WASHINGTON D.C. — The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has finalized a significant change to its COVID-19 vaccination guidance, recommending that patients now consult a healthcare provider before receiving an updated shot.
This shift comes following a recommendation from a new panel of vaccine advisors selected by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. The updated guidance marks a departure from the broader public health campaigns of previous years, which generally encouraged widespread, easy access to updated COVID-19 vaccines for most of the population.
Health experts are concerned that while the change keeps the vaccines available, the requirement for a consultation may create more barriers to access for many individuals than in past years.
In reaction to the change, pharmacy giant CVS announced a reversal of previous restrictions. The company stated Monday that “prescriptions from outside prescribers will no longer be required in any states,” indicating an attempt to mitigate potential hurdles for patients seeking the vaccine, provided they have cleared the initial consultation requirement from a healthcare provider.
The new guidance emphasizes a more individualized approach to medical decision-making for the COVID-19 vaccine.
