Pediatric clinic in Massachusetts opens doors to families hesitant about vaccines

In response to rising vaccine hesitancy amplified by recent federal policy shifts, Middleboro Pediatrics in Lakeville, Mass., decided not to adopt a dismissal policy like nearby practices. Instead, the clinic invites skeptical parents to a free, in-depth meet-and-greet with doctors such as Aaron Bornstein and partner Martin Gross to understand their worries and build trust. The practice requires a signed form documenting the vaccine conversation to limit liability.

While the approach has drawn a steady stream of new patients, it demands significant unpaid staff time and can strain relationships when parents remain unpersuaded. Experts note that national immunization rates remain high, but localized drops have contributed to recent measles spikes. The clinic’s model reflects a broader debate over how pediatricians should balance public-health goals with individual parental choice.