Sustainera Solution’s research team conducted qualitative research in the Republic of Azerbaijan to assess the attitudes towards COVID-19 vaccination and leverage the positive impact of vaccination among priority groups at risk of severe COVID-19 infection. The study focused on health workers, older adults (65 years+), and adults (under 65 years) with underlying conditions that increase their vulnerability to severe disease or death.
The research approach employed a cross-sectional qualitative design, utilizing the modified Capability-Motivation-Opportunity-Behavior (COM-B) model as the theoretical framework. This model helped provide a comprehensive understanding of the barriers and perspectives related to COVID-19 vaccination among the target groups. By using this framework, the research team aimed to explore the various factors influencing the decision-making process regarding COVID-19 vaccination. The COM-B model encompasses three essential components:
• Capability: This component involves the individual's psychological and physical capacity to engage in vaccination. It examines factors such as knowledge, skills, and understanding of the benefits and risks associated with vaccination.
• Motivation: Motivation focuses on the social and psychological factors that drive individuals to either accept or reject vaccination. This includes factors such as personal beliefs, attitudes, emotions, and perceived social norms or pressures.
• Opportunity: Opportunity refers to the external factors that influence an individual's access and ability to receive vaccination. It includes factors such as the availability of vaccines, convenience of vaccination centers, and ease of scheduling appointments.
• Through qualitative research methods, such as interviews and focus groups, the Sustainera Consulting team gathered insights and perspectives from health workers and the target population. The findings aimed to provide valuable information to public health officials, policymakers, and healthcare providers to enhance vaccination acceptance and coverage rates among these priority groups.
By understanding the barriers and facilitators to COVID-19 vaccination, the research service sought to contribute to the development of tailored strategies and interventions to improve vaccine uptake and ultimately control virus transmission.