Senator Markey Queries CVS and Walgreens on COVID-19 Vaccine Availability

Strategic Insights -

Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), top Democrat on the Primary Health and Pensions Subcommittee of the Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, has written to the CEOs of CVS Health Corporation and Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc., expressing concern over the state of COVID-19 vaccine availability at their pharmacies. The letter comes as Americans face difficulties in obtaining updated vaccinations due to a lack of clarity and directives from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The personnel changes within the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) and the FDA's rescinded emergency use authorizations for COVID vaccines have delayed critical guidance on booster eligibility, leaving pharmacies uncertain about national guidance.

Key Takeaways:

  • Senator Markey is concerned that the lack of clear guidance from HHS is causing confusion and uncertainty for pharmacies, leading to inconsistent vaccine availability across the country.
  • CVS has reported requiring prescriptions in at least 13 states and Washington, D.C. and has suspended vaccine availability in several states, including Massachusetts, Nevada, and New Mexico.
  • The personnel changes within the CDC's ACIP and the FDA's rescinded emergency use authorizations for COVID vaccines have delayed critical guidance on booster eligibility, leaving pharmacies uncertain about national guidance.
  • Senator Markey has requested that CVS and Walgreens provide information on their internal analysis and communications, as well as the impact of these restrictions on vulnerable populations.
  • The senator has also asked how the companies are collaborating with state and federal health authorities, medical associations, or other industry stakeholders to resolve inconsistencies in access policies.
  • Senator Markey believes that Congress has an obligation to determine who is responsible for the breakdown in vaccine availability and to ensure Americans regain timely and equitable access to vaccines.

Statistics:

  • At least 13 states and Washington D.C. require prescriptions for COVID-19 vaccines.
  • 17 members of the CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) have been removed.
  • The FDA has rescinded emergency use authorizations for COVID vaccines.
  • COVID vaccines are no longer available for individuals under the age of 65 or those with low-risk medical conditions.

Sources:

  • "Letter to David Joyner, CEO of CVS Health Corporation, and Tim Wentworth, CEO of Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc." by Senator Edward J. Markey, June [omitted] (no date provided).
  • Press release from the Office of the Senator Ed Markey.