Pharmacists are a Key Part of the COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution and Success.

When you think about front-line workers in the fight against the coronavirus, Utah’s pharmacists and pharmacy technicians might not come to mind. They should.

Pharmacists are essential workers, no question. The need for lifesaving medication doesn’t go away in the middle of a pandemic: It gets amplified. Utah’s professional, highly trained and friendly pharmacists are often a breath of fresh air in a stressful world – reliable and courteous, and ready to answer any questions in an incredibly stressful time.Utah pharmacists can’t wait to help distribute the coronavirus vaccine, the moment it’s ready!

Today, with vaccine trials around the world moving into advanced phases, Utah needs to be ready as well. The pharmaceutical industry is doing its part, working alongside the state of Utah to be prepared when the time comes. The Utah State Board of Pharmacy recently approved a measure to add COVID-19 (SARS-CoV2) to Utah’s vaccine administration protocol, clearing the way for pharmacists to play an active role in vaccine distribution to seniors, doctors, first responders, teachers, and the community at large. Language is now approved and our pharmacists will be ready. 

The idea of pharmacists administering the coronavirus vaccine (when it comes) is a clear winner from both sides. From the state’s perspective, they need reliable, experienced and trustworthy professionals to administer the vaccine efficiently and effectively, with no room for error. From the pharmacists’ perspective, they are eager to use their training and their experience in this global fight – we’re all in this together. 

The science is on its way. Trails are showing great progress and promise around the world. The manufacturing and distribution industries are ramping up as well, linking supply and need in every corner of the globe.

Utah’s pharmacists are eager to play their part. With rigorous professional training, pharmacists have a built-in understanding of drug interactions and plenty of practice administering medicine. What’s more, roughly nine out of ten Americans live within five miles of a community pharmacy. Pharmacies serve rich and poor alike, and they’re already there in the communities that have been hit hardest by the virus. 

Both sides of this idea are already working from the same page: Preliminary talks about this change have already taken place with stakeholders from all sides present.It’s certainly too important an idea to put the cart before the horse: In the same way that no vaccine will go to the public without FDA approval, no distribution plan will be considered without the Utah Department of Health’s approval of the plan. Utah’s pharmacists will be ready to save lives by the millions.Just like they do every day. 

The 128 year old Utah Pharmacy Association represents pharmacies, pharmacists, and pharmacy technicians throughout the state of Utah. The primary goal of the Utah Pharmacy Association is serve, advance, and promote the profession of pharmacy in Utah. Adam Jones is the Executive Director of the Utah Pharmacy Association.