Differences in PCV13 Recommendation Practices between Pediatric Care Providers and Primary Care Providers in China: A Cross-Sectional Survey of Behavior and Social Drivers

Abstract

Objectives: This study examines the recommendation behaviors and influencing factors for the 13-valent Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (PCV13) among 3579 Chinese healthcare workers (HCWs), including 1775 pediatric care providers (Peds-PCPs) and 1804 primary care providers (PCPs). Data were collected from May to July 2023 through a national cross-sectional survey using a structured questionnaire, distributed across hospitals providing pediatric services in five provincial-level administrative divisions. Methods: The sociodemographic data, vaccine knowledge, and recommendation practices were analyzed using Pearson’s chi-square test, Wilcoxson rank-sum test, and multivariate logistic regression. Results show that while PCPs are more likely to recommend PCV13, vaccine hesitancy persists among Peds-PCPs. Logistic regression revealed that higher influenza vaccination intention, salary, vaccine consultation frequency, familiarity with immunization, work ethic, and flexible schedules positively impacted HCWs’ recommendation behavior. Results: Factors influencing Peds-PCPs’ recommendations include vaccine training (OR: 1.470, CI: 1.049–2.509), safety recognition (OR: 1.986, CI: 1.163–3.391), concern over rejection (OR = 1.274, CI: 1.076–1.508) and vaccine cost (OR = 1.203, CI: 1.023–1.414). For PCPs, influencing factors were the perceived susceptibility of children to pneumonia (OR = 2.185, CI: 1.074–4.445), acceptance of herd immunity (OR: 1.717, CI: 1.101–2.677), and belief that parents with better family conditions are more likely to accept vaccine recommendations (OR = 1.229, CI: 1.024–1.477). Conclusion: This survey underscores the need for tailored interventions to address differing perceptions and enhance confidence in the safety and efficacy of vaccines among HCWs, particularly Peds-PCPs.