Do you qualify? New COVID vaccine guidelines limit eligibility for most
The FDA has approved new COVID vaccines, restricting eligibility to seniors and children with underlying health conditions.
The FDA has approved new COVID vaccines, restricting eligibility to seniors and children with underlying health conditions.
The FDA has approved new COVID vaccines, restricting eligibility to seniors and children with underlying health conditions.
The FDA has approved new COVID-19 vaccine guidelines and shots, but eligibility is now limited to only high-risk groups, including seniors 65 and older and young adults or children with underlying health conditions.
Eligible patients must have at least one of more than two dozen government-recognized underlying health conditions, like heart disease and asthma, for example, to receive the COVID-19 shot — generally at no cost.
"Some of the underlying conditions include heart disease, chronic lung disease, like asthma and COPD," Dr. Christina Johns, a pediatric emergency physician, said.
The government states that eligible individuals have three vaccine options: Moderna, approved for those older than 6 months; Pfizer, for those 5 years and above; and Novavax, for those older than 12. The new guidelines end an era of emergency mandates that made the vaccines widely available for nearly everyone.
"There are a lot of questions outstanding. Will people have access to get these vaccines if they want them? How will people pay for them?" Dr. Johns said.
For the millions who do not qualify, cost is another problem. Those outside the new guidelines may face insurance denial, potentially leading to out-of-pocket expenses of up to $150 per shot. Dr. Johns described the change as "a very, very dramatic change from previous recommendations, and it's obviously incredibly concerning."
The Hearst data team found that vaccination rates have hovered around 20% in recent seasons, and doctors worry these numbers will plummet under the new guidelines. They advise individuals to consult their doctors for the best protection. Dr. Johns emphasized, "This is the person who has the best understanding of you or your child's specific health condition and can help you navigate this very complicated, murky process."
Some health experts worry that fewer vaccinations could strain hospitals as COVID-19 cases usually peak in the fall and winter. They stress the importance of consulting a doctor, even if one does not qualify for a shot under the new rules.
The Hearst data team found that nearly 90% of vaccinations occurred in pharmacies, while the remaining 10% took place in medical offices. These numbers are expected to change under the new FDA guidelines. Pharmacies offer convenience, allowing individuals to walk in, get their shot, and shop simultaneously. In contrast, getting vaccinated at a doctor's office requires scheduling and planning an appointment.