NY Governor Kathy Hochul to Sign Executive Order on COVID-19 Vaccine Eligibility

Executive Order on COVID-19 Vaccine Access

• 💉 Governor Kathy Hochul is set to sign an executive order to ensure New Yorkers can access COVID-19 shots.
• 📜 This order aims to allow pharmacists to administer and prescribe the COVID-19 vaccine to anyone seeking it.

Addressing Federal Limitations

• ⚠️ The executive order is intended to counteract limitations imposed by the federal government regarding vaccine eligibility.
• 🚫 The FDA approved updated COVID-19 vaccines but restricted them to individuals 65 and older or those with underlying medical conditions.

Pharmacy and Patient Confusion

• 🛒 Major pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens will administer the latest COVID vaccine only with a doctor's prescription, leading to confusion.
• 🗣️ State officials are working on providing guidance to clarify the situation for the public.

Governor's Statement on Health Decisions

• ⚖️ Governor Hochul stated that the order will allow New Yorkers to continue making their own healthcare decisions and receive care from trusted community providers.
• 📌 The executive order has not yet been officially signed but is expected soon.