IOD Report Addresses COVID-19 Vaccination Access and Barriers for People with Disabilities
In their latest report, COVID-19 Vaccination Access and Information, the NH Developmental Disabilities partners aim to improve COVID-19 vaccine access for older adults and people with disabilities by exploring common barriers and concerns with the booster. Over 625 people responded to the IOD's questions in the Granite State Poll about their vaccination status, concerns with and interest in the COVID-19 booster, and barriers to accessing vaccinations. The following is a summary of the report's findings.
Percent Vaccinated
76% Fully Vaccinated
1.4% Partially Vaccinated
22.6% Unknown
Percent Interested in Booster
78% of vaccinated respondents said they would get a booster shot
It has not been an easy straight forward process at all.
There were snags at every turn even though we were
eligible to receive the vaccine.
Respondent
Top Reported Concerns with Booster
79.5% Don’t trust that it’s safe
52.9% Not effective
41.8% First dose was enough
Key Barriers to Accessing Vaccination
Accessing the (VAMS) website
Finding or getting to a location
Confusion about eligibility, availability, and safety
Top Recommendations
To ensure older adults and people with disabilities have access to vaccines and up to date information for vaccine education, the NH Developmental Disabilities partners recommends:
- Considering accessibility throughout the process.
- Educating health care providers about providing accommodations for people with disabilities (communication, physical access, etc.).
- Recognizing the importance of family caregivers and support professionals in supporting the health of people with disabilities.
As a next step, the task force will compile and share resources that address some of the report's key findings. This information will be made available on the IOD's website.
