Universal Vaccine Purchase Program Funding
They don’t. Children who are eligible for vaccines under the federally funded Vaccines for Children (VFC) program continue to receive those vaccines at no cost to doctors, clinics, and other providers. VFC status screening remains a federal requirement for each visit by a child.
Universal purchase programs are funded through public-private partnerships. Health plans, insurance carriers, and third-party administrators cover all or a significant portion of vaccine costs for the privately insured through assessments.
No. Operating costs are built into the assessments. General operating costs generally decrease after the initial implementation phase. Further, most states include a modest reimbursement factor (typically in the 3-5% range) to reimbursement certain state costs associated with universal vaccine programs.
No. Vaccine funding programs are administered by KidsVax®. The health department duties are minimal and not labor-intensive. Generally, any added costs will be fully reimbursed by the program.
Yes. Through KV Foundation, we donate time on a limited basis to state teams that are exploring universal purchase options. Check out the Resources page for more information on implementing a universal purchase program.
Assessment rates are determined by the state or by a non-profit organization tasked with assessment setting and ensuring adequate funds for vaccine purchases.
Providers: Provider offices no longer need to order private vaccine and potentially face being reimbursed less than the actual cost of the vaccine. The assessments for vaccines are paid by the health insurer, so the provider no longer needs to finance vaccine inventory. Payers: The cost of vaccines procured by the state’s department of health
Yes. Each state program is built to meet the needs of its stakeholders. There are various assessment methodologies, adult and children programs, and services that KidsVax® offers. KidsVax® customizes its services to fit each state’s specific needs.