CHICAGO – The American Medical Association (AMA) today released new tools to help patients and physicians cut through the confusion around vaccines and have open, honest conversations with each other. An infographic for patients (PDF) explains why vaccines are an important part of staying healthy and encourages them to talk with their doctor if they have questions. A second infographic for physicians (PDF) includes sample conversation starters they can use when speaking with patients who may be unsure about vaccines—helping to build trust and understanding.
“Many people are confused about vaccines or unsure where to turn for evidence-based answers,” said AMA President Bobby Mukkamala, MD. “Doctors know vaccines are one of the most effective ways to protect our health. We want to make sure patients have clear, up-to-date information on everything from the public health measures to prevent the spread of illness to the benefits of getting vaccinated, including reducing the risk of serious illness, hospitalization and death for themselves and the community around them. Our goal is to cut through misleading information, facilitate informed conversations between patients and physicians, and build trust.”
The AMA is committed to serving as a trusted resource on vaccines and will soon launch additional evidence-based tools and information for patients and physicians.
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About the American Medical Association
The American Medical Association is the physicians’ powerful ally in patient care. As the only medical association that convenes 190+ state and specialty medical societies and other critical stakeholders, the AMA represents physicians with a unified voice to all key players in health care. The AMA leverages its strength by removing the obstacles that interfere with patient care, leading the charge to prevent chronic disease and confront public health crises and, driving the future of medicine to tackle the biggest challenges in health care.
