Financing the delivery of vaccines to children and adolescents: challenges to the current system

Abstract

Recent increases in the number and costs of vaccines routinely recommended for children and adolescents have raised concerns about the ability of the current vaccine financing and delivery systems to maintain access to recommended vaccines without financial barriers. Here we review the current state of US financing for vaccine delivery to children and adolescents and identify challenges that should be addressed to ensure future access to routinely recommended vaccines without financial barriers. Challenges were considered from the perspectives of vaccine providers; state and local governments; insurers, employers, and other health care purchasers; vaccine manufacturers; and consumers.