Interpretation of guidance on better treatment of adverse events following immunization

(chinadaily.com.cn)

Updated: 2014-06-09

3. Strengthen case treatment and rehabilitation

The guidance proposed that local health and family planning administrative departments can assign one to two hospitals above the secondary level as fixed medical care and rehabilitation facilities for AEFI. It also spelt out related medical expense compensation methods.

4. Improve investigative diagnosis and appraisal work

Since 2008, all regions have earnestly implemented the Identification Methods for Abnormal Reaction Following Immunization, and have preliminarily established the abnormal vaccination reaction investigative diagnosis and appraisal system. There have been some new situations and problems in practical work, so the guidance made pertinent measures to improve related policies. For example, the guidance stipulated that any medical institutions or individuals shouldn’t make diagnoses on abnormal reactions after vaccination, mainly because the diagnoses are highly specialized and involve clinic, immunity and epidemic fields. The diagnoses should follow the Identification Methods for Abnormal Reaction Following Immunization and be made by expert teams of clinical manifestations and epidemiological investigation.

5. Carry out the compensation policy in accordance with the law

Areas should actively promote the implementation of Regulation on Administration of Circulation and Vaccination of Vaccines. The guidance asked provincial finance departments to arrange full budgets for abnormal vaccination reactions and cover related medical expenses promptly. It also urged provinces without corresponding compensation methods to establish and unveil related methods in 2014. The guidance encouraged and advanced regional compensation for abnormal vaccination reactions through commercial insurance, and called for improved quality and efficiency.

6. Properly deliver patient care and support

China has continuously improved its social security system, drawn lessons from successful international experience, summed up good practices, and actively pushed for improved follow-up care and support policy for AEFI cases. In accordance with existing laws and regulations, the guidance put forward requirements in patient’s parents giving birth to a second child, patient education and employment, life assistance and medical care to help solve practical difficulties.