To File or Not to File?

[WildCanaryCait]

I'm hoping someone can direct me to correct info on what to do with, or not to do with the exemption form I have in hand for Washington state. What a fiasco it was getting it! I went through five people at the Health Department, wiggly napready toddler in sling, before a guy finnnaaaaaly 'invited' me back to his office, at which point I felt competely cornered and defensive as he proceeded to lecture and question me as if I was ignorant. All I wanted was 'the form'. Oh did I give him some food for thought. At the end of this lovely exchange, he said "I don't see why you want it anyway, you only have to file it if you're putting your kid in public school" ...huh?
well yeah, we're unschoolers, no Aidan is not going to public school. WHere are the lines around this? Do I need to file it or no? I cna't seem to pinpoint the answer.

any direction appreciated!

Cait

[attachedmamaof3]

It's only for school/daycare.

There are no "laws" stating you have to vaccinate..it is a 'recommended' schedule.

However, you must file an exemption in order for your child to attend school/daycare and some summer camps, etc.

Forgot to answer the actual question. Personally, I'd file regardless. I'd much rather have an exemption on file than be in a situation where it appears I 'just didn't' vaccinate for whatever reason. At least you will come across as making an informed decision and being prepared if you're already armed with an exemption.

[glorified_rice]

Why were you looking to file an exemption? If your dc isn't in school or daycare, you shouldn't have to file one.

[WildCanaryCait]

I wanted the exemption in hand because I was finding it difficult to find out whether or not it was necessary. Yes, AttachedMama, I wanted to cover my bases regardless. What started my thinking on it again was our insurance company harassing me for records. I am aware it's our parental right to vax or not, and their 'recommendations' are just that(hurray !!) but wow the fallout you have to deal with in some places! None of this or that changes our decision to stay away from vaccinations. I just wanted to be sure about any filing requirements and the reasons for same.

thanks for your thoughts on this!
cait

[janellesmommy]

No reason not to fill it out and have on hand. I don't think they will accept a "filing" unless it is for daycare or school.

Bummer, I submitted the form recently to be posted on the "resources" for this forum, but it hasn't been posted yet. Sorry you had to go through all that. The form is posted on the health department's website. It's this form, right? http://www.doh.wa.gov/cfh/Immunize/documents/Cis06.pdf

[WildCanaryCait]

Originally Posted by janellesmommy

No reason not to fill it out and have on hand. I don't think they will accept a "filing" unless it is for daycare or school.

Bummer, I submitted the form recently to be posted on the "resources" for this forum, but it hasn't been posted yet. Sorry you had to go through all that. The form is posted on the health department's website. It's this form, right? http://www.doh.wa.gov/cfh/Immunize/documents/Cis06.pdf

yes that's the one. I guess I will just hold on to it, rats, I thought I might add it to the ritual burning of hoohah the health department sends out.....lol.

thanks so much ladies for your thoughts and input on this

cait