Exploring the barriers and facilitators to implementation of maternal pertussis vaccination in Victoria, Australia

Vaccinating pregnant women against pertussis is the most effective method of protecting newborns from infection. This thesis explores consumer-, healthcare provider-, and systems- related barriers, and strategies to increase suboptimal uptake of maternal pertussis vaccination in Australia. The important role of healthcare providers in educating and recommending vaccination is highlighted. In addition, pharmacist-administered vaccination has been introduced to overcome access barriers, however, pharmacists were less confident providing vaccinations for pregnant women and would benefit from further training. Finally, embedding vaccination into antenatal care through midwife-delivered vaccination is demonstrated to be an effective model to increase uptake of maternal vaccination.