Paid time off for vaccination and recovery is one of the most influential actions employers can take to increase COVID-19 vaccination uptake, according to a report examining vaccine hesitancy of employees at approximately 400 U.S.-based companies across a broad range of industries, conducted by management consultant firm McKinsey & Co.
Providing this benefit corresponds closely with one of the top sources of vaccine hesitancy: concerns about potential side effects, the firm noted.
“Employees say they want assurance that they can take time to recover from any potential vaccine side effects without incremental financial consequences,” report authors wrote.
The research also suggested that employers share authoritative, credible and accessible information on the safety, efficacy and side effects of available vaccines. McKinsey consultants also encourage employers to bring in key experts to address their workforce — for example, by hosting panel discussions with physicians and public health leaders to share scientific information, answer employee questions and address concerns. Most importantly, the report noted, employers should listen to their employees and acknowledge any concerns.
Finally, making vaccination as convenient as possible is another important enabler to support COVID-19-vaccine adoption, according to the firm.
“While consumers place different emphasis on different aspects of convenience, employers can take multiple actions to improve the experience of their workforce: sharing practical information to navigate the vaccination process, simplifying the process itself, and increasing the proximity of vaccination sites,” report authors wrote.
