Last fall, we shared concerns with you regarding government messaging related to pediatric care. Once again, we feel compelled to share our thoughts, this time on recent news regarding updates from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) related to the childhood immunization schedule. We have already begun fielding questions from families concerned about what these changes mean for their child’s care, and how our approach may be altered in light of these discussions.
First and foremost, we must be clear. Our commitment to your child’s health, safety, and well-being remains centered in our work. We will continue to follow the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommended childhood immunization schedule, which is based on decades of scientific evidence showing that vaccines are safe, effective, and lifesaving. In short, our Vaccine Policy remains unchanged.
While HHS has released a revised vaccine schedule, the changes were not based on any new scientific evidence. While some vaccines were reclassified, all remain available, and insurance coverage continues through private plans, Medicaid, CHIP, and federal vaccine programs.
As such, our recommendations remain the same. We will continue to partner with you to make informed decisions based on your child’s health and needs.
Of course we understand that the HHS messaging can create confusion for families. We encourage you to speak with your provider at your next appointment or contact your care team directly through the Follow My Health (FMH) portal should you have any questions or concerns.
