Improving Testing for COVID-19 in Skilled Nursing Facilities: IMPACT-C

Background: The purpose of this study was to assess the beliefs, attitudes, and intentions of skilled nursing facility (SNF) staff, residents, and family members concerning COVID-19 testing and vaccination. Skilled nursing facilities were disproportionately affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, making understanding perceptions and intentions around testing and vaccination essential for improving uptake and guiding future interventions.

Materials/Methods: This study employed a cross-sectional design using mixed methods. Electronic surveys were developed and distributed to measure attitudes about SARS-CoV-2 testing and vaccine uptake among SNF workers and families. The surveys were distributed to SNFs across the United States. The study population included adults, essential workers, African Americans, Hispanics or Latinos, and older adults or elderly individuals. Data types included behavioral, clinical, and questionnaire or survey data.

Outcome/Impact: The intended impact was to inform strategies to improve testing and vaccination uptake within skilled nursing facilities, particularly among vulnerable populations and essential workers.