Closing the gap towards equitable access to COVID-19 vaccines
As the world faces the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring fair and equitable access to vaccines has become a critical concern. Unfortunately, several factors hinder access and acceptance of vaccines, especially for vulnerable communities. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has identified key barriers, including education, income disparities, access to employment, racism, discrimination, gaps in healthcare, transportation limitations, and historical mistrust.
Racial and ethnic minority groups, such as Black, Hispanic, and Latino populations, have had lower levels of vaccination against COVID-19 compared to non-Hispanic White individuals. Additionally, these minority groups are more susceptible to severe illness and higher death rates due to the virus. For their part, Native American or Alaska Native communities, also significantly impacted by the pandemic, have shown higher vaccination rates than other minority groups.
Recognizing the urgency of creating an equitable immunization landscape, CDC has collaborated with national, state, tribal, territorial, local, and community partners. By providing essential funding and support, the CDC seeks to improve access to and acceptance of vaccines among racial and ethnic minority groups. Building trust has been a key aspect of this strategy. To this end, the CDC maintains meaningful communication with the communities, listening carefully to their concerns and comments.
Overcoming barriers to access to vaccines
Access to appointments became a challenge for many people in the early stages of vaccine distribution. Several aspects, such as limited technological literacy, lack of Internet access, long waits at telephone help lines, and distance to vaccination sites, hampered the vaccination process. To address this, the CDC has put in place multiple ways for people to find vaccine providers across the United States. The vaccines.gov website is a comprehensive resource that offers up-to-date information on available providers and vaccination locations. Additionally, people can apply for assistance through the CDC's helpline at 1-800-232-0233, consult with their primary care physicians, or visit local pharmacies.
Pharmacies as key Partners in the Vaccination strategy
Recognizing the crucial role of pharmacies in the vaccination process, CDC has established a partnership with the Federal Retail Pharmacy Program. Together, they have carried out community vaccination activities to ensure broad access to vaccines in all regions. This collaborative effort uses data to verify the strategic location of vaccination sites, maximizing their effectiveness in serving diverse populations. Since most people live within five miles of a pharmacy, leveraging this network has proven critical in increasing vaccination rates and reaching underserved communities.