CHOP Primary Care's Position on Childhood Vaccines

CHOP Primary Care's Position on Childhood Vaccines

Reviewed by Lisa Biggs, MD Julia Shaklee Sammons, MD, MSCE

Reviewed on

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We are glad you have chosen CHOP Primary Care to care for your child, and we look forward to continuing to work with your family. Our shared goal is simple: to help your child stay healthy, thrive, and reach every milestone.

One of the most important ways we work to protect your child’s health is though vaccination.

CHOP's approach to vaccines

At CHOP Primary Care, we follow the vaccine schedule from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). You can view the child vaccine schedule and the teen vaccine schedule.

This schedule is based on decades of research and is the best way to protect children from serious illnesses. Why are vaccines a key part of pediatric medicine?  

  • Vaccines protect children from serious diseases and some cancers.
  • Vaccines are carefully tested and watched for safety.
  • Vaccines protect your child, your family, and your community.
  • Vaccines work best when given on time to protect children when they are most at risk.

CHOP's position on vaccines

We strongly recommend that every child receive all vaccines on the AAP schedule. No delayed, spaced-out, or custom schedule has been shown to be as safe or work as well. Delaying vaccines can leave your child at risk for serious illness.

As your child’s medical home:

  • We will continue to recommend the AAP Schedule as the safest choice.
  • We will talk with you about vaccines at the appropriate visits.
  • We cannot create an alternative vaccine schedule for you.  
  • We will listen to your questions, and answer with honesty, care, and respect.  

Partnering with your family

Vaccines are a key part of the care we provide. We expect families who choose CHOP Primary Care to partner with us by following the AAP vaccine schedule.  We know you want to make the best choices for your child, and your questions are welcome. We will listen without judgment, and share clear, trusted information.  

We look forward to building a trusting relationship with your family.  If you’d like to learn more about vaccines before your visit, please visit the Vaccine Education Center at CHOP or HealthyChildren.org (from the AAP) for more information on this issue.

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