The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently notified the Arizona Immunization Program of upcoming changes in the federal vaccine policy. The CDC's new guidance stipulates that effective October 1, 2012 federal vaccine can no longer be used for immunizing privately insured individuals.

Also, effective Spring 2013 (anticipated in March or later), VFC Providers must stop using federal vaccine to immunize Underinsured children, unless they have a current (January 2013) deputization agreement.

There will always be sufficient vaccine for VFC-eligible children. Always continue vaccinating VFC-eligible children. VFC-eligible children are:

• Uninsured
• AHCCCS
• Native American/Alaskan Native

There is sufficient vaccine for KidsCare children. Please continue vaccinating KidsCare children.

We realize the changes to serving the privately insured and the future changes to serving the underinsured are significant and will greatly impact all VFC providers. Please review the following documents for more information about this change and the impacts:

• ADHS Official Vaccine Policy Changes Statement - 07/27/12, Revised 01/30/13
• Privately Insured Impact Summary - 07/27/12, Revised 01/30/13
• Privately Underinsured Impact Summary - 07/27/12, Revised 01/30/13
• Message for Hospitals - 09/05/12, Revised 01/30/13
• Vaccine Policy Change Insured Children Impact Reminder - 09/24/12, Revised 01/30/13
• Continue Vaccinating Underinsured Children Reminder - 01/14/13
• Frequently Asked Questions - Revised 01/30/13

If you have any questions, please contact the Arizona VFC Program at 602-364-3642.

Note: Information provided in PDF files, unless otherwise indicated.