Background and Review of Literature: Vaccination hesitancy has become an important topic of discussion for health care providers, as well as for the general public. There are multiple reasons individuals experience vaccination hesitancy and chose not to become vaccinated. However, not receiving vaccinations leaves individuals at increased risk for serious vaccine-preventable illnesses. Individuals in rural areas are more likely to experience vaccine hesitancy. Health care providers have used different strategies to decrease vaccine hesitancy. An effective strategy to address behavior change, including vaccine hesitancy, is to use motivational interviewing in one-on-one discussions with patients. However, health care providers do not regularly use motivational interviewing (MI). Purpose: The purpose of this evidence-based practice (EBP) project is to provide an education session to the Michigan State University (MSU) Extension vaccine team members that are instrumental in the delivery of health care information to the rural population of Michigan, on why and how to use MI with clients, specifically focusing on addressing vaccine hesitancy. Methods: A two-person team of Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) students developed an educational information session on MI, in consultation with an MI expert. This session provides educational information for members of the MSU Extension vaccine team, focusing on strategically employing MI to address vaccine hesitancy. The educational session was administered over a synchronous zoom session to members of the MSU Extension vaccine team. Implementation Plan/Procedure: A survey was administered to participants pre-and post-the motivational interviewing session, to assess for changes in knowledge and confidence in utilizing motivational interviewing. This survey consisted of 3 participant characteristic questions, 4 questions to gauge baseline understanding of participants knowledge of MI, and 9 pre- and post-survey questions that assessed knowledge related to MI. Results: There was an improvement of knowledge and confidence among participants regarding MI and its use. In addition, several participants were qualitatively surveyed after the educational session and overall they agreed that this intervention was beneficial, and they would like to continue to learn more about MI. Implications/Conclusion: This project highlights the continued need for MI education with healthcare providers and team members who regularly interact with the rural population regarding vaccine hesitancy.
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