The Vaccines for Children Program (VFC) is part of the DC Health’s Immunization Program. It is a federally-funded entitlement program that provides vaccines free of charge to enrolled providers that serve eligible patients. VFC helps ensure that all children have a better chance of getting their recommended vaccinations on schedule. Vaccines are recommended by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Who qualifies for VFC vaccines?
VFC vaccines are available to children 0 through 18 (under 19) who meet at least one of the following criteria:
- Eligible for Medicaid or enrolled in Medicaid
- Uninsured
- Underinsured (insurance coverage that does not include vaccines; vaccines must be received at a federally qualified health center (FQHC), or
- Are American Indian or Alaskan Native
What are the benefits to becoming a VFC Provider?
- Provides necessary vaccines to uninsured and underinsured children without incurring vaccine costs
- Enhances the services provided relative to the Early Periodic Screening and Diagnostic Testing benefit
- Ability to generate revenue through vaccine administration fees
- Providers receive technical assistance to help improve vaccination rates
How can I become a VFC Provider?
You can enroll by:
- All prospective VFC providers must complete a Provider Enrollment Checklist and Provider Profile. Once completed, please submit to the DC VFC Program at [email protected]. Prospective VFC providers can also contact the DC VFC program at (202) 576-7130 with any questions.
- If you have an electronic health record (EHR) system, Please visit dchealth.dc.gov/page/meaningful-use-mu-public-health-reporting to complete the “Meaningful Use Public Health Reporting Sign-in Form”.
Requirements for Participation
By participating in the VFC Program, you agree to:
- Screen all children for eligibility
- Submit documentation to the VFC program for each vaccine dose administered
- Follow the recommended immunization schedule established by the ACIP, the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Academy of Family Practitioners and DC law except where medically contraindicated
- Not charge for VFC-supplied vaccine
- Provide vaccine information materials as prescribed by law
- Allow VFC staff access to your practice for technical assistance and program review
Provider Enrollment and Re-enrollment
VFC enrollment and renewals are all done electronically and performed once a year. The site coordinators are provided access to electronically complete required renewal forms. VFC enrollment and renewals consist of:
- Provider Agreement- an agreement to comply with the requirements of the VFC program to receive VFC purchased vaccine. The agreement is valid for 24 months from the original signature unless there is a new medical director.
- Provider profile- a patient profile estimate that captures the number of the VFC eligible children and non-VFC eligible the practice serves and allows for budgeting vaccine costs for a 12-month period.
- Vaccine Management Plan- a site-specific plan to protect and maintain the vaccine supply routinely and during an emergency.
Already a VFC Provider?
Click here for a list of resources to keep at hand.