A 19-year-old woman presents to the office.

When encountering vaccine hesitancy, the first and most effective step is to open a non-judgmental conversation and explore the patient’s reasons. This helps build trust and tailor subsequent education and counseling.

Toronto Notes 2023 – Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Immunization:

“Addressing vaccine hesitancy requires understanding parental concerns. Begin with open-ended questions to identify underlying beliefs and information gaps.”

MCCQE1 Objectives – Preventive Medicine > Immunization:

“Candidates must demonstrate effective communication with vaccine-hesitant parents, beginning with eliciting their rationale before providing evidence-based recommendations.”

Jumping to education (B) or punitive measures (C, D) may close communication. The patient is an adult; speaking with her parents (E) violates her autonomy.

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