The Critical Role of Pharmacies in Expanding Vaccine Access and Education

A nurse giving a vaccine to an older man at a pharmacy.

(Adobe Stock 488549113 by dusanpetkovic1)

As fall and winter approach, the importance of vaccination becomes increasingly critical. With colder weather driving people indoors and flu season looming, pharmacies play a vital role in ensuring widespread vaccine access. Pharmacies offer convenience, extended hours, and locations close to home, making it easier than ever for people to protect themselves and their families from seasonal illnesses like influenza, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

In addition, pharmacists are trusted health care providers who can offer valuable guidance and education, especially in underserved communities where access to traditional medical facilities may be limited. Preparing now is key to staying healthy through the colder months.

Samantha Picking, PharmD

ICT: Why are pharmacies critical access points for routine vaccinations, particularly in areas with limited medical facilities?

Samantha Picking, PharmD: [Like many pharmacies,] Walgreens’ widespread footprint and extended hours of operation make getting vaccinated accessible to a larger portion of the population, both in urban and rural areas. Since 2010, Walgreens has administered more than 230 million vaccines in communities throughout the US, and data from the CDC and IQVIA show that during the 2023-2024 influenza season, approximately 38 million adult influenza vaccinations were administered in retail pharmacies.

To bridge the gap further, we partner with national and local organizations and churches to share credible vaccination information within their communities and host vaccination clinics. Since the 2014-2015 fall respiratory season, Walgreens has hosted more than 300,000 clinics outside of our stores, including 25,000 offsite clinics to reach underserved communities nationwide to help ensure equitable access to vaccinations.

ICT: What unique advantages do pharmacies offer compared to traditional medical facilities when administering vaccines?

SP: Pharmacies, including Walgreens, offer several unique advantages over traditional medical facilities in administering vaccines, such as convenience, accessibility, and efficiency. Compared to medical facilities, pharmacies typically have extended operating hours, including evenings and weekends, making getting vaccinated easier without taking time off work.

Additionally, pharmacies are typically conveniently located within walking distance or a short drive for many people. With 78% of Americans living within 5 miles of a Walgreens, our pharmacies offer greater accessibility than clinics or hospitals. Another advantage is the convenience they offer - patients can receive their flu shot and other vaccines while picking up a prescription, shopping for household essentials, or purchasing over-the-counter medications.

Many pharmacies also offer streamlined vaccination processes, reducing wait times and making the experience quicker and more efficient.

Additionally, Walgreens continues to ensure access to vaccinations through off-site vaccination clinics in collaboration with community organizations, employers, and long-term care facilities.

ICT: Can you discuss the role of pharmacists in educating and advising patients about vaccines, especially in underserved communities?

SP: Pharmacists are trusted health experts embedded in our communities, They play a critical role in protecting patients and their families from vaccine-preventable illnesses, including flu, COVID-19, RSV, meningitis, shingles, and pneumococcal pneumonia. They address misconceptions, answer questions, and provide recommendations based on a patient’s age, health history, and specific concerns.

Our pharmacists are equipped with the latest recommendations and up-to-date information to properly educate our customers to ensure they can properly educate customers about vaccines, testing, and treatment options, administering them in accordance with local guidelines. We also regularly update our pharmacy team members on the latest CDC guidelines.

[Patients should always verify that their pharmacy also follows the latest CDC guidelines.]

In underserved communities, where access to health care providers may be limited, pharmacists are often a primary source of information and support. They help increase vaccine awareness and acceptance, ensuring these communities receive the necessary care and protection against preventable diseases. At Walgreens, we partner with community organizations to offer Walgreens Free Flu Shot Vouchers to patients who cannot afford an influenza shot. Vouchers can be redeemed in-store or at an off-site clinic. [Patients can call their preferred pharmacy to see if they have something similar.]

ICT: How should individuals prepare differently when receiving a vaccine at a pharmacy versus a medical facility?

SP: [Walgreen’s] pharmacy team members can administer influenza and COVID-19 vaccines to anyone aged 3 and up. Families with younger children should see their pediatrician. For patients 18 years and younger, a parent or guardian must be present to sign the consent form at the time of immunization.

[Many pharmacies have this option. If the patient’s preferred pharmacy does not, patients can call the pharmacies to schedule as well.]

To save time during a vaccination appointment, patients can complete the vaccination consent paperwork digitally on the Walgreens app before the appointment and use the digital check-in feature at the pharmacy to skip the line and confirm their arrival. Additionally, the patient’s immunization history and records are easily available on the Walgreens app to share with their HCP.

We recommend that patients wear loose-fitting clothing and make sure to bring their insurance information if available.

[Before receiving any vaccines at a pharmacy or a medical office, the patient should speak with their primary care provider, get plenty of sleep and hydrate, and plan to take it easy the day after receiving the vaccine(s). Plus, the patient should learn about the vaccine by reviewing the Vaccine Fact Sheet for the vaccine(s) they will receive, so they can ask any questions or raise any concerns before getting the vaccine(s).]

ICT: How can infection prevention personnel help drive people to pharmacies to get their vaccines?

SP: Infection personnel can assist by echoing the education provided to patients by health care teams, such as pharmacists, about the safety, efficacy, and importance of vaccines through community presentations, social media, and other communication channels.

Infection personnel are critical in building trust in vaccines within communities by addressing concerns, combatting misinformation, and debunking myths about vaccination. Additionally, they can play an essential role in reminding individuals that pharmacists are trusted health care experts who can answer any vaccine-related questions and provide recommendations based on the patient’s age, health history, situation, and concerns.