A coalition of 12 pharmacy organizations has released a set of guiding principles aimed at shaping state policies on vaccine administration by pharmacy personnel. The Pharmacy-based Vaccine Access Work Group, which includes groups such as the National Community Pharmacists Association (NCPA), American Pharmacists Association, and others, published these recommendations to address inconsistencies and barriers in current state laws.
Currently, many states link the authority for pharmacists, pharmacy technicians, and interns to administer vaccines with recommendations from federal agencies like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), or the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). According to the work group, changes in federal guidelines can lead to legal uncertainty and slow down patient access to both new and existing vaccines.
The document calls for lawmakers to allow more flexibility in state regulations so that patients can access vaccines without unnecessary obstacles. It recommends giving pharmacists greater authority to prescribe vaccines based on their clinical judgment.
"Pharmacists have long served as essential vaccinators, standing as a convenient, affordable, and trusted option for patients to receive this essential preventative care. Pharmacy personnel are present within every community and without a cost barrier or appointment requirement. They are uniquely positioned to provide access to any patient seeking vaccination services. By establishing clear, flexible policy for pharmacy personnel–administered vaccines, policymakers can ensure that patients will not face disruption or delay in obtaining lifesaving immunizations, strengthening both individual and public health within the nation," the statement reads.
The guiding principles also include advice on structuring payment for pharmacist-provided services. The work group believes that clearer state policies will help prevent delays in immunization delivery and promote broader vaccine coverage.
Other organizations co-signing the document include the American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy, American Society of Consultant Pharmacists, American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, CPESN USA, Hematology/Oncology Pharmacy Association, National Alliance of State Pharmacy Associations, National Association of Boards of Pharmacy, National Pharmaceutical Association, Pharmacy Technician Certification Board, and Society of Infectious Disease Pharmacists.
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