Mike Hoerger, PhD MSCR MBA
If you are in Louisiana, Georgia, or Missouri and are able to get the updated COVlD booster, let me know. If you encounter obstacles, let me know. Last year, these 3 states' pharmacy boards blocked access until the *very late* CDC approval. That could be a huge problem this year because it is unknown if or when the CDC will be able to approve the booster. Louisiana: This year, I see CVS is blocking access, just like last year. Nearby in Mississippi, CVS *IS* accepting appointments. On the Walgreens website, they are accepting appointments in Louisiana, but it is unclear whether appointments will be blocked or cancelled after booking. The Louisiana Board of Pharmacy does not appear to have updated any protocols based on last year's botched rollout. The existing statute seems to allow access if having a prescription or medical order, but that may still limit demand and availability, especially in smaller demographics, such as children. Georgia: CVS and Walgreens appear to be allowing appointments this year. Georgia's pharmacy board made an interpretation change that allows some flexibility for anything that was *ever* under an emergency declaration, but it appears to only apply to people 13 and older, so babies and young kids may face barriers. Missouri: CVS and Walgreens appear to be allowing appointments this year. They enacted legislative changes to avoid the delay between FDA and CDC approval, but the language is messy, and it still defers to CDC with regard to eligibility guidance, so it could go smoothly, terribly, or have a lot of variability by pharmacy. (links in next post) The CostCo website notes that booking rules vary by state and to call your pharmacy.
