Potomac Pediatrics - Flu Clinics

Potomac Pediatrics is again happy to introduce FIC Providers, LLC

Who is FIC Providers, LLC?
FIC Providers is an independent company that will provide influenza immunization to the patients of Potomac Pediatrics as well as the community. By outsourcing the process of vaccinating thousands of people, your Potomac Pediatrics family will be able to focus completely on your children’s medical needs. FIC Providers operates much like a vaccination station at the local grocery store with a few exceptions:

The entire family can be vaccinated at the same time (many grocery stores won’t vaccinate children)
FIC has a wider range of available walk-in times
FIC offers the variety of flu vaccine options
At FIC you are surrounded by the medical staff of Potomac Pediatrics who are available and capable of handling any unexpected emergency.

Who should go to FIC Providers for the flu vaccine?
Anyone can and should get the flu vaccine, especially children between the ages of 6 months and 19 years as well as their caretakers. Pregnant women should be vaccinated after the first trimester. Also, anyone with a chronic medical condition is considered high risk and should be vaccinated. FIC Providers can vaccinate anyone.

Can my child get the flu vaccine at his/her appointment at Potomac Pediatrics?
Potomac Pediatrics will only vaccinate those children with the following medical conditions:

Complex cardiac disease
Kidney disease
Diabetes mellitus
Children who have asthma and have had an exacerbation within the past year requiring evaluation by a physician.

For these children, you must make an appointment with Potomac Pediatrics for a review of your child’s medical condition as well as influenza immunization.

What is the cost of aA flu vaccine?
Influenza injection ..... $35
Thimerisol-free influenza injection ..... $45
FluMist Nasal vaccine ..... $45

Does insurance cover the vaccine?
Insurance coverage for the flu vaccine depends upon your particular policy. However, FIC does not participate with any insurance company and cannot submit a claim to your insurance company. Being vaccinated by FIC is similar to getting vaccinated in a local grocery store. You will be given a receipt that you can submit to your insurance company for direct reimbursement. Of course, being vaccinated by FIC is unlike being vaccinated at the local grocery store in that you are surrounded by the medical staff of Potomac Pediatrics who are available to handle any unexpected emergencies.

When Can I Come for my Flu Vaccine?
The flu vaccine is available without an appointment Monday through Friday 8:30 am to 5:00 pm beginning Wednesday, October 1st. FIC Providers is also offering the following evening walk-in hours 6:00pm until 8:00pm.

Thursday, October 2nd
Tuesday, October 14th
Wednesday, October 29th
Thursday, November 6th
Wednesday, November 12th

I have heard that some children require 2 doses. Is that true?
Children who are between the ages of 6 months and 9 years of age who are receiving any flu vaccine (including flumist) for the first time require 2 doses separated by 1 month.

What if there is a flu vaccine shortage?
In the past several years flu vaccine shortages have appeared in two forms. There has been national underproduction as well as misdistribution. We have every expectation that we will be able to provide immunization to anyone who seeks it. However, in the event of a shortage, FIC Providers will reserve the right to prioritize vaccine administration and cancel evening flu clinics. Please check our website at www.potomacpediatrics.com for any updates.

Who should I call if I have any questions?
Carin Johnson, Potomac Pediatrics’ practice administrator, can answer any questions that you have about FIC Providers and flu vaccination. Please contact her at 301-279-6750.

Monday - Friday
8:30 AM - 5:00 PM