CommunityConnect Labs

Insights from Four Vaccine Incentive Programs around the US

Reports on state vaccine incentive programs are showing mixed results, with many citing dwindling rates of vaccination. It’s difficult to draw conclusions because vaccination rates have continued a steady decline nationally since April 2021’s significant uptick, which occurred due to ample supply and increased eligibility for most Americans.

Aggregated here are insights from four states with unique approaches:  

  • In Michigan, reports suggest that insufficient marketing of the lottery might be to blame for persistent low rates of vaccination.
  • In Colorado, concerns about racial discrepancies continue, with only 10% of the vaccinated population identifying as Latino (compared to 20% of state residents who identify as Latino).
  • Illinois’ Governor Pritzker has messaged that their state vaccine lottery is a way of saying “thank you” to community members; the first winners were just recently announced and will continue through August 2021, so vaccination rates are being monitored carefully to evaluate any significant increase.
  • Minnesota’s incentive program took aim at a priority population and successfully reached a key demographic: with 12- to-17 year olds claiming one-third of prizes.  The most popular prize requested? A $25 Visa gift card. 

What’s the take-away when we evaluate these four diverse approaches to state vaccine incentive programs? As with all public health initiatives, 

  • Know your audience
  • Market to them directly
  • Ensure your messaging is reaching your target demographics
  • Prioritize Spanish or other multi-lingual messaging capabilities

Curious how others might be designing public outreach campaigns to reach the unvaccinated?

Talk to us. 

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