Jan 22nd 2008, 05:09

Get Compensation for Vaccine Injuries

No limit on awarded amount

Did you know that aside from making vaccines available to children nationwide, the government gives compensation as well to those who have been injured by these vaccines? Talk about a well-rounded approach. The federal government calls it a "no-fault" system.

The National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program pays individuals and families of individuals who are suffering from an injury or illness caused by a childhood vaccine administered whether in a private or public health clinic. Vaccine-related deaths are also compensated.

All vaccines recommended for routine administration to children are covered under this program. These include vaccines for diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (DTP, DTaP, DT, TT or Td), measles, mumps, rubella (MMR or any components), polio (OPV or IPV), hepatitis B, haemophilus influenza type b (Hib), varicella, rotavirus, and pneumococcal conjugate.

According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), the average award to an individual with proven vaccine-related injuries is $1,022,699. Vaccine-related death awards to the estate are limited to $250, 000, plus attorney's fees and costs. HHS says, however, that there is no limit on the amount of an award in a vaccine-related injury.

In general, individuals and families or representatives of individuals who have sustained injuries or even deaths from vaccines may file a claim for compensation. Even non-US citizens and those who received vaccinations outside of the U.S. may be eligible for compensation.

Additional program requirements and conditions apply. For instance, to be able to file a claim, the effects of your injury must have:
1. lasted more than 6 months after the vaccine was given; or
2. resulted in a hospital stay and surgery; or
3. resulted in death.

The HHS manages the program but the U. S. Court of Federal Claims decides who will be paid.

For more information on filing a claim, you may call the toll-free number: 800-338-2382. You may also write the program office at:

Parklawn Building, Room 8A-46
5600 Fishers Lane
Rockville, MD 20857

 

To Do List: - Suggested Links:

1. Increase Your Income:
   Get an online degree with financial aid from the government.
2. Consolidate Your Bills:
   Student Loans - Credit Card Debts - Refinance Home
3. Reward Yourself:
   Get a new computer for free.
4. Get some cash you don’t have to pay back:
   Government has money for almost any worthwhile need.
5. A MasterCard or Visa, even if your credit is not good
   A real line of credit