JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

The COVID-19 pandemic has devastated economies and strained healthcare systems worldwide. Vaccination is crucial for outbreak control, but disparities persist between and within countries. In Taiwan, certain Indigenous areas show lower vaccination rates, prompting comprehensive inquiries.

Objective:

To identify predictors for COVID-19 vaccination and develop strategies for Indigenous communities.

Methods:

This cross-sectional study, conducted from May 13 to July 18, 2022, surveyed Indigenous community members over 55 residing in a mountain area in southern Taiwan. Based on the Health Belief Model, the questionnaire covered sociodemographic factors, health-related issues, and trust in physicians. The analysis included bivariate analysis and logistic regression.

Results:

Most participants were aged 55-64, female, married, with low education, and engaged in agriculture or unemployed. Logistic regression revealed significant associations: non-vaccinated individuals perceived lower COVID-19 threats, fewer vaccination benefits, higher barriers, and less response to vaccination cues, though trust in physicians did not significantly correlate, which required further investigation.

Conclusions:

The pandemic prevention plan for the indigenous communities should be informed by a better understanding of local needs and use bottom-up strategies to avoid promoting cultural satiety and exacerbating preexisting health inequalities. It is important to ensure the accuracy of the information received by Indigenous older adults. The government should effectively manage the messages communicated via different forms of media. Local health units can assign healthcare professionals to visit Indigenous older members and their caregivers, provide accurate information, and encourage vaccinations.