1. COVID-19 vaccine readiness

The Addiction Policy Forum conducted structured interviews with 87 US-based individuals (54 % female, mean age 43 years (SD = 12.8)) impacted by SUDs (18 % currently using substances, 14 % in treatment, 76 % in recovery, non-exclusive self-report) between September 10 and 27, 2020 with IntegReview IRB approval. Participants were recruited via the Addiction Policy Forum’s US network of patients, families, and survivors of SUDs. One-on-one interviews were conducted by 3 trained Addiction Policy Forum staff via telephone and video conferencing. When prompted about willingness to take a COVID-19 vaccine, responses encompassed immediate readiness (45 %), readiness after a delay (8 %), uncertainty (23 %), and unwillingness (25 %). Those who were hesitant cited a “rushed” process for development, possibilities of adverse effects, interactions with pre-existing conditions, and/or skepticism that they were at high risk for COVID-19 itself, with the following specific comments:

“No. I would rather catch it, I don’t trust the government, I dunno, it’s so new I don’t want to be on the receiving end of it, I’m not high risk or anything. If I did catch it, I don’t foresee it being fatal for me. I don’t get flu vaccines.” – in recovery

“Yes, if my personal doctor recommends it.” – receiving treatment

“Absolutely, once it's been vetted.” – currently using

2. Trust and readiness

The APF prompted participants on sources of information in which they trusted when making health decisions. Most reported they trusted their doctor in making their healthcare decisions, even among those who were hesitant towards a vaccine. Family was cited next most frequently, with participants reporting overall reliance on multiple sources (physicians and health workers, social media, television/newspapers, radio, official website(s), NIH/CDC, family, research data/medical journals, internet). Few participants reported lack of trust in any sources.

We also prompted individuals about their willingness to receive multi-dose vaccines. While this did not change overall willingness or trust for the majority of respondents, some cited barriers to vaccine uptake that would only increase with series vaccination and were exacerbated during COVID-19. These included difficulties scheduling appointments given work and childcare obligations, and restrictions in access to clinics due to COVID-19.

3. Conclusions

Distribution programs, especially for series vaccines, may encounter significant barriers from people with SUDs. Interventions that have been developed to promote vaccination uptake among people with mental illness, including both educational components and distribution programs, warrant consideration among people with SUDs (Miles et al., 2020). These perspectives highlight that physician-patient relationships are important to ensuring people with SUDs trust in COVID-19 vaccines as they are distributed.

COVID-19 Vaccine Readiness Among Individuals with Substance Use Disorders

A structured interview study, conducted by the Addiction Policy Forum, investigated COVID-19 vaccine readiness among 87 US-based individuals affected by substance use disorders (SUDs). Participants, recruited through the organization's network, comprised a sample with diverse SUD statuses (18% currently using substances, 14% in treatment, 76% in recovery; self-reported, non-exclusive). Demographic data revealed a predominantly female sample (54%) with a mean age of 43 years (SD = 12.8). Data collection, approved by IntegReview IRB, occurred between September 10 and 27, 2020, utilizing telephone and video conferencing interviews. Analysis of responses to vaccine willingness revealed a heterogeneous distribution: 45% expressed immediate readiness, 8% conditional readiness, 23% uncertainty, and 25% unwillingness. Hesitancy was frequently attributed to concerns regarding rapid vaccine development, potential adverse effects, interactions with pre-existing conditions, and perceived low personal risk of COVID-19 infection.

Trust and Vaccine Uptake

The study explored sources of health information influencing participants' vaccine decisions. Physician recommendations emerged as the most trusted source, even among vaccine-hesitant individuals. Family opinions were also frequently cited, indicating reliance on multiple information sources, including healthcare professionals, social media, traditional media, official websites, governmental health agencies (NIH/CDC), research data, and internet resources. Notably, a paucity of participants reported a complete lack of trust in any of these information sources. The investigation further examined attitudes toward multi-dose vaccine regimens. While overall willingness and trust remained largely unaffected, logistical barriers to vaccine access, including scheduling difficulties related to work and childcare commitments, and COVID-19-related clinic access restrictions, were identified as potential obstacles to uptake, especially for multi-dose vaccines.

Implications for Vaccine Distribution Strategies

The findings underscore the potential for significant barriers to COVID-19 vaccine distribution among individuals with SUDs, particularly concerning multi-dose regimens. The study suggests that existing strategies designed to promote vaccination among individuals with mental illness, incorporating educational components and accessible distribution programs, merit consideration within this population. Emphasis on strengthening physician-patient relationships is crucial to fostering trust in COVID-19 vaccines and ensuring equitable access and uptake among individuals with SUDs.

COVID-19 Vaccine Readiness Among Individuals with Substance Use Disorders

A study by the Addiction Policy Forum investigated COVID-19 vaccine readiness among 87 US adults with substance use disorders (SUDs). Participants, recruited through the Forum's network, included individuals currently using substances, in treatment, and in recovery. Interviews revealed varying levels of vaccine acceptance: 45% expressed immediate readiness, 8% conditional readiness, 23% uncertainty, and 25% unwillingness. Hesitancy stemmed from concerns about the vaccine's rapid development, potential side effects, interactions with existing conditions, and perceived low personal risk of COVID-19.

Trust and Vaccine Uptake

The study explored information sources influencing participants' health decisions. Trust in personal physicians was prevalent, even among those hesitant about the vaccine. Other frequently cited sources included family, healthcare workers, and various media outlets. While multi-dose vaccine requirements did not significantly alter overall willingness, logistical barriers such as scheduling conflicts and reduced clinic access during the pandemic emerged as potential obstacles to vaccination.

Implications for Vaccine Distribution

Significant barriers to vaccine uptake among individuals with SUDs may exist, particularly for multi-dose regimens. Strategies proven effective in promoting vaccination among individuals with mental illness, including educational initiatives and accessible distribution programs, warrant consideration for this population. Strengthening physician-patient relationships is crucial for fostering trust and ensuring equitable vaccine access for individuals with SUDs.

Summary

Researchers interviewed 87 people in recovery from substance use disorders (SUDs) about their willingness to receive a COVID-19 vaccine. The study, conducted in September 2020, found varied responses. About half (45%) were immediately ready for the vaccine, while a smaller percentage (8%) said they would get it after a delay. A significant portion (25%) were unwilling, citing concerns about the vaccine's rapid development, potential side effects, and their perceived low risk of severe COVID-19. Another 23% were uncertain.

Trust and Readiness

When asked about trusted sources of health information, most participants prioritized their personal doctors, followed by family members. Many relied on a variety of sources, including healthcare professionals, social media, and official government websites. Although most people's willingness to get vaccinated didn't change based on the number of doses required, some noted logistical challenges like scheduling appointments and accessing clinics due to COVID-19 restrictions.

Conclusions

The study suggests that vaccine distribution programs should address potential barriers for people with SUDs. Strategies successfully used to promote vaccination among individuals with mental health issues could be adapted for this population. Strengthening the doctor-patient relationship is also crucial for building trust and encouraging vaccine uptake among people with SUDs.

Summary

Researchers talked to 87 adults in the US about getting a COVID-19 vaccine. Many people were ready to get the shot right away, but some were unsure or didn't want it. People who were hesitant worried about side effects or that the vaccine was made too quickly. Some didn't think they were at risk for getting seriously sick with COVID-19.

Trust and the Vaccine

Most people said they trusted their doctor's advice about health decisions, even if they weren't sure about the vaccine. They also trusted their families and other sources like news and websites. Getting multiple shots for a vaccine could be hard for some people because of work, childcare, or problems getting to clinics.

What This Means

Getting the COVID-19 vaccine to people struggling with substance abuse could be tough. It's important for doctors to talk to their patients and help them feel comfortable getting vaccinated.