Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey formed a regional health coalition with other northeastern states following a federal funding block of up to $200 million to programs run by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for the upcoming fiscal year, according to a Sept. 18 press release.
Other states participating in this voluntary regional coalition include Connecticut, Maine, Rhode Island, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and New York. Vermont published its own public guidelines Sept. 18.
The Food and Drug Administration approved new COVID-19 vaccines in August but limited eligibility to elderly Americans and those with health complications, making access for other Americans more difficult, according to NPR. Previously, anyone older than 6 months was eligible for the vaccine.
Healey plans to ensure all vaccines are readily available to the general public despite these changes, according to a Sept. 4 press release. This includes directing state insurance carriers to use state vaccine guidelines rather than relying “solely on CDC recommendations,” ensuring insurers continue to cover essential vaccines.
Healey also delegated vaccine recommendations and distribution to the state’s Department of Public Health.
Since then, the Massachusetts DPH, issued by Commissioner Robbie Goldstein, passed a standing order allowing pharmacies across the state to administer vaccines to anyone older than five.
Senate President Karen Spilka supported Healey’s new health policy in the midst of federal uncertainty, according to a statement released Sept. 4.
“The Healey Administration’s actions will help ensure federal drama does not affect our access to vaccines that are essential to public health,” Spilka wrote in the statement. “In Massachusetts, we believe healthcare decisions should be made by you and your provider. If you want a vaccine, you should be able to get one easily.”
Local healthcare organizations endorsed Healey’s plan as well, such as the Massachusetts Association of Health Plans.
“MAHP member plans remain steadfast in our commitment to ensuring coverage of evidence-based care,” wrote Lora Pellegrini, president and CEO of MAHP, in a statement to The Daily Free Press.
“Protecting access to vaccines is central to reducing preventable illness, addressing health disparities, and maintaining the Commonwealth’s reputation for leading with science and equity.”