A cross-sectional survey of general practitioners' influenza vaccination willingness and influencing factors based on the reasoned action approach.
The mean vaccination willingness score among general practitioners was 3.82 out of 5, with significant associations found for subjective norms and attitudes.
Where it sits
this study against the rest of the eloralintide corpusSummary and findings
This study measured general practitioners' (GPs) influenza vaccination willingness and its influencing factors using an online questionnaire. A total of 330 valid responses were analyzed, revealing a mean vaccination willingness score of 3.82 out of 5. The study identified several positive associations with vaccination willingness, including subjective norms and attitudes.
Abstract
General practitioners (GPs) play a dual role in influenza prevention and control as both medical decision-makers and a high-risk population for infection. This study, based on the Reasoned Action Approach (RAA), aimed to explore GPs' influenza vaccination willingness and its influencing factors. Data were collected via an online questionnaire from February 11 to March 20, 2025, using convenience sampling. The questionnaire covered general profiles, influenza vaccination in the last season, vaccination willingness, and a RAA-based scales (including dimensions of attitude, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control), and information-seeking behavior (active information collection, methods, and trusted sources). Among 341 questionnaires distributed, 330 valid ones were returned. The mean vaccination willingness score was 3.82 out of 5. Multiple regression analysis showed that vaccination willingness was positively associated with subjective norms (β = 0.367), attitudes (β = 0.291), vaccination in the last season (β = 0.124), and type of workplace (β = 0.111) (all p < .05). Given GPs' exemplary role as health promoters, this study proposed multidimensional strategies like strengthening their health education, establishing social norm guidance mechanisms, and optimizing vaccine service accessibility. These aimed to enhance GPs' vaccination willingness and their positive guidance on preventive behaviors in the population.
Background
This paper addresses the willingness of general practitioners (GPs) to receive influenza vaccinations, a critical factor in public health given their role in disease prevention. Prior studies have indicated that healthcare providers' vaccination rates can influence patient behaviors. Understanding the factors that affect GPs' willingness to vaccinate is essential for developing effective public health strategies.
Methods
The study employed a cross-sectional design, collecting data through an online questionnaire distributed from February 11 to March 20, 2025. A total of 341 questionnaires were distributed, with 330 valid responses (n=330). The questionnaire assessed GPs' general profiles, vaccination history, willingness, and factors based on the Reasoned Action Approach (RAA).
Results
The primary finding was a mean vaccination willingness score of 3.82 out of 5. Multiple regression analysis indicated that vaccination willingness was significantly associated with subjective norms (β = 0.367, p < 0.05), attitudes (β = 0.291, p < 0.05), vaccination in the last season (β = 0.124, p < 0.05), and type of workplace (β = 0.111, p < 0.05).
Interpretation
These results suggest that GPs' willingness to vaccinate is influenced by their perceptions of social norms and personal attitudes, aligning with previous literature on health behaviors. However, the effect sizes, while statistically significant, may not be clinically meaningful in practice. The study's reliance on convenience sampling and self-reported data introduces potential biases that limit the robustness of the conclusions.
Key findings
- Mean vaccination willingness score was 3.82 out of 5.
- Vaccination willingness positively associated with subjective norms (β = 0.367, p < 0.05).
- Vaccination willingness positively associated with attitudes (β = 0.291, p < 0.05).
- Vaccination willingness positively associated with vaccination in the last season (β = 0.124, p < 0.05).
- Vaccination willingness positively associated with type of workplace (β = 0.111, p < 0.05).
Limitations
- Convenience sampling may limit generalizability.
- Self-reported data could introduce bias.
- Cross-sectional design does not establish causality.