New York governor expands COVID vaccine access
Gov. Kathy Hochul signed an executive order aimed at making COVID-19 vaccines more accessible across New York state. The order allows pharmacists to both prescribe and administer the vaccine in a single visit, eliminating the need for a prior doctor’s prescription.
The move directly counters new federal guidance issued by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, which now requires Americans under 65 to obtain a prescription for a COVID-19 booster. Gov. Hochul criticized the federal changes, stating they limit public access to vaccines and burden individuals with unnecessary steps.
“If you want your child to have a COVID shot, it should be available to you and covered by insurance,” she said during a visit to an elementary school on Long Island.
Pharmacists and health officials say the change will reduce barriers to vaccination, particularly for those who find it difficult to secure a doctor’s appointment. James McDonald, M.D., New York’s health commissioner, noted the executive order essentially restores previous access levels that were more convenient for the public.
Under the new policy, pharmacists can write prescriptions for patients with underlying health conditions such as asthma or obesity. For those without such conditions, a routine waiver can be signed at the pharmacy to receive the shot.
The order is a temporary emergency measure until the state legislature can pass a permanent law. New York currently reports approximately 600 new COVID cases daily.
Read more: CBS News
The article presented here is intended to inform you about the broader media perspective on dentistry, regardless of its alignment with the ADA's stance. It is important to note that publication of an article does not imply the ADA's endorsement, agreement, or promotion of its content.