Seize the Opportunity to Give Vaccines

More pharmacy technicians will ADMINISTER immunizations...to help expand access to vaccines during COVID-19.

Techs with special training are already giving certain immunizations in a few states...including ID, RI, and WA.

Now federal guidance authorizes qualified pharmacy technicians in ALL states to administer childhood vaccines (DTaP, flu, HPV, etc) to kids age 3 to 18...and COVID-19 vaccines to people 3 years and up.

The goal is to offset a drop in pediatric vaccination rates...and help meet potential demand for COVID-19 vaccines, when available.

Be aware this emergency federal guidance does NOT authorize techs to administer routine vaccines (Tdap, shingles, etc) to ADULTS. And it doesn't allow techs to recommend, prescribe, or counsel on vaccines.

This is a BIG opportunity for you and your colleagues.

Think of giving vaccines as a chance to practice at the top of your game...help your community...and possibly earn higher compensation.

But keep in mind, many things need to happen for this to start.

Expect to see pharmacies create standards or protocols and implement training to meet requirements.

For example, federal guidance requires a qualified pharmacy tech be licensed or registered in their state...or be nationally certified.

You'll also need to go through an ACPE-approved training program that includes hands-on injection technique...have a current CPR certificate...and complete immunization CE.

An immunization training program from our Pharmacy Technicians University will be coming in February 2021...to help you meet all the requirements and ensure you are confident and prepared.

See our immunization CEs and tech tutorial, The Basics of Immunization and Vaccines, for other important ways you can help...billing payers, ensuring proper vaccine storage, and more.

• Technician Tutorial: The Basics of Immunization and Vaccines