The executive director of the Community Pharmacies Association, Linda Ayala, announced on Wednesday that the government will incorporate community pharmacies in stage 1B vaccination that includes people over the age of 65.
“Community pharmacies are scheduled to participate in the phase 1B vaccination process, which is expected to receive vaccines between the second and third weeks of January 2021. We are ready to work together on the vaccination process to ensure that pharmacy staff, such as and people over the age of 65 can be vaccinated. Community pharmacies have the advantage that they are located throughout the island, so we can help ensure compliance with the proposed vaccination program. Community pharmacies are ready, “Ayala said in a written statement.
More than 150 community pharmacies have signed contracts with the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), so they will only need the Department of Health to provide the vaccines. Pharmacies that have signed the contract have already participated in training courses on how to maintain the cold chain of the vaccine and the protocol for inoculating their patients, so that they are prepared and trained to make this effort.
“Dr. Iris Cardona, who led these efforts for the Department of Health, was a facilitator for the incorporation of community pharmacies into the administration of Covid vaccines as soon as possible. She understands that we are health professionals who can contribute to the success of this initiative. We have experience with other vaccination campaigns, such as the flu, ”said Ayala.
The executive stressed that it is important for people to be aware that where they receive the first dose is where they should receive the second dose of the same vaccine.
“Governor-elect Pedro Pierluisi and designated health secretary Carlos Mellado have included the Association of Community Pharmacies in the Scientific Committee to participate in emergencies. We are confident that we will continue to rely on their support to enable pharmacies to be part of the solution. “
In Puerto Rico there are approximately 850 community pharmacies throughout the island.