Vaccines are an important part of preventive pediatric care. Belleville Lake Pediatrics follows the childhood and adolescent immunization schedule recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).
Our vaccine policy
Children in our practice are expected to follow the AAP immunization schedule for the timing and type of vaccines received.
We happily welcome children who are behind on vaccines and will work with families to create an appropriate catch-up plan. Vaccines may also be split between visits when medically appropriate, provided your child remains on schedule. This may require additional vaccine-only visits between regularly scheduled appointments.
We do not offer elective vaccine delays or alternative vaccine schedules. Medical exemptions are considered in accordance with current medical guidelines.
Questions about vaccines
Questions about vaccines are always welcome. If you would like to understand why a vaccine is recommended, what it protects against, possible side effects, or why it is given at a particular age, please ask.
Our goal is for parents to understand the medical care we recommend for their child and to have an opportunity to discuss questions or concerns with their pediatrician. Asking questions or having concerns about a vaccine does not affect your child's place in the practice.
If, after discussion, you decide that you no longer wish to follow the AAP-recommended immunization schedule, we may no longer be the right practice for your family and your child may be dismissed from the practice. If this occurs, we will provide appropriate notice and time to establish care with another pediatrician.
AAP immunization schedule
The American Academy of Pediatrics publishes the immunization schedule followed by our practice. Recommendations may change as new evidence and vaccine guidance become available, and we will always follow the most current AAP recommendations.
Receiving vaccines at our office
Routine vaccines are given during well-child visits. We will review your child's immunization history and let you know which vaccines are recommended at each visit.
Vaccines given at Belleville Lake Pediatrics are documented in your child's medical record and reported to the Michigan Care Improvement Registry (MCIR).
Seasonal vaccines, including influenza vaccine, are offered when available and can often be given during an already scheduled appointment.
Transferring vaccine records
If your child received vaccines at another medical practice, pharmacy, health department, or outside Michigan, please bring any immunization records you have to the first visit. We can also request records from your child's previous medical practice when you complete a medical records release.