Development and evaluation of a simulation-based vaccination training course and evaluation of a simulation-based vaccination training course targeting vaccine hesitancy for pharmacy students

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Belgian government authorized community pharmacists to prescribe and administer prophylactic COVID-19 vaccines and adrenaline to patients in anaphylactic shock. However, this pharmaceutical service, requires completion of a specific vaccination training. To prepare students for their future profession, a vaccination training program was developed for master’s students in Pharmacy at the University of Liège. The program’s sustainability was ensured through a quantitative pre- and post-test study conducted in 2023. This study revealed a significant student interest in vaccination. Following the training, students exhibited an increased confidence in vaccine preparation and administration, as well as in managing adverse events. However, the study highlighted a lack of improvement in confidence and skills in communication with patients during vaccination. This constitutes a crucial aspect of promoting public health and enhancing vaccine coverage. Pharmacists, as accessible frontline professionals, also play a key role alongside other healthcare professionals in reducing vaccine hesitancy and improving service accessibility.
This new mixed-method study, scheduled for 2024, will involve master’s students in Pharmacy. The training will be divided into two parts: a theoretical section and a practical section, incorporating activities at the University of Liège Experimental Pharmacy and at the Center for Medical Simulation. Quantitative analysis will include pre- and post-tests using validated perception questionnaires based on the Kirkpatrick model, assessing the training’s impact on vaccine hesitancy, knowledge level, competency, and confidence in communication regarding vaccine hesitancy. Qualitative analysis will be conducted through focus groups. This simulation-based training aims to enhance counter communication to improve vaccination coverage.