The governor of Connecticut has taken significant executive actions aimed at ensuring that residents who wish to receive COVID-19 vaccines can do so without interruption. His office has confirmed that coverage under state-regulated health insurance policies will remain uninterrupted amidst new federal guidance that has raised questions regarding eligibility for these vaccines. Governor Ned Lamont announced these actions on Wednesday, emphasizing the importance of public health access during uncertain times.
The Connecticut Department of Public Health is recommending that all children aged 6 months and older, as well as adults of all ages, receive the vaccine. This recommendation aligns with recent approvals from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which has authorized new vaccine formulations specifically for adults aged 65 and older, as well as younger adults with health conditions that put them at greater risk for severe COVID-19 outcomes.
Governor Lamont stated, “As uncertainty in Washington continues, our administration is doing everything we can to ensure the residents of Connecticut have access to the health care they need to stay safe. Making vaccines accessible is grounded in health and safety, which is too important to leave to the whims of a political agenda.” He highlighted the proven effectiveness of vaccines in preventing serious illness, hospitalization, and death, asserting that medical decisions should be left to patients and their healthcare providers.
The Department of Public Health has also released interim guidance for the upcoming 2025-2026 vaccine season. Commissioner Juthani noted, “We cannot predict which respiratory viral infection will be most prevalent this season, but we can protect our families against them and potential severe complications by getting vaccinated this fall.”
To ensure that the guidance remains current and effective, Commissioner Juthani is forming an advisory committee. This group will focus on recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the FDA, utilizing evidence-based data from peer-reviewed literature and studies. Their first meeting is scheduled for this month.
The Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection is providing essential guidance to pharmacists regarding the distribution of COVID-19 vaccines. Pharmacists may continue to order, prescribe, and administer FDA-approved or authorized vaccines in accordance with the latest CDC instructions. This authority remains in effect until either 30 days after the issuance of the Department of Consumer Protection's notice or until the vaccine is included in the CDC Adult Immunization Schedule.
DCP Commissioner Bryan T. Cafferelli emphasized the critical role that pharmacists have played in addressing the COVID-19 pandemic. He stated, “Pharmacists are trusted frontline healthcare workers who are often the first point of contact for patients seeking vaccination.” This ensures that even with fluctuating federal vaccine schedules, Connecticut can maintain clarity and consistency in vaccine administration.
The Connecticut Insurance Department has issued a bulletin to all health insurers and healthcare centers, affirming that current state guidance aligns with existing laws requiring immunization coverage in Connecticut health insurance policies. Commissioner Andrew Mais confirmed, “There will be no change to existing COVID-19 immunization coverage in Connecticut-issued insurance policies, regardless of the CDC’s position.”
Pharmacists in Connecticut are empowered to continue ordering, prescribing, and administering COVID-19 vaccines to adults as per the most recent CDC instructions. They can also act on prescribers' verbal or written prescriptions, ensuring that residents have continued access to vital vaccinations. Vaccine supply and guidance for children will be maintained through the Connecticut Vaccine Program and medical homes.
Governor Lamont's administration is actively communicating with public health officials from neighboring states in the Northeast. This collaboration aims to foster a unified approach to public health issues, ensuring that Connecticut remains prepared for any changes stemming from federal guidelines. Furthermore, the administration is researching potential legislative adjustments that may be necessary to uphold stability in public health initiatives, regardless of any shifts in federal government positions.
In summary, Connecticut is taking proactive steps to ensure that all residents have access to COVID-19 vaccines, alongside continuous health insurance coverage and guidance from healthcare professionals. The state's commitment to public health is evident in its coordinated efforts to safeguard the well-being of its citizens.
