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

OBJECTIVES: This systematic review examines the effectiveness of communication technology interventions on HPV vaccination initiation and completion. METHODS: A 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. RESULTS: The 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. CONCLUSION: There is evidence that interventions utilizing communication technologies as their sole or primary mode for HPV vaccination intervention delivery may increase vaccination coverage. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: Communication technologies hold much promise for the future of HPV vaccination efforts, especially initiatives in practice-based settings.