OAR 333-046-0010: Purpose of Vaccines for Children (VFC)

The Vaccines for Children (VFC) program is a federally funded program established in 1993 through the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (OBRA). Known as section 1928 of the Social Security Act, the VFC program is an entitlement program for children, age 18 and younger who are categorically eligible. Categories of eligibility are limited to: enrollment in Medicaid; lack of health insurance; American Indian/Alaskan Native heritage; and in federally-qualified health centers and rural health clinics, insurance that does not cover immunizations. The VFC program provides vaccines recommended by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) at no cost, besides an administration fee, to the recipient. If the recipient cannot pay the administration fee, it must be waived.