ARLINGTON, Va. – National Association of Chain Drug Stores (NACDS) President and CEO Steven Anderson issued a statement today upon the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) issuance of an amendment to a prior Public Readiness and Emergency Preparedness Act (PREP Act) Declaration:

Steven Anderson

“NACDS had urged HHS to resolve inconsistencies between federal and state training requirements – inconsistencies that could stand in the way of patients’ access to vaccinations. This includes safe and effective COVID-19 vaccinations when they are available.

“On behalf of national and regional pharmacies that have worked hard to ensure preparedness to serve patients at this critical time – and the trained and professional pharmacists, pharmacy technicians and pharmacy interns on the front lines – we appreciate HHS’ responsiveness in continuing to address policy barriers that could hamper the full response to the pandemic.

“Just as pharmacies and pharmacy teams provide trusted access to health and wellness services every day, and certainly during a public health emergency, we also appreciate the chance to provide insights on necessary public policy actions. Addressing barriers and addressing patients’ needs go hand-in-hand, and NACDS appreciates this latest action by HHS.”