In the United States, childhood immunizations have significantly improved children’s health, reducing parental worries about childhood infections. At Family Medicine at Greenhill, we adhere to recommendations from authoritative bodies like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), American Academy of Family Physicians, and American Academy of Pediatrics for childhood immunizations.

We advocate strongly for children to receive immunizations as per the recommended schedule because scientific evidence overwhelmingly supports their safety and effectiveness. While all medications carry some risk, including vaccines, adverse effects are minimal and far outweighed by the benefits.

We understand and respect individual autonomy in healthcare decisions. We engage in open discussions with families, addressing concerns about immunization risks and benefits. Our aim is to foster understanding and agreement on providing children with vaccinations according to the recommended schedule.

However, should families choose to decline certain vaccines, we accommodate their decisions under two conditions. First, we ensure families understand the scientific evidence supporting vaccination benefits by having them sign an “informed consent” form. Secondly, some vaccines are deemed critical due to their preventive nature against highly contagious diseases like pertussis, measles, pneumococcal disease, and HIB. Some vaccines are so important that if families decline these vaccines, it suggests that they do not understand or accept the scientific evidence regarding vaccines, and so it would not work for us to be their health care provider.

Our priority is providing top-notch care while respecting patient autonomy. We strive to collaborate with families towards achieving optimal health outcomes for all children.