Abstract: FR-PO1097
Barriers to COVID-19 Vaccination in Dialysis Populations: A Patient Perspective
Session Information
- COVID-19 - II
November 03, 2023 | Location: Exhibit Hall, Pennsylvania Convention Center
Abstract Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Category: Coronavirus (COVID-19)
- 000 Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Authors
- Jittirat, Arksarapuk, UH Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio, United States
- Andreoni, Kenneth A., Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States
- Rahman, Mahboob, UH Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio, United States
Background
ESKD patients are at risk for serious illnesses and death related to COVID-19. It is challenging for ESKD patients to stay updated with recommended COVID vaccination. We aim to study the perceived barriers to complete COVID vaccination in our dialysis population.
Methods
205 ESKD patients consented to complete our questionnaires. Descriptive statistics including proportions, median, and interquartile range were calculated for categorical and continuous variables to describe the study population, and to report the patient perceived barriers to vaccination. Comparisons by age, race/ethnicity, sex, level of education and income were conducted to evaluate differences between those vaccinated vs unvaccinated.
Results
205 patients participated in the study. 88.3%(n=181) received at least one COVID vaccine. 80.5%(n=165) completed primary series. 54.6%(n=112) received the bivalent booster. 7%(n=8) of males and 17.5% of females (n=16) were unvaccinated. Majority of unvaccinated patients were unemployed/retired/disabled, have income ≤ $30,000, and with at least a high school education.
Among vaccinated group, 96.6% reported it was easy to get vaccines, while 56.2% were concerned to be vaccinated. 25.3% of patients received the vaccine because it was required by transplant program, and 28% felt pressure to be vaccinated.
Of 24 unvaccinated patients, 62.5% were concerned with potential long term complications. 66.7% were unsure of the efficacy. 52.4% of patients felt that the vaccine was safe, and 78.3% were aware it was free. 12.5% thought they had medical reason not to be vaccinated. Only 22.7% of patients believed that vaccination decreased death or ICU admissions. 20.8% of patients felt social media influenced on their decision.
Conclusion
Most ESKD patients reported having received vaccines and did not feel that physical limitation, transportation, or accessibility were barriers to vaccination. Uncertainty of long term complications and efficacy of vaccinnation appeared to be the major barriers.
Funding
- Commercial Support – Northeast Ohio Renal Research Innovation Award, Centers for Dialysis Care