Dr. Joyce Promotes Pediatric Medical Innovation, Childhood Vaccine Access

Washington, DC Congressman John Joyce M.D. (PA-13), a member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, this week highlighted the ramifications of the COVID-19 pandemic's disruption to childhood vaccinations for preventable diseases.

At the Subcommittee on Health hearing entitled "Booster Shot: Enhancing Public Health through Vaccine Legislation," Dr. Joyce raised concerns about the drastic drop in childhood vaccination rates during the pandemic. He also advocated for bipartisan legislation, the Strengthening the Vaccines for Children Program Act of 2021, that he introduced alongside Rep. Kim Schrier, M.D. (WA-08).

"During the pandemic, we saw a troubling drop in routine childhood vaccinations," said Dr. Joyce. "These were especially prevalent in the rates of DTaP and the MMR vaccines, which prevent several highly communicable diseases."

Dr. Joyce asked Dr. Maldonado about the legislation's benefits for the Vaccine for Children Program, which helps ensure that children and families can access lifesaving vaccines. Watch their full conversation here.

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