Policy opportunities to increase HPV vaccination in rural communities

Abstract

Rural communities experience health disparities, including elevated incidence and mortality of human papillomavirus (HPV)-associated cancers and correspondingly low HPV vaccination rates. There are numerous policy strategies that are available at multiple levels–patient, provider, clinic, community, state, and national–to address geographic, clinical, and communication barriers to HPV vaccination across rural America. Examples include policy development, implementation, and evaluation of healthcare provider and clinic-based assessment and education initiatives; school entry requirements; school, pharmacy, and community-based vaccination programs; evidence-based, community-driven communication efforts; and increased interventional research in rural communities. Strategically implemented policy measures will contribute to reduction in the incidence and mortality from HPV-related cancers through increased access to HPV vaccination in our rural communities.