Impact of HPV Vaccine Availability on Uptake

Abstract Purpose To evaluate the impact of human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine availability on uptake among 19- to 26-year-old female patients of Planned Parenthood of Mid and South Michigan before and after the vaccine became available at the health centers. Results Availability of the HPV vaccine increased vaccine uptake from 11% before clinic availability to 16% after availability. Accessibility, including cost and provider recommendation, may have influenced uptake. Implications Improving availability of the HPV vaccine, while helpful, is not sufficient for a substantial increase in uptake. Issues of accessibility, including cost and provider recommendation, must also be addressed.