Building Trust: Addressing Vaccine Hesitancy and Health Misinformation in Vulnerable Communities

The National Nurse-Led Care Consortium recently recorded our webinar addressing the critical challenges of vaccine hesitancy and health misinformation, particularly within communities served by health centers and public housing primary care programs. Health misinformation and vaccine hesitancy contribute to public health challenges, deepening inequities in care. This session equipped health center staff with practical tools and knowledge to counter misinformation, build patient trust, and foster informed health decisions that advance public health and safety.

Dr. Charles R. Senteio, Associate Professor at Rutgers University, explored how misinformation disproportionately affects vulnerable communities, especially those with limited healthcare access. He examined its impacts on vaccine uptake and preventive care, discussing barriers—such as digital access and historical mistrust—that can make some populations more susceptible to misinformation. In addition, he discussed effective communication strategies to build trust and navigate sensitive conversations on vaccines with patients.

Amanda Kwong, a public health communication expert from the deBeaumont Foundation, presented resources from the Public Health Communications Collaborative that help frontline health staff address misinformation. She also introduced ready-to-use communication tools designed to support health centers in delivering culturally competent, accessible, and effective messaging about vaccines and misinformation.

Participants gained valuable strategies for promoting health equity and building trust through patient-centered communication and misinformation mitigation.

Slide Deck