After careful review of current national immunization recommendations and recent federal policy discussions, Park Pediatrics remains committed to following the vaccine schedule recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) for all infants, children, and adolescents in our care.
Why We Follow the AAP Vaccine Schedule
The AAP vaccine schedule is the result of decades of extensive scientific research, expert review, and continuous safety monitoring. It is designed to protect children at the ages when they are most vulnerable to serious, and sometimes life-threatening, infectious diseases.
Vaccines included in this schedule help prevent illnesses such as measles, whooping cough, meningitis, influenza, hepatitis, and many others. Timely vaccination has been shown to significantly reduce hospitalizations, long-term complications, and deaths related to vaccine-preventable diseases.
The Importance of Timely Vaccination
Vaccines are most effective when given according to the recommended schedule. Delaying or skipping vaccines increases a child’s risk of infection and can contribute to the spread of disease within the community. High vaccination rates also help protect infants, children with compromised immune systems, and others who cannot be vaccinated for medical reasons.
At Park Pediatrics, we believe that vaccination is both an individual health decision and a shared responsibility that helps keep our communities healthy.
Our Practice Policy
In order to maintain a safe clinical environment and uphold evidence-based standards of care, Park Pediatrics requires adherence to the AAP-recommended vaccine schedule. Families who choose to decline all or the majority of recommended vaccines will be asked to find an alternative pediatric practice by their next well visit if they are unable to follow this guidance.
This policy is not intended to be punitive or judgmental. Rather, it reflects our responsibility to protect all patients who receive care in our offices, including newborns and medically vulnerable children.
Open Communication and Support
We understand that families may have questions or concerns about vaccines. Our providers welcome open, respectful conversations and are always available to explain recommendations, discuss individual circumstances, and share trusted, evidence-based information.
Whether you visit us at Park Pediatrics – Gaithersburg, Park Pediatrics – Greenbelt, or Park Pediatrics – Takoma Park, our commitment remains the same: to partner with families in providing safe, informed, and compassionate pediatric care.
Moving Forward Together
We are grateful for the trust families place in Park Pediatrics. By following proven medical guidance and maintaining open communication, we can continue to protect children’s health today and into the future.
If you have questions about our vaccine policy or your child’s immunization schedule, please contact our team—we are always here to help. Watch our videos in English & Spanish on this topic:
https://youtu.be/ROtW3sTadVs?si=VpYjN2aknu6MzvDz
https://youtu.be/UN4ZnVjhqsA?si=tsTwZCk74Vr39_NH
Dr. Lavanya Sithanandam
Medical Director, Park Pediatrics
