Pharmacist Discusses Proactive Approach to Vaccine Recommendations, Patient Trust

Deanna Tran, PharmD, BCACP, FAPhA, associate professor of the department of practice, sciences, and health outcomes research at the University of Maryland School of Pharmacy, discusses the potential implications of recent changes in the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) and its impact on vaccine recommendations and health care practices. Historically, ACIP has provided a uniform, scientifically rooted voice on vaccine schedules that health care providers and insurers have relied upon. However, concerns have emerged about new ACIP members that may affect the committee's approach to vaccine recommendations.

Health care professionals are now emphasizing the need to independently assess scientific data and make informed clinical decisions. They recommend relying on other reputable organizations like the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), and American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) to supplement decision-making. The changes could potentially slow down future vaccine approvals and impact vaccine accessibility, particularly for patients with limited access to primary care providers.

Tran highlights several critical challenges, including potential complications for pharmacists due to state regulations that follow ACIP and CDC schedules. There are concerns about how these changes might affect health insurance coverage, as payers are typically required to cover no-cost vaccines recommended by ACIP. Some states, like Maryland, are proactively creating legislation to maintain vaccine coverage.

She also stressed the importance of patient education, particularly in combating misinformation. They recommended that health care professionals stay informed about ongoing issues, be prepared to research circulating misinformation, and approach patient conversations strategically. This includes meeting patients where they are, acknowledging true points, and providing accurate, science-based information to help move patients from vaccine hesitancy to acceptance. Community outreach, especially in areas with high vaccine hesitancy, was emphasized as a crucial strategy for maintaining public trust in vaccination programs.

"Based on what we've learned so far about the new ACIP members, there may be more emphasis on long-term safety data and post-marketing surveillance, and this could slow down future vaccine approvals, including yearly vaccines and other scheduled updates," Tran said. "It's also important to help share with our patients how changes may also impact health insurance coverage for a vaccine."

READ MORE: Immunization Resource Center

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