Ask The Doctor

Dear future school board member,
Several parents have come to me saying, "When I told my doctor that I am not going to have my children vaccinated, he (she) became very angry and told me that he will not treat them, and that I am no longer welcome in his office". It is true that some pediatricians refuse to treat children when their parents object to vaccinations. As such, some families are forced into the decision with the threat of losing their doctor.

In general, no matter what the issue, do not allow yourself to be intimidated and coerced by doctors. Read, study, become informed, and remain firm regarding your decisions. You have the right to select the kind of preventive health care that is appropriate for your family. Thus, never be forced to accept any medical procedure against your will.

Although there is a great deal of confusion about vaccinations and the requirements for school entrance, it is actually quite simple: State laws require that children receive the recommended immunizations prior to school entry or that parents sign a waiver stating that all or some of the vaccines have not been given because of medical, personal or religious reasons. It is not legal to interfere with the absolute right of parents to make decisions regarding vaccinations.

Some children have had bad reactions to vaccines involving very high fevers, seizures, "collapse syndrome" and other problems. Some of these reactions strictly prohibit giving another dose of that same vaccine. From a purely medical point of view, most of these reactions do not mean another dose should not be given, but the parents or doctor may be uncomfortable enough to stop that particular vaccination series.

Keep in mind that the best way to strengthen your child’s immune system naturally is by breastfeeding. This is definitely the best protection you can provide for your child. The longer you breastfeed, the more your child will benefit. Breastfeeding prevents infections and the complications of childhood illness. Breastfed babies are immunized; children who are injected with viruses and bacteria are vaccinated. An endorsed campaign by the government to increase Americans' breastfeeding rate would prevent more childhood diseases -and deaths- than all of the vaccination programs currently endorsed.

Susan Markel, M.D.

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Dr. Susan Markel, MD, is a Board Certified Pediatrician, and Attachment Parenting Advisor. She is also the author of, "Ask The Doctor," in partnership with ERGObaby. If you have additional questions, please feel free to visit her website at http://www.AttachmentParentingDoctor.com and request a private consultation.