This study compared human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination occurrences on the same day as provider recommendations at clinics in the Western United States stratified by healthcare provider groups. In addition, the relationships between provider groups' perceived challenges associated with HPV vaccination, HPV vaccination knowledge, HPV recommendation practices, and same-day HPV vaccinations and recommendations are described. Eligible participants included pediatric healthcare providers and staff with influence on patient/parental-level decisions regarding HPV vaccination. Participants filled out a 40-question survey. Results for study participants (N = 99) showed providers reported a higher number of challenges limiting HPV vaccination, higher HPV vaccination knowledge, and more favorable HPV vaccination recommendation practices compared to other healthcare team members (OTM) suggesting providers may have a better overall understanding of the HPV vaccination climate than OTMs. Clinics should examine OTMs' training, expectations, and opportunities to increase the frequency and strength of HPV vaccination recommendations to adolescent patients and parents.
Keywords: HPV vaccine; Provider recommendation; Rural health.
© 2021. American Association for Cancer Education.