Expanding Access: The VFC Program's Role in RSV Protection for Infants

In this episode, “Expanding Access: The VFC Program's Role in RSV Protection for Infants,” the pharmacists explore the following question:

Pharmacy Times: Birthing hospitals enrolled in the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program expanded to over 1000 in 2025. What are the implications of this broader adoption of the VFC for public health and immunization efforts?

The panel examined the significant expansion of the VFC program to over 1000 birthing hospitals, now covering approximately 42% of US births and enabling broader access to respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) immunizations for newborns. They highlighted that monoclonal antibody doses ordered through the program more than doubled between seasons, exceeding 100,000 doses, which represents meaningful progress in protecting vulnerable infants before they leave the hospital. The discussion underscored how this initiative addresses health care inequities by providing no-cost immunizations to eligible children, particularly those without established primary care or facing financial barriers. Pharmacists are encouraged to serve as valuable resources by helping families identify VFC-enrolled locations and understand their options for accessing these preventive services.

Throughout the conversation, the experts provide a comprehensive reflection on the field and the factors that may shape how clinicians approach care moving forward.