Children Quote by Robert Sears
““What I really don't understand is why many doctors kick patients our of their practice over this issue. What's wrong with simply disagreeing with parents but still providing medical care to their child? That's what the American Academy of Pediatrics tells us we should do. Read them the riot act once then move on and be their doctor. A family that chooses not to vaccinate still needs medical care. Sure, their child may catch a vaccine-preventable disease, and yes, their unvaccinated child decreases the local herd immunity and puts other kids at risk, but that is still their choice. Parents of patients refuse to follow my medical advice every day. ””
About This Quote
Source Speech: Interview on vaccination policy, 2020
Doctors should treat patients regardless of vaccination status, balancing public health concerns with individual choice.
In simple terms: Treat all patients, even if unvaccinated.
Provide care, respect choices.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- clinical practice
- public health campaigns
- parental decision making
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can doctors maintain trust while advocating vaccination?
- What policies support both care and public health?
Balancing individual rights with community safety is complex.