That last paragraph is why I think "you have to come in to this office, hear a brief explanation of why vaccination is a good idea, and sign the form, not just mail it in" is a reasonable rule: it might sort out "God doesn't want me to do this" from "I'm not convinced it's necessary, and mailing in a form is easier than taking my kid to the doctor."
Once again, that's almost looking at the wrong scale: state and city health departments should be offering vaccine clinics at more times of day, and/or the vaccines should be offered through the schools. Not "go away until you can come back with proof of vaccination" but "oh, your child needs the MMR vaccine, please come into this office."
I also don't think sincere belief is a good enough reason to not have children vaccinated, especially since it's usually the parent's belief, not the child's. (I don't think most small children *have* an opinion on vaccines that goes beyond "that's no fun.") Adults can take their own chances, as well as making, or not making, our own dental appointments.
(no subject)
Once again, that's almost looking at the wrong scale: state and city health departments should be offering vaccine clinics at more times of day, and/or the vaccines should be offered through the schools. Not "go away until you can come back with proof of vaccination" but "oh, your child needs the MMR vaccine, please come into this office."
I also don't think sincere belief is a good enough reason to not have children vaccinated, especially since it's usually the parent's belief, not the child's. (I don't think most small children *have* an opinion on vaccines that goes beyond "that's no fun.") Adults can take their own chances, as well as making, or not making, our own dental appointments.