Commentary
Video
Elizabeth Vaughan, MD, MPH, RD, highlights how pharmacists can build patient trust, encourage vaccination, and use simple strategies to spark conversations with hesitant individuals.
In an interview with Pharmacy Times®, Elizabeth Vaughan, MD, MPH, RD, a board-certified geriatrician and associate professor of medicine at Emory University, discussed the critical role pharmacists play in encouraging patients to stay up to date on vaccines, especially those most vulnerable to severe illness. Vaughan also noted the importance of adjusting messaging throughout the year to address different vaccines recommended for older adults, including COVID-19, influenza, respiratory syncytial virus, shingles, and pneumococcal vaccines.
This is part 3 of a 3-part video series. You can watch parts one and two here.
Pharmacy Times: What role can pharmacists play in encouraging patients to receive a COVID-19 vaccine if they express hesitancy? Do you have specific counseling tips in this regard?
Elizabeth Vaughan, MD, MPH, RD: This is a really important point. Even if a healthcare team member has personal thoughts about vaccines, it’s important to communicate confidently about their value—especially for high-risk populations. Patients often look to healthcare providers for confidence and guidance. For vulnerable groups, such as adults aged 65 and older or those with chronic conditions, pharmacists should strongly recommend staying up to date on vaccines. Strategies such as wearing buttons that say “Vaccine Ambassador” or “Ask Me About Vaccines” can spark important conversations with patients who might otherwise stay silent about their concerns. Another useful strategy is using reminders like “Don’t Wait, Vaccinate” to keep vaccines top of mind. Messaging should also shift throughout the year to address various vaccines recommended for older adults, such as COVID-19, flu, RSV, shingles, tetanus, and pneumonia vaccines.
Pharmacy Times: Is there anything else that you would like to add?
Vaughan: I appreciate the opportunity to talk with you today. This season will be one where many individuals are seeking trusted sources of information. Thank you for focusing on this important topic.
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