Vaccination Policy
At Pediatric Diagnostic Associates, we fully support the immunization schedule recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). We believe that childhood immunizations are essential for protecting the health of our patients and the broader community.
Our practice follows a pro-vaccine policy to ensure the well-being of all children under our care.
Vaccination Safety
In recent years, concerns have been raised about the safety of administering an increasing number of immunizations to young children. However, extensive scientific research has demonstrated that vaccines are both safe and highly effective.
Over the years, our physicians have observed significant reductions in serious childhood illnesses thanks to vaccines, including:
- • The near elimination of Flu meningitis, which once caused severe brain damage or death.
- • A sharp decline in hospitalizations for dehydration caused by Rotavirus.
- • Decreasing rates of meningococcal meningitis with widespread vaccination.
- • Lower HPV colonization rates, which will significantly reduce cervical, oral, and other HPV-related cancers in the future.
Vaccine Schedule for Children and Infants
We strongly recommend (but will not mandate) annual influenza vaccinations for all patients over 6 months of age. While the flu vaccine helps prevent flu cases, its most important role is in reducing severe complications and flu-related deaths.
While we recognize that some families have concerns about the vaccine schedule, there is no scientific evidence that delaying or spacing out vaccines improves safety. In fact, postponing vaccinations increases the risk of contracting serious, vaccine-preventable diseases.
Immunization Policy
At Pediatric Diagnostic Associates, we are dedicated to providing the highest quality of evidence-based medical care. This includes following the vaccine schedule recommended by the AAP, the CDC, and the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP).
We understand that parents may have questions about vaccines, and we encourage open discussions with our providers. However, because we strongly believe in the importance of immunizations for the health of all children, we require our patients to remain on track with vaccinations. This means:
- • Primary series completed by age 2
- • School-age booster vaccines completed by age 5
- • Middle school vaccines by age 12
- • Adolescent booster series completed by age 17
While we strive to work with families to address concerns, we are unable to accept new patients who choose not to vaccinate according to this schedule unless there is a valid medical reason.
We appreciate the trust you place in us to care for your child and are happy to discuss any questions you may have about vaccinations at your next visit. Together, we can ensure a healthier future for all children in our community.
