The Intention for Seasonal Influenza Vaccine (SIV) Uptake and the Perceived Beliefs of Healthcare Providers in a Private Tertiary Hospital in Metro Manila

Abstract

Healthcare providers' (HCPs) uptake of the seasonal influenza vaccine (SIV) vis-à-vis their perceived beliefs remain a fundamental international health concern. This study investigated the HCPs' intention to receive the SIV at a private tertiary hospital in Metro Manila and examined the perceived beliefs that influenced their decisions. The study based its theoretical framework on the Health Belief Model and used a cross-sectional, questionnaire-based study with total enumeration sampling. Chi-square and logistic regression analyses were performed to identify associations between the intent to vaccinate and perceived beliefs and the modifying factors.

Results showed a significant proportion of HCPs’ expressed intention to receive the SIV. The perceived beliefs including perceived susceptibility, severity, benefits, barriers, and cues to action played a major role in shaping vaccination intention, whereas socio-demographic and role-related factors showed little and non-significant influence apart from the history of seasonal influenza vaccination.

The findings revealed the need for interventions at both the targeted and broad-level health approaches to address vaccine hesitancy among HCPs. Educational activities, institution-led interventions, as well as suitably framed policy measures, were recommended to improve HCPs' vaccine uptake, ultimately contributing to better patient outcomes and a resilient healthcare workforce.