Developing an Interactive Human Papillomavirus Vaccination Education Program for Oropharyngeal Cancer Patients and Healthcare Providers: Lessons Learned from the Target Users’ Feedback

Background: Human papillomavirus (HPV) is associated with multiple head and neck cancers, many of which are preventable with the 9-valent HPV vaccine. We developed an interactive HPV vaccination education program (IHVEP) to equip patients with HPV-associated cancers to serve as health educators. Objective: To pilot test the adapted IHVEP, evaluate its content using the Information-Motivation-Behavioral Skills (IMB) model and the Suitability Assessment of Materials (SAM) instrument, and identify factors relevant to optimizing digital health interventions. Methods: A previously developed cervical cancer–focused IHVEP was adapted for patients with oropharyngeal cancer. Participants completed the program and participated in semi-structured interviews. Feedback was analyzed and organized into themes aligned with the IMB and SAM frameworks. Results: Participants generally perceived the adapted IHVEP as informative, motivating, and empowering. Key motivators included physician recommendation and a desire to protect others. The program appeared to enhance participants’ perceived ability and self-efficacy to promote HPV vaccination. Modules were described as clear, well-organized, linguistically accessible, and culturally appropriate. Feedback identified areas for improvement related to technology, content, and functionality. Conclusions: Findings suggest that effective digital health interventions may benefit from incorporating training in evaluating health information, ensuring intuitive design and navigation, and including content featuring real individuals. These results will inform further refinement of IHVEP and the development of future digital health interventions.