Navigating vaccine hesitancy: aligning perspectives of parents and healthcare professional

Background

This study presents findings from the Behavioral Science in Public Health Team (BOND), a collaboration among seven Polish institutions focused on public health. In Poland, vaccination rates among children aged 0-6 have declined due to fears of adverse effects and eroding trust in healthcare. This study aims to explore the attitudes of parents and the perspectives of healthcare professionals regarding the causes of vaccine hesitancy. Utilizing behavioral science, the research seeks to unravel complexities of hesitancy and develop strategies to enhance public confidence in vaccinations.

Methods

A mixed-methods approach integrated qualitative and quantitative methodologies. The qualitative phase involved in-depth interviews with healthcare professionals based on the COM-B framework, conducted in 2025. For the quantitative phase, a survey was administered to 4,460 parents and guardians of children aged 0-6, in 2026. The survey included validated scales such as the Adult Vaccine Hesitancy Scale (aVHS) and the 5C model (OECD), assessing Confidence, Complacency, Convenience, Risk Calculation, and Collective Responsibility.

Results

Qualitative findings highlighted barriers like time constraints and the need for empathetic communication. One provider noted, “Empathetic conversations can reduce parents’ doubts.” Quantitative results showed an average aVHS score of 3.2 (SD = 1.1), indicating moderate hesitancy. Notably, 72% of parents reported significant social influence on vaccination decisions. A significant correlation existed between confidence in vaccines and willingness to vaccinate (r = 0.45, p < 0.01), with 68% indicating encouragement from healthcare providers would enhance their likelihood of vaccinating.

Conclusions

The study underscores the complexity of vaccine hesitancy and the need to address systemic and psychological barriers. The BOND team will develop behavioral interventions based on these findings to improve vaccination rates in Poland.

Key messages

• Empathy matters: Effective communication between healthcare providers and parents is vital for addressing vaccine hesitancy, fostering trust, and encouraging informed vaccination decisions.

• Social influences are significant: Community beliefs and peer influences impact parents’ vaccination choices, helping professionals tailor strategies to enhance public trust in immunization.