The rate of pneumococcal vaccination (PV) also is one of the lowest among Eastern Europe countries that imposes a high risk of pneumonia up to 400 cases per 100 thousand population and other related health issues. Although Primary Health Care providers (PHCPs) in Ukraine play an important role in administering vaccines to their patients the data about PHCP's awareness regarding pneumococcal immunization are lacking.
A self-administered online survey among 265 PHCPs (44 doctors, 221 nurses) was conducted in three Eastern Ukrainian regions. The level of basic knowledge and concerns regarding pneumococcal disease prevention and PV were evaluated.
Overall 264 (99.6%) PHCPs highlighted the obvious need in strengthening evidence-based knowledge related to PV, immunization topics and communication skills. Right answers regarding administration and,safety of PV were obtained in 21% participants, 47% PHCPs had significant concerns. Only 8% of participants were convinced in aspects of effective communication. Physicians had higher knowledge regarding pneumococcal disease (32; 73%), compared to nurses (105; 47.5%), p=0.0016; but did not differ in aspects of PV efficacy and preventive potential.
The majority of Ukrainian PHCPs need to improve knowledge regarding pneumococcal disease prevention. Effective continuing evidence-based learning for providers may help address these concerns.