Can Routine Consultations be Used to Reduce COVID-19 Misinformation and Increase Vaccine Uptake? An Experimental Study in Ghana

Whilst Ghana was one of the first countries to start vaccinating its population against COVID-19, less than 30% of the population was fully vaccinated at the end of 2022. To improve COVID-19 vaccine uptake, the government has so far relied on two strategies: sensitization in communities and specific national vaccination days. Against the backdrop of strict budget constraints and the return to normalcy in health-seeking behaviours, the investigators aim to test the effectiveness of leveraging interactions of patients with the healthcare system to reduce misinformation and increase vaccination. The investigators collaborate with the Ghana Health Service to offer vaccination as a default option during routine consultations. To dispel information and encourage vaccination uptake effectively, the investigators test two interventions designed to encourage and equip front-line providers with skills to discuss COVID-19 vaccination with patients. The study evaluates the effect of the two interventions in a cluster-randomised trial where the investigators allocate 120 facilities to one of three groups: a control group where providers are not asked to offer COVID-19 vaccines; a light engagement group, where providers receive information about COVID-19 and vaccines and a light-touch vaccine monitoring device is deployed in their facility, and a communication skills building group, where providers receive all the elements of the light intervention, plus training in motivational engagement techniques to encourage vaccination. The primary outcome will be vaccination uptake and intentions. The study will also evaluate the impact of the intervention on patients' knowledge, beliefs and satisfaction. The investigators will track the effectiveness of the training on providers as well as the extent to which they apply their training to actual practice. Results will contribute to a nascent evidence base on potential ways to encourage adult vaccination during routine consultations.