Assessment of the Citizens’ Perspectives on the COVID-19 Vaccination Process Which Are Ranked Last in The Vaccination Groups: Qualitative Reports from Turkey in the Early Stages of the Vaccination Process

Abstract

Aim: To evaluate the perspectives of the citizens ranking last in COVID-19 vaccination groups in terms of the vaccination process. Methods: In-depth interviews were carried out with the participants using the video conferencing method. Twenty-eight video conferencing interviews were conducted with citizens who ranked last in the vaccination groups. With the permission of the participants, an audio recording was obtained in all interviews, transcribed verbatim, and checked. A thematic approach was used to analyze the data. Data were collected until saturated. Results: The findings were summarized into three main categories. The first was “Satisfaction.” Participants expressed their satisfaction with process management, home vaccinations, and continuous information. The second theme was "Dissatisfaction.” Some participants expressed their dissatisfaction with the prioritization of elderly people in vaccination and late vaccination of actively working individuals. The third theme was "Reservations." Participants stated that they have reservations regarding a possible complacency in society after vaccinations and a delay in the vaccination of non-prioritized groups. In general, participants stated that they were satisfied with the supply of vaccines and performance. However, actively working individuals think that they should have priority over the elderly in vaccination. Conclusion: To ensure full compliance with the vaccine administration, it is necessary to enlighten all individuals, especially those ranking last in the vaccination groups, about the prioritization process and which variables are considered important. Keywords: COVID-19, qualitative, vaccination, family practice