In order to increase the motivation of caregivers to get vaccinated, the Korian group in Germany focuses on thorough information about vaccination.

Prior to the vaccination campaign and on a voluntary basis, the Korian group in Germany collected the decisions of the employees regarding their willingness to be vaccinated. On this basis, the Korian Foundation in Germany was commissioned to conduct a retrospective study on SARS-CoV 2 vaccination decisions. The aim of this study is to suggest effective ways to increase the overall vaccination rate in order to improve the safety of employees and residents.

In order to identify the major factors influencing decision making, the scientific literature was first reviewed. The results of the survey were then integrated and previous vaccination results in German Korian facilities were also taken into account. The final questionnaire consisted of 41 questions and was sent to all German facility managers. The survey period lasted ten days and took place in February 2021.

The responses of more than 6300 employees could be recorded and analyzed to better understand the factors related to the decision to vaccinate.

On average, up to 70% of employees were vaccinated, with no gender differences. In some cases, vaccination rates of over 90% were found. In terms of age, however, the 20-29 age group was often resistant to vaccination. There were also clear differences between qualified nursing staff, care assistants and home helpers. The level of qualification of the staff therefore plays a definite role.
The results of the Korian Foundation study in Germany show that specific factors influencing the vaccination behavior of employees can be identified. These results make it possible to formulate concrete recommendations for action for the institutions.

The recommendations for action resulting from the study are :

o Explicit communication with less qualified departments.

o Additional access to immunization information for younger employees

o Explain the reasons for rapid vaccine development

o Explicitly addressing the topic of fertility and genetic damage

o Importance of coaching by experienced facility managers

o Make time for individual information

Authors: Sascha Sassen, Andreas Gerich, Elisabeth Scharfenberg