Provider Preference, Logistical Challenges, or Vaccine Hesitancy? Analyzing Parental Decision-Making in School Vaccination Programs: A Qualitative Study in Sydney, Australia.

ABSTRACT: Background: School-based immunization programs are crucial for equitable vaccine coverage, yet their success depends on parental consent processes. This study investigates patterns of vaccine decision-making within Australia's school-based immunization program, specifically focusing on human papillomavirus (HPV) and diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis (dTpa) vaccines offered free to adolescents aged 12-13. Methods: This qualitative study was conducted in the South Eastern Sydney Local Health District (2022-2023). Semi-structured interviews were held with school staff (n = 11) across government, Catholic, and independent schools, parents whose children were not vaccinated at school (n = 11) and a focus group with public health unit staff (n = 5). Data were analyz

SUBMITTER: McIndoe L 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11768876 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature