|
Vaccine Access
By: Mady Paley
This fall is the first time that vaccines for three respiratory illnesses - COVID-19, the seasonal flu, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) - will be available simultaneously. This demands a comprehensive strategy that provides transparent information on each vaccine. Per the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, each vaccine has distinct characteristics that warrant public communications.
-
COVID-19: There is a need to communicate the value and benefit of the updated COVID-19 vaccine, including what it is for and why individuals should get it.
-
Flu: Emphasis on how to get the flu shot, communicating the associated risks and benefits, and reinforcing why people should get vaccinated.
-
RSV: The RSV vaccine is new, and there is a need to educate the public about what it is for, how to get it, and why they should get it, as well as to report on its safety and efficacy.
In May 2023, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) ended the federal COVID-19 public health emergency declaration. While it was originally announced that access to vaccines would not be affected by the end of this declaration, a later announcement in September 2023 updated this that the CDC COVID-19 Vaccination Program would be discontinued. This means that updated 2023–2024 COVID-19 vaccines would no longer be purchased by the federal government and would only be available for private purchase in the commercial marketplace. This change undoubtedly creates additional challenges surrounding vaccine access and further emphasizes the need to address healthcare access, particularly among marginalized populations.
On a personal note, from a person with the privilege of having health insurance, access to transportation, and as someone who speaks English as a first language, I faced challenges in trying to get the newest COVID-19 monovalent vaccine. Although large pharmacies such as CVS or Walgreens market vaccinations as free, the fine print states that not all insurance plans are considered “in network,” meaning that even with insurance, the newest vaccine could cost $190.99 out of pocket. The 2023 flu shot could cost $62.99 if a given insurance is considered out of network. This personal experience shone light on vaccine access, and the importance of increasing access among marginalized communities, which bear a disproportionate health burden of these diseases.
One attempt to increase vaccine equity is the CDC’s Bridge Access Program, which provides no-cost COVID-19 vaccines to adults without health insurance. While this program may alleviate some of the financial burden from uninsured and underinsured adults, there is more to be done to reach vaccine equity, starting with communities that are made most vulnerable due to systemic inequities. Whether it is navigating online sign-ups, needing a car, or just being able to take time off of work, the barriers are in the system itself. COVID-19 was not the first illness to create health disparities in this country, but the same structural racism was further crystallized by the pandemic.
There is much that can be done by community leaders and networks to dismantle barriers to all vaccines. Trust in vaccines can be fostered by acknowledging and working to address structural inequalities, engaging with communities in a culturally responsive manner, and implementing community-based initiatives. Collaboration with trusted community leaders and health care providers can build vaccine confidence among historically marginalized populations.
To find locations near you to receive a vaccination at no cost, visit www.vaccines.gov.
| 
