Starting Jan. 1, Indiana will only be providing childhood vaccines to the local health departments for those who are:

• On any type of Medicaid insurance.
• American Indian/Alaskan Native children.
• Those who are underinsured. ("Underinsured" is defined as having no insurance, insurance that does not cover vaccines or the insurance caps vaccine coverage at a certain amount (once that coverage is reached, these children are categorized as underinsured).

The following are NOT considered underinsured:

• Having a high deductible
• Having 80/20 or percentage based coverage
• Having a co-pay

In June of this year the Pulaski County Health Department implemented an $8 administration fee for vaccines. Along with this, we have become a Medicaid provider and all children presenting a valid Medicaid number will not be charged directly.

Immunization Clinic hours are Monday through Wednesday, 8 a.m. to 12 noon; and 1 to 4 p.m.

When making appointments, the Health Department will be asking for your insurance/Medicaid status. This will speed up your visit. It will be the responsibility of the parent/guardian to verify insurance coverage prior to the appointment. Appointments can be made at 574-946-6080.

The Pulaski County Health Department is committed to immunizing children. Along with the State Department of Health, the local office continues to search for possibilities to vaccinate all. Until a solution is found this policy will be in effect as of Jan. 1, 2012 and you should refer to your private provider for immunizations if you have private insurance.