The physicians and medical students who make up the Massachusetts Medical Society applaud the leadership of the Healey-Driscoll Administration and the Department of Public Health for reaffirming the Commonwealth’s commitment to vaccine access and combating misinformation.
We are proud to stand with medical and public health leaders to ensure patients and families have the information they need to make informed decisions.
Massachusetts has once again taken decisive action to protect access to safe, effective immunizations. Decades of evidence confirm that hepatitis B vaccination prevents severe complications in newborns and young children, including life-threatening liver disease. By addressing potential confusion surrounding updated federal recommendations, which lack a sound scientific basis, the Commonwealth has made clear that these vaccines remain recommended and available in Massachusetts.
As physicians, we recognize that families may have questions. We welcome those conversations and encourage patients to speak with their health care team. Our commitment is unwavering: we will continue to advocate for policies that safeguard access to lifesaving vaccines, support public health, and invest in research that advances science and improves health for all.
-Olivia Liao, MD, President, Massachusetts Medical Society
