Vaccine Injury Compensation Program: Everything You Need To Know

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The Vaccine Injury Compensation Program (VICP) is a no-fault alternative to the traditional legal system for resolving vaccine injury claims. It was established in 1988 to ensure that people injured by certain vaccines have a way to receive compensation without having to go through a lengthy and expensive court battle.

How the VICP Works

The VICP is funded by a $0.75 excise tax on each dose of vaccines covered by the program. This fund is used to compensate individuals who have suffered injuries or death as a result of covered vaccines.

Filing a Claim

To file a claim with the VICP, you must submit a petition to the U.S. Court of Federal Claims. The petition must include:

  • Detailed information about the vaccine received
  • Medical records documenting the injury
  • Evidence supporting the claim that the vaccine caused the injury

Review Process

Once a petition is filed, it is reviewed by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), which makes a recommendation to the court on whether compensation should be awarded. The court then makes the final decision.

Covered Vaccines

The VICP covers a range of vaccines, including those for:

  • Measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR)
  • Diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (DTaP, Tdap)
  • Polio (IPV)
  • Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib)
  • Hepatitis A and B
  • Varicella (chickenpox)
  • Influenza
  • Pneumococcal
  • Rotavirus
  • Meningococcal
  • Human papillomavirus (HPV)

Compensation

If the court finds that a vaccine caused an injury, compensation may be awarded for:

  • Medical expenses
  • Lost wages
  • Pain and suffering
  • Attorney fees

In the event of a death, the VICP may also provide compensation to the deceased's estate.

Statute of Limitations

It's essential to be aware of the statute of limitations for filing a claim. Generally, a claim must be filed within three years of the first onset of symptoms or two years of the death resulting from the vaccine.

Conclusion

The Vaccine Injury Compensation Program provides a crucial safety net for individuals who experience adverse effects from covered vaccines. By offering a no-fault compensation system, the VICP helps ensure that those injured receive the support they need while maintaining public confidence in vaccination programs. For more detailed information, you can visit the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) website.