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Access to immunizations key to preventing epidemics
Carole Hardin-Oliver, For the Express-News : October 22, 2013 : Updated: October 22, 2013 4:03pm
Early one evening, a grandmother came into the pharmacy where I work and wanted to get the immunizations her grandchildren needed to start school. While I could give the grandmother a flu shot, I could not immunize her grandchildren against measles, mumps and whooping cough because pharmacists are not allowed to immunize children between ages 7 and 14 without a physician's written prescription.
Texas pharmacists are extensively trained and have provided immunizations to millions of Texans. During the 2013 state legislative session, pharmacists sought approval to administer all vaccines recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to children 7 and older under a physician's written protocol. Due to opposition from some physician groups, lawmakers did not approve the measure.
Some areas in Texas now are experiencing whooping cough and measles epidemics that could have been avoided if more adolescents were immunized. Immunizations save money by helping prevent many illnesses and the costs associated with treating them.
The reason to broaden the scope of who may administer immunizations to children is to increase immunization rates by providing more convenient access through pharmacies. Most pharmacies are open 78 hours a week, and others usually have extended weekday hours and are open on Saturdays — physician offices and clinics usually have more restricted hours. Pharmacies are a good alternative source for immunizations.
Pharmacists, who are licensed by the state, are required to complete intensive training in immunization administration. In addition, pharmacists must take cardiopulmonary resuscitation training and Occupational Safety and Health Administration safety training. Like others who administer immunizations, pharmacists must report to IMMTrac, the Texas immunization registry. This ensures accurate records about children's immunization status.
Texas has a growing shortage of physicians, as well as registered nurses. Pharmacists can play an important role in helping children and adults get the immunizations they need. When the Legislature convenes in 2015, pharmacists again will seek approval to immunize children 7 and older. Hopefully, the Legislature will react favorably and help us prevent epidemics like the one Texas is currently experiencing.
For now, please remember to do your part. Get your flu shot early, as well as any other immunizations or boosters you may need.
Carole Hardin-Oliver, a registered pharmacist in Kingwood, is president of the Texas Pharmacy Association. Founded in 1879, TPA represents Texas pharmacists, pharmacy technicians and pharmacy students across the state.