Health Publication Communication Strategic to Enhance on Knowledge, Behavior towards, and Coronavirus Disease 2019 Vaccine Coverage Rate for Participants by District Quality of Life Committee Changhan District, Roi-Et

Abstract

Purposes : To explore the context, develop strategies, and evaluate the outcomes of health communication strategies designed to enhance knowledge, vaccine uptake behaviors, and COVID-19 vaccination coverage among the population.

Study design : Action Research.

Materials and Methods : The key informants included 21 members of the District Quality of Life Development Committee in Changhan District, Roi Et Province, 21 multidisciplinary teams comprising nurses, sub-district health promotion hospital staff, and community network partners, as well as 242 target participants for COVID-19 vaccination. Data collection utilized knowledge and vaccine uptake behavior assessment tools and vaccination coverage reports, with data analyzed using frequency, percentage, and %Difference.

Main findings : The findings revealed three key outcomes: (1) Health communication studies in Thailand often stem from the investigation of health issues influenced by social factors, which significantly impact the health status of Thai people. Such studies identify health-related public agendas and involve diverse communication mechanisms as critical tools in problem-solving processes. These efforts generate recommendations and knowledge, either novel or expanding upon existing knowledge bases. It was found that the District Quality of Life Development Committee exhibited moderate levels of knowledge and vaccine uptake behavior regarding COVID-19 vaccination. (2) The developed health communication strategies encompassed six steps: analyzing the health communication context, setting objectives, preparing vaccination plans and communication strategies, motivating and encouraging vaccine uptake, fostering intrinsic motivation over coercion, and crafting persuasive messages to promote vaccination. (3) The evaluation of outcomes indicated a 35.53% increase in overall COVID-19 vaccination coverage across all age groups, with a 38.21% increase specifically among the "608 group" (comprising elderly individuals and those with chronic illnesses). These strategies effectively enhanced the knowledge and behaviors of key informants while significantly improving vaccination coverage across the target groups.  

Conclusion and Recommendations : This health communication strategy has resulted in improved operational outcomes. Therefore, relevant agencies should adopt it to address issues within their respective areas effectively.