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Publication
Policy recommendations for healthcare authorities, organizations and professionals on vaccine hesitancy in Europe: From evidence to practice
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Advisor(s)
Abstract(s)
Vaccine hesitancy presents significant challenges to public health, exacerbated by a lack of cohesive policies in
Europe. Recognized as a complex social phenomenon influenced by various factors, vaccine hesitancy threatens
health systems and public trust. This paper analyses the political background and current gaps in policies
addressing vaccine hesitancy, with a specific focus on the role of healthcare authorities, organizations and
professionals in shaping effective responses. The VAX-TRUST project, funded by H2020 and conducted in seven
European countries, provides a framework for translating social scientific research into actionable strategies
within healthcare settings. Using methodologies such as the Delphi method, the project developed the ASTARE
model, which encompasses six dimensions: Awareness, Support, Training, Agency, Recognition, and Engagement. These dimensions guide tailored recommendations to strengthen the capacity of healthcare professionals,
organizations, and authorities in addressing vaccine hesitancy, enhancing public trust, and vaccine confidence
and uptake. The paper highlights the necessity of evidence-based, collaborative, and adaptive policies that raise
public awareness, counteract misinformation, and support healthcare professionals. Effective policymaking requires understanding legislative processes, leveraging scientific evidence, and fostering stakeholder participation. By emphasizing context-sensitive interventions and culturally informed strategies, this study provides a
comprehensive approach for health systems to address vaccine hesitancy and improve public health outcomes
across Europe.
Description
Keywords
Vaccine hesitancy Policy making Evidence-based practice Health care professionals Trust
Pedagogical Context
Citation
Correia, T., Hilário, A. P., Guerreiro, C., Mendonça, J., Morais, R., Augusto, F. R., Beja, A. (2025). Policy recommendations for healthcare authorities, organizations and professionals on vaccine hesitancy in Europe: From evidence to practice. Health Policy, Vol. 158, 105361.