The Indicator from Planet Money No, your doctor isn't getting rich off of vaccines
10 snips
Sep 25, 2025 Is there truth to the claim that doctors profit from vaccines? Experts break down the financial realities, revealing that many clinics actually break even or even lose money on vaccines due to high costs. Small practices are increasingly dropping them due to financial pressures. Meanwhile, vaccine skepticism is rising, threatening public health as evidenced by increasing measles outbreaks. The episode highlights the delicate balance between healthcare, profit, and public trust.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Rural Doctor's Vaccine Experience
- Jennifer Bakani-McKaney describes running a rural family practice that provides many services including vaccines.
- She says vaccine provision often breaks even or loses money after purchase, storage, staffing, and paperwork costs.
Hidden Costs Eat Vaccine Revenue
- Vaccine delivery carries hidden costs like expensive vials, refrigeration, insurance, and staff time that erode margins.
- Insurers often reimburse less than vaccine cost and pay only small administration fees of about $5–$10.
Stopped Childhood Shots To Stay Afloat
- Jennifer stopped providing childhood vaccines after regularly losing money because vials would expire in low-demand weeks.
- She directed patients to the local health department so the clinic could remain financially viable.