IFM | Strengthening Vaccine Confidence and Adult Immunization

AAFP Vaccine Science Fellows James Bigham, MD, MPH, FAAFP, and Amra Resic, MD, FAAFP, join host Emily Holwick to discuss practical strategies for improving adult vaccination rates in primary care. Drawing from their clinical experience and fellowship work, they explore how family physicians can build vaccine confidence through strong recommendations, trusted patient relationships, and team-based workflows. The conversation covers presumptive vaccine recommendations, shared clinical decision-making, increasing vaccine confidence with empathy, integrating the assessment of immunization reviews into every patient visit, and empowering the entire care team to support vaccination efforts. Dr. Bigham and Dr. Resic also discuss workflow strategies such as standing orders, pre-visit planning, EMR reminders, and consistent messaging that make adult vaccination a routine part of preventive care while helping patients make informed decisions that protect themselves, their families, and their communities. Topics by Timestamp 00:00 Welcome and Guest Introductions 03:00 The AAFP Vaccine Science Fellowship Experience 04:35 Starting Vaccine Conversations with Adult Patients 06:03 Vaccination as Routine Preventive Care 07:02 Understanding Low Adult Vaccination Rates 09:17 Team-Based Strategies to Improve Vaccine Uptake 12:20 Shared Clinical Decision-Making and Building Trust 15:07 Empowering the Care Team to Build Vaccine Confidence 16:28 Key Takeaways for Family Physicians 18:45 Closing Remarks Additional Resources: Clinician Resources: Immunizations Shared Decision-making and Clinical Guidance Resources - https://www.aafp.org/clinical-insight... Immunizations And Vaccines For Family Physicians - https://www.aafp.org/clinical-insight... Immunization Resources - https://www.aafp.org/tag/subject/pati... AAFP Vaccine Advocacy: Strengthening Immunization Access | AAFP - https://www.aafp.org/advocacy/federal... Patient Resources: Immunizations | Family Doctor - https://familydoctor.org/immunizations/ Immunization Schedules | Family Doctor - https://familydoctor.org/immunization... Funding Statement: This podcast episode was independently developed by the AAFP with support provided by GlaxoSmithKline. Disclaimer: Copyright 2026. AAFP. The views presented in this broadcast are the speaker’s own and do not represent those of AAFP. The information presented is for general, educational, or entertainment purposes and should not be considered legal, health, financial, or other advice. AAFP makes no representation as to the accuracy or completeness of the information and is not responsible for results that may arise from its use. Consult an appropriate professional concerning your specific situation and respective governing bodies for applicable laws. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by AAFP unless specifically stated otherwise. AAFP and the AAFP logo are registered trademarks of American Academy of Family Physicians.