Healthcare Professionals' Experiences From the COVID‐19 Vaccination Program for the Homebound Population in Greece: A Cross‐Sectional Mixed‐Methods National Study

ABSTRACT During the pandemic, mobile vaccination units administered COVID‐19 shots to homebound populations. This study explores the perspectives of public healthcare providers involved in Greece's COVID‐19 home vaccination program, aiming to identify challenges and inform improvements in delivering healthcare services at home. This is a cross‐sectional mixed‐methods survey with convergent design, conducted in public Primary Health Care facilities, using a questionnaire. Facilities from all Health Districts were invited. The study population included healthcare professionals and administrative staff engaged in vaccination units. Data were collected from April to July 2022. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and univariate linear regression analysis, while qualitative data underwent thematic analysis. Integration at the analysis phase enhanced understanding and reliability. The study was approved by the Bioethics Committee of the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki. A total of 1200 participants from 168 facilities across six Health Districts responded. The majority were nurses (34.1%) and general practitioners (24.7%). Participants unanimously praised the program's concept, aligning it with Primary Health Care and expressed readiness for future involvement, but reported time constraints. Those in larger groups found time management easier (1.68, 95% CI [1.28, 2.20], p < 0.001). Thematic analysis of 1070 text responses identified five themes, including guidance for implementation, resource availability, field challenges, professionals' skillsets, and public engagement. Collaboration with colleagues and authorities to address transportation problems proved vital for success. Understaffing and time constraints were evident. Integrating a new service into busy settings poses challenges, underscoring the need for problem‐solving and empowering healthcare personnel to address shortcomings.