This study investigated provider-based complementary/alternative medicine use and its association with receipt of recommended
vaccinations by children aged 1–2 years and with acquisition of vaccine-preventable disease by children aged 1–17 years. Results
were based on logistic regression analysis of insurance claims for pediatric enrollees covered by two insurance companies
in Washington State during 2000–2003. Primary exposures were use of chiropractic, naturopathy, acupuncture, or massage practitioner
services by pediatric enrollees or members of their immediate families. Outcomes included receipt by children aged 1–2 years
of four vaccine combinations (or their component vaccines) covering seven diseases, and acquisition of vaccine-preventable
diseases by enrollees aged 1–17 years. Children were significantly less likely to receive each of the four recommended vaccinations
if they saw a naturopathic physician. Children who saw chiropractors were significantly less likely to receive each of three
of the recommended vaccinations. Children aged 1–17 years were significantly more likely to be diagnosed with a vaccine-preventable
disease if they received naturopathic care. Use of provider-based complementary/alternative medicine by other family members
was not independently associated with early childhood vaccination status or disease acquisition. Pediatric use of complementary/alternative
medicine in Washington State was significantly associated with reduced adherence to recommended pediatric vaccination schedules
and with acquisition of vaccine-preventable disease. Interventions enlisting the participation of complementary/alternative
medicine providers in immunization awareness and promotional activities could improve adherence rates and assist in efforts
to improve public health.
Keywords Pediatric vaccination - Complementary/alternative medicine - Public health - Vaccine-preventable diseases - Chiropractic - Naturopathy