Evaluating possible solutions to cost-related barriers that limit uptake of recommended but unfunded vaccines

The purpose of this study is to increase the accessibility and uptake of recommended immunizations by exploring solutions to cost-related barriers through community pharmacies for the delivery of recommended but unfunded vaccines until full public funding is available. It is anticipated that results on the acceptability and feasibility of implementing alternative funding models for recommended but unfunded vaccines may be used to test a workable funding model and to inform funding decisions by private and public payers.

Publicly funded immunization programs have proven to be cost-effective for the health care system; however, evaluating the economic impact of introducing new vaccines into these programs takes time, resulting in newly recommended vaccines not being publicly funded for some or all individuals. The significant upfront costs of introducing a new vaccine program can be prohibitive and a major barrier to having vaccinations covered through public funding. As a result, introducing an alternative funding system for recommended but currently unfunded vaccines could potentially offer a solution to enhance immunization rates for these vaccines.

Focus groups will be conducted with members of the public who speak and understand English, are 18 years of age or older, and reside in Canada.

You will be asked to participate in a focus group that will last up to 2 hours. The focus group will be completed through a web-based platform (e.g., Zoom or Microsoft Teams) or in person at a date and time that is convenient for you. To confirm your identity, you will be asked before the start of the focus group to turn your camera on in a private online room with a member of the study team and show proof of identity (e.g., driver’s license with mailing address). This information will not be recorded or collected after identity is confirmed. You will be reimbursed for taking part in this study.

If you are interested in participating in a focus group, please use the link below to complete the short screening questionnaire to determine if you are eligible to take part.

Link: https://surveys.dal.ca/opinio/s?s=78305