Uptake of the Human Papillomavirus Vaccine: a Review of the Literature and Report of a Quality Assurance Project

Purpose: The aims of this study were to review predictors of knowledge about human papillomavirus (HPV), HPV vaccine, and factors related to HPV vaccine uptake and report a quality assurance project that evaluated HPV vaccine uptake and three-dose completion rates.

Methods: The setting was a small private urban pediatric practice. Chart review was used to describe HPV vaccine uptake and dose completion rates in 2007. The convenience sample included 189 girls aged 12 to 21 years with HPV vaccine uptake.

Results: During 2007, 153 girls aged 12 to 17 years and 42 girls aged 18 to 21 years were seen at well-child care visits. HPV vaccine uptake was 72% (n = 110) for the younger group and 79% (n = 33) for the older group. There was no significant difference in HPV vaccine uptake by group. One quarter (24%, n = 46) received the HPV vaccine dose at an episodic visit. The dose completion rate was 64% (n = 120).

Discussion: HPV vaccine uptake and dose completion rates were higher than rates reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Effective strategies are needed to promote HPV vaccine uptake and dose completion.