Lauds preparedness and dedication of diverse pharmacies, pharmacists and pharmacy teams.

ARLINGTON, Va. — NACDS President and CEO Steven Anderson issued the following statement, upon the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ announcement about national and regional chain pharmacies’ and independent pharmacies’ role in increasing access to future COVID-19 vaccinations: 

Steven Anderson

“This announcement reflects continued progress to put the trust, accessibility and professionalism of pharmacies and pharmacists to work for the American people – including the traditionally underserved – through the administration of safe and effective COVID-19 vaccinations when they are available. 

“NACDS national and regional members are extremely well prepared, as a result of their hard work, planning and execution and as a result of the education and training of pharmacy teams. National and regional pharmacies alike will be partnering at the federal and state levels in this historic vaccination initiative. As we have seen throughout the pandemic, it also will be critical to continue to anticipate, identify and resolve any nagging barriers that stand in the way of efficient administration of COVID-19 vaccinations and other services that are essential to the American people. NACDS members maintain a proactive footing in engaging with federal and state government leaders in that important work. 

“Pharmacies and pharmacists will continue to help Americans stay healthy and to help restore the economy and job-creation. HHS’ announcement is another crucial advancement in the fight against this virus, and it will precede more and more progress in the future involving more and more pharmacies, pharmacists and pharmacy team members.”