Experience of COVID-19 Vaccination among Primary Healthcare Workers in Hong Kong: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Studies show that coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine hesitancy exists among healthcare workers (HCWs). Past personal experiences of vaccination, such as the seasonal influenza vaccination, influence individuals’ intention to receive future vaccinations. This study aimed to explore the experience of COVID-19 vaccination among primary care HCWs in Hong Kong. A qualitative study using semi-structured interviews was conducted. Twenty-eight HCWs (ten doctors, ten nurses, and eight supporting staff) working in nine government-funded primary care clinics in Hong Kong who had completed at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccination were interviewed. Four themes were generated, namely, the cognitive and emotional battle of vaccine hesitancy, catalysts for vaccine acceptance, blasting vaccination myths, and being a positive influence. Providing timely, adequate, and transparent vaccine information and addressing the specific concerns of HCWs about the COVID-19 vaccine could enhance their vaccination uptake in future. Specific vaccine promotion strategies, such as the sharing of vaccination experiences targeted at different subgroups of HCWs, may improve vaccine acceptance through informational social influence.

Keywords

• COVID-19
• vaccination
• healthcare workers
• primary care
• experience
• qualitative