Knowledge, Perceptions, and Preferred Information Sources Related to COVID-19 Among Central Pennsylvania Adults Early in the Pandemic: A Mixed Methods Cross-Sectional Survey

In “Knowledge, Perceptions, and Preferred Information Sources Related to COVID-19 Among Central Pennsylvania Adults Early in the Pandemic: Mixed Methods Cross-Sectional Survey” by Van Scoy et al, the authors claim that their study suggests “adherence to behavioral recommendations are generally high” and identifies government-sponsored websites as the most trusted information source. The study’s sample population, however, does not represent the demographic diversity of both Pennsylvania and the United States. Due to this selection bias, the authors’ findings cannot be generalized to a population outside of the participants surveyed and provides little value regarding COVID-19 education and vaccination efforts.

This study surveys a participant population that identifies as 67.35% female, 92% white race, and 70.31% with an Associate’s degree or higher. [1] Recent data compiled in the Understanding Coronavirus in America Study at University of Southern California Dornsife found a higher likelihood of getting a COVID-19 vaccine in those persons with a college degree (measured as Bachelor’s degree or higher) in all identified races/ethnicities. [2] The participants surveyed by Van Scoy et al predominantly fit into these demographics of persons who are already more likely to get vaccinated. [2, 3] These demographics are not representative of the greater population of Pennsylvania or the United States. US Census data identifies a lower proportion of white, non-hispanic race at 75.7% and 60.1% in Pennsylvania and the US, respectively. [4] Only 31.4% (PA) and 32.1% (US) of those age 25+ have a Bachelor’s degree or higher. [4] This study’s sample population does not adequately represent minority populations and those without post-secondary education, despite their presence in the study’s setting.

Without adequately including minority populations and those with less than a college education, this study’s sample is not representative of its population. With a more representative sample, this study’s results would be useful in identifying public-trusted information sources. These sources could be used to promote vaccination among population groups with higher percentages of unvaccinated individuals. Studies that have the potential to shape public health efforts in promoting vaccination must use a representative sample to ensure generalizable results.

Resources:

Van Scoy LJ, Miller EL, Snyder B et al. Knowledge, Perceptions, and Preferred Information Sources Related to COVID-19 Among Central Pennsylvania Adults Early in the Pandemic: Mixed Methods Cross-Sectional Survey. Ann Fam Med. 2021: 19(4). DOI: https://doi.org/10.1370/afm.2674

The USC Center for Economic and Social Research. Understanding America Study: Understanding Coronavirus in America. July 1, 2021. Accessed August 6, 2021. https://covid19pulse.usc.edu/

Center for Disease Control. COVID Data Trackers. August 9, 2021. Accessed August 6, 2021. https://covid.cdc.gov/covid-data-tracker/#vaccination-demographic

United States Census Bureau. Census Quickfacts. July 1, 2019. Accessed August 6, 2021. https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/US/PST045219