Kroger pharmacists offer more vaccines

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Kroger pharmacists in Ohio are now permitted to administer more Centers for Disease Control-recommended vaccines to patients, including those as young as 7 years old.

This change is in response to a law that took effect in March, giving patients across Ohio expanded access to immunizations, Kroger officials say.

Kroger pharmacists throughout the company’s Columbus division, which includes central and northwest Ohio, as well as the Ohio Valley region, have been trained to administer the chickenpox, human papillomavirus (HPV) and polio vaccines. Previously, pharmacists were unable to administer these vaccines.

The legislation also allows for those ages 7–12 to be vaccinated by a pharmacist, but only with a prescription from a doctor. No prescription is required for those 13 and older, but parental consent must be given. This change will allow pharmacists to administer vaccines, such as hepatitis A & B, meningitis, measles, mumps, tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis (whooping cough) to children and teens, which previously was not permitted.

Kroger pharmacies will continue to offer a wide-range of adult immunizations, including those for shingles and pneumonia. Immunizations are offered without an appointment. Kroger can bill the immunization to the patients’ prescription insurance. If the vaccine is not covered, the pharmacy will provide a receipt so the patient can pursue reimbursement from their insurance company.

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