Can dermatology practices play a role in combatting vaccine hesitance?

ABSTRACT

Background: Vaccine hesitancy is common and increasingly relevant in the current medical landscape. Simply based on volume, dermatology practices intersect with the community more than most medical providers. At risk populations for vaccine preventable illnesses are also relatively commonplace in dermatology clinics, as is the practice of injectable therapeutics. Based on these factors, we hypothesize that dermatology clinics have a unique opportunity to positively impact the public health of the population they serve through vaccine administration. Methods: From May until August 2021, 220 patients received a single or two-dose series of the COVID-19 vaccine at their local dermatology clinic as part of a vaccine outreach initiative. A 5-question survey was provided to these patients exploring perspectives, satisfaction, and interest in further vaccinations if offered. Compliance with second dose regimens was also measured. Results: Preliminary data shows high degrees of satisfaction with vaccines administered at the dermatology office. 97% of eligible patients followed through on second dose regimens. “Convenience” and “comfort with the practice” were the two most common listed reasons for vaccine compliance. 88% of patients stated they would receive other vaccines at their dermatology clinic if recommended and available. Conclusion: Based on these data, it appears that Dermatology clinics can positively impact vaccine hesitance and play a role in public health through offering certain vaccines at their facilities. This data could be extrapolated to make an argument for expanded vaccine administration targeted toward conditions salient to everyday dermatology practice (eg, vaccines for human papillomavirus and varicella zoster).