Pharmacies to Distribute Covid-19 Vaccines Across US

Strategic Insights -

Pharmacies in the United States will play a crucial role in the distribution of Covid-19 vaccines under a federal program aimed at accelerating vaccination efforts. 21 national pharmacy partners and networks of independent pharmacies representing over 40,000 locations nationwide will participate in the program. In the first phase, 1 million doses will be sent to about 6,500 stores, including Walgreens, CVS, Walmart, Publix, and others, starting on February 11.

Key Takeaways:

  • The federal program aims to distribute Covid-19 vaccines to pharmacies across the US, with 21 national pharmacy partners and networks of independent pharmacies participating.
  • In phase one, 1 million doses will be sent to approximately 6,500 stores, including Walgreens, CVS, Walmart, Publix, and others, starting on February 11.
  • Pharmacies like CVS, Walgreens, and Walmart are expected to administer a significant number of doses, with CVS aiming to administer 20-25 million shots per month and Walmart aiming for 10-13 million doses per month.
  • Only eligible individuals will be able to book vaccination appointments, and the pharmacies will follow state guidelines for vaccine distribution.
  • Appointments can be made online or by phone, and experts hope that this will reduce wait times and make the vaccination process similar to getting a flu shot.
  • Walmart and CVS will have floor decals and spaced-out chairs to maintain social distancing in vaccination clinics.
  • Everyone will be able to get the vaccine at no cost, regardless of their health insurance status.
  • Challenges to the program include vaccine supply constraints and staffing needs, as well as addressing misinformation about the vaccine online.
  • Pharmacies are preparing for these challenges by hiring staff, creating talking points for pharmacists, and educating the public on vaccine safety.

Statistics:

  • 1 million doses will be sent to pharmacies initially, with a plan to increase supply over time as more doses become available.
  • 6,500 stores will participate in the first phase, with CVS and Walgreens receiving a significant share of the initial doses.
  • CVS aims to administer 20-25 million shots per month, while Walmart aims for 10-13 million doses per month.
  • 90,000 employees, including pharmacists, licensed technicians, and nurses, will be administering vaccines at CVS.
  • Walmart has not specified the number of staff needed, but is offering a bonus to existing employees who refer qualified candidates.
  • 21 national pharmacy partners and networks of independent pharmacies are participating in the program, representing over 40,000 locations nationwide.

Sources:

  • Thompson, A. (2021, February 8). Shipments of Covid-19 vaccines will be headed to pharmacies next week. CNN.
  • Zients, J. (2021, February 8). US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and states select pharmacies for vaccine distribution. White House Covid-19 Response Coordinator.
  • Anderson, S. (2021, January 2021). Pharmacies have the capacity to meet demand for 100 million vaccine doses. National Association of Chain Drug Stores.
  • DeAngelis, M. (2021, February 8). CVS spokesperson interview. CNN.
  • Vercammen, V. (2021, January 2021). Giant Eagle prepared talking points for pharmacists. Interview with CNN.