Vaccines for Children (VFC) State Regulations
The purpose of this bulletin is to emphasize that no charges should be imposed for vaccines/toxoids purchased with federal funding under the VFC program. Billing for VFC vaccine production, especially with a positive dollar amount, is considered a violation of policy.
Federal Requirements of the VFC Program
- Providers must comply with the immunization schedule, dosage, and contraindications established by the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and ACIP unless: (a) a physician, when making a medical judgment in conformance with accepted medical practice, deems compliance to be medically inappropriate; or (b) a particular requirement is not in compliance with state law, including state laws relating to religious beliefs or other exemptions. The ACIP immunization schedule is compatible with recommendations of both the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP).
- Vaccine information Statements (VISs) must be provided to patients/parents/guardians at each visit and must be maintained in accordance with the National Childhood Vaccine Injury Act (NCVIA)
- A charge shall not be imposed for the cost of vaccine purchased with federal funding. Charging a fee for VFC vaccine is considered to be a fraudulent activity.
- The administration of a federally procured vaccine shall not be denied due to the inability of the child’s parent/guardian/individual of record to pay an administration fee.
Per page 25 of the Billing & Reimbursment for Professionals Michigan Medicaid Provider Manual (PDF), "Immunizations included in the Vaccine For Children (VFC) Program are free to providers so the charge for these vaccines must be reported as 0.00 (zero dollars)."
References
Michigan Medicaid Provider Manual (PDF)
Federal Requirements of the VFC Program (PDF) (michigan.gov)
Michigan Vaccines for Children (VFC) Provider Manual (PDF) (michigan.gov)