HPV immunization policies

Opportunities to increase HPV vaccination

While there have been advancements in HPV vaccination, there are potential policy changes that could help improve immunization rates. Specific actions to address these areas are key components of the Action Plan for the Elimination of Cervical Cancer in Canada, 2020-2030.

Affordability

• To increase uptake of HPV vaccine, it is imperative that the vaccine is available to those who did not have access to school-based programs or who did not receive the vaccination due to a lack of parent/guardian consent.
• It is also important for those who are not eligible for or do not have access to a catch-up program.
• To increase uptake, vaccines should be publicly funded for people living in Canada.

Acceptability

• Consideration also needs to be given to the experience of the recipient. Little is known about how the delivery of the vaccination impacts uptake and, perhaps more importantly, willingness of children to receive subsequent doses of the vaccine.
• Creating positive immunization experiences for children is important to increase vaccination uptake rates. Immunization should be conducted in comfortable, private, and culturally appropriate spaces.
• The attitudes of nurses and teachers are also prominent factors that contribute to a child’s vaccination experience. Some studies suggest additional training to be beneficial allow nurses to address students’ needs during the immunization process.
• CARD (C-Comfort, A-Ask, R-Relax, D-Distract) is an evidence-based framework for delivering vaccinations. CARD is also an educational tool for health care providers and patients. CARD has been shown to improve the safety of vaccination administration by reducing immunization stress-related responses (including fear, pain, dizziness and fainting) and to improve the vaccination experiences of patients and providers.  For more information, see: www.cardsystem.ca