merit of COVID-19 vaccines is to note that “while the vaccines were developed quickly, they weren’t created from scratch. Researchers have been studying and working with mRNA vaccines (Pfizer and Moderna) for decades, and scientists began creating viral vectors (Johnson & Johnson) in the 1970s,” the resource suggested.

Lastly, the guide authors recommended that physicians consider sending a letter or email to their patients expressing concern for their health and providing them with facts and additional resources.