Applications Open for Birthing Hospitals to Participate in the VFC Replacement Model

This email is to inform you that the North Carolina Immunization Program (NCIP) has opened applications for birthing hospitals interested in participating in the replacement model for birth dose Hepatitis B and RSV.

The VFC Replacement Model is intended to allow birthing hospitals to use their private funds to build an initial vaccine stock for all patients they serve. Hospitals can administer private vaccines to VFC-eligible newborns and order VFC doses to reimburse and replace those used. A key benefit of this model is that hospitals do not need to maintain separate inventories of public and private vaccines. 

Currently, the Replacement Model covers:

• Hepatitis B birth dose vaccination
• RSV monoclonal antibody immunization

This model helps hospitals maintain a steady vaccine supply, avoid missed opportunities, and ensure newborns are protected before leaving the hospital.

VFC Replacement Model Participation Requirements

Participating hospitals must:

• Designate a staff member to oversee implementation of the replacement model. This person is responsible for ensuring the site meets all of the replacement model requirements.
• Ensure the designated staff member completes one of the required VFC Trainings below:
  • 2025 NCDHHS Vaccines for Children (VFC) Recorded Training Resource
  • Both CDC You Call the Shot Modules:
    • CDC's You Call the Shots: Vaccines for Children (VFC)-Module 16;
    • CDC's You Call the Shots: Vaccine Storage and Handling - Module 10 (both must be completed).
  • Both CDC Refresher Tests:
    • CDC's Vaccines for Children (VFC) Refresher Test
    • CDC’s Vaccine Storage and Handling Refresher Test
• Participate in the CDC’s annual assessment to determine suitability for continued participation.
• Stay current with all VFC Program requirements; including annual re-enrollment, provider profile submission, monthly CDC reporting, and site visit compliance. Failure to meet these requirements may result in termination from the program.
• Providers may voluntarily terminate their participation by providing notice to NCIP. 

Hospitals interested in applying for the Replacement Model should contact Michelle Allman at michelle.allman@dhhs.nc.gov, who will assist with starting the application process.

Replacement Model Webinar Link
 

We encourage you to view the instructional webinar linked above, as well as the VFC Replacement Model Slides, to help guide you through 
completing the application and accessing additional resources. The webinar provides step-by-step instructions, a review of program requirements, and answers to frequently asked questions about the Replacement Model. 

It is our hope that you take advantage of this new replacement model to ensure a consistent vaccine supply for your newborns.

How to contact us:

For assistance, please contact the NCIP Help Desk by phone at 1.877.USE.NCIR (1-877-873-6247) or by email.

Thank you for your ongoing partnership and dedication to improving immunization outcomes in North Carolina. 

In Health, 
NC Department of Health and Human Services