Start Beating the Back-to-School Vaccination Drum Now

Lots of families are just heading out for summer vacation these days, which means they probably haven’t even considered whether children have all the vaccinations they need before going back to school. That gives you the perfect opportunity to remind them. The next time a child comes in for care, make sure you know their vaccine status—and what’s required based on their age, guidelines, and state law. Helping patients understand your role as a public health advocate will increase the likelihood that they’ll be back to get those shots (or even get them on the spot, if warranted). Even if they opt to get them in the pediatrician’s office, they’ll remember you made the time to ask if those needs have been met.