Knowledge and recommendation regarding routine childhood vaccinations among pediatric healthcare providers in Israel

Background A recommendation by pediatric healthcare providers (HCPs) is a major factor influencing parents' decision to vaccinate their children. Consequently, it is important to understand the motives behind the HCPs' recommendations to vaccinate children according to the routine immunization program. Objectives To study the association of pediatric HCPs' knowledge about and attitudes towards childhood vaccinations and of their professional and demographic characteristics, with two variables: 1. Their recommendations to parents regarding adherence to the routine immunization program. 2. Their choices concerning routine immunization of their own children. Study design and settings We conducted a cross-sectional study of pediatric nurses and physicians working at Mother-Child Health Clinics (MCHCs) in Haifa and Tel-Aviv districts and at a hospital in Hadera City, Israel. Methods A structured, anonymous self-administered questionnaire was used. Results The overall response rate was 60%, totaling 218 participants. 92% of whom were nurses. Misconceptions related to vaccine safety were found among a high percentage of the participants. The HCPs knowledge level was associated with the HCPs vaccinating their own children according to the recommended immunization program (OR = 1.32; CI95% 1.06–1.64), but not with their recommendation to parents to adhere to the program. No association was found between attitudes and these variables. Workplace (MCHCs versus hospital) correlated with the above mentioned two dependent variables (OR = 1.89; CI95% 1.21–2.97 and OR = 2.42; CI95% 1.73–3.4, respectively). Conclusions Amplifying the knowledge of HCPs and addressing their concern about vaccinations can improve their adherence to the routine immunization program regarding their own children. This may lead to better adherence of other parents who are frequently interested in the HCPs' behavior and consider them as a role model. In general, there is a need to emphasize the HCP's responsibility for the successful implementation of the immunization program in the community and at hospitals.