Pediatric Vaccination: Who Bears The Burden?

Editor’s note: For more on this topic, check out the February issue of Health Affairs on vaccines. The United States benefits from generally high childhood vaccination rates, the cost savings of immunizations for both individuals and society are soundly documented, and health care professionals overwhelmingly support the need for vaccination. But the burden on the private sector to deliver this public health benefit is increasing, with little recognition or support from the public sector. First, the cost to vaccinate is not adequately compensated by the public sector. Second, administrative burdens on providers to participate in the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program are increasing in the name of accountability, yet without recognition or financial support to offices that deliver VFC vaccine. Third, showcasing high vaccination rates as evidence of success masks reports from pediatricians of the amount of time it takes to encourage parents to vaccinate according to recommendations. With adequate investment from multiple partners, the well-oiled childhood vaccine delivery system will stay that way. Without attention, the country chooses to gamble our children’s health and the future. Cost To Vaccinate The Vaccines for Children (VFC) program was created in 1993 in response to a measles outbreak, in an effort to prevent disease in children who could not afford vaccination. Vaccines are purchased with federal dollars, distributed through the states, and administered by local...
Source: Health Affairs Blog - Category: Health Management Authors: Tags: Drugs and Medical Technology Featured Global Health Population Health Public Health Children Immunization vaccines Source Type: blogs