New FDA restrictions on the COVID-19 vaccine change access for Kentuckians

Kentucky is one of 19 states where pharmacists will no longer be permitted to administer the vaccine unless the person is considered high risk.

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U.S. Food and Drug Administration has narrowed approval of the new, updated COVID-19 vaccines to only people who are considered higher risk for severe disease. The decision approves the vaccine for people who are older than 65 or younger people with underlying conditions.

So what about everybody else?

According to pharmacists, insurance groups and trade organizations, it will be more difficult for younger, otherwise healthy people to get a COVID vaccine ahead of the winter respiratory virus season.

Many people accessed the shots at pharmacies previously, but that may no longer be an option. Now, it could involve a trip to the doctor, who will decide if you fit the "high risk" status.

"The FDA's decision does not affect the availability of COVID vaccines for Americans who want them," White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said Thursday during a press conference. "We believe in individual choice. That's a promise both the president and [HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.] have made. And it's a promise they have now delivered on."

But here's the thing- the laws are different in every state, and depending on where you live, you may now need a prescription to get the shot, and if you don't qualify for a prescription, you could be paying out of pocket.

Where does Kentucky stand?

In Kentucky, the two largest pharmacy chains in the U.S., CVS and Walgreens, will now require a prescription from patients before administering the shot. The decision is "based on the current regulatory environment", according to a statement from CVS.

Those who qualify for a prescription include adults 65 and older, and those who are considered high risk because of underlying conditions.

If you're young and healthy, and you want a COVID vaccine, will it be covered by insurance?

It's still unclear what insurance coverage will look like for private insurance providers. Most companies are waiting for guidance from the CDC advisory panel, which meets in mid-September.

Government-funded insurance like Medicare and Medicaid will also likely follow CDC recommendations.

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