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August 6, 2026

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Amanda Hils, Assistant Director for Media Relations, [email protected]

Maryland Department of Health expands free vaccine program for uninsured adults
Federally Qualified Health Centers join local health departments to distribute recommended vaccines across state

Baltimore, MD — Ten Federally Qualified Health Centers across Maryland have joined the Maryland Vaccine Program, a first-of-its-kind adult vaccine program that has expanded access to critical immunizations for uninsured and underinsured Marylanders. 

Administered by the Maryland Department of Health, the program, which launched last year, provides recommended vaccines free to Marylanders aged 19 and older who lack insurance coverage. Vaccines are available for uninsured and underinsured children in Maryland through the Vaccines for Children Program.

“With the addition of health centers to the program, eligible Marylanders will be able to find free recommended vaccines at more locations throughout the state,” said Maryland Department of Health Secretary Dr. Meena Seshamani. “Federally Qualified Health Centers play a critical role in improving healthcare access in Maryland, making them a perfect partner in our effort to protect more people and communities against preventable disease.”

The program is possible through $2.8 million allocated in partnership with the Maryland General Assembly to allow organizations to provide state-purchased vaccines to uninsured and underinsured adults to reduce the burden of vaccine-preventable diseases, such as influenza, measles, pneumonia, RSV and shingles.

Marylanders can find a Maryland Vaccine Program​ distribution center by visiting health.maryland.gov/MVP or by contacting their local health department to check availability or for additional information. 

In addition to the Maryland Vaccine Program, state legislators passed the Vax Act (HB 637/SB 385) this spring, granting Maryland’s Secretary of Health the authority to issue independent, science-based immunization and preventive care guidelines. The Act mandates that health insurance companies cover all immunizations and preventive services in these guidelines without cost-sharing, and reauthorizes pharmacists to safely administer routine vaccines to patients aged three and older.


The Maryland Department of Health is dedicated to protecting and improving the health and safety of all Marylanders through disease prevention, access to care, quality management and community engagement. 

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