Can I Pay for Rabies Vaccine Even If Doctor Says It's Unnecessary?

If you are concerned, can you pay out of pocket for the rabies vaccine?

Hello, I would like to ask about the issue of self-paying for rabies vaccination.
Three months ago, I was hit by a bat while riding my motorcycle.
I went to see a doctor who assessed that there were no bite or scratch wounds and concluded that it was just a collision, so there was no need for vaccination.
However, I am still anxious and worried that the bat might have sprayed saliva that could have contaminated my eye mucosa during the impact (even though this is just my own imagination, and I cannot confirm if the bat actually sprayed saliva, nor did I feel anything).
Nevertheless, I am still trapped in my worries.
I have now decided to self-pay for the rabies vaccine, even though the doctor assessed that it is unnecessary.
Am I able to self-pay for the vaccination?

Han, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/06/18

Dr. Ye Qianyu reply Family Medicine

Hello! It is possible to receive a rabies vaccine at your own expense.
Here is a list of medical facilities that provide human rabies vaccinations.
You can find the information at the following link (if the link does not work, please refer to the attached image): https://www.cdc.gov.tw/File/Get/sqrAKrJg_Uq8Ki5B0HtO3g?path=ReOy6H8RLA5yAuZet_GCW7-fRgwM8bcCCeItkoZ-Nx6ES7lLzGxukBJVEF5weYsy76a6Aca65du2qVNPkETZGA&name=2OdrzrjafujOcoJ5YTxLLiGi8Pa3AUTYdlKek6zkZin31tmlmTJ6vLqoN5uIpkUC&download=sqrAKrJg_Uq8Ki5B0HtO3g

Reply Date: 2020/06/18

More Info

It’s understandable to feel anxious after an encounter with a bat, especially given the potential risks associated with rabies. Rabies is a serious viral infection that can be fatal if not treated promptly after exposure to a rabid animal. However, the decision to receive a rabies vaccine should be based on specific criteria regarding exposure risk.

In your case, since the doctor assessed that there was no bite or scratch and deemed the encounter as low risk, they concluded that the rabies vaccine was unnecessary. Medical professionals typically follow established guidelines from health organizations, such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which recommend rabies post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) based on the nature of the exposure. According to these guidelines, rabies vaccination is recommended if there is a bite or scratch from a potentially rabid animal, or if there is a significant risk of saliva exposure to mucous membranes (like the eyes or mouth).

Your concern about the possibility of saliva exposure during the incident is understandable, but it’s important to note that the risk of rabies transmission through non-bite exposure is extremely low. Bats are known carriers of rabies, but the virus is primarily transmitted through bites. If there was no direct contact with saliva or an open wound, the likelihood of rabies transmission is minimal.

Regarding your question about self-paying for the rabies vaccine despite the doctor's assessment, it is generally possible to receive vaccinations at your own expense, even if a healthcare provider does not recommend them. However, this may depend on the policies of the healthcare facility and the specific regulations in your area. You can discuss your concerns with your healthcare provider and express your desire to receive the vaccine for peace of mind. They may be able to accommodate your request or refer you to a facility that can provide the vaccine.

It’s also worth considering that while the rabies vaccine is safe, it is not without side effects, and unnecessary vaccination may expose you to these risks without any benefit. If you decide to proceed with the vaccination, ensure that you are well-informed about the potential side effects and the importance of following up with your healthcare provider.

In summary, while it is possible to self-pay for the rabies vaccine, it’s crucial to weigh the necessity of the vaccine against the actual risk of rabies exposure. Open communication with your healthcare provider about your fears and concerns can help you make an informed decision. If you continue to feel anxious, it may also be beneficial to speak with a mental health professional who can help you manage your fears and anxieties related to this incident.

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