Michigan – State health and insurance officials are informing Michigan families that children’s vaccines remain free through most health insurance plans, even if federal officials are changing the rules for vaccinations across the country.
The alert comes at a time when people are concerned whether families may have to pay more for routine vaccinations because of recent changes made at the federal level.
The Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services both said that insurance coverage has not changed in a way that makes it harder to get the vaccines that are recommended.
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As of now, commercial insurance plans and federal programs like Medicaid still cover vaccines on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s children immunization schedule without requiring any cost-sharing. Families should still be able to get the immunizations they need without having to pay anything.
State officials highlighted that keeping vaccines widely available is very important for keeping kids safe and stopping the spread of dangerous diseases.
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Anita Fox, the director of DIFS, stated that insurance coverage is very important for making sure that families can get the vaccines they need without having to worry about money.
“Health insurance coverage for childhood vaccines is an important way to protect every child’s future,” said Fox.
“Cost should not be a barrier to accessing childhood vaccines that prevent serious, and often life-threatening, diseases and DIFS stands ready to help consumers navigate their health insurance questions. Our live call center is available Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., at 877-999-6442.”
Health leaders echoed that message, pointing out that the science supporting childhood immunizations has not changed. MDHHS Director Elizabeth Hertel said vaccines remain one of the most effective tools for safeguarding children’s health and keeping communities safe.
“Vaccines are one of the most effective tools we have to keep children healthy and communities safe,” said Hertel.
“The science behind childhood immunizations has not changed, and Michigan families should feel confident that they can continue to access MDHHS-recommended vaccines without cost barriers. MDHHS remains committed to supporting families and health care providers in protecting children from serious, preventable diseases.”
In response to the new federal guidelines, Michigan’s Chief Medical Executive, Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, made a standing recommendation that families and health care providers should keep following the immunization schedules for children and teenagers set by the American Academy of Pediatrics or the American Academy of Family Physicians.
State health authorities say that MDHHS continues to endorse these full protocols, which are based on scientific information that has been around for a long time.
Families who have issues about their coverage should call their insurance companies directly. People who need further support or can’t get clear responses can call DIFS during business hours for assistance.
Officials also directed residents to the state’s health insurance website for more information, underscoring that access to routine childhood vaccines remains a priority across Michigan.
More information about health insurance coverages can be found at Michigan.gov/HealthInsurance.