As new state legislation has taken effect to help bring greater patient
access to vaccines, Walgreens (NYSE: WAG) (Nasdaq: WAG) has expanded
vaccine availability at all of its more than 800 locations across
Florida. Pharmacists are now authorized to provide Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention (CDC) recommended meningococcal (meningitis)
vaccines for patients 18 years and older, and zoster (shingles) vaccines
for patients 60 years and older,1 in addition to influenza
and pneumococcal vaccinations available to eligible patients age 18 and
older.
Vaccinations are available daily during all pharmacy hours with no
appointment necessary.
“As some of the most trusted health care professionals in communities
across Florida, this is an excellent opportunity for our pharmacists to
help educate residents about the importance of adult vaccinations and to
improve immunization rates through greater access,” said Terry Gubbins,
Florida market pharmacy director for Walgreens. “We’ve demonstrated
through flu seasons and other health initiatives the important role
Walgreens is playing in health care today, providing high quality,
affordable care to help more people get, stay and live well.”
Vaccines are subject to availability. Age, state and health related
restrictions may apply. Many immunizations may be covered by commercial
insurance plans, Medicare Part B or Medicare Part D. Patients are
encouraged to check with their health plan for specific coverage
details. To find the nearest Walgreens, residents can call
1-800-WALGREENS or visit www.walgreens.com.
About Walgreens
As the nation's largest drugstore chain with fiscal 2013 sales of $72
billion, Walgreens (www.walgreens.com)
vision is to be the first choice in health and daily living for everyone
in America, and beyond. Each day, in communities across America, more
than 8 million customers interact with Walgreens using the most
convenient, multichannel access to consumer goods and services and
trusted, cost-effective pharmacy, health and wellness services and
advice. Walgreens scope of pharmacy services includes retail, specialty,
infusion, medical facility and mail service, along with online and
mobile services. These services improve health outcomes and lower costs
for payers including employers, managed care organizations, health
systems, pharmacy benefit managers and the public sector. The company
operates 8,217 drugstores in all 50 states, the District of Columbia,
Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Walgreens digital business
includes Walgreens.com, drugstore.com, Beauty.com, SkinStore.com and
VisionDirect.com. Take Care Health Systems is a Walgreens subsidiary
that manages more than 400 in-store convenient care clinics throughout
the country.
1 Zoster vaccination available to patients 50-59 years with
prescription
Copyright Business Wire 2014