How stressful was the COVID-19 vaccination procedure? Comparison between mass vaccination centers and general practices

Negative past experiences with vaccines or unfamiliar environments can be sources of stress during the COVID-19 vaccination procedure. We examined whether the perceived stressfulness of the vaccination procedure differ between mass vaccination centers and general practitioner (GP) practices. A survey was distributed (07/2021–10/2021) among newly vaccinated individuals in ten GP practices (n = 364) and two vaccine centers (n = 474). Stress was low at all sites. The perceived stressfulness of the procedure was higher among younger participants and those in GP practices, and increased with longer waiting time at the site. Stress decreased with better comprehensibility of the procedure and higher satisfaction with patient education. Participants who expressed greater concern about the health risks of COVID-19 vaccines perceived the vaccination procedure as more stressful. Our findings indicate opportunities for improvements in future vaccination campaigns and highlight the important role of healthcare providers in mitigating stress by addressing individual concerns.