Communication technologies to improve HPV vaccination initiation and completion: A systematic review

ObjectivesThis systematic review examines the effectiveness of communication technology interventions on HPV vaccination initiation and completion.MethodsA comprehensive search strategy was used to identify existing randomized controlled trials testing the impact of computer-, mobile- or internet-based interventions on receipt of any dose of the HPV vaccine. Twelve relevant studies were identified with a total of 38,945 participants.ResultsThe interventions were delivered using several different methods, including electronic health record (i.e. recall/reminder) prompts, text messaging, automated phone calls, interactive computer videos, and email. Vaccine initiation and completion was greater for technology-based studies relative to their control conditions.ConclusionThere is evidence that interventions utilizing communication technologies as their sole or primary mode for HPV vaccination intervention delivery may increase vaccination coverage.Practice implicationsCommunication technologies hold much promise for the future of HPV vaccination efforts, especially initiatives in practice-based settings.