SMS Reminders for Childhood Vaccination — Meta-Analysis
Systematic review (international) · Global (multiple countries) · 2024
Summary
Pooling 22 randomized trials, SMS reminders for childhood vaccination produced an 11% relative increase in coverage. The effect is smaller than for adult appointment reminders, possibly because parents managing young children face more complex barriers than forgetfulness alone. Still, the consistency across income settings and intervention designs makes this one of the more robust public health nudge findings.
Research question
"What is the pooled effectiveness of SMS reminders for routine childhood vaccination?"
Methodology
Intervention
SMS text message reminders to parents or caregivers before scheduled vaccination
Assignment
Systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs
Sample size
Meta-analysis of 22 RCTs
Primary outcome
Childhood vaccination coverage
Effect estimate
RR = 1.11 (95% CI: 1.05–1.17); effect consistent across income settings
Decision
WHO recommends SMS reminders as a component of routine immunization programs
Result
Positive
RR = 1.11 (95% CI: 1.05–1.17); effect consistent across income settings
Evidence strength
Strong
Randomized trial, replicated across multiple sites or studies.
Replication status
Replicated
Institution
Systematic review (international)
Location
Global (multiple countries)
Year
2024
Policy area
Public Health
Mechanism
Information