Tips for Talking to Parents About Immunizations October 15, 2024 Many schools in general and sports teams in particular require proof of up-to-date vaccinations. The reason is simple: Numerous clinical trials have proven vaccines to be a safe, effective way to keep children and communities healthy. The beginning of the school year is a great time to review your patients’ vaccination histories. If you have young patients who are due or overdue for an immunization or booster, contact the parents and let them know it is time for a visit. There are several reasons why parents may not be vaccinating their children. Vaccine hesitancy is a real thing. Despite wanting what is best for their child, some parents become rigidly opposed to vaccines. Others simply haven’t made the effort to keep their child’s vaccinations current. And some have doubts or questions based on what they’ve heard from friends or read on social media. Research shows that presumptive recommendations informing parents that shots are due for their child lead to more acceptance as opposed to asking the parent if they want to vaccinate or asking what they think about vaccines. The American Academy of Pediatrics offers this example: “Today your child is due for two vaccines. We will be giving them MMR and Varicella shots.” If the parent isn’t ready to vaccinate, be clear that it is your strong recommendation they do so. If they still have concerns, be prepared to listen and respond to their questions. Here are some tips on how to talk with parents about immunizations and assure them that vaccines are a safe and important part of their child’s healthcare: Avoid Confrontation Listening to and acknowledging a parent’s concerns will increase their willingness to listen to your views. Building personal trust can help to reverse existing mistrust of the medical community. Avoid Horror Stories In research studies, exposing parents to graphic images of children with immunization-preventable diseases made them less likely to immunize. The most likely explanation is that raising the emotional level makes it harder to immunize, not easier. Counter Misinformation Correct any misinformation the parent may give for declining vaccines. Explain why misinformation spreads and who benefits from it. Be as non-judgmental as possible. Asking what they’ve heard about vaccines may make it easier for them to express concerns when they can attribute them to others. Don’t Get Discouraged Research shows that the most important factor for vaccine-hesitant parents to decide to vaccinate is a trusting relationship with their child’s provider. Emphasize that what you’re recommending is exactly what you have chosen for yourself and your family members. Promote the Science Refer to vaccines as one of the most significant scientific achievements of the past century. Talk about the research and how clinical trials work, and how vaccines are continuously tested for safety and efficacy even after they are approved. To learn more about vaccine conversations with parents, you can access a number of resources for providers at the CDC’s Vaccines for Your Children webpage. Sources: American Medical Association, American Academy of Pediatrics, OHA.
