Australian pharmacist immunisers in vaccine conversations with patients: a qualitative study to explore communication support needs.

BACKGROUND

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, uptake of childhood and adolescent vaccines recommended under the National Immunisation Program (NIP) in Australia has declined, while adult NIP vaccine uptake remains stable but suboptimal. Over the past 10 years, pharmacists have taken on a larger role in NIP vaccination, yet their communication and information needs are not well understood. Supportive vaccine conversations are key to improving uptake, but can be difficult, especially with hesitant patients. This study explored Australian pharmacist immunisers' experiences and support needs around vaccine conversations with patients, aiming to inform evidence-based communication resources.

METHODS

Qualitative interviews from 12 community, 7 aged care and 3 general practice pharmacist immunisers from across metropolitan, regional and rural Australia were analysed thematically. Most participants reported vaccinating adults and older adults.

RESULTS

Key themes include: 1. The usual practice; 2. What works well; 3. The gaps and challenges; 4. Addressing the gaps: perspectives and recommendations from pharmacist immunisers. We found that pharmacists - especially in regional areas - are known to the community, offer valued advice and accessible vaccinations. While many reported using effective vaccine communication, they identified a need for further clinical guidance, scenario-based training and tools to address misinformation and emotional concerns. Other needs included tailored support for aged care, accessible vaccine resources for older adults, culturally and linguistically diverse communities, and those with limited literacy and peer forums for rural and sole pharmacists.

CONCLUSION

The study offers insights into practices and information and communication support needs of Australian pharmacist immunisers, especially in underexplored areas like aged care and sole pharmacist rural practice. It highlights the need to better disseminate existing communication supports and develop new ones. Further research should explore sector-specific and systemic challenges, and communication needs with younger populations and their carers.