Vaccine Promotion Strategies in Community Pharmacy Addressing Vulnerable Populations: A Scoping Review

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Chadi et al.

BMC Public Health (2023) 23:1855 BMC Public Health


https://doi.org/10.1186/s12889-023-16601-y

RESEARCH Open Access

Vaccine promotion strategies in community


pharmacy addressing vulnerable populations:
a scoping review
Alexandre Chadi1*, Daniel J. G. Thirion1,2 and Pierre‑Marie David1

Abstract
Context Social determinants of health are drivers of vaccine inequity and lead to higher risks of complications
from infectious diseases in under vaccinated communities. In many countries, pharmacists have gained the rights
to prescribe and administer vaccines, which contributes to improving vaccination rates. However, little is known
on how they define and target vulnerable communities.
Objective The purpose of this study is to describe how vulnerable communities are targeted in community
pharmacies.
Methods We performed a systematic search of the Embase and MEDLINE database in August 2021 inspired
by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses protocols (PRISMA ScR). Articles in Eng‑
lish, French or Spanish addressing any vaccine in a community pharmacy context and that target a population
defined as vulnerable were screened for inclusion.
Results A total of 1039 articles were identified through the initial search, and 63 articles met the inclusion criteria.
Most of the literature originated from North America (n = 54, 86%) and addressed influenza (n = 29, 46%), pneumococ‑
cal (n = 14, 22%), herpes zoster (n = 14, 22%) or human papilloma virus vaccination (n = 14, 22%). Lifecycle vulnerabili‑
ties (n = 48, 76%) such as age and pregnancy were most often used to target vulnerable patients followed by clinical
factors (n = 18, 29%), socio-economical determinants (n = 16, 25%) and geographical vulnerabilities (n = 7, 11%). The
most frequently listed strategy was providing a strong recommendation for vaccination, promotional posters in phar‑
macy, distributing leaflet/bag stuffers and providing staff training. A total of 24 barriers and 25 facilitators were identi‑
fied. The main barriers associated to each vulnerable category were associated to effective promotional strategies
to overcome them.
Conclusion Pharmacists prioritize lifecycle and clinical vulnerability at the expense of narrowing down the definition
of vulnerability. Some vulnerable groups are also under targeted in pharmacies. A wide variety of promotional strate‑
gies are available to pharmacies to overcome the specific barriers experienced by various groups.
Keywords Vaccination, Pharmacy, Healthcare disparities, Vulnerable populations, Promotional strategies

Introduction
*Correspondence:
The COVID-19 pandemic has shed light on vaccination
Alexandre Chadi discrepancy between and within countries as we had
[email protected]
1
both the technical and financial means to vaccinate indi-
Faculty of Pharmacy, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
2
McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
viduals of every country [1]. It is estimated that 234,00
deaths could have been prevented in the US between

© The Author(s) 2023. Open Access This article is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License, which
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Chadi et al. BMC Public Health (2023) 23:1855 Page 2 of 45

June 2021 and March 2022 with a primary series of vac- campaigns. Pharmacies tend to vaccinate individuals
cinations [2]. Low vaccination rates disproportionately with a higher income [23, 24], higher education [24, 25]
affect communities commonly defined as “vulnerable”. and younger populations [14]. Other traits such as being
According to the Center for Disease Control and Preven- immigrant [23, 26], having diabetes or hypertension [23]
tion, infants from families with income below the poverty and having a high number of chronic diseases [25] meant
line are 30% less likely to receive the 7 recommended vac- individuals were more likely to obtain their vaccine in a
cines (measle-mumps-rubella, diphtheria-pertussis-teta- physician’s office. As definitions of vulnerable popula-
nus, polio) for children aged 19–35 months [3]. Revenue tions are multiple and go beyond clinical condition fac-
is not the only factor influencing access to vaccination. tors, understanding what characteristics pharmacists
Vaccination underservice directly affects communities’ perceive as vulnerable remains key. The perception of
health; as Black, Indigenous and Hispanic individuals in vulnerability trickles down into how pharmacies target
comparison with non-Hispanic White individuals have vulnerable populations, when they do, and may help find-
higher influenza-related hospitalization rates [4]. Popu- ing solutions to vaccine discrepancy.
lation health is directly linked to the upstream societal
structures and institutions that shape communities, to Objective
the relationship between individuals and to health seek- Our objective is therefore to describe how vulnerability
ing behaviours [5]. Vulnerability to infectious diseases is defined and how vulnerable communities are targeted
can be associated to individual characteristics (e.g. age, in community pharmacies within the published litera-
pregnancy, disease state, disability), to habits (e.g. sexual ture. More precisely, we seek to meet the following 4
practices, use of alcohol, illicit drug use, travelling) or to objectives:
wider determinants such as social status, physical envi-
ronment or social support [6]. 1) Describe the studies on the vaccination of vulnerable
In recent years, vaccination in community pharma- communities in pharmacies;
cies is gaining momentum and may present a solution 2) Identify which vulnerability characteristics are used
to reduce vaccine disparity. Pharmacists are recognized to target underserved communities;
as accessible, convenient, trustworthy and cost-effective 3) Document the barriers and facilitators towards vac-
vaccine providers [7–10]. Studies from various juris- cinating vulnerable communities in pharmacies;
dictions show that allowing pharmacists to vaccinate 4) Discuss which strategies are used by pharmacists and
increases uptake [11–14]. Pharmacies have surpassed their team to target vulnerable communities.
medical offices in the provision of flu vaccines in the
United States and in Canada [15, 16]. Prior reviews have Methods
focused on vaccine acceptability, accessibility and vac- Based on the framework of scoping studies, our work
cine uptake following policy to allow pharmacists as seeks to describe, identify and synthesize the gaps in
immunizers [10, 17–20]. To our knowledge, no review the existing literature [27]. Scoping reviews are useful to
has been conducted on how pharmacists reach eligible map out the existing literature on newer topics and ori-
communities. Pharmacies are privately owned businesses ent future research. In our case, this review will allow
and although pharmacists are dedicated to the well-being us to better understand how pharmacists conceive vul-
of their patients, some commercial practices may not be nerability and how it impacts their implicit or explicit
aligned with public health objectives of reaching those actions to address vaccine discrepancies. This scoping
who need it the most. Certain pharmacies seem to adopt review will also determine the value of undertaking a full
proactive methods to target vulnerable communities systematic review. We followed the checklist from the
while others may rely on a ‘’first come first serve basis’’ Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and
[21]. As key contributors to vaccination, pharmacists Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-
must revise their implicit and explicit assumptions since ScR) [27]. With the help of an experienced librarian, we
it impacts how they define and reach vulnerable popula- identified the relevant keywords and MeSH on the fol-
tions through their vaccine services [22]. Indeed, public lowing 3 topics: ‘vaccination’, ‘pharmacy’ and ‘vulnerable
health research has shown that “vulnerable populations” populations’. The search strategy was then elaborated for
are not fixed identities, but the result of a process, which the Embase database and adapted according to the MED-
should be questioned from the perspective of vaccine LINE database.
services delivery in community pharmacies.
Evidence on the characteristics of patients vaccinated Search strategy
in pharmacy settings suggests that pharmacies vacci- The search was performed on 16 August 2021 to iden-
nate a more privileged population during influenza mass tify all articles in English, French or Spanish addressing
Chadi et al. BMC Public Health (2023) 23:1855 Page 3 of 45

vaccination of vulnerable communities in a pharmacy specific barriers to each vulnerable group and matched
setting. We chose not to limit our study to a specific time them with promotional strategies that overcome them. A
period. This allowed gathering data from countries or quality of appraisal was not undertaken due to the antici-
states at different legislative stages regarding the status pated heterogeneity of studies.
of pharmacists as prescribers and vaccinators. Inclusion
criteria for this scoping review are the following: a) arti- Results
cles in a community pharmacy setting; b) articles where Article overview
vaccination targets a population defined as vulnerable to After performing the initial search, 1,039 articles were
an illness targeted by the vaccine; and c) peer-reviewed identified (Fig. 1). We found 614 articles originating from
quantitative or qualitative studies or reviews studies. the Embase database and 425 from the MEDLINE data-
Exclusion criteria are: a) articles providing insufficient base. We removed 227 articles due to duplication within
details on vaccination in a pharmacy setting; b) vaccina- or across databases. The 812 remaining articles titles
tion by a pharmacist that occurs outside of a community were screened, and 444 articles were removed because
pharmacy setting; c) articles where vaccination was not vaccination was not a central topic in the research. The
the primary focus; d) vaccine guidelines for healthcare remaining 368 articles were screened through their
professionals. abstract and 295 articles were discarded because they did
not address a population considered as vulnerable. The
Data extraction remaining 73 articles were fully read, and 10 articles were
Articles were imported into Zotero for duplicate removal, discarded since they occurred outside of a pharmacy set-
initial screening of titles and abstracts. The main author ting, were not original research or focused insufficiently
and one coauthor independently screened the initial 100 on vaccination or on a vulnerable population. The 63
articles to reach a kappa consensus coefficient above included studies are presented in Table 1.
80%. Discrepancies were resolved through consensus. Most of the articles obtained were current, as 44 arti-
The remaining articles were sorted by the main author cles were published after 2014 (69.8%) (Table 2). Studies
and uncertain articles were debated with a co-author. For become scarcer as the further we investigated back in
feasibility purposes, data were extracted by one member time. Eleven articles date from 2010–2014 (18%), 3 arti-
with the use of a grid validated by co-authors. cles from 2005–2009 (5%) and 5 articles were published
The data extracted are comprised of the publication before 2004 (8%). No article included in our scoping
year, the methodology, the study population, the target review was published before 2000. Most articles origi-
strategy, the outcomes, and the barriers and facilitators nated from North America (n = 53, 84%) and a few arti-
reported by the authors. Results were then compiled, cles came from Europe (n = 6, 10%) and Oceania (n = 2,
and descriptive statistics were generated through Excel 3%). Articles from North America collected data almost
software. The various target strategies were classified exclusively in the United States (n = 50, 79%). Three arti-
according to emerging categorization of passive, active cles were conducted in Canada (5%). In Europe, arti-
and indirect promotion tactics. We finally identified the cles originating from the United Kingdom (n = 3, 5%),

Fig. 1 Study Selection Process Flowchart


Table 1 Summary of Peer Review Articles Included in the Scoping Review
Authors Year Article type Objective Country Vaccine Population Impact Targeting/ Barriers/facilitators
intervention

1 Daniel et al. [28] a,b 2021 Mixed methods: Feasibility USA Human papilloma Adolescent Increase of 158.8% Health communi‑ Facilitator: collabora‑
implementation and potential virus from 10-18 years in vaccine uptake cation campaign tion with public
study (surveys efficacy of free old on Medicaid and 24.4% targeting parents health and pharmacy
Chadi et al. BMC Public Health

and semi-structured HPV vaccination in total revenue through increased banner, culturally
interviews) in rural community was observed. knowledge, aware‑ relevant material.
pharmacies. The intervention ness (poster, social The intervention
was received media, leaflet, addressed common
positively by local personalized letter) barriers: cost, con‑
health providers. and culturally venience and receiv‑
Pharmacies also saw relevant material ing a strong vaccine
(2023) 23:1855

increased prescrip‑ recommendation


tion revenue
through the initia‑
tive as an indirect
benefit
2 Falope et al. [29] b 2021 Qualitative: semi- Explore the knowl‑ USA Influenza Pregnant women Participants were Not specified Facilitators: more
structured interview edge and percep‑ knowledgeable technicians, market‑
tions of Florida about the influenza ing, education, better
pharmacists admin‑ vaccine and its indi‑ incentives, vaccine
istering vaccine cation in pregnancy. coverage and rural
Most pharma‑ setting of pharmacy,
cists displayed provider referral,
a positive attitude more patient educa‑
towards various tion
aspects of vac‑ Barriers: access
cination (access, to pregnant women,
expertise, increased increased workload,
scope of prac‑ pharmacy environ‑
tice and ease ment and rural
of practice). setting of pharmacy,
They expressed patient awareness
a less positive view
towards education.
3 Fathima et al. [30] a,b 2021 Quantitative: quasi- Evaluate the effec‑ Australia Pneumo-coccal COPD patients At the end Proving a strong Facilitator: interven‑
experimental: pre- tiveness of a COPD and influenza of 40-80 years old, of the study, pneu‑ recommenda‑ tion led by a consult‑
post pilot study management pro‑ taking > 5 medica‑ mococcal vaccina‑ tion for vaccina‑ ant outside the phar‑
gram including dis‑ tions or > 12 doses tion status signifi‑ tion, screening macy work chain
cussion on immuni‑ per day cantly improved. Flu during the work
zation and prompt vaccination status and through a
for vaccination did not significantly chronic condition
at the 3rd visit improve. program
Page 4 of 45
Table 1 (continued)
Authors Year Article type Objective Country Vaccine Population Impact Targeting/ Barriers/facilitators
intervention

4 Gatwood et al. 2021 Quantitative: Evaluate the impact USA Pneumo-coccal High risk adults The training pro‑ Assertiveness Barriers: wider vac‑
[31] a,b quasi-experimental: of a communication gram does not sta‑ communication cination promotion
randomized pre- training program tistically increase training program both in the commu‑
post study to improve phar‑ the self-efficacy to pharmacists nity and within the
macist promotion of pharmacists (online or online store are necessary,
of the pneumo‑ but increased abso‑ and in person), time constraints
Chadi et al. BMC Public Health

coccal vaccine lute percentages. strong recommen‑ require initiatives


among high-risk Percentage of pneu‑ dation from health‑ to improve workflow
adults mococcal vac‑ care professional such as reminder
cination declined systems to identify
in all groups high risk patients
except in the full
(2023) 23:1855

training group.
5 Guadamuz et al. 2021 Quantitative: retro‑ Evaluate trends USA No specific vaccine Racially and ethni‑ More independent Not specified Facilitator: chain phar‑
[32] b spective multiple and disparities cally segregated pharmacies were macies offer more
cross-sectional in access to phar‑ neighborhood found in diverse, financial resources,
series macies in 4 largest Black and Latino training and accom‑
cities in than in White neigh‑ modations which
the United States, borhoods and were facilitate the provi‑
New York City, Los less likely to offer sion of medication
Angeles, Houston, immunization. and immunization
and Chicago, Unequal access services for phar‑
by neighborhood to pharmacy ser‑ macists
racial vices may worsen
and ethnic com‑ health disparities
position from 2015 in low-income
to 2020. neighborhoods
6 Koskan et al. [33] b 2021 Quantitative: cross- Assess attitude USA Human papilloma Children and ado‑ Many pharmacists Not specified Barriers: obtaining
sectional survey and behaviors virus lescent seldom provide vaccination consent
of pharmacists HPV vaccination from parents, parent’s
and pharmacy but show positive stigma against HPV
interns on HPV vac‑ attitude towards this and prescription
cination vaccine. requirement
Pharmacists’ inten‑ Facilitator: educa‑
tion to vaccinate tion of the parent
correlates with their and booster reminder
behavior. system
Page 5 of 45
Table 1 (continued)
Authors Year Article type Objective Country Vaccine Population Impact Targeting/ Barriers/facilitators
intervention

7 Liao et al. [34] b 2021 Quantitative: retro‑ Assess the trends USA Influenza Adults > 65 years Influenza Not specified Facilitator: pharma‑
spective multiple in location old on Medicare has slightly cies are not compet‑
cross-sectionnal where influenza vac‑ increased ing with physician
series cine was received in the older popula‑ office and clinic
between commu‑ tion. for providing vac‑
nity pharmacy, phy‑ Vaccination in phar‑ cination services
Chadi et al. BMC Public Health

sician’s office/clinics macy gradually but instead comple‑


and other places increased in com‑ ment them by adding
between 2008 parison to doctor’s additional access
to 2015 office or clinic points
8 Lu et al. [24] b 2021 Quantitative: Analysis of the char‑ USA Influenza Chronic conditions, Individuals Not specified Barrier: prescription
cross-sectional mul‑ acteristic of patients age, race/ethnicity with higher educa‑ requirement in some
(2023) 23:1855

tivariable logistic getting their vac‑ tion than a high states


regression cination in medical school degree,
and non-medical annual household
sites income more
than $50,000, those
without a doctor’s
visit since July
or those hav‑
ing a doctor’s
visit since July
but no recommen‑
dation for influenza
vaccination were
more likely to get
vaccinated in phar‑
macy.
Non-Hispanic
Blacks, Hispanics,
multiple races,
those never mar‑
ried, unemployed
adults and those
living in Western
region of USA
were more likely
to receive their
vaccines in medical
settings.
Page 6 of 45
Table 1 (continued)
Authors Year Article type Objective Country Vaccine Population Impact Targeting/ Barriers/facilitators
intervention

9 Neuner et al. [35] b 2021 Quantitative: ret‑ Determine USA Influenza Patients > 65 years Black, Hispanic, Not specified Barrier: access
rospective cohort whether pharmacy old with nonmeta‑ Medicaid beneficiar‑ to a pharmacy does
study access is associated static breast cancer ies, patients diag‑ not reduce disparities
with influenza vac‑ on Medicare nosed in autumn in vaccination accord‑
cination in subjects and patients ing to race, ethnicity
recently diagnosed living in low-access and census tract
Chadi et al. BMC Public Health

with breast cancer, census tracts were


and whether this less likely to receive
association differs a vaccine.
by additional risk Patients with higher
factors for influenza comorbidity
complications and lower cancer
(2023) 23:1855

stage were associ‑


ated with higher
vaccination.
10 Nuffer et al. [36] a,b 2021 Quantitative: ret‑ Three years follow USA Pneumo-coccal, Diabetic and car‑ Enrolled patients Promotion Facilitator: providing
rospective cohort up of a 6-month influenza diac patients showed higher through posters, a strong recommen‑
study chronic disease of rural communi‑ pneumococcal word-of-mouth, dation for vaccination
intervention ties than influenza leaflet, personal‑ Barrier: missed oppor‑
was performed increase in vaccina‑ ized phone call, tunities, difficulty
and examined tion status. More conversation to reach prospective
various outcomes patients remained initiated by staff, patients
including vaccina‑ unvaccinated provision of strong
tion status. for influenza recommendation
after the program. for vaccine, staff
20% of patients training, generat‑
underwent the 6 vis‑ ing a list of eligible
its of the program. patients, screening
Largest decline through an existing
was between visit program
1 and 2, suggesting
that the structure
of the education
or the nature
of the consult
was not what par‑
ticipants expected.
Page 7 of 45
Table 1 (continued)
Authors Year Article type Objective Country Vaccine Population Impact Targeting/ Barriers/facilitators
intervention

11 Tyler et al. [37] a,b 2021 Quantitative: ret‑ Analyze the impact USA Herpes zoster Patients having Patients receiving Personalized phone Facilitator: implemen‑
rospective cohort of a pharmacist received 1 out of 2 an intervention call intervention tation of a dose track‑
Chadi et al. BMC Public Health

study phone call and cost doses of shingles from the pharmacist (reminder and clini‑ ing history and call
on the completion vaccine were more likely cal information list was possible
of the 2nd dose to receive the 2nd if requested) in different pharmacy
administration. dose. systems. It could
The cost of the vac‑ be made possible
cine did not affect for other vaccines
the likelihood
(2023) 23:1855

to receive the 2nd


dose
12 Beal et al. [38] b 2020 Systematic review Impact of phar‑ USA Influenza, pneu‑ Adults > 65 years Majority of studies Not specified Barriers: lack
macist on realized mococcal, herpes old centered around real‑ of knowledge, lack
accessibility, finan‑ zoster ized accessibility, one of opportunity
cial accessibility on financial acces‑ for vaccination, finan‑
and vaccine acces‑ sibility and eleven cial cost and vaccine
sibility on vaccine avail‑ accessibility
ability.
Only 20% of studies
included phar‑
macists as docu‑
menters. The role
of immunizer is pre‑
ferred for cost-saving
impact for pharma‑
cies and insurance
companies.
13 Coley et al. [39] a,b 2020 Quantitative: Demonstrate USA Influenza, pertussis, High risk patients A 33% increase Generating a list Facilitator: seasonal
quasi-experimental the impact of a pneumococcal, eligible according in vaccination of eligible patients, approach to vaccina‑
pre-post study notification herpes zoster to age and prescrip‑ was observed. All printing a note tion helped manag‑
and motivational tion information vaccines but shin‑ on medication ing the workload,
interviewing pro‑ gles increased bag, motivational support from phar‑
cesses at a regional (influenza +45%, interview training macy chain, training
supermarket chain pertussis +31%, to staff and face-to- provided to all
pharmacy to pneumococcal face or telephone pharmacy staff
increase the num‑ +7%, shingles -5%). motivational Barrier: limited
ber of vaccines An increase interview human resources,
in patient’s readi‑ complex eligibility
ness was observed criteria
with motivational
interview
Page 8 of 45
Table 1 (continued)
Authors Year Article type Objective Country Vaccine Population Impact Targeting/ Barriers/facilitators
intervention

14 Deslandes et al. 2020 Quantitative: Change in com‑ UK Influenza Adults > 65 years A 20-fold increase Providing con‑ Facilitator: increase
[40] b longitudinal cohort munity pharmacy old and at-risk in vaccination venient modalities vaccination in com‑
study delivered flu vac‑ adults < 65 years in community phar‑ for walk-in munity pharmacy did
Chadi et al. BMC Public Health

cines since the NHS old macy was observed not reduce the num‑
flu vaccination between 2012-13 ber of vaccines
program from 2012- and 2017-18 provided in general
2018 A strong practitioner’s office,
positive correla‑ convenience (walk-in)
tion was observed
between increasing
(2023) 23:1855

community phar‑
macy vaccination
and total number
of vaccinations
15 Frederick et al. 2020 Mixed methods: Implementing USA Herpes zoster Recipients of 1st Most pharma‑ Screening dur‑ Facilitator: integra‑
[41] a,b implementation a clinical deci‑ dose cists agreed ing the workflow tion of the system
study (surveys sion support or strongly agreed through an eligibil‑ in the workflow,
and semi-structured within the phar‑ that the interven‑ ity nudge patient trust, team’s
interviews) macy software tion is acceptable, willingness to par‑
system alert‑ appropriate and fea‑ ticipate and engage‑
ing pharmacist sible in a com‑ ment
of eligible patients munity pharmacy
for a 2nd dose setting.
16 Gauld et al. [42] a,b 2020 Qualitative: To explore the effect New Zealand Pertussis, influenza Maori/Pacific Most views of vac‑ Pharmacists were Facilitators: conveni‑
semi-structured of funding maternal and non-Maori cination extension offered a train‑ ence, access, proactiv‑
interviews vaccinations pregnant women in pharmacy were ing, patients ity, interest, qualified
through commu‑ positive. Vaccination were reached staff, communication
nity pharmacies in pharmacy will through promotion with other health
on accessibility, increase awareness. endeavors (poster, providers, promotion
uptake, awareness Some pharmacists social media, leaflet) Barriers: too busy
and the views report high maternal and verbal conver‑ lack of training, insuf‑
of health vaccination uptake. sation. ficient staff, interest,
professionals reaching prospective
and patients patients, vaccine
on the service, barri‑ distribution
ers and enablers
to uptake.
Page 9 of 45
Table 1 (continued)
Authors Year Article type Objective Country Vaccine Population Impact Targeting/ Barriers/facilitators
intervention

17 Krueger et al. [43] b 2020 Quantitative: rand‑ Impact of a science- USA Pneumo-coccal Non-White adults Community/family Culturally adapted Facilitator: culturally
omized controlled based communica‑ duty and combi‑ promotional adapted commu‑
trial tion on attitude nation messages campaign, provision nication campaign,
towards pneumo‑ showed significant of strong recom‑ provision of strong
coccal vaccination influence on attitude mendation for vac‑ recommendation
in a community for non-Whites. cination for vaccination
Chadi et al. BMC Public Health

pharmacy Combining Barrier: non-White


duty to family patients are
and friends, fatality less likely to follow
and safety sig‑ health and medical
nificantly improved recommendations
the intention which may decrease
(2023) 23:1855

to ask a medi‑ the odds of clinicians


cal professional communicating
about the vaccine. the types of mes‑
sages in this study.
18 Page et al. [44] a,b 2020 Quantitative: Evaluate the impact USA Pneumococcal Diabetic patients Pharmacist interven‑ Generating a list Barrier: desire
quasi-experimental of a pharmacist of 19-65 years old tion significantly of diabetic patients, to discuss vaccination
pre-post study education and inter‑ improved the vacci‑ a note was added with their primary
vention vaccine nation status (+18%). in eligible profiles, physician, time con‑
rates. Assess patient’s Intervention education and rec‑ straints, unawareness
awareness and bar‑ rate improved ommendation of vaccine need
riers to receiving the pneumococcal of vaccination
the polysaccharide vaccination status was provided
pneumococcal of diabetic patients at the next encoun‑
vaccine. from 28.6 to 31.8% ter
19 Singh et al. [45] a,b 2020 Quantitative: ret‑ Evaluate the effect USA Influenza Uninsured adults 1 million vouchers Providing free vac‑ Facilitator: acces‑
rospective cohort of a free flu vaccine were distributed (600 cine vouchers sibility, financial
study voucher in phar‑ 000 in 2015-2016 aid for vaccine,
macy during 2015- and 400 000 in 2016- tailoring distribution
2016 and 2016-2017 2017) with respective to improve redeem‑
on hospitalizations, redemption rates ing rates (distribution
ambulatory care vis‑ of 52% and 87%. through community
its, death and costs. The program organizations), cost-
potentially avoided saving initiative
13 347 cases, 4622
ambulatory care
visits, 168 hospitali‑
zations and 8 deaths
during the ­2nd year.
It generated health
care savings of 19.5
million $ in total
societal costs.
Page 10 of 45
Table 1 (continued)
Authors Year Article type Objective Country Vaccine Population Impact Targeting/ Barriers/facilitators
intervention

20 Spinks et al. [19] b 2020 Systematic review Review USA, Canada, UK Influenza Adults > 65 years Differences in popu‑ Not specified Facilitator: pharma‑
of the impact old lation vaccination cists with the most
of permitting phar‑ rate for > 65 years autonomy dem‑
macists to vaccinate old associated onstrated largest
regular and at-risk to pharmacists var‑ increase. Vaccination
population. ied from 0.4-11% by pharmacists
Chadi et al. BMC Public Health

There was evidence appears cost-saving


of substitution
by pharmacists,
but the effect
was small.
21 Teeter et al. [46] b 2020 Mixed methods: Identify the barri‑ USA Human papilloma Adolescents Identification of 3 Partnership Barrier: require‑
(2023) 23:1855

implement-tation ers and facilitators virus of 11-17 years old collaborative models: with other ment of patient
study (survey to community phar‑ ‘’shared responsi‑ providers, strong specific prescrip‑
and semi-structured macies’ provision bility model’’ (1st recommendation tion or disease
interviews) of HPV vaccines, dose given by doc‑ from a healthcare state management
select and imple‑ tor and 2nd professional protocol complexify
ment a physician- by pharmacist), the implementation
pharmacist collabo‑ ‘’pharmacy-based for providing HPV
ration model state management in pharmacy
protocol model’’
(strong recommen‑
dation by physician
to receive 2 doses
at pharmacy)’’ and ’’in
source model’’
(physician invites
pharmacist to give
vaccine clinic at their
office).
Page 11 of 45
Table 1 (continued)
Authors Year Article type Objective Country Vaccine Population Impact Targeting/ Barriers/facilitators
intervention

22 Zahnd et al. [47] b 2020 Quantitative: geo‑ To assess if geo‑ USA Human papilloma Adolescents in rural Areas with higher Not specified Facilitator: pharma‑
spatial analysis graphical access virus areas access cluster cies are more avail‑
to pharmacies around metro‑ able even in health
amongst adoles‑ politan area. Spatial provider shortage
cents and adults access was higher area. Capacity
in South Carolina in metropolitan of pharmacy to store
Chadi et al. BMC Public Health

according to rurality areas than micropo‑ vaccines, provide


and access to pri‑ litan areas. Mic‑ insurance coverage,
mary provider ropolitan and small state laws and poli‑
towns have similar cies are important
access. factors to consider
Health provider in the provision
(2023) 23:1855

shortage areas are of vaccines.


also linked with low Barrier: not all states
spatial access allow pharma‑
to pharmacies. In cist to prescribe
micropolitan area, and administer vac‑
there is no dif‑ cination.
ference in access
to pharmacy
in health provider
shortage area
or in non-health
provider shortage
areas.
23 Ariyo et al. [48] a,b 2019 Quantitative: Characterize USA Hepatitis A, hepati‑ Older adults > 65 184 patients Generating Barrier: new services
quasi-experimental the medication tis B, herpes zoster, years old and 18-64 participated. 633 a list of eligible take time for the staff
pre-post study therapy problems influenza, measle- years old with more vaccines were patients, screening to become comfort‑
and vaccines mumps -rubella, than 3 chronic recommended during workflow able and learn
recommended / meningo-coccal, medications during the initial or during another to incorporate
administered pneumo-coccal, visit. 51 vaccines program in the workflow,
at appointment- diphtheria-pertus‑ were adminis‑ timing of recom‑
based medication sis-tetanus tered. 17 minutes mendation was too
synchronization was reported early for some
visits in community for the initial visit. patients to receive
pharmacies In person consulta‑ the influenza vac‑
tions were associ‑ cine in September,
ated with more preference to receive
vaccine adminis‑ vaccine at the
trated. physician’s office
or unsure if they
received
Page 12 of 45
Table 1 (continued)
Authors Year Article type Objective Country Vaccine Population Impact Targeting/ Barriers/facilitators
intervention

24 Calo et al. [49] a,b 2019 Mixed methods: Process evaluation USA Human papilloma Adolescent Sites showed low Posters in phar‑ Facilitator: accept‑
implem-entation of HPV vaccination virus and young adults or no service pen‑ macy, advertis‑ ability of service
Chadi et al. BMC Public Health

study in pharmacies of 5 etration. 13 doses ing, personalized and waiting


states (Oregon, were given to ado‑ letter, collaboration times by parents,
Iowa, Kentucky, lescents and 3 with physicians convenience,
Michigan and North to adults. No satisfactory privacy
Carolina) and docu‑ vaccines were and confidentiality
menting real-world given in Oregon. Barriers: resistance
pharmacy settings. Key barriers were by some pharmacy
(2023) 23:1855

linked to service staff demonstrated


penetration, resistance due
appropriateness, to engagement, staff‑
feasibility, adoption ing, workflow integra‑
and sustainability tion, funding delays,
barriers. third-party reimburse‑
ment issues, physician
collaboration reluc‑
tance and low patient
awareness
25 Doucette et al. 2019 Quantitative: imple‑ Feasibility of a coor‑ USA Human papilloma Adolescent 51 patients were E-prescription facili‑ Facilitators: patient
[50]a,b mentation study dinated model virus and young female referred to the phar‑ tated the prescrip‑ appreciated receiv‑
of HPV vaccina‑ adults (mean age macy. 28 declined. tion order for 2nd ing information
tion where clinic 13 years old) During the study, and 3rd dose. from pharmacists,
provides first doses 25 vaccines were Information flyer combination of 2
and pharmacy given to 23 patients and text messages voices to provide
provide subsequent (12 months period). were implemented a stronger recom‑
doses. All patients com‑ to remind patients mendation to address
pleted their HPV of the appointment hesitancy
series. Barriers: few
interested patients,
workflow integra‑
tion, lack of staff
time and some
language barrier, lack
of access to an elec‑
tronic health record
for pharmacists
Page 13 of 45
Table 1 (continued)
Authors Year Article type Objective Country Vaccine Population Impact Targeting/ Barriers/facilitators
intervention

26 Reidenbach et al. 2019 Quantitative: cross- To describe the pre‑ USA Influenza, hepatitis Women of child‑ 78.8% of women Screening for vac‑ Facilitator: providing
[51] b sectional needs conception care B, diphtheria- bearing age were missing docu‑ cination status care, counseling
assessment study needs pertussis-tetanus, mentation on one amongst other or referral
among female measle-mumps- or more recom‑ preconception care. Barrier: lack of patient
patients of a com‑ rubella mended vaccines A standardized letter awareness on vaccine
munity pharmacy was sent to women need, vaccine may
Chadi et al. BMC Public Health

with incomplete vac‑ be done at other


cine record or missing pharmacies leading
vaccine encouraging to discrepancies
vaccination.
27 T Bach et al. [52] b 2019 Quantitative: cross- Evaluation USA Influenza, pneumo- Adults older 8669 vaccine Not specified Facilitator: screening
sectional study of a convenient coccal, herpes than 65 years old, screening forms tools help identifying
(2023) 23:1855

sample of 11 com‑ zoster, human chronic conditions were analyzed in 1 missed opportunities
munity pharmacies’ papilloma virus, (heart, liver, kidney, year. Influenza vac‑ Barrier: increase
screening form meningo-coccal, lung conditions, cine was the most paperwork
for pharmacists diphtheria-pertus‑ diabetes), pregnant popular admin‑ and workflow burden
to make proactive sis-tetanus women, adoles‑ istrated vaccine for patients and phar‑
recommendations cents (75%). macists
Patients have
on average 1 vac‑
cine recommended
besides influenza
vaccine. 10 and 35%
of patients were
indicated for herpes
zoster or herpes
zoster+ pneumo‑
coccal.
Although 10/11
pharmacy ask
about pregnancy,
22% of women
received the Tdap
vaccine during their
consultations.
Page 14 of 45
Table 1 (continued)
Authors Year Article type Objective Country Vaccine Population Impact Targeting/ Barriers/facilitators
intervention

28 Waite et al. [23] b 2019 Quantitative: cross- Assess the charac‑ Canada Influenza Age, income, Living in a nonur‑ Word-of-mouth, Facilitator: proportion
sectional study teristics and predic‑ race, chronic ban area or higher pharmacy specific of patients vaccinat‑
tors of patients condition, contact income neighbor‑ advertising ing in pharmacies
receiving vaccina‑ with pharmacy, hoods, not identify‑ is increasing due
tion at the phar‑ history of hospital ing as immigrant, to availability of the ser‑
macy compared admission not having diabetes vice through public
Chadi et al. BMC Public Health

to physician’s office or hypertension health


and receiving
a pharmacist service
the same day were
predictors of vacci‑
nation in pharmacy.
(2023) 23:1855

For > 65 years old,


having a hospital
admission dur‑
ing the year cor‑
related with phar‑
macy vaccination
whereas higher
annual medication
cost correlated
with physician’s
office.
29 Colorafi et al. [53] b 2018 Qualitative study: Descriptive analysis USA Pneumococcal Rural counties 60% of pharma‑ Convenient meth‑ Facilitator: walk-in
semi-structured of pharmacy barri‑ cists vaccinated ods for patients modalities
interviews ers to pneumonia against pneumonia. such as walk-in Barriers: competing
vaccination in 2 Some pharmacies were made avail‑ priorities dur‑
rural counties chose not to vac‑ able. ing patient visits,
of Washington cinate not to disrupt failure to assume
the existing collabo‑ responsibility to edu‑
rative relationship cate and vaccinate,
with physicians. challenges in deter‑
Some pharmacies mining vaccination
required prescrip‑ status, knowledge
tions from a physi‑ gaps, complexity
cian to administer. of recommenda‑
Patients acted tion, lack of vaccine
like consumers availability. Pricing
to find the best variability affects
price. perception of afford‑
ability and need
for prescription
affects acceptability
Page 15 of 45
Table 1 (continued)
Authors Year Article type Objective Country Vaccine Population Impact Targeting/ Barriers/facilitators
intervention

30 Klassing et al. [54] a,b 2018 Quantitative: rand‑ To determine USA Influenza, pneumo- Adult patients Control participants Receiving Facilitators: marketing
omized controlled if pharmacy-initi‑ coccal with asthma resulted in sig‑ a standardized initiatives improves
Chadi et al. BMC Public Health

trial ated interventions and COPD nificantly higher letter or receiving awareness and vac‑
improved the rate influenza uptake a personal phone cination rates
of influenza than letter or phone call recommend‑ Barrier: difficulty
and pneumococcal call group. Letter ing influenza to reach patients
vaccinations group resulted and pneumococcal through phone
in higher pneu‑ vaccination or mail, many
mococcal uptake patients expressed
(2023) 23:1855

although not sig‑ the desire to discuss


nificant. vaccination with phy‑
Sub-analysis sician
of patients under 65
years old resulted
in significantly
higher influenza
rates in the letter
group compared
to the phone call
group.
31 O’Brien et al. [55] a,b 2018 Quantitative: Describe the meth‑ USA Influenza Army soldiers, Implementa‑ Promotional posters Facilitator: partner‑
implement-tation ods and perspec‑ health care profes‑ tion was simple in pharmacy, social ship with public
study tives on the first sional once the prepara‑ media advertising, health instances
outpatient phar‑ tion was completed. promotion to other helped getting
macy to provide In 2016-2017, 238 health providers, a standing order
influenza vac‑ people received leaflets, collabora‑ for a pharmacist
cination to military the vaccine. In tion between pro‑ to vaccinate
personnel 2017-2018, 761 vider, staff training
people received
the vaccine (about
2/3 of beneficiaries
/employees – 1/3
soldiers)
32 Patel et al. [56]b 2018 Quantitative: quasi- Odds of being USA Influenza, pneumo‑ High-risk popula‑ Exposure to phar‑ Not specified -
experimental longi‑ immunized coccal tion including peo‑ macy immunization
tudinal time series, after exposure ple aged > 65 years services increases
logistic regression to pharmacy old the likelihood
service compared of pneumococ‑
to before the cal and influenza
service vaccination by 2.5%
and 1.5%.
Page 16 of 45
Table 1 (continued)
Authors Year Article type Objective Country Vaccine Population Impact Targeting/ Barriers/facilitators
intervention

33 Shah et al. [57] b 2018 Quantitative: geo‑ Comparison USA Human papilloma Adolescent High per capita Not specified Facilitator: pharma‑
spatial analysis of spatial dispersion virus physicians were cies are encouraged
of pharmacies located near other to be geographi‑
and physician’s high per capita cally dispersed
office to assess physician census to avoid competition.
adequate access tracts (cluster). Economies of scope
Chadi et al. BMC Public Health

to vaccine in Texas. Pharmacists are by providing different


more geographi‑ vaccine services
cally dispersed can be achieved
than physician’s in pharmacies. Diver‑
offices. Adding sification may be
them as vaccine a business strategy
(2023) 23:1855

providers in area
of inadequate
coverage improves
vaccine availability
(33-55% coverage).
Urban areas saw
higher improve‑
ment than rural area
(35% vs 18%)
34 Wick et al. [58] a,b 2018 Quantitative: Define the percep‑ USA Human papilloma Parents of children The intention Pharmacy led Barrier: most
quasi-experimental tion and awareness virus < 9 years old to vaccinate education group participants had
pre-post study on HPV vaccina‑ increased sessions made their decision
tion in pharma‑ by 9% (35-44%) before the child’s
cies. Describe and participants birth. Early interven‑
parental intentions against vaccinating tion when the deci‑
and rationale in pro‑ decreased by 11% sion is made may be
viding HPV vaccina‑ (23 to 12%) efficient to reverse
tion to their child. The intervention vaccine hesitation.
Assess the impact Increased aware‑
of a pharmacist-led ness of availability
education group of HPV vaccine
session. in pharmacy
from 32-100%
Page 17 of 45
Table 1 (continued)
Authors Year Article type Objective Country Vaccine Population Impact Targeting/ Barriers/facilitators
intervention

35 Bedwick et al. 2017 Quantitative: Impact of an auto‑ USA Herpes zoster Adults > 60 years 25 patients received Personalized phone Facilitator: cost-
[59] a,b quasi-experimental mated phone old the vaccine call providing effective intervention
Chadi et al. BMC Public Health

pre-post study message during the study a strong recom‑ Barriers: workflow dis‑
and survey from the pharmacy period. Receiving mendation for vac‑ turbances on the day
owner recommend‑ the phone call cination of the messages
ing the vaccine was the most cited due to an increase
on vaccination reason followed in the volumes
rates and patient by doctor’s recom‑ of calls, necessity
satisfaction mendation to get for all pharmacists
(2023) 23:1855

vaccinated. 16/18 to be informed


receiving the phone of the content
call reported of the phone mes‑
that the phone call sage, complexity
influenced their to remove patients
decision. that received
Patients showed the message
high satisfaction from the list, difficulty
with the method. to have an updated
list of patient’s
phones
36 Di Pietro Mager 2017 Quantitative: imple‑ To demonstrate USA Measle-mumps- Women of child‑ 1149 pharmacists Pharmacist training, Facilitators: minimal
et al. [60] a,b mentation study the ability of a state‑ rubella, hepatitis B bearing age (15-45 from 818 pharma‑ generating a list training and support
wide network years old) cies participated. of eligible patients, are required
of community 3844 patients screening dur‑ Barriers: targeting
pharmacists to with immuniza‑ ing clinical program could be done more
provide preconcep‑ tion opportunities specifically to women
tion care services were identified. wishing to conceive
with the use of tar‑ 1411 (37%) target
geted medication medication review
reviews were performed.
971 (69%) of those
received immuniza‑
tion services.
Page 18 of 45
Table 1 (continued)
Authors Year Article type Objective Country Vaccine Population Impact Targeting/ Barriers/facilitators
intervention

37 Fava et al. [61] a,b 2017 Narrative review Review of the lit‑ USA Human papilloma Adolescent Literature Text-based Barriers: cost,
erature on barriers virus on pharmacy- reminder, phone lack of access,
and initiatives based programs reminder misinformation
in HPV vaccination is scarce compared regarding vaccines,
Chadi et al. BMC Public Health

to health systems reaching adolescent,


and public health social philosophi‑
driven models. cal religious stigma
Only 1 pharmacy- among parents
based HPV program as a barrier to effec‑
targeting under‑ tive provider informa‑
insured college tion and recommen‑
(2023) 23:1855

students was found. dation, staff training,


Vaccine for Children vaccine access, train‑
program allows ing and complexity
free vaccination with Vaccine for
for American Children program
Indian but only 100 in pharmacies.
pharmacies are
providers.
38 Inguva et al. [26] b 2017 Quantitative: cross- Assess the charac‑ USA Influenza Age, race and state Doctor’s office Not specified Facilitator: physician’s
sectional study, teristics of patients of origin in the USA is the most preva‑ order is no longer
logistic regression receiving vaccines lent site of vac‑ necessary for Medi‑
in a pharmacy cination (37.5%) care and Medicaid
setting across 8 US followed by com‑ patients
states and Puerto munity pharmacy
Rico (23.3%).
Older adults, multi‑
racial participants,
Hispanic respond‑
ents and resi‑
dents of states
that allowed vacci‑
nation before 1999
were more likely
to use pharmacy
services.
Poor health, having
high risk conditions,
Black and White
responders are
associated higher
doctor’s office vac‑
cination.
Page 19 of 45
Table 1 (continued)
Authors Year Article type Objective Country Vaccine Population Impact Targeting/ Barriers/facilitators
intervention

39 Jimenez-Quinones 2017 Quantitative: To observe USA (Puerto Rico) Human papilloma Adults in low socio- Out of the 200 can‑ Listing eligible Facilitator: the phar‑
Chadi et al. BMC Public Health

[62] a,b quasi-experimental whether local virus economic area didate patients, 79 patients, phone macy system
pre-post study vaccination rates were reached. Only call to educate was efficient at iden‑
are improved 7 patients received and counsel tifying the candidates
by a patient the educational patients, invitation for HPV, collaborative
and physician session. to an educational agreements helped
education program 4/79 received groups program access to HPV vac‑
(2023) 23:1855

on (HPV) in a com‑ the vaccine (1 had cines.


munity pharmacy received the educa‑ Barrier: refusal to par‑
of Puerto Rico. tional program). ticipate in group
program was associ‑
ated to lack of time.
40 Kulczycki et al. [63] b 2017 Qualitative study: Assess the knowl‑ USA Pneumo-coccal At-risk adult 19-64 Several knowledge Screening Barriers: advocacy,
semi-structured edge, practice pat‑ years old (chronic gaps were identi‑ through dur‑ public misper‑
interviews terns of community conditions) fied in the target ing influenza vac‑ ceptions, limited
pharmacists, chal‑ and older adults > population cination services collaboration
lenges to offering 65 years old pneumococcal with physicians,
pneumococcal vac‑ recommendations. resource constraints,
cines and deter‑ Most pharmacists improving the record-
mine opportunities did not fully utilize keeping system,
for expanding com‑ the available data patient-pharmacist
munity pharmacy- to target or pro‑ trust
based vaccination mote vaccination. Facilitators: growing
services in Alabama. The vaccine is rarely acceptance of phar‑
recommended out‑ macy-based immuni‑
side the flu season. zation, business case
for pneumococcal,
interest for continu‑
ing education
Page 20 of 45
Table 1 (continued)
Authors Year Article type Objective Country Vaccine Population Impact Targeting/ Barriers/facilitators
intervention

41 Pattin [64] b 2017 Narrative review Review of pharmacy USA Influenza, pneumo- Racial and ethnic Overall vaccina‑ Pharmacy techni‑ Facilitator: trust
technician’s role coccal, herpes disparities tion is low and fails cian initiation in provider, opinion
in reducing immu‑ zoster to meet goals. of conversation leader
nization disparities. Technicians play on vaccine Barrier: lack
Chadi et al. BMC Public Health

a role in improving of knowledge


vaccination. among health care
provider and con‑
sumers on the ben‑
efits of vaccination,
staying current,
lack of knowledge
(2023) 23:1855

of immunization
disparities, cultural
and language differ‑
ence provides dis‑
trust, distrust in physi‑
cians, personal beliefs
against vaccines,
lack of insurance
coverage, difficulty
to assess patient’s
eligibility
42 Anderson et al. 2016 Quantitative: cross- Assess the charac‑ UK Influenza Age, education, 1741 questionnaires Not specified -
[14] b sectional study teristics of patients health care workers were obtained
receiving vaccina‑ from 55 pharmacies.
tion at the phar‑ 19% of vaccinated
macy compared patients in pharma‑
to other vaccination cies.
site. Older adults, health
care workers
and more educated
patients were more
likely to be vac‑
cinated in pharma‑
cies than at other
sites.
Page 21 of 45
Table 1 (continued)
Authors Year Article type Objective Country Vaccine Population Impact Targeting/ Barriers/facilitators
intervention
Chadi et al. BMC Public Health

43 Hohmeier et al. 2016 Mixed methods: Describe and report USA Human papilloma Adolescents No patients Education dur‑ Facilitator: pharmacist
[65] a,b implementation the impact virus and adults 9-26 received the vac‑ ing dispensing, recommendation
study (surveys of a multimodal years old cine during the con‑ poster, flyers, to improve aware‑
and semi-structured series of pharmacy trol period and 10 provider education, ness, physician’s
interviews) led educational vaccines were customized pre‑ recommenda‑
intervention target‑ dispensed dur‑ scription pads tion, convenience
(2023) 23:1855

ing eligible patients ing the intervention attracted patients


in community period (9 1st dose, 1 Barrier: lack of insur‑
pharmacy 2nd dose). ance coverage
44 Eid et al. [66] b 2015 Narrative review To review USA Herpes zoster Adults > 60 years 2 studies on active Staff training, face- Facilitator: staff
the impact of phar‑ old promotion by phar‑ to-face interaction, training, working
macist intervention macists were found. education, pro‑ with interns and tech‑
on herpes zoster Bryan et al. showed motional material nicians to initiate
vaccination rates significant rise (newspaper, flyers, the conversation,
(12.1% vs 1.5%) personalized letters) marketing, recruiting
in vaccination patients out‑
through training side of the pharmacy
of staff with per‑ work chain
sonal selling
training, personal
letter, pharmacy
technician initiation
of conversation
and passive promo‑
tion.
Wang et al. showed
significant increase
in vaccination
(1.2% vs 0.37%)
with the use of pro‑
motional material
sent to patients.
A personalized
letter was the most
effective for of phar‑
macist intervention.
Page 22 of 45
Table 1 (continued)
Authors Year Article type Objective Country Vaccine Population Impact Targeting/ Barriers/facilitators
intervention

45 Liu et al. [67] b 2014 Quantitative: cross- Estimating the rate Canada Herpes zoster Adults > 60 years Dispensing rates Not specified Barrier: coverage
sectional study of vaccination old increased sharply of vaccine remains
of adults over 60 from 2009-2013. a barrier to acces‑
years old in com‑ 8.4% of Alberta resi‑ sibility
Chadi et al. BMC Public Health

munity pharmacies dents > 60 years old


received the vac‑
cine as of 2013
in pharmacy.
Most vaccines
were dispensed
to urban residents
(2023) 23:1855

(87%), adults 60-69


years old (42.5%)
and to women
(9.5%)
46 Navarrete et al. 2014 Quantitative: imple‑ Needs assessment USA Human papilloma Underinsured 72% of students Promotion and mar‑ Facilitator: provision
[68] a,b mentation study and implementa‑ virus university students did not understand keting campaign, of vaccine via a physi‑
tion of an HPV (17-35 years old) how HPV is trans‑ financial aid for vac‑ cian signed protocol,
vaccine program mitted. cine coverage, vac‑ references by other
at the pharmacy 89 patients (79.8%) cination, healthcare clinics and financial
located in the uni‑ received their 2nd provider references aid program
versity clinic doses and 48.3% Barriers: inadequate
completed the vac‑ provider recommen‑
cine series. dation, lack of time,
46 patients did reimbursement,
not complete infrequent reminders
the vaccination / recall systems,
series due to follow- parental hesitancy,
up loss or other discomfort talking
reasons. about sexual health,
lack of health care
access
Page 23 of 45
Table 1 (continued)
Authors Year Article type Objective Country Vaccine Population Impact Targeting/ Barriers/facilitators
intervention

47 Teeter et al. [69] a,b 2014 Quantitative: cross- Document patient USA Herpes zoster Adults > 60 years 681 patients partici‑ Education program Facilitator: con‑
sectional study characteris‑ old pated in conversa‑ on herpes zoster venience, suggestion
tics, awareness tions with phar‑ vaccine provided to discuss vaccine
and knowledge macy students. by pharmacy with pharmacists
Chadi et al. BMC Public Health

on herpes zoster Most participants student, strong or physicians


vaccine and rea‑ (73%) were inter‑ recommendation Barriers: lack
sons for not get‑ ested in talking from healthcare of time/forgot
ting the vaccine. to a health provider provider or did not know it
Assess the impact after the educa‑ was needed, cost
of an education tion. People who of vaccine, lack
program on inter‑ did not have time of recommendation
(2023) 23:1855

est in obtaining to get the vaccine from physicians


the vaccine. were the most inter‑
ested in speaking
with a pharmacist
(91.5%)
48 Bryan et al. [70] a,b 2013 Quantitative: Comparison USA Herpes zoster Adults > 60 years Significantly more Personal selling, Facilitator: support
quasi-experimental of promotional old patients made providing a strong from technicians,
prospective com‑ techniques commitments recommendation influence from family
parison study (personal selling to receive the vac‑ for vaccination, and friends, avail‑
vs and personal‑ cine with active personalized letter ability of the vaccine,
ized letter targeted promotion (12% targeting, listing strong recommenda‑
to eligible patients). vs 1.5%). Patients eligible patients, tion from providers,
receiving a person‑ poster, leaflets awareness for vaccine
alized letter made Barriers: desire
more commitments to discuss vaccina‑
than patients tion with physician,
receiving a phone time constraints,
call. staff support, legal
Active promo‑ liability, adequate
tion significantly space, reimburse‑
improved ment, lack of training,
patient’s attitude lack of perceived
towards receiv‑ knowledge, poor
ing the vaccine upper management
and reduced support
the average time
spent with patients.
Personal selling,
friends/family, phy‑
sician were more
frequent reasons
to get the vaccine
than brochure
and poster.
Page 24 of 45
Table 1 (continued)
Authors Year Article type Objective Country Vaccine Population Impact Targeting/ Barriers/facilitators
intervention

49 Hess [71] a,b 2013 Quantitative: rand‑ Measure the impact USA Herpes zoster Adults > 60 years Telephone sig‑ Automated tel‑ Facilitator: novelty
omized controlled of an automated old nificantly increased ephone messaging of the vaccine, trusted
Chadi et al. BMC Public Health

trial outbound tel‑ the rate of vaccina‑ system, sent to a list source of the mes‑
ephone messaging tion from 46 (0.72%) of eligible patients sage, the vaccine
system on herpes to 146 (2.6%) vac‑ was not back ordered
zoster vaccinations cines administered in the intervention,
between the inter‑ champions could
vention and control influence the rates
group. in some locations
(2023) 23:1855

Barrier: lack of patient


awareness
50 Wang et al. [72]a,b 2013 Quantitative: To evaluate USA Herpes zoster Adults > 50 years Vaccination rates Multisite promo‑ Facilitator: comfort
quasi-experimental the effectiveness old significantly tional intervention: with pharmacist
pre-post study of community increased from 59 newspaper press administration of vac‑
pharmacy–based (0.37% of eligible release, advertise‑ cine, collaborative
interventions patients) to 169 ment flyer on all agreements facili‑
in increasing patients (1.20% prescriptions tated the obtaining
vaccination rates of eligible patients). and a personalized of prescriptions
for the herpes More patients letter mailed to eli‑ Barrier: vaccination
zoster vaccine reported being gible patients statistics decreased
educated and influ‑ after intervention.
enced by the phar‑ Reinforcement may
macy-driven be necessary. Lack‑
intervention. ing collaborative
Flyer and news‑ agreement made
paper were vaccination more
significantly cited complicated
as more effective
interventions
51 Murphy et al. [73] b 2012 Quantitative: cross- Assess the extent USA Influenza Medically under‑ 1.75 million of influ‑ Not specified Facilitator: long
sectional study of Walgreen phar‑ served community enza vaccines opening hours
macies provision (MUA) were administered of pharmacies
of vaccines in MUA by Walgreens and convenience
in MUA.
Mississippi
and New Mexico
had the highest
percentage of MUA
and pharmacies
provided 68.6%
and 54% of all vac‑
cines.
Page 25 of 45
Table 1 (continued)
Authors Year Article type Objective Country Vaccine Population Impact Targeting/ Barriers/facilitators
intervention

52 De Bruyn et al. [74] a 2011 Quantitative: cross- Comparison Belgium Influenza Adults > 50, Vaccination rates Not specified Facilitator: H1N1
sectional study of pharmacy years old, chronic increase with age. was a strong incen‑
delivered vac‑ condition (cardiac, The 95 years old tive for patients
cines 2010-2011 pulmonary, + age bracket to get vaccinated,
Chadi et al. BMC Public Health

to the previous year immune-compro‑ appears less vac‑ vaccine uptake


(2004-2010) mised, diabetic, cinated. Diabetic appears linked
kidney patients), patients showed to media attention
institu-tionalized similar variations to vaccination.
patients, healthcare in vaccination rates Barrier: require‑
professionals in comparison ment for prescrip‑
to non-diabetic tion and mention
(2023) 23:1855

patients. of the patient’s eligi‑


bility by the doctor
53 Durham et al. [75] a 2011 Quantitative: Comparison USA Travel vaccines Travelers 513 patients were Not specified Facilitator: providers
quasi-experimental between PCP (pri‑ seen (172 by PCP with training allows
retrospective cross- mary care providers) and 341 by PTC). for better recommen‑
comparison and PTC (phar‑ PTC patients were dations, the inter‑
macist-run travel ordered significantly vention was well
clinic) in provision more vaccines accepted
of travel medication per patients
and vaccines. Com‑ when indicated
parison of adequate (2.77 vs 2.31)
prescription, missed and were signifi‑
opportunities, inad‑ cantly more likely
equate prescription to receive them
and compliance (2.38 vs 1.95).
to recommendation PCP recommended
significantly more
vaccines not con‑
sistent with guide‑
lines per patient.
Activities planned
and purpose
of travel were more
documented in PTC.
Page 26 of 45
Table 1 (continued)
Authors Year Article type Objective Country Vaccine Population Impact Targeting/ Barriers/facilitators
intervention

54 Skiles et al. [76] b 2011 Quantitative: cross- Assess the attitude USA Human papilloma Adolescent 24/50 states Not specified Barriers: vaccine
sectional study of state pharmacy virus, diphtheria- answered storage and handling,
association del‑ pertussis-tetanus, the survey. 14/24 financing and collab‑
egates towards ado‑ influenza allow adolescent oration with primary
Chadi et al. BMC Public Health

lescent immuniza‑ vaccination. 4/14 care provider, lack


tions require prescription. of patient awareness,
Minimal advertis‑ vaccine hesitancy
ing of adolescent
vaccination services
exists.
Most respond‑
(2023) 23:1855

ents believed
in the importance
of adolescent vacci‑
nation. 67% agreed
that HPV vaccina‑
tion recommenda‑
tions were contro‑
versial. Knowledge
of the minor
consent laws
was limited.
55 Taitel et al. [77] a,b 2011 Quantitative: quasi- Impact of phar‑ USA Pneumo-coccal Adults > 65 years 2 million patients Screening dur‑ Facilitator: providing
experimental case macy education old, patients received an influ‑ ing vaccination concurrent vaccines
control study on pneumonia risk with chronic condi‑ enza vaccine, activities, strong Barriers: missed
during influenza tions (pulmonary, and 1.3 million recommendation opportunities,
immunization, cardiac, liver, patients were from a provider, limited setting, fear
educate them immune-compro‑ eligible to the pneu‑ notification letter of adverse effects
and provide vac‑ mised, diabetic, mococcal vaccine was then sent and lack of awareness
cination. asplenia patients) (69% over 65 years to the physi‑
old, 31% chronic cian or given to
conditions). the patient
Patients in the inter‑
vention group
significantly
received more vac‑
cination than those
in the benchmark
group (4.9% vs
2.9%).
Patients 60-70 years
old had the highest
rate of vaccination.
Page 27 of 45
Table 1 (continued)
Authors Year Article type Objective Country Vaccine Population Impact Targeting/ Barriers/facilitators
intervention

56 Usami et al. [78] a 2009 Quantitative: rand‑ To determine Japan Influenza Adults > 65 years 1776 partici‑ Pharmacists pro‑ Facilitator: conversa‑
omized controlled if personal advocacy old pants completed vided information tion yielded a more
cluster study for influenza vac‑ both surveys (881 on risk and benefits thorough under‑
cination by com‑ in intervention, 895 of influenza vac‑ standing than leaflet
munity phar‑ in control group). cination (leaflet, or mailing, a short 5
macists affected Vaccination rate mailing, poster) min conversation did
Chadi et al. BMC Public Health

the vaccination in the intervention not disrupt the work‑


rate and num‑ group was signifi‑ flow
ber of patients cantly higher (82%
with influenza vs 65%) and influ‑
enza infection
was significantly
(2023) 23:1855

lower (2/881 vs
11/895)
57 De Bruyn et al. [79] a 2008 Quantitative: Impact of a pop-up Belgium Influenza Diabetic patients 14% of pharmacies Pop-up nudge, Facilitator: pharma‑
quasi-experimental system in phar‑ over and under 65 sent a total of 420 pharmacists are cists are well suited
pre-post study macist software years old standardized notes then asked to dis‑ to target diabetic
when renewing dia‑ to doctors. 207 cuss vaccination, patients
betic medication. patients purchased give a pamphlet, Barrier: delay in vac‑
the vaccine. send standardized cine reception,
Vaccination note to doctor more collaboration
of diabetic patients and encourage between pharmacists
increased by 2% patients to contact and physicians can
between 2006-2007 their doctor improve vaccine
and 2007-2008. related communi‑
Young diabetic cation, awareness
patient vaccina‑ of patient to vaccines
tion rate increased
by 4.6% compared
to older diabetic
patients which
remained stable.
Page 28 of 45
Table 1 (continued)
Authors Year Article type Objective Country Vaccine Population Impact Targeting/ Barriers/facilitators
intervention

58 Marrero et al. [80] a 2006 Quantitative: rand‑ Evaluate the educa‑ USA (Puerto Rico) Influenza Adults > 65 years 3 months Discussion groups, Facilitator: patient
omized controlled tion need of older old after the study, 68% distribution showed sustained,
trial adults, design, of the experimental of pamphlets, strong provider
implement group was vacci‑ providing a strong recommenda‑
Chadi et al. BMC Public Health

and evaluate a vac‑ nated after phase 3 recommendation tion satisfaction


cine education pro‑ (vs 32% of the con‑ for vaccination, col‑ toward pharmacist
gram in pharmacy trol group). 1 year laboration the pub‑ services, collabora‑
after the study 72% lic health to obtain tion with nurses
of the experimental vaccines and nurse and public health
group was vac‑ to perform immuni‑ Barrier: difficulty
cinated (vs 24% zations to reach prospective
(2023) 23:1855

of the control patients, vaccine


group) availability
The experimen‑
tal group had
higher knowledge
on the vac‑
cine at 3 and 12
months. Patients
that assisted
to the educa‑
tion program did
not visit a doctor
for respiratory
reasons.
59 Hind et al. [81]a 2004 Quantitative: Describe the impact UK Influenza At-risk patients < 65 56 patients were Posters, leaflets, Facilitator: conveni‑
implem-entation of a new model years old (diabetes, vaccinated in 1 proving a strong ence in location, time,
study of administrating cardiac, pulmonary pharmacy. recommendation professionalism
influenza vaccine disease, immuno- 55 thought for vaccination and adequate privacy,
through com‑ compromised that the injec‑ by the pharmacist, support from physi‑
munity pharmacy or carer of an at-risk tion went as well interprofessional cians, collective order,
and its uptake. patient) as in the past. 10 collabora‑ vaccine coverage
would not have tion, screening
been vaccinated eligible patients
if not offered through the work‑
by the pharma‑ flow
cists. 46 would
have gone to their
general practitioner.
Patient showed
high acceptance
of the intervention.
Page 29 of 45
Table 1 (continued)
Authors Year Article type Objective Country Vaccine Population Impact Targeting/ Barriers/facilitators
intervention

60 Barbero et al. [82]a 2003 Quantitative: Evaluate Spain Travelling vaccines Travelers to high- 825 vaccines were Specialized Facilitator: acces‑
quasi-experimental the performance risk destinations recommended: 73% training program sibility, collaboration
comparison study and the number by pharmacists, 27% given to pharma‑ with health delega‑
of travel health by doctors. cists, promotion tions, collaboration
Chadi et al. BMC Public Health

consultation 45% of patients through travelling with physicians


to high-risk destina‑ received the vac‑ clinics and health Barriers: bureaucratic
tions in community cines recom‑ delegations, leaflets, barriers to obtain
pharmacy. mended. More collaboration prescriptions, lack
patients obeyed with physicians of patient awareness
to the recom‑ for prescriptions, for risk
mendation in trips strong recommen‑
(2023) 23:1855

to India and North dation for vaccines


Africa vs Caribbe‑ was provided
ans. 6.3% of patients
received both cor‑
rect vaccines
and medications.
61 Ndiaye et al. [83] a 2003 Mixed methods: Perception of com‑ USA Children vaccines Medically under‑ 6 interviews PIP was advertised Facilitator: providing
cross-sectional munity and indi‑ served adults and 398 (96 PIP through newspa‑ immunization out‑
surveys and semi- vidual factors and children users, 302 non-PIP per, TV, posters side of parents’ work
structured inter‑ that influenced users) surveys were and handouts dis‑ hour, accessibility
views parents’ utilization compiled. tributed in schools, without appoint‑
of pharmacies 8 main hypotheti‑ schools, daycare, ment, vaccines free
through PIP (Phar‑ cally influen‑ stores and pharma‑ of charge, conveni‑
macy Immunization tial factors were cies ence, trust, promo‑
Program). identified. 5/8 were tional collaboration
significantly associ‑
ated with pharmacy
immunization:
reliance/trust, tim‑
ing, income, access/
location, contacts/
connections.
Page 30 of 45
Table 1 (continued)
Authors Year Article type Objective Country Vaccine Population Impact Targeting/ Barriers/facilitators
intervention

62 Grabenstein et al. 2001 Quantitative: ret‑ Measure USA Influenza Adults > 65 years The increase Not specified Facilitator: rights
[84] b rospective cohort of the association old, chronic condi‑ in influenza vac‑ to administer
study between vac‑ tions (pulmonary, cination rates vaccines, patient
cination status cardiac patients, amongst 65+ awareness of vaccine
Chadi et al. BMC Public Health

and the availability diabetes) was not significantly services offered


of pharmacists in state where phar‑ in pharmacy
as immunizer macists administer Barrier: patients are
vaccines. more likely to return
Influenza vac‑ to traditional provid‑
cination rates ers than non-tradi‑
amongst chronic tional providers
(2023) 23:1855

conditions
increased nearly
significantly in state
where pharmacists
administer vaccines.
63 Rosenbluth et al. 2001 Quantitative: imple‑ To describe USA Children vaccines Children vaccina‑ All participants were Pharmacy Facilitator: facilitated
[85] a mentation study the Pharmacy tion in rural areas satisfied and would and country health process for states
Immunization recommend it. 4% department part‑ that do not allow
Project, a phar‑ preferred not get‑ nership, collabora‑ pharmacists to immu‑
macy/county ting vaccines tion with nurses nize, trust in phar‑
health department at the pharmacy to provide macists, accessible
partnership model because they vaccines yearlong services on Friday
for immunizing preferred their phy‑ through a standing and Saturday
infants and adults sician, they need order, promotions nights, coordina‑
in rural areas, more information, via posters, flyers, tion between clinics
and to develop or the pharmacy direct communi‑ and pharmacies
service procedures is too busy. cation, TV, radio helped solving
and disseminate 4 out of 5 pharma‑ and newspaper scheduling difficul‑
lessons learned cies continued adds, presentations ties, collaboration
for adapting the service. 1 made by pharma‑ by physicians, patient
the model to differ‑ dropped due to lack cists to the com‑ awareness, strong
ent settings. of demand. There munity recommendation
were no problems by provider
or complaints
from health
care providers
in the region.
a
Studies that are part of a structured vaccination program
b
Studies in settings where pharmacists are allowed to vaccinate at the time of the study
Page 31 of 45
Chadi et al. BMC Public Health (2023) 23:1855 Page 32 of 45

Table 2 Included study characteristics studies (n = 7, 11%), cohort studies (n = 6, 10%) and ran-
Study Characteristics Frequency % (n=63)
domized control trials (n = 5, 8%). Other quantitative
designs such as comparison quasi experimental stud-
Qualitative ies, case–control studies and geospatial analysis were
Semi-structured interview 4 6.3% less frequent (n ≤ 3). Qualitative studies all used semi-
Quantitative structured interviews to collect their data. Most of the
Cross-sectional study 16 25.3% mixed-methods studies were implementation studies
Cohort study 6 9.5% (n = 4, 6%). Out of the 5 review articles (8%), 2 were sys-
Quasi-experimental: Pre-post design 9 14.3% tematic reviews (3%) and 3 were narrative reviews (5%).
Quasi-experimental: Case–control study 1 1.6% The objectives and outcomes of various studies differed
Quasi-experimental: Comparison study 3 4.8% greatly. Almost a third of the studies evaluated the vac-
Randomized trial control 5 7.9% cination uptake generated by different interventions in
Implementation study 6 9.5% community pharmacies (n = 20, 32%).
Geospatial analysis 2 3.2% The influenza vaccine was reported in almost half of
Mixed Methods the studies (n = 29, 46%). Herpes zoster, pneumococcal
Mixed methods 6 9.5% and human papilloma virus vaccines were each discussed
Review in 14 studies (n = 22%), followed by tetanus-pertussis-
Systematic review 2 3.2% diphtheria (n = 6, 10%) and travel vaccines (n = 2, 3%).
Narrative review 3 4.8% Other vaccines figured in lower frequencies such as
Study Location meningococcal vaccines, hepatitis A and B, measles-
North America 53 84.1% mumps-rubella or other children’s vaccinations (n ≤ 2).
Europe 6 9.5% Thirteen studies investigated more than one vaccine at
Oceania 2 3.2% a time (21%). All but one combined the influenza vac-
Other 2 3.2% cine with one or many other vaccines (n = 12, 19%). The
Publication Date combinations were influenza-pneumococcal (n = 4, 6%),
2015 + 44 69.8% influenza-pneumococcal-herpes zoster (n = 2, 3%), influ-
2010–2014 11 17.5% enza-pertussis (n = 1, 2%) or a combination of more than
2005–2009 3 4.8% 3 vaccines (n = 6, 10%).
2000–2004 5 7.9%
Vaccines Vulnerability categories
Influenza 29 46.0% We divided the various vulnerable populations into 5 cate-
HPV 14 22.2% gories of vulnerability: lifecycle vulnerabilities (n = 48, 76%),
Pneumococcal 14 22.2% clinical factors (n = 18, 29%), socio-economical determi-
Herpes Zoster 14 22.2% nants (n = 16, 25%), geographical vulnerabilities (n = 7, 11%)
Tetanus, diphteria, pertussis 6 9.5% and others (n = 6, 10%) (Table 3). A total of 22 articles com-
Travel vaccinations (meningitis, hepatitis, 2 3.2% bined more than one vulnerability category (35%).
typhoid fever, yellow fever …)
First, within the lifecycle category, age-related criteria
Other 9 14.3%
were the most prevalent such as being elderly (n = 25,
40%), adolescent (n = 12, 19%), of childbearing age
(n = 3, 5%) or being a child (n = 2, 3%). Other subcatego-
Belgium (n = 2, 3%) and Spain (n = 1, 2%) were reported. ries within the lifecycle category include vulnerabilities
One article was published from Australia (2%) and one around pregnancy and parenthood such as pregnant
from New Zealand (2%). women (n = 4, 6%) and parents of children (n = 2, 3%).
The studies showed a wide variety of study designs Second, the clinical factors category regrouped a
with a predominance for quantitative frameworks wide range of illnesses that increase the risk for com-
(n = 48, 76%). A smaller portion of studies used quali- plications such as pulmonary conditions (n = 4, 6%),
tative design (n = 4, 6%), mixed-methods design (n = 6, diabetes (n = 3, 5%), cancer (n = 1, 2%), cardiovascular
10%) and literature reviews methodologies (n = 5, 8%). disease (n = 1, 2%) or a combination of at-risk illnesses
When looking more into the methodology of quanti- or an immunocompromised status (n= 9, 14%). Illness
tative studies, cross-sectional surveys were the most status was identified via medical databases, insurance
common (n = 16, 25%), followed by quasi-experimental databases, pharmacy databases and self-reported medi-
studies pre-post design (n = 9, 14%), implementation cal history. One study defined its vulnerable population
Chadi et al. BMC Public Health (2023) 23:1855 Page 33 of 45

Table 3 Frequency of vulnerability characteristics Finally, the last category includes other vulnerabilities
Vulnerability Characteristics Frequency % (n=63)
that did not fit in the previous categories such as occu-
pation (n = 3, 5%), lifestyle (n = 2, 3%) and individuals
Lifecycle with incomplete vaccination status (n = 2, 3%). Groups
Elderly 25 39.7% included in the occupation subcategory were military
Adolescent 12 19.0% personnel, healthcare workers and students. The studies
Pregnancy 4 6.3% in the lifestyle category discussed travellers going to high-
Women of childbearing age 3 4.8% risk destinations. It is important to note that a third of the
Parents of children 2 3.2% articles (n = 23, 37%) combined two or more vulnerability
Children 2 3.2% categories. The most common combination was clinical
Clinical Factors factors and lifecycle vulnerabilities (n = 14, 22%).
Combination of chronic conditions 9 14.3%
and/or immunodepression
Vaccination barriers and facilitators
Pulmonary condition 4 6.3%
Twenty-four barriers and 26 facilitators were com-
Diabetes 3 4.8%
piled from the included articles (Table 4) and classified
Cardiac condition 1 1.6%
according to 5 levels (Fig. 2): 1) patient level (individual
Cancer 1 1.6%
characteristics and perceptions), 2) interpersonal level
Socio-Economic Determinants
(relationship between patients and pharmacy team mem-
Race 8 12.7%
bers), 3) organizational level (factors within the phar-
Income 7 11.1%
macy organization), 4) health system level (interaction
Education 3 4.8%
between healthcare organizations, distributors and cov-
Geographical Factors
erage providers) and 5) policy level (legal and political
Geographical 9 14.3%
context) (Fig. 2).
Other
Barriers were proportionally distributed amongst lev-
Occupation 3 4.8%
els. Fifteen articles (24%) identified barriers originating
Lifestyle 2 3.2%
from the patient’s lack of knowledge on vaccines or eli-
Incompleted vaccination 2 3.2%
gibility unawareness. Third-party reimbursement and the
lack of coverage were also listed as a barrier in 13 articles
(21%). Organizational obstacles such as other compet-
solely by the pharmacological profile by including ing priorities (n = 15, 24%), missed opportunities (n = 11,
patients that take more than 3 chronic medications 18%) and the requirement of a prescription from a physi-
[48]. One study also studied vaccination outcomes cian (n = 9, 14%) were also mentioned.
within a chronic condition management program [36]. Interestingly, interpersonal level facilitators were
Third, in the socio-economic determinants category, reported almost twice as often as other categories. Pro-
vulnerability is targeted through race (n = 8, 13%), viding a strong recommendation for vaccination to a
income (n = 6, 10%) and education (n = 3, 5%). In most vulnerable patient was the most common facilitator and
race-based studies, race was used to differentiate the stated in 28 articles (44%). Other organizational help-
proportion of users that obtain their vaccination in a ers were utilizing a cost-saving or a promotional method
pharmacy versus a medical setting. Some articles seg- that is tied to financial incentives (n = 14, 22%) or provid-
menting the study population with income focused on ing convenient modalities (walk-in, extended hours) to
insurance status such as underserved adults (n = 2, 3%) patients (n = 12, 19%). Many articles also stated health
[73, 83] or Medicaid beneficiaries (n = 2, 3%) [28, 35]. system facilitators such as collaboration with other pro-
Fourth, geographical vulnerabilities were most often viders (n = 13, 21%), collaboration with public health
defined by contrasting rural and urban residence local- (n = 11, 17%) and the physical accessibility of pharmacies
ization (n = 4, 6%). Other studies used a more precise (n = 11, 17%).
categorization linked to accessibility such as medically
underserved areas (n = 2, 3%) or social determinants of Targeting methods
health such as low socio-economic status area (n = 1, Almost all of the included studies addressed interven-
2%), racially and ethnically segregated neighborhoods tions led by pharmacists (n = 60, 95%). The remain-
(n = 1, 2%). One study (2%) used the state of origin [26] ing 3 articles only involved pharmacy students (n = 2,
to contrast states where pharmacists are able and una- 3%) and technicians (n= 1, 2%). Two studies described
ble to administer vaccines. a clinical education program that was managed by
Chadi et al. BMC Public Health (2023) 23:1855 Page 34 of 45

Table 4 Frequency of barriers and facilitators


Barriers Frequency % of articles citing
the barrier (n = 63)

Patient Level
Lack of knowledge or awareness 15 23.8%
Lack of coverage 13 20.6%
Vaccine hesitancy 7 11.1%
Vaccine stigma 5 7.9%
Interpersonal Level
Difficulty in reaching prospective patients 11 17.5%
Lack of trust in pharmacist 10 15.9%
Poor staff knowledge / negative attitude 10 15.9%
Complex eligibility criteria 8 12.7%
Timing to reach patient 5 7.9%
Organizational Level
Competing priorities 15 23.8%
Missed opportunities 11 17.5%
Inadequate physical environment 4 6.3%
Lack of support from pharmacy banner of chain 3 4.8%
Vaccine storage difficulties 2 3.2%
Health System Level
Lack of access for vulnerable populations 7 11.1%
Lack of public health collaboration 6 9.5%
Vaccine availability 6 9.5%
Lack of physician collaboration 5 7.9%
Fear of substitution from physicians 3 4.7%
Pharmacy competition 1 1.6%
Policy Level
Prescription requirement 9 14.2%
Vaccine coverage gaps 5 7.9%
Healthcare provider shortage 2 3.2%
Public misconceptions 1 1.6%
Patient Level
Awareness and knowledge 21 33.3%
Vaccine covered by insurance 8 12.6%
Interpersonal Level
Strong provider recommendation 28 44.4%
Trust in pharmacist 10 15.9%
Technological tools for reminder and eligibility identification 12 19.0%
Strong knowledge from staff/positive attitude 11 17.5%
Culturally adapted communication 2 3.2%
Organizational Level
Cost-saving/financial incentives 14 22.2%
Providing convenient modalities (e.g. extended-hours, walk-in) 12 19.0%
Acceptability of intervention in the workflow 8 12.7%
Adequacy of physical environment 4 6.3%
Economies of scope 2 3.2%
Support from pharmacy banner/chain 2 3.2%
Off work chain interventions 3 4.7%
Assigning a vaccination responsible 1 1.6%
Vaccine storage experience 1 1.6%
Seasonal blitz 1 1.6%
Chadi et al. BMC Public Health (2023) 23:1855 Page 35 of 45

Table 4 (continued)
Barriers Frequency % of articles citing
the barrier (n = 63)

Health System Level


Collaboration with other health providers 13 20.6%
Public health collaboration 11 17.5%
Accessibility 11 17.5%
Complementarity of offer to other health provider 2 3.2%
Availability of vaccines 2 3.2%
Policy Level
Prescription autonomy 8 12.7%
Public vaccine coverage programs 5 7.9%
Immunization registry 4 6.3%
Governmental and health association support for vaccination 1 1.6%

Fig. 2 Vaccination Barriers and Facilitators in Community Pharmacy

pharmacy students, but under the supervision of phar- Targeting methods can be defined as the tactics
macists (3%) [33, 69]. One study reviewed the role of employed to identify, reach and distribute a service or a
pharmacy technicians in gaping vaccination discrep- product to a specific group [86]. Twenty-three targeting
ancies [64]. Pharmacy technicians can contribute in methods were identified and divided between 3 catego-
bridging the discussion between pharmacy services ries: active promotion (14 strategies), passive promotion (6
and vaccination, keeping track of vaccination refusal strategies) and indirect promotion (3 strategies) (Table 5).
and assisting in administrative tasks (document- Active promotional methods were diverse and involved
ing vaccines in the immunization records, collecting the pharmacy team actively engaging and interacting with
patient history, preparing the billing…). Eight articles selected patients to promote vaccination [87]. The most
(13%) also underlined the key role of pharmacy techni- common active promotion strategy was providing a strong
cians in initiating the conversation about vaccination recommendation for vaccination to patients (n = 25, 40%).
with eligible patients or referring to the pharmacist for Other strategies were distributing a bag stuffer or pam-
further questions [29, 36, 42, 44, 64, 66, 69, 85]. phlet (n = 17, 27%), initiation of a conversation on vaccine
Chadi et al. BMC Public Health (2023) 23:1855 Page 36 of 45

Table 5 Frequency of targeting strategies


Targeting Strategy Frequency % of articles citing
the strategy (n = 63)

Active Promotion
Total 125 -
Strong recommendation by a pharmacist 25 39.7%
Leaflet or bag stuffer 17 27.0%
Interprofessionnal collaboration (collective order) 13 20.6%
Generate lists of eligible patients from pharmacy software 9 14.3%
Conversation initated by pharmacy team 8 12.7%
Personalized letter 8 12.7%
Screening during workflow 7 11.1%
Screened during another pharmacy program 7 11.1%
Reminder call or note 7 11.1%
Personalized phone call 5 7.9%
Eligibility nudge within the prescription software 4 6.3%
Educational group sessions 3 4.8%
Financial aid for vaccine 2 3.2%
Automated phone call 1 1.6%
Passive promotion
Total 35 -
Poster in pharmacy 16 25.4%
Advertising (TV, newspaper, radio) 6 9.5%
Promotion through other health care professional 4 6.3%
Convenient modalities (walk-in/extended hours) 4 6.3%
Social media advertising 3 4.8%
Word-of-mouth 2 3.2%
Indirect promotion
Total 12 -
Staff training 8 12.7%
Culturally adapted communication 3 3.2%
Customized prescription pads 1 1.6%

by a pharmacy team member (n = 8, 13%), sending a per- with physicians (n= 13, 21%) such as recommending a vac-
sonalized letter (n = 8, 13%) or giving a personalized phone cine to the patient’s physician, proactively asking them for a
call to a vulnerable patient to promote a vaccine (n = 5, prescription or providing vaccination through a collective
8%). Some strategies were designed within the pharmacy order. A collective order allows a health care professional
workflow such as screening patients as they picked up the that cannot prescribe vaccines to obtain a prescription
medication (n = 7, 11%) or programming a nudge in the signed by the responding physician without being evalu-
pharmacy software notifying the pharmacists of an eligi- ated by this physician [88]. One article addressed financial
ble patient (n = 4, 6%). Other strategies were better suited barriers by providing free influenza vaccine vouchers to
outside of the pharmacy workflow such as generating a underprivileged adults through community organisations
list of eligible patients to offer them a vaccination appoint- (2%).
ment (n = 9, 14%), screening during another program Passive promotion strategies reach patients through
such as a medication therapy review, a COPD medication smart positioning, media presence or a third party that
review program or when receiving another vaccine (n = 6, does not directly generate an interaction with the phar-
9.5%) or sending them an automated promotional phone macy [87]. Within this category, we found the use of clas-
call (n = 1, 2%). Some strategies aimed to educate patients sic promotional methods such as a poster in pharmacies
through the distribution of an informational leaflet (n = 17, describing vaccination services, newspaper, TV and radio
27%) or providing educational group sessions to vulnerable advertising (n = 6, 9.5%). Some articles reported promo-
patients (n = 3, 5%). Many articles reported collaboration tional strategies using social media marketing (n = 3, 5%).
Chadi et al. BMC Public Health (2023) 23:1855 Page 37 of 45

Promotion was also done through word-of-mouth by linked to vaccination promotion strategies. We will first
patients and staff (n = 2, 3%) as well as through neighbor- look at barriers and strategies that concern specific vul-
hood health professionals (n = 4, 6%). Pharmacies also pro- nerable populations. Pharmacists presented knowledge
vide convenient modalities for vaccination such as walk-in gaps with vaccines addressed to children and individuals
and extended hours especially during mass influenza cam- with chronic conditions [48, 89]. These can be addressed
paigns (n = 4, 6%). through training on these specific populations [75]. Vac-
Finally, some strategies were identified as indirect since cine hesitancy, negative attitudes and personal beliefs
they targeted the pharmacy staff instead of the patients against vaccines require time and an understanding the
or the vaccination process. Staff training (n = 8, 13%) was patient’s viewpoint [33]. A conversation between the
listed as an efficient method to make the pharmacy staff pharmacist and the patient gives an opportunity to cor-
vaccine ambassadors. Teachings included improving rect misconceptions, provide a strong reference for vac-
knowledge on vaccines, providing assertive communica- cination and call for action [34]. Timing issues such as
tion training and vaccine process training. Ensuring a cul- not reaching pregnant women during their 3­ rd trimester
turally relevant communication (n = 3, 5%) was a way to to offer pertussis vaccination [42] can be addressed by
improve how the message is perceived by the population. carefully monitoring the pharmacy’s population for vac-
Finally, one article mentioned the use of customized pre- cine eligibility through list generation or screening candi-
scription pads (2%) to facilitate the integration of vaccina- dates during the workflow [44]. For patients that lack time
tion within the pharmacy workflow. to discuss or obtain a vaccine, pharmacists may rely on
Drawing from the previous data, we synthesized the advertising and interprofessional collaboration to encour-
barriers and promotional strategies to help pharmacists age patients to contact the pharmacy at a more conveni-
overcome vaccination challenges. We associated each ent time for them [23]. Barriers to social-demographic
vulnerable population to the common barriers identified determinants such as lack of coverage may be dealt with
in the included articles (Fig. 3). Those barriers were then through facilitating reimbursement procedures with

Fig. 3 Promotion Strategies to Overcome Specific Barriers of Key Vulnerable Groups


Chadi et al. BMC Public Health (2023) 23:1855 Page 38 of 45

insurance [67] or through offering vouchers [45]. Trust The challenges of defining vulnerable communities
may also be reinforced through relationship building with Pharmacists and their team target vulnerable commu-
the pharmacy team and culturally relevant communica- nities in the included studies mainly based on life cycle
tion [28, 42, 64]. Providing convenient modalities for vac- criteria and clinical factors. They rely on the informa-
cination through walk-in or extended opening hours may tion that is available to them to assess eligibility. Age
reduce accessibility constraints that are frequent in rural remains the most convenient method to target individu-
areas [53, 73]. als but may oversimplify the rationale on risk prevention.
We identified 4 barriers that were common to every On one hand, age provides a good statistical predictor
vulnerable category. The lack of a strong provider refer- of developing an illness such as influenza or pneumonia
ence can be addressed by better linking patients to phar- complication [91, 92]. Therefore, it appears fair to allo-
macists through conversation initiation by the pharmacy cate more resources to better protect elderly populations.
team. Pharmacists and their team may overcome the On the other hand, age may be a flawed indicator as life
lack of awareness to vaccines from vulnerable popula- expectancy varies according to geographical localization
tions by actively screening patients in the workflow [44, or socio-economic determinants. Indeed, the gap in life
51], soliciting other health professional [50] or creating expectancy varies according to income [93], education
a list of eligible patients and contacting them through a [94] and race [95] in the US. Disparities in life expec-
letter or a phone call [36, 39]. To reduce missed oppor- tancy between rural and urban areas is however growing
tunity, vaccination promotion should be discussed as a in the last 20 years and is attributable to cardiovascu-
pharmacy team and involve every employee [42, 64, 66, lar and drug-overdose death [96]. Deciding on a cut-off
85]. A reminder system should be planned to reduce to recommend a vaccine becomes a difficult exercise as
missed appointments and opportunities through notes years saved vary greatly according to the circumstances
in the file or nudges [37, 89]. An effective way to address of each individual. Moreover, geriatric medicine is mov-
competing priorities within the busy workflow is to ing towards frailty score rather than age as means to aid
move the workload outside of the regular distribution in clinical decisions [97]. Many frailty scales provide a
activities [30]. Designating a champion or key tasks to more detailed understanding of life expectancy or risk
specific employees such as listing the eligible patients of complications, but have not been used in the field of
can help keep focus on vaccination through pharmacy vaccination.
activities [71]. Elderly people are also affected by the immunosenes-
cence phenomenon which can be described as the wan-
ing of innate and cellular immunity [98]. The capacity to
Discussion generate immunity is also affected by the clinical profile
This scoping review identifies a wide variety of studies of a person. Some chronic diseases such as depression,
targeting different populations considered as vulner- cardiovascular diseases or conditions such as malnutri-
able by community pharmacists. Vaccinating vulnerable tion, femur fracture or stress may decrease our capac-
communities is dominantly studied in the United States ity to generate immunity for a certain period of time
where health discrepancy between race, economic status [98–100]. Vaccinating while younger or prior to devel-
and geographical location are wide [4]. American phar- oping stress inducing conditions may be advantageous.
macists also benefit from decades of expanded scope of Although scientific evidence on vaccination is complex,
practice [90] which correlates with the wide body of arti- generating vaccination guidelines must remain simple for
cles published after 2014 (n = 44, 69.8%). We suspect that clinicians and easy to communicate to the public.
other regions of the world were underrepresented due to The list of chronic conditions affecting patients is not
the language inclusion criteria and since pharmacists are always easy to obtain in the community setting as diagno-
predominantly involved in medication dispensing activi- ses are seldom shared with the pharmacist. Pharmacists
ties rather than clinical activities such as vaccination. document in the patient’s pharmacological profile accord-
Vaccination has been a traditional activity of public ing to patients’ self-reported illnesses or by inference
health instances and pharmacists feel pressured to jus- based on the patient’s medication. This process remains
tify their value as efficient immunizers [10]. This has been imperfect. One study directly used the number of medica-
observed in our review as more than a third of the stud- tions as a mean to identify at-risk patients [79]. Correlating
ies have evaluated the vaccination uptake of pharmacists’ the number of medications provides a flawed view of vul-
led interventions (n = 20, 31%). Qualitative and mixed- nerability as some conditions such as single pathology like
method studies provided a rich understanding of the diabetes may require a combination of four or more oral
dynamic of vaccination within the dispensing-centered treatments, while several other conditions may be targeted
mindset of pharmacies. by a single tablet that contains a combination of drugs (e.g.
Chadi et al. BMC Public Health (2023) 23:1855 Page 39 of 45

antihypertensive and cholesterol lowering). Technological establishments [45]. Patient targeting was done with the
advancements and better diagnosis sharing between health help of community organizations and required readjust-
professionals are ways to spend less on assessing a patient’s ments on the 2nd year as redemption of the voucher was
eligibility and more on promoting vaccination. As exam- low (52% in 2015/2016 vs 87% in 2016/2017) [45]. Alter-
ples, suggestions range from a universal vaccine registry, to natively, many studies focus on access barriers to vaccina-
sharing the accesses to the pharmacological and medical tion as less wealthy clienteles often require more flexible
file, to simplifying the eligibility criteria [50, 53, 63]. times and convenient modalities to access services. Vul-
Other vulnerable groups provide their own targeting nerability characteristics beyond age and chronic con-
challenges. Considering that nearly half of all pregnan- dition are therefore seldom integrated into targeting
cies in the US are unplanned [101], efforts to ensure ade- practices which shows a narrow understanding of vaccine
quate vaccination during pregnancy should be extended disparity determinants.
to all women of childbearing age. Prevention is how-
ever a wide concept, and the definition of at-risk groups The forgotten groups
widens as we discover additional risk factors. More and It is worth mentioning the absence of other marginalized
more, asymptomatic individuals with risk factors are communities from the scoping review, such as gender,
treated with pharmacological drugs such as in hyperten- sexual orientation and other marginalized communi-
sion or dyslipidemia which modifies our conception of ties. Females were targeted in studies that discussed vac-
health and sickness. Vaccines are also preventive medi- cines specific to pregnancy or adolescence, which aligns
cines. In many jurisdictions, pharmacists are not able with specific vaccine indications. However, no studies
to actively participate in the preventions recommended designed interventions to minimize vaccination discrep-
in pregnancy as they cannot prescribe or administer ancy between men and women. Indeed, females are 42%
vaccines against pertussis or other conditions within more likely to receive an influenza vaccine then males
the regular vaccination calendar. Similarly, adolescents when adjusted for common confounding factors [102].
are the subject of many studies in our scoping review Vaccine response also varies according to gender. When
and the challenges rely on communication difficulty vaccinated against influenza, elderly women displayed
and patient unawareness of vaccination needs [33, 68]. greater humoral response against common flu lineage
Having a dual audience, both adolescents and their par- than elderly men, supposing a greater protection [103].
ents, confronts stereotypes and perceptions on sexuality We must therefore understand that vulnerability goes
which pharmacists and their team may feel uncomfort- beyond the mere expression of biological characteristics;
able to address. The timing to receive the vaccine does we can seek answers in the structural construction of ine-
not always correlate with the optimal time to influence qualities between groups.
parental decision. More opportunities to discuss vac- Although specific LGBTQ key words were included in
cination earlier on during childhood and schooling are our search, no studies targeting this marginalized com-
necessary to increase vaccination uptake in adolescent munity came out. Men who have sex with men are dis-
and pregnant populations. proportionately at risk of sexual transmitted disease
Social determinants of health and geographical factors which makes them candidates for Hepatitis B and HPV
are less frequently used to target vulnerable populations vaccines [104, 105]. Vaccines such as HPV address a sen-
according to our results. From a pharmacy perspective, sitive topic, and pharmacists express discomfort discuss-
data on education levels and income are not readily avail- ing sexual health matters in a pharmacy setting [68]. Even
able during workflow operations, which makes target- though pharmacists are accessible health professionals,
ing for these vulnerabilities difficult. Conducting studies LGBTQ communities are reluctant to divulge their ori-
on adherents of an insurance program such as Medicaid entation due to fear of judgment or lack of confidential-
[28, 35] appears to be the simplest way to study income ity [106]. More efforts are needed to make pharmacies an
disparities. Few studies attempt to target other individu- inclusive and safe environment. Positive actions towards
als in precarious financial situations such as uninsured inclusivity can be displayed through offering informa-
adults that do not qualify for Medicaid or underinsured tion pamphlets specific to LGBTQ stakes, communicat-
students. Limited solutions are identified to overcome ing with inclusive vocabulary or showing support to the
uninsured individuals. Addressing cost is one way to community [107].
encourage vaccination by providing free vouchers to Other hard-to-reach communities such as injectable
uninsured patients [45]. The cost of the program were drug users, patients receiving an opioid agonist therapy
assumed entirely by the pharmacy chain as part of a cor- or homeless people are at higher risk of infection and
porate social responsibility strategy, providing benefits to thus good candidates for vaccination [108]. These popu-
public health and promoting pharmacies as healthcare lations are often stigmatised by many societal institutions
Chadi et al. BMC Public Health (2023) 23:1855 Page 40 of 45

and are less inclined to be offered and receive preventa- change [113]. Many pharmacies may also not establish a
tive services. Community pharmacies may have better formal targeting plan. This may result in voluntarily or
opportunities than other health care entities to build involuntarily favouring privileged clienteles. A dispensing
a trusting relation with these individuals due to easy centered mentality pushes pharmacists towards reacting
access. Some opportunities may present themselves dur- to patient’s demand instead of acting proactively. Phar-
ing dispensing activities for example when distributing macies often rely on a ‘’first come, first serve’’ prioriti-
clean needles, naloxone kits or other medications. zation strategy which accentuates vaccine discrepancies
of vulnerable communities [114]. Technology should
Facilitating vaccine promotion be utilized to assist vaccine operations such as booking
Barriers identified regarding vulnerable groups were appointments and accessing vaccination history. Pharma-
consistent within the literature in other contexts than in cies should also make their dispensing operation more
pharmacy. In the context of pregnancy, two such exam- efficient to free time for value-added activities such as
ples are the fear of adverse pregnancy outcome and the targeting at-risk patients. Pharmacists can plan vaccina-
failure to recommend vaccination [109]. The knowledge tion outside of the pharmacy workflow and solicit the
gap from healthcare providers is listed as an impor- help of pharmacy technicians to identify eligible patients
tant barrier [110, 111]. Patients unaware that a vaccine and initiate the conversation on vaccines [30]. As vaccine
is recommended often wanted to contact their fam- hesitancy is a growing concern, health professionals need
ily physician before obtaining the vaccine, which delays to invest time and energy to educate patients on vaccines
vaccination. This reason was cited as a common barrier safety and effectiveness [115].
in the studies we reviewed and increased the risk of not Promotional efforts made by pharmacists are comple-
pursuing the vaccination [44]. Although pharmacists are mentary to governmental, public health and pharmacy
trustworthy professionals, they may be competing with chains advertising. The effect of different communica-
the existing relationship that patients build with other tions according to race on attitudes towards pneumo-
health professionals [69]. The requirement for a prescrip- coccal vaccination was investigated [43]. Non-White
tion in many jurisdictions also contributed as a supple- adults were less likely to follow medical recommenda-
mental barrier that made vaccination less convenient in tions and more likely to desire vaccination when the
a pharmacy than at the physician’s office [38, 44]. Inter- message combined duty to family and friends, fatality or
professional collaborations remain a well noted facilitator safety [43]. More research is therefore necessary to better
in vaccination [21] and healthcare professionals should understand the core values of different populations and
unite their voice to carry out a cohesive message support- investigate how they were made “vulnerable” to adapt
ing vaccination. how we reach these patients. Our review highlights the
In the past decade, community pharmacies are transi- importance of a strong recommendation for vaccination
tioning from a dispensing business model to increased by pharmacists and was confirmed in a recent review on
clinical services [112]. Although role expansion is stimu- vaccine acceptance [43]. Although the efficiency of many
lating, pharmacists are trained to consider the medica- strategies lacks proof, utilizing a combination of different
tion profile as a primary source of information rather strategies and providing a strong recommendation from
than contextual and social vulnerabilities. Chronic con- a health provider are known as the most effective ways to
ditions become a proxy to vulnerability at large and encourage vaccination [116]. As pharmacists build strong
may simplify the interrelations between illnesses and relationships with their clientele, they must mobilize
other social determinants of health that impact access their team to create opportunities for a tailored conver-
to vaccination. Organizational barriers are frequently sation about vaccines and utilize their position as one of
reported and center around missed opportunities and the most accessible healthcare professionals.
competing priorities. Pharmacists have traditionally
been reactive vaccinators [21]. This can be attributed Limitations
to the fact that routine assessment of vaccination sta- First, our search strategy included 2 databases and may
tus was never a responsibility attributed to pharmacists have overlooked some articles in the literature. Other
up until recently. Although active promotional strate- databases could have been included such as Scopus or
gies were more frequently cited than passive strategies Web of science, but they usually provide similar results.
in the peer-reviewed literature, we have doubts that this References from the included studies could have been
reflects the pharmacy practice in the real world. Proac- reviewed to find additional relevant publications. Second,
tivity in pharmacy is often expressed through the dis- our review only included published articles from the lit-
play of posters and handing out informational leaflets erature and did not include gray literature which may also
[42] which alone are poor methods to impact behavioral hold valuable information regarding targeting practices
Chadi et al. BMC Public Health (2023) 23:1855 Page 41 of 45

in pharmacy. Third, our study targeted vulnerable com- Improving stagnating vaccination rates requires a col-
munities from the perspective of pharmacies. Barriers laborative effort from all pharmacy employees as well as
to promoting vaccination and promotional methods are a continuous reflection exercise on the efforts made to
therefore subject to a selection bias within the different attract underserved communities. Pharmacists can play
efforts carried out by public health instances. The search an even greater role in vaccination through leveraging
was also performed before the COVID-19 mass cam- their position as accessible, competent, and trustworthy
paigns which allowed pharmacists to take part in vacci- health professionals.
nation efforts. Barriers and facilitators may therefore be
different after the COVID-19 pandemic response. Fourth, Supplementary Information
our sample agglomerated heterogenous articles in terms The online version contains supplementary material available at https://​doi.​
of methodology, main topic, and the vaccines they dis- org/​10.​1186/​s12889-​023-​16601-y.

cussed. Some conclusions must therefore be interpreted


Additional file 1: Supplementary material 1. Search strategy.
with caution as the reality of different vulnerable groups
and vaccination may vary.
Acknowledgements
We would like to thank Patrice Dupont form the healthcare library at Montreal
Conclusion University for his help the design of our search strategy.
Throughout the last two decades, pharmacists have
increasingly been involved in vaccination activities. Our Authors’ contributions
AC and PMD designed the search strategy and independently screened the
scoping review highlights the use lifecycle and clinical initial articles. The remaining articles were sorted out by AC and uncertain
dimensions to define vulnerability and to target patients articles were debated with PMD. The extraction grid and the results were
identified as vulnerable, at the expense of narrowing validated by all authors (AC, DT, PMD). AC wrote the main manuscript and the
final paper were reviewed by all authors (AC, DT, PMD).
down the definition of vulnerability and its process. Social
determinants of health such as one’s race, income and Funding
geographical situation are important contributors of vac- This work was supported by the Sanofi Chair in ambulatory pharmaceutical
care of Montreal University and a grant by Pfizer without rights of scrutiny,
cine inequality. Indeed, some marginalized groups are propelled by MITACS.
absent form the vaccine promotion literature in pharmacy
such as intravenous drug users, the LGBTQ commu- Availability of data and materials
All data generated or analysed during this study are included in this published
nity and homeless people. Targeting such communities article (and its supplementary information files).
requires an intricate knowledge of the barriers to vaccina-
tion, that range from a lack of access, awareness of vacci- Declarations
nation, misconceptions to financial obstacles. A variety of
active, passive, and indirect targeting methods were used Ethics approval and consent to participation
Not applicable.
by pharmacists through various vaccination initiatives.
We linked them to the main barriers experienced by dif- Consent to publication
ferent groups. Pharmacists are trusted health profession- Not applicable.
als and as valuable contributors to public health goals; it is Competing interests
their responsibilities to include vulnerability concepts into The authors declare no competing interests.
their targeting initiatives integrate.
This review should inspire researchers to further Received: 26 January 2023 Accepted: 23 August 2023
expand our knowledge on how to define vulnerable com-
munities in vaccination to better serve them. A conver-
sation between public health and community pharmacies
representative is much needed in this respect. Although References
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