Legislative activity related to the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine in the United States (2006–2015): a need for evidence-based policy

Abstract

State-based policies to mandate HPV vaccination are politically challenging and have received broad criticisms. There is a critical need to understand the legislative activities that underpin subsequent policy implementation. The objective of this policy analysis was to analyze state legislation that focused on HPV vaccination from 2006–2015. A content analysis was conducted among primary sources of legislative data from HPV vaccine-related bills, including using the National Conference of State Legislatures as a search-source. Findings reveal that much of the legislative activity occurred early after the HPV vaccination was introduced, and focused on increased information for parents, public financing, awareness campaigns, etc. Far fewer states focused on voluntary or mandatory vaccination. Understanding the barriers to achieving mandatory vaccination policy and implementation of such policies for HPV vaccines remains a public health priority.

Approaching a decade since HPV vaccine licensure: Racial and gender disparities in knowledge and awareness of HPV and HPV vaccine

“…54,55 Such national programs include the Vaccine for Children (VFC), which aims to cover the cost of the HPV vaccine for eligible individuals. 12,56 Additionally, the Affordable Care Act (ACA) mandated insurance coverage for HPV vaccines. 56 Yet, recent plans to repeal and replace the ACA 57 may negatively affect the aforementioned initiative to promote vaccine coverage.…”

“…12,56 Additionally, the Affordable Care Act (ACA) mandated insurance coverage for HPV vaccines. 56 Yet, recent plans to repeal and replace the ACA 57 may negatively affect the aforementioned initiative to promote vaccine coverage. With respect to clinical encounters, policies that encourage more physicians to discuss the HPV vaccine with eligible parents and patients will also help meet the Healthy People 2020 goal.…”

“…45 There are currently no federal laws requiring the HPV vaccines, but several states have enacted legislations aimed at increasing HPV vaccination, and a few have passed HPV vaccine mandates (Virginia, Rhode Island, and Washington DC). 55,56 Strengths and limitations…”

Effect of a Health Care Professional Communication Training Intervention on Adolescent Human Papillomavirus Vaccination

“…6 Attempts to use policy changes to increase uptake, such as mandating HPV vaccination for school entry, have been largely unsuccessful and ineffective. 7 Interventions to improve adolescent HPV vaccine uptake by other means are a national priority. 8 A key factor influencing adolescent HPV vaccination is whether and how a health care professional recommends it.…”

State statutes and regulations related to human papillomavirus vaccination

“…25,26 Additionally, much of the existing HPV vaccination law literature relies on data generated by NCSL. 8,9,11,21,26,27 While this information is incredibly valuable for strategic planning, developing policy priorities, and giving an idea of the existing landscape of laws, it cannot be relied on for scientific studies. NCSL largely reviews legislation and not regulation, which is a serious limitation given that state legislatures often delegate broad rulemaking authority to agencies to promote public health.…”