Immunizations - General

The WSMA supports development of a national adult immunization policy to assure: ongoing, stable funding to support vaccine purchase and public programs for age-appropriate delivery of vaccines in the public and private sectors; incentives and policies to encourage vaccine development for a stable vaccine supply; research into the safety of vaccines, to evaluate the effectiveness of vaccine delivery strategies, and to better understand the transmission of disease; national guidance to outline and encourage effective vaccine delivery; and, state flexibility to tailor the implementation of evidence-based strategies to meet the needs of local and regional populations. (Res C-4, A-05) (Reaffirmed A-17)

The WSMA endorses the continuation of a Universal Vaccine Purchase and Distribution Program structure for purchase, storage, and distribution of vaccines, with the intent of maximizing access to vaccines while minimizing cost, complexity, and workload for vaccine providers. (Res A-5, A-09)

The WSMA supports the use of the current immunization schedule published by the Centers for Disease Control Advisory Committee for Immunization Practices. (Res A-12, A-08)

The WSMA supports full funding for all childhood immunizations, including Hepatitis B. (Res 23, A-92) (Reaffirmed A-17)

The WSMA supports identifying more comprehensive funding sources for universal distribution of childhood vaccines. (Res C-9, A-01) (Amended A-17)

The WSMA encourages physicians to offer evidence-based cost-effective vaccines and encourages all third-party payers to cover evidence-based cost-effective vaccines in a timely manner. (Res A-7, A-00) (Reaffirmed A-17)

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Abbreviations for House of Delegates report origination:

EC – Executive Committee; BT – Board of Trustees; CPA – Council on Professional Affairs; JC – Judicial Council; CHS – Community and Health Services