Vaccines & Immunizations

Yes — for the strongest evidence-based protection. We don’t offer alternative or delayed schedules as a default because the standard schedule is timed to protect children when they’re most vulnerable. If you have specific concerns, we’ll talk through them with you, not at you.

We build a catch-up plan based on age, prior records, and what’s most important first. Catch-up is usually spread across a few visits, not done all at once. We follow the official CDC catch-up guidance and explain each step.

Most commercial plans cover all recommended vaccines as preventive care with no copay. Virginia Medicaid plans cover them as well. For uninsured or underinsured kids, we participate in the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program — call us to confirm eligibility.

Common reactions: sore arm or leg, low-grade fever, fussiness, sleepiness — usually within 24 to 48 hours and short-lived. Serious reactions are rare. Call us for high fever (especially in infants), a rash that’s spreading, or any concern that doesn’t feel right.

Yes. Giving multiple vaccines in one visit is safe, well-studied, and means fewer appointments and less stress. We talk through what’s being given, in what arm or leg, and what to expect after.

Yes — and we’d like the conversation. We’re committed to the AAP/CDC schedule, but we don’t lecture or rush. Bring your specific questions and we’ll talk through them honestly. Our goal is informed families, not pressured ones.