Independent Pharmacists – You CAN Provide COVID-19 Vaccines!
On Friday, October 16, 2020, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced a partnership with two chain pharmacies to deliver COVID-19 vaccine options to LTC facilities. It is important to note that your facilities can also choose YOU as a provider. This partnership is not limited to only the two named pharmacy chains.
Including independent pharmacies is a critical part of the pandemic’s immunization solution, especially in rural and medically underserved areas. If your pharmacy is interested in offering COVID-19 vaccines to the facilities you service, let them know of your interest as soon as possible. Nursing homes and assisted living facilities will start responding to a survey on Monday, October 19, 2020 – selecting their provider of choice: CVS, Walgreens, or their contracted pharmacy provider.
Make sure you have enrolled with your state health department as an immunizing pharmacy. Contact your state pharmacy association, or Board of Pharmacy, for additional requirements.
The American Society of Consultant Pharmacists (ASCP) and the National Community Pharmacists Association (NCPA®) have been diligent in their efforts to allow pharmacy choice for this program. This work emphasizes the importance of membership and active participation in your national professional organization(s).
Listen to Integra’s Podcast on “COVID-19 Vaccination Plan Concerns” here.
Read the news release from HHS here.
