How HCPs Can Help Underserved Communities Access COVID-19 Vaccines
Various factors are preventing certain groups of people from accessing the COVID-19 vaccine. Wealthy and white individuals in particular are gaining access to the vaccine at higher rates than low-income populations, people of color, and residents of rural areas. According to demographic data as of April 7, the CDC estimates that about 68% of the people who have been fully vaccinated are non-Hispanic whites, compared with estimates of only 8.7% for Hispanic/Latinx individuals and 7.8% for non-Hispanic Blacks.
Older adults with limited technology skills and folks with no access to the internet are also having more trouble scheduling vaccine appointments. One study states that a fast digital connection; the time to repeatedly refresh the appointment link or hold on the phone for hours; the ability to travel typically by car; and an establishment of trust in the safety and efficacy of the vaccine are all factors that make it more likely a person will seek and obtain a vaccination. Whether it is an individual concern or a combination of challenges, these issues can make it even harder for people to receive the vaccine.
The data on racial and ethnic inequality
The CDC has been tracking and updating the demographics of COVID-19 vaccine recipients. As of March 21, the following CDC data breaks down the race and ethnicity of people who have received one dose of the vaccine, and vaccinated individuals who either received both doses or a single Johnson & Johnson dose:
The data clearly shows a marked disparity in vaccination status from white non-Hispanic Americans compared with all other races and ethnicities. Seeing the inequities displayed in numbers raises the question why there is such a large gap between different ethnicities.
In addition to lacking internet access at home, many individuals do not have the type of job that lets them refresh a computer screen all day. Therefore, remote workers and those who work on a computer as part of their careers are given more opportunities to schedule an appointment.
Some states have been heavily criticized for inequitable vaccine rollouts. Demographic reports from Illinois, New York, and Texas reveal that the majority of vaccine recipients are wealthy and white Americans.The Black Doctors COVID-19 Consortium made headlines after opening a free 24-hour vaccination clinic in the Philadelphia area, adding the requirement of a specific underserved zip code due to the virus largely affecting people of color. At just one event, the group was able to vaccinate more than 4,000 people in 24 hours. The additional hours allowed people who work routine hours to access an appointment when it fit their schedule.
Not all America is online
The Pew Research Center has evaluated the demographics of individuals with broadband or internet access. Data for 2019 outlining the percentage of adult users with home internet access shows whites at 79%, blacks at 66%, and Hispanics at 61%. This disparity demonstrates the disadvantage that nonwhite Americans face getting vaccinated. Because appointments are only available online, internet access is a critical component of this process.
In addition to lacking access from home, other individuals do not have the type of job that allows them to refresh a webpage often. Remote workers and those who work on personal computers have more opportunities to schedule an appointment.
Issues for older adults
While seniors are eligible for vaccinations across the country, this specific group faces increased challenges with scheduling appointments. The majority of vaccine appointments must be scheduled online, which means individuals must have familiarity with technology and the confidence to follow a complicated process, or have someone who can help them navigate online registration. This also requires older adults to have access to a computer and internet service where they live.
How to get involved
Healthcare professionals, or HCPs, have the opportunity to assist with vaccinations in their own communities. Many states are moving toward open eligibility for all adults over 16, and this information can be located on each state’s public health website. HCPs can help the community get vaccinated in a number of ways, including the following:
Directing individuals to vaccine trackers and other sign-up tools. The CDC partnered with Boston Children’s Hospital to set up a VaccineFinder to establish where vaccines are being administered in each state. It is updated daily, but does not give information regarding eligibility by state.
Making conscious efforts to support the older patients they work with by asking if they need assistance with scheduling an appointment.
Providing transportation to vaccination sites and participating in vaccine clinics.
Volunteering or donating to organizations that offer mass vaccination sites can support individuals with overcoming social determinants of health that can impact vaccine access.
As trusted members of the community, it’s important for HCPs to use their voices to combat misinformation and take the time to listen to the concerns of those with hesitations. At the end of the day, each vaccine is one step toward beating back the final stages of the global pandemic.
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