The American Academy of Pediatrics does not provide immunization clinics, but its member pediatricians do. To find a pediatrician in your area, visit www.aap.org/referral. If your child is without health insurance, the following options will help ensure your child remains up-to-date on their immunizations.

FAQ: Paying for Vaccines
This new resource answers Frequently Asked Questions about how children can access free vaccine through the Vaccines for Children Program and negotiate vaccine coverage among third party payors.

Vaccines for Children Program
The Vaccines for Children (VFC) program is a federal program that provides eligible children all recommended vaccines at no cost. You may, however, be charged a small processing fee. The federal government pays for the vaccines, and doctors and clinics agree to give the vaccines to children who qualify.

A roster of state immunization program contacts and VFC coordinators is available on the Immunization Action Coalition Web site.

State Child Health Insurance Program (SCHIP) (Exit Site)
The State Children’s Health Insurance Program (SCHIP) gives grants to states to provide health insurance coverage to uninsured children up to 200% of the federal poverty level (FPL). States may provide this coverage by expanding Medicaid or by expanding or creating a state children’s health insurance program. For additional information click on the link above.

Paying for vaccines out of pocket (Exit Site)
An estimated cost sheet is available at the link above.

If your insurance company does not cover the cost of vaccination, it might be beneficial to write to them and your employer regarding your concerns. In this letter, be sure to indicate that their current policy does not coincide with the immunization recommendations of the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Academy of Family Physicians, and the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices. Include copies of the most recent Recommended Childhood and Adolescent Immunization Schedule and relevent policies, if any. Be sure to point out the value and cost effectiveness of vaccines in preventing more serious illnesses requiring more expensive treatment and lost production.