On November 22, 2024, the PROTECT-EUROPE Showcase Event took place in Brussels, highlighting the pivotal role of healthcare professionals (HCPs) in improving vaccine acceptance and uptake across Europe. The showcase event presentations on PROTECT-EUROPE WP2.1 were presented by our Past President, Prof. Mehmet Ungan, and Asst. Prof. Hüsna Sarıca Çevik, representing both the Department of Family Medicine at Ankara University School of Medicine and WONCA Europe.
The discussions focused on strategies to enhance HPV vaccination rates through direct, one-to-one communication between HCPs and individuals, including young people, parents, and caregivers. Eurobarometer mentions the high trust rate towards HCPs, mainly the physicians and nurses, in the vaccination decision. WONCA Europe’s research presented at the event underscored that 92% of family doctors and general practitioners across 36 European countries recommend HPV vaccination, demonstrating their critical influence on public health outcomes.
Key themes included:
• Strengths and weaknesses in current HPV vaccine communication strategies.
• Opportunities for improvement in communication approaches.
• Threats to vaccine acceptance, such as misinformation and cultural barriers.
The event also unveiled evidence-based recommendations developed under the PROTECT-EUROPE project to improve vaccination rates, emphasizing:
• Professional training programs to boost knowledge and skills.
• Use of a presumptive approach and provision of clear, accessible information.
• Culturally sensitive communication to address diverse populations effectively.
These insights represent a call to action for primary healthcare providers to strengthen their role in combating vaccine hesitancy and ensuring better protection for populations across Europe.
For further details, access the final project report: https://www.europeancancer.org/eu-projects/impact/resource/protect-europe-final-report.html
For the presentation link: PROTECT Europe Showcase Event