Interventions to promote completion of human papilloma virus vaccination course in high-risk groups attending a London sexual health clinic

ObjectivesMen who have sex with men (MSM) have a 30-fold higher risk of anal cancer compared to the general population and the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccine can reduce this risk. Completion rates of the vaccine course remain low. The aim of this project was to improve vaccine course completion rates in high-risk groups. MethodsPatients not returning for the second dose of the vaccine over a 12-month period were sent text message reminders. After four weeks, analysis was done on those who returned. Other interventions to increase vaccination uptake comprised a patient survey, updating pertinent information on the clinic website and displaying posters in clinic rooms. ResultsThe vaccine course completion rate increased from 37% to 39%. Our patient survey showed 87.5% of responders would opt for text message reminders about subsequent vaccine doses. ConclusionsHuman Papilloma Virus vaccine course completion rates remain below the NHS England target. A user-friendly and time-efficient recall system was devised in order to enhance vaccine course completion. Future strategies could include creating a vaccine passport, providing more in-depth counselling on the importance of HPV vaccination and creating an opportunistic walk-in appointment service for vaccination at sexual health clinics.