Pharmacist Discusses Concerns Over Immunization Changes, Public Trust

Laura Knockel, PharmD, BCACP, a professor at the University of Iowa College of Pharmacy, discusses the challenges health care providers face in communicating accurate vaccine information in an increasingly complex and fragmented information landscape. Knockel highlights growing concerns about how vaccine recommendations are being communicated, noting a shift away from traditional transparent discussions to less formal channels like social media posts.

To address this challenge, she recommends that health care professionals and patients rely on reputable sources such as professional organizations like the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Infectious Diseases Society of America. These organizations are increasingly developing robust vaccine resources that are accessible to the public, prioritizing the distribution of evidence-based recommendations.

Knockel also emphasizes the critical importance of vaccine safety and accessibility. She stresses that vaccines undergo more rigorous testing than most medications due to their administration to healthy populations, and the US vaccine safety program is exceptionally robust. However, potential changes in the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices recommendations could have significant implications for vaccine access and public health. Specifically, Knockel warns that narrowing vaccine recommendations could lead to patients paying out-of-pocket for vaccines, potentially discouraging vaccination and even impacting vaccine manufacturing.

Ultimately, she calls for continued education, staying informed about vaccine policy changes, and maintaining a focus on communicating the value of vaccines to patients. Despite the overwhelming nature of constant updates, health care providers must remain committed to keeping patients informed and healthy.

"What's happening with vaccine policy at the federal level is irresponsible at best, and I would say, extremely dangerous at worst and can be overwhelming, especially when pharmacists have so many other demands on their time to try to keep track of all these updates that keep coming out," Knockel said. "I really think we need to stay up-to-date, focus[ing] on educating the public and letting the patient, our patients, know the value of vaccines, and hopefully we can continue to keep our patients healthy."

READ MORE: Immunization Resource Center

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