I read a story this week about a small percentage of American doctors who are considering dropping their vaccination services. A University of Michigan study of nearly 800 pediatricians and family physicians showed that half had delayed buying at least one vaccine because of the cost, according to a Dec. 1 Associated Press report. Part of the reason, said doctors, was that reimbursement for the purchase and administration of the vaccines was not adequate. For example, a second survey by the same researchers, showed that 1 in 10 doctors lost money on one recommended infant vaccine and some doctors lost as much as $30 per dose of chickenpox vaccine.

But there have to be better options. It does not seem worth it to me for private practices to save some reimbursement dollars to leave families with fewer inoculation options. A similar situation occurred in the 1980s when doctors exited vaccine programs due to reimbursement concerns, and according to AP, a resurgence of measles that caused 11,000 hospitalizations and 123 deaths occurred.

The easy answer is that doctors, insurance companies, industry—basically everyone—need more funding. But as we head into an age of financial bailouts and other drastic choices such as limiting vaccinations that may or may not help in the longrun, I’m hoping for some more creative solutions. Ideas are welcome.