APhA supports Pharmacists in evolving Vaccine Landscape
In a recent interview with Pharmacy times®, Allison Hill, PharmD, RPh, Director of Professional Affairs at the American Pharmacists Association (APhA), highlighted the organization’s commitment to supporting pharmacists as vaccine recommendations rapidly evolve and childhood vaccination rates decline.
Hill emphasized the increasing frequency of vaccine schedule updates and the need for pharmacists to be consistently informed to address patient questions accurately and promptly. APhA prioritizes providing timely resources to its members and the profession to facilitate this.APhA is also actively engaged in advocacy efforts to expand and protect pharmacists’ authority to administer vaccines. Recognizing the varying state laws governing vaccine administration, APhA collaborates with national and state organizations to promote consistent and expanded access through statewide protocols, standing orders, and independent authority. This year, APhA partnered with other pharmacy organizations to share facts on policy changes and hosted an “All Pharmacy Town Hall” (available on their YouTube channel) to address implementation challenges and practice concerns.
Key Takeaways:
Frequent vaccine schedule updates require pharmacists to stay informed and responsive to patient inquiries. APhA provides timely resources to help pharmacists deliver accurate immunization information.
* Advocacy efforts focus on expanding and protecting vaccine authority across all states.