The University of Maryland School of Public Health has introduced a successful initiative to address COVID-19 vaccine disparities in Prince George’s County, Maryland. This program, known as the Health Literacy Enhancement and Advancement Program (Health LEAP), aims to increase vaccine uptake among African American and Hispanic communities, which have been disproportionately affected by the pandemic.
Health LEAP focuses on a community-based approach to tackle vaccine hesitancy and access issues. The initiative employs strategies such as partnering with local organizations, training community health workers, and implementing targeted education campaigns. By collaborating with trusted community voices, the program seeks to build vaccine confidence and address specific concerns within diverse populations.
A key component of Health LEAP is its emphasis on improving health literacy. The program provides culturally appropriate and easy-to-understand information about COVID-19 and vaccines. This approach has proven effective in increasing vaccine acceptance and uptake among previously hesitant individuals.
The initiative has shown promising results, with significant increases in vaccination rates among the target communities. For instance, the program contributed to raising the percentage of fully vaccinated African American and Hispanic residents from 18% to 62% and 20% to 75%, respectively, over a six-month period.
Health LEAP’s success demonstrates the importance of tailored, community-focused approaches in addressing health disparities. The program’s model, which combines health literacy education with community engagement, could serve as a template for other regions facing similar challenges with vaccine disparities.
As the initiative continues, the University of Maryland School of Public Health plans to expand its reach and share its findings with other public health organizations. This collaborative approach aims to create a broader impact in reducing COVID-19 vaccine disparities and improving public health outcomes for underserved communities across the United States.
See “Research initiative successfully combats COVID-19 vaccine disparities” (October 15, 2024)