| Summary: | The human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine uptake in West Virginia is lagging despite
being highly protective against HPV-related diseases. This study aimed to determine
parent and provider perceptions on using pharmacies for HPV vaccination in
adolescents. The study surveyed both parents and providers in a rural academic
institution. Providers were surveyed before and six months after an educational
intervention that instructed providers on local legislation and the logistics of
prescribing the HPV vaccine through pharmacies. The provider survey assessed
awareness of pharmacy vaccine access and prescribing practices. Parents of adolescents
were surveyed to determine what patients might benefit most from pharmacy access
for vaccination. A total of 71 providers completed the initial survey, and 45 completed
the six-month assessment. Only 22.5% were aware of the pharmacy legislation at the
initial survey, and 64.4% were aware at six months (p= <.001). Most providers (69%
on initial survey and 78% at six months) reported that they thought pharmacy access
for vaccination would benefit rural patients. Most providers also reported they would
be “likely” or “very likely” to prescribe the HPV vaccine through a pharmacy. A total of
121 parents completed the survey. Only 16 parents (13.2%) were aware of pharmacy
vaccine access. Of parents whose adolescents had started the series, 78.1% felt
pharmacy vaccine access would have been “very beneficial.” Pharmacy provision of HPV
vaccination for adolescents is underutilized. Parents and providers have favorable views
on using pharmacies for HPV vaccination.
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