RST: Should pharmacists give child immunizations?
What to look for on Radio Smart Talk Monday, July 29, 2013:
The bill will make vaccines more accessible to families who made have barriers to them getting fully immunized.
Vaccinations for preventable diseases like the flu, tetanus and hepatitis may soon be available to kids at your local pharmacy. A group of Pennsylvania state legislators led by Rep. Seth Grove of York County and Sen. Ted Erickson of Delaware County are backingHouse Bill 776. If passed, the legislation would allow pharmacists to vaccinate patients over age seven with parental consent. Currently, Pennsylvania law limits pharmacist-administered vaccines to those 18 years of age or older.
Pharmacists, school administrators and health policy specialist support the bill stating it will make vaccines more accessible to families who made have barriers to them getting fully immunized. They also say it’s a move that fosters greater collaboration between doctors and pharmacists.
But some doctors have concerns. Those against the bill question safety, specifically when it comes to pharmacists administering hepatitis and meningitis immunizations. They’re also concerned about the possibility of physicians receiving urgent calls from parents regarding delayed reactions to immunizations that the physician did not even know had been administered.
Listen to the program:
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On the program to discuss these issues and more areCharles C. Kray, R.Ph. and President ofHershey CKC Pharmacy/HersheyCare. And joining us on the phone isDr. Richard Shott,President of thePennsylvania Medical Societyand a cardiologist in Delaware County.
Click here for Prevention Guidelines on immunizations and screenings listed by age and gender.
Tell us: Should pharmacists give child immunizations? Share your thoughts in a comment below.
Charles C. Kray
In the second half of the program…
Route 30, also known as the Lincoln Highway, was the nation’s first coast-to-coast highway stretching from New York City to San Francisco. Built in 1913 this charming stretch of roadway is dotted with vintage sights and sounds. From the Shoe House in York to the Coffee Pot in Bedford…Route 30 winds its way through Pennsylvania creating a unique roadside museum filled with hidden treasures.
On Tuesday, July 30that 8p onwitfTV celebrate the historic roadway’s 100th anniversary with the documentaryA Ride Along The Lincoln Highway. Hitch a ride with WQED’s Rick Sebak as he takes an in-depth look at the nation’s first transcontinental highway.
Joining us is Producer/NarratorRick SebakandMindy Crawford, President ofPreservation Pennsylvania.
