Health care professionals’ views about vaccination for covid – 19: A qualitative research in Primary Health Care settings

Introduction

The Covid -19 pandemic had many political, economic, and social consequences for individuals, families and communities. Vaccines play a crucial role for its effective treatment and health care professionals are key persons toward that aim, as they contribute to a successful implementation of the Covid-19 vaccination programs. Therefore their personal views are of utmost importance. The purpose of this study was to investigate the health care professional’s willingness to get vaccinated and their perceptions and concerns about the vaccination process.

MethodsWe conducted a qualitative research by semi-structured interviews fromNovember to December 2021. The sample consisted of 26 health professionals working in primary health and social care services in Crete. A thematic analysis was performed. Results and discussionIn their vast majority the participants have been vaccinated and supported the necessity of vaccinations. However, many of them have concerns about its mandatory use and suggested that the vaccination should be voluntary. Most of the respondents supported that health care professionals get vaccinated because they have the necessary scientific knowledge, and to provide safety for themselves, their families and their vulnerable clients. On the other hand, some health care professionals remain reluctant because of social media’s negative role, concerns of vaccines’ safety and religious or cultural issues.

ConclusionsEfforts to increase vaccines’ acceptance among health care staff are a necessity. Consideration should be given to communication and advocacy issues, to training and enhancement of the scientific knowledge of health professionals and the general population.