An educational intervention in the emergency department seeking to improve COVID-19 vaccination rates among unvaccinated patients aged 20-64

Background

The COVID-19 vaccination rate in the US has plateaued, especially among minorities and young populations. Previous efforts within the Emergency Department (ED) setting to address this disparity have shown positive results. The ED can play a crucial role in engaging vaccine-hesitant individuals, particularly those with limited access to healthcare. By providing education, addressing concerns, and using positive framing, vaccination rates can be improved in the ED. This quality improvement project aimed to increase vaccination rates through one-on-one educational interventions and open discussions with patients.

Methods

Between November 2021 and June 2022, unvaccinated adult patients aged 20 to 64 visiting a local ED in Kalamazoo, MI were approached for a discussion on COVID vaccines. A research team, trained in motivational interviewing techniques, provided an educational intervention, offering evidence-based information and resources to unvaccinated participants.

Results

A total of 37 participants were enrolled, and their demographics were recorded. The participants expressed various concerns about the vaccine, including potential side effects, speed of testing and production, perceived ineffectiveness, mistrust, and low personal risk. At the four-week follow-up, three participants (8%) had received their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.

Conclusion

The study fell short of its desired sample size and the intervention failed to raise vaccination rates among ED patients. Factors like low perceived risk, vaccine hesitancy, and limited resources may have influenced these outcomes. Future research should focus on staffing, operational hours, repeated educational interventions, and targeted approaches for different populations. Improving participant recruitment through institutional engagement and involvement of multiple EDs should be explored. Addressing these factors can help inform effective interventions to increase COVID-19 vaccination rates in the ED.