Intersectional Influences and Global Expertise: Vaccine Views of Internationally Educated Healthcare Professionals.

Abstract

Internationally Educated Healthcare Professionals (IEHPs) represent a significant part of Canada's health workforce, yet limited evidence exists on vaccine attitudes in this group. This study examined vaccine perceptions among IEHPs in Canada and their roles in promoting vaccination within their communities. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 22 IEHPs and analyzed using thematic analysis through an intersectional lens. Participants generally expressed strong pro-vaccine attitudes and believed that gender/sex, religion, ethnicity/race, and employment precarity, particularly in relation to vaccine mandates, influence vaccine attitudes, and decision-making. Participants viewed IEHPs as ambassadors who can promote vaccine uptake, especially among culturally and ethnically similar populations. IEHPs demonstrated overall support for vaccination and identified themselves as contributors to vaccine promotion in communities historically underserved by public health. These findings highlight their potential role in culturally tailored vaccine communication and public health outreach in Canada as well as in policy development and implementation efforts.