Governor Stein Announces Standing Orders to Increase Access to COVID-19 Vaccines

North Carolina Governor Josh Stein has announced standing orders to increase access to COVID-19 vaccines, allowing seniors 65 years or older and adults with certain health conditions to receive the vaccine at a pharmacy without a prescription from a healthcare provider. This move aligns with the FDA's August 2025 approval of the COVID-19 vaccine for all people 65 years of age and older, and individuals 18 and older with at least one high-risk condition. The Standing Order aims to reduce administrative barriers and increase vaccination rates among vulnerable populations.

Key Takeaways:

• The Standing Order allows seniors 65 years or older and adults with certain health conditions to receive the COVID-19 vaccine at a pharmacy without a prescription from a healthcare provider.
• The Order aligns with the FDA's August 2025 approval of the COVID-19 vaccine for all people 65 years of age and older, and individuals 18 and older with at least one high-risk condition.
• According to NCDHHS, more than 70% of COVID-19 doses in North Carolina were given at pharmacies last year, highlighting their importance in vaccine distribution.
• The North Carolina Retail Merchants Association, the North Carolina Academy of Family Physicians, the North Carolina Medical Society, and the Old North State Medical Society have all expressed support for the Governor's efforts to increase access to COVID-19 vaccines.
• The Standing Order will also increase access for millions of people in North Carolina who want to get a COVID-19 vaccine, particularly those with geographic, economic, or transportation challenges in obtaining preventive care.

Statistics:

• North Carolina had more than 120,000 emergency department visits for COVID-like illness last year, resulting in more than 21,600 hospitalizations.
• Over 70% of COVID-19 doses in North Carolina were given at pharmacies last year.
• According to current data, more than 70% of COVID-19 doses in the US are administered at pharmacies.

Sources:

• Governor Josh Stein's press release, issued September 12, 2025
• North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) announcement
• FDA approval of the COVID-19 vaccine for all people 65 years of age and older, and individuals 18 and older with at least one high-risk condition, August 2025
• North Carolina Retail Merchants Association, North Carolina Academy of Family Physicians, North Carolina Medical Society, and Old North State Medical Society statements supporting the Governor's efforts.