In a paper entitled ‘Parental and provider preferences and concerns regarding text message reminder/recall for early childhood vaccinations’ published in the Journal of Preventive Medicine on line, it was found that Text message reminder/recall for early childhood vaccination was widely supported by parents.

 

Abstract

Objective

To assess parental, provider, and medical staff opinions about text message reminder/recall for early childhood vaccination.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey was conducted between January-March 2011 among 200 parents of 6–59 month-old children, 26 providers, and 20 medical staff at four academically-affiliated pediatric practices in New York City with text messaging experience. Survey questions addressed interest in, preferences for, and concerns/barriers related to vaccine-related text message reminder/recall.

Results

Parents were primarily Latino, Spanish-speaking, and had a high school education or less. Most parents owned a text message-enabled cell phone (89%) and used text messaging services (97%). While 84% had never received health-related text messages, 88% were comfortable receiving them. Nearly all parents reported interest in receiving reminder/recall text messages, many endorsing them over phone calls and/or letters. Preferences included personalization, interactivity, and multiple messages. While 25% of parents had no concerns, 38% were concerned about incorrect numbers; only 6% worried about cost. Providers and staff were also supportive of vaccine-related text messages. Their biggest concerns were correct cell phone numbers, appointment availability, and increased call volume.

Conclusion

Text message reminder/recall for early childhood vaccination was widely supported. Important barriers were identified that should be addressed to maximize their effectiveness.