Childhood immunization: Meeting targets yet respecting consent

In England and Wales, general practitioners receive extra payments when they meet set targets, that certain percentages of their youngest patients are immunised. Fifty eight primary health care practitioners were interviewed about their views on childhood immunisation, and how targets with financial incentives might affect parents' choice about immunisation. They were asked about two responsibilities which can potentially be in conflict: to increase rates of childhood immunisation, yet also to respect parents' voluntary choice about whether their child is immunised. Professionals' reported uncertainties and disagreements are described, and the view that these can be resolved through training in communication skills is discussed