Review of Vaccine Injury Compensation Program based on Compensated Amount and Petition Reasons, 2006–2015

DOI: 10.6525/TEB.201812_34(23).0001

Hsun-Yin Huang1*, Yung-Ching Lin2, Yu-Ling Chang3

2018 Vol.34 NO.23

Correspondence Author: Hsun-Yin Huang1*

  • 1Division of Chronic Infectious Disease, Centers for Disease Control, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Taiwan
  • 2Office of Preventive Medicine, Centers for Disease Control, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Taiwan
  • 3Division of Planning and Coordination, Centers for Disease Control, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Taiwan

Abstract:

This study reviewed petitions for Vaccine Injury Compensation Program between 2006 and 2015. The most common claim for petition was disagreement on the decision on causality assessment between the adverse event and the vaccination, followed by unsatisfactory amount of compensation. The main reasons for unsatisfactory amount of compensation included physical and mental sickness due to vaccination, the economic loss for taking care of the victim, and related expenses due to adverse reaction. As long as the relevant regulations evolved, the upper limits for all relief items were increasing in 2013-2015. However, except for the compensation for other adverse reactions, the actual compensation amount for death, disabilities, or serious illness remained relatively constant. The gaps in expectation for higher amount from victims may bring doubts and dissatisfactions. More discussions related to compensation items and standards are needed for improving the program.