The data: While 82% pediatric healthcare providers are familiar with updated federal vaccine guidelines for children, more than half (62%) of parents and caregivers are only somewhat or not at all familiar, according to a ZoomRx survey in January and February.

How we got here: In early January, the CDC cut its recommended pediatric vaccines from 17 to 11.

Pediatric vaccine recommendations now fall into three categories:

• Recommended for all
• Recommended for high-risk groups only
• Shared decision-making. This refers to the collaborative process between providers and patients or caregivers to make treatment decisions.

Why it matters: Time-pressed healthcare providers need to prepare for longer conversations with caregivers about vaccine guideline changes, safety and shared decision-making.

• 70% of healthcare providers expect to spend more time talking about disease severity and infection risks, per ZoomRx.
• 52% expect to spend more time addressing vaccine safety.

Healthcare providers are also concerned about caregivers’ understanding of shared decision-making:

• 48% believe parents will interpret the CDC’s recommendations for shared decision-making around vaccines to mean vaccines with that designation are optional, per ZoomRx.
• An August Annenberg study underscored that concern, finding that 2 in 5 US adults mistakenly believe shared decision-making means it’s up to them to ask whether a vaccine is appropriate.

Implications for vaccine companies: As pediatric vaccine decisions become more individualized, drugmakers’ education and marketing strategies will take on greater importance. The expansion of shared decision-making means providers and caregivers will need more guidance throughout the vaccine process.

For physicians, AI tools and training can help them navigate sensitive vaccine conversations and provide helpful talking points when patients are hesitant or unsure. For caregivers, broad awareness campaigns from vaccine makers—paired with social media influencer partnerships—can build familiarity and trust before families even speak with a healthcare provider.

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