Gov. Jared Polis isn't waiting around for the feds to get their act together on COVID-19 vaccine distribution. In an aggressive move to streamline access to the latest shots, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) is stepping in to make sure Coloradans can roll up their sleeves ASAP. A recent directive from Polis aims to cut the red tape that could hinder locals from getting timely access to the 2025-2026 formula.
Following a decision by the FDA, which only gave the green light for certain demographics to receive the vaccine, Colorado's top brass decided enough was enough. Despite a federal recommendation that only those over 65 or at higher risk for severe illness should get the new shot, Polis and CDPHE bigwigs are opening the floodgates come this Friday, no prescription necessary. "Colorado is committed to empowering individuals to make choices to protect their own health and safety, and I will not allow ridiculous and costly red tape or decisions made far away in Washington to keep Coloradans from accessing vaccines," Governor Polis stated, as per the Colorado Governor's Office.
On the bureaucratic end of things, a standing order from CDPHE’s Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Ned Calonge, has been issued, giving all Coloradans aged 6 months and up the thumbs up to get jabbed at local pharmacies sans an individual RX starting September 5. Misplaced modifier aside, this ruling could pave the way for a more health-conscious autumn free from Dr. Google and self-diagnosis.
The health department has a laundry list of to-dos, such as laying out the law on vaccine safety and efficacy, ditching barriers to getting a shot, and making sure state health plans are on board. By coordinating with the Colorado Department of Health Care Policy and Financing, CDPHE is also checking how these federal decisions play out for Health First Colorado (Medicaid) and Child Health Plan Plus beneficiaries. Pharmacies might need an express lane because, with a misplaced modifier in tow, starting this Friday, the COVID-19 vaccine should be available to those who choose at many local pharmacies," according to the Colorado Governor's Office.
Moving forward, CDPHE’s clear directive is designed to avert a healthcare hurdle race no one signed up for. This action seems to be an attempt to shield over 4,500 previously hospitalized Coloradans since last October and the state's frontline health care workers from oxygen-scarce ER rooms. "This order ensures that Colorado takes every step possible to prevent hospitalizations, protect frontline health care workers, and preserve critical health care resources. Equitable vaccine access is a cornerstone of protecting the public’s health," Executive Director of CDPHE, Jill Hunsaker Ryan emphasized, as obtained by the Colorado Governor's Office.
