You know you need a flu shot but scheduling an appointment with your doctor can seem daunting, so you just don’t do it. If this scenario sounds familiar, there’s a better option: Your local pharmacists might be able to give you a flu shot. And they might be able to give you other vaccinations (e.g. pneumonia and shingles). The best part is that you don’t need to make an appointment—just head to the nearest pharmacy that’s in the Blue Cross Immunizing Pharmacy Network at your convenience and receive the vaccine. If you’re concerned that your pharmacists won’t offer you the same level of care with your vaccine as your doctor, think again. Many pharmacists can provide vaccine services covered under your benefit plan. Check with the pharmacy, check on-line, or call the customer service area on the back of your Blue Cross ID card. Pharmacists are constantly updated on new regulations and methods, ensuring they’re a reliable source for information and care. Still not sold? Here are three reasons why a pharmacist can help you easily get the vaccines you and your loved ones need.
- Pharmacists are the most accessible heath care professionals. About 90 percent of Americans live within five miles of a community pharmacy, which typically has very flexible hours. This means more patients have access to quality care.
- Pharmacists are endorsed by the Centers for Disease Control and various other organizations to administer vaccines. State laws permit certified pharmacists to administer immunizations and the CDC recognizes pharmacists as key contributors to immunization efforts.
- Your pharmacists can give you personalized support. Pharmacists might be able to review your immunization records and evaluate your requirements based on risk factors such as age, lifestyle, heath status, occupation and other health conditions. This means you’ll get specific recommendations based on what you may need.
But possibly the best reason for getting a vaccination by a pharmacist is that you can add it to your other normal errands like grocery shopping or picking up prescriptions. Missing out on your vaccines puts you and others around you at risk for many preventable diseases and infections. Interested in learning more about how your pharmacists can help? Check out these other blogs:
