The state regulatory board unanimously voted to add the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Academy of Family Physicians, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the FDA as competent authorities.
Major pharmacy chains like CVS announced last week that it could not administer the new COVID doses in states like Pennsylvania where it was not “legally approved.”
But with new expanded state approval, CVS Executive Director of Regulatory Affairs Grace Sesi said local pharmacies can begin to administer the shots according to FDA guidelines.
“CVS Pharmacy will ensure COVID-19 vaccinations are available as soon as possible at our locations throughout Pennsylvania,” Sid Tenneti, senior vice president of retail pharmacy at CVS Health, said in a release. “Appointments can be scheduled online … or patients can walk into our pharmacies and clinics.”
Local pharmacies began receiving shipments of new COVID-19 vaccine doses this past week. But Dr. Mayank Amin, owner of Skippack Pharmacy in Schwenksville, said that until now, they haven’t been able to do anything with them.
“Our senior clinics begin tomorrow … as well as clinics for long-term care facilities, homebound patients and veterans,” he said. “Yet, vaccines are sitting in fridges instead of protecting our communities.”
Amin celebrated the board’s decision to include vaccination recommendations from the medical organizations.
Leaders at Springfield Pharmacy in Delaware County said preserving access to all health care services, including immunizations, was critical given the existing gaps in local communities following the closure of Crozer Health and multiple Rite Aid pharmacies.
“Delaware County is home to numerous underserved communities and health care deserts, and the burden is only growing,” pharmacy owners said in a statement. “Right now, everyone — from local health departments to community leaders — is waiting on this verdict. They are looking for clarity, stability, and hope.”
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