People in North Carolina are facing some confusion about getting the COVID-19 vaccine, especially when it comes to requiring a prescription. Recently, state health director Larry Greenblatt lifted a previous order that allowed those 65 and older, along with some younger individuals with certain health risks, to get vaccinated without a prescription.
Now, new federal guidelines have stirred questions. Jay Campbell, head of the North Carolina Board of Pharmacy, clarified the updated rules for vaccine eligibility and what’s needed to get vaccinated at a pharmacy.
Here’s a simple breakdown:
Adults 18 and older:
- They can receive a vaccine with a prescription.
- Those without a prescription can get vaccinated after discussing the benefits and risks with a pharmacist. This approach, called “shared clinical decision-making,” lets the patient make an informed choice.
Children ages 7 to 18:
- Can also get a vaccine without a prescription, but they need parental consent and must have that same discussion with a pharmacist.
- For kids younger than 7, parents should check with healthcare providers or local health departments for vaccine availability.
These changes come from updates made by the CDC on October 6, influenced by a new committee formed under U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. This group has sparked debate, particularly given its shift towards emphasizing informed consent.
Jim O’Neill, deputy secretary of Health and Human Services, acknowledged that the previous approach discouraged discussions about vaccine risks and benefits. He stated, “Informed consent is back,” which adds an important layer in how healthcare providers discuss vaccinations with patients.
This shift follows the FDA’s decision to revoke the Emergency Use Authorization for the vaccines while also allowing for new booster shots targeting recent virus strains. However, these boosters are now limited primarily to older adults or those with health risks, raising concerns from public health advocates about accessibility, especially for children during recent COVID surges.
In North Carolina, the absence of the Emergency Use Authorization has put pressure on pharmacists. Before the new guidelines, vaccines were available to anyone with a prescription, causing confusion among patients seeking vaccinations. Campbell noted that this change complicated the situation for both healthcare providers and patients.
Despite the complexities, Greenblatt’s previous order helped over 80,000 North Carolinians get vaccinated during its timeframe. Speaking on the matter, Devdutta Sangvai, DHHS secretary, emphasized the importance of vaccines in preventing serious illness, hospitalizations, and deaths, especially during cold and flu seasons.
Historically, vaccine accessibility has varied greatly. During the rapid rollout of COVID vaccines under Operation Warp Speed, access was relatively straightforward. Now, with new layers of requirements, it’s essential for patients to understand their options and for healthcare providers to clearly communicate the necessary steps to receive vaccinations.
As these guidelines evolve, engaging in informed conversations with healthcare providers remains vital for public health moving forward.
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