As the fall and winter seasons approach, updated COVID-19 vaccines are set to roll out. However, millions of Americans may face a significant challenge: the cost of the vaccine.
With the end of the federal Bridge Access Program, uninsured adults will now have to pay out of pocket, with costs potentially reaching up to $200 per dose.
End of the Bridge Access Program
The CDC’s Bridge Access Program, which provided free COVID-19 vaccines to uninsured adults, officially ended last month due to federal funding cuts.
This program, which began in September 2023, provided over 1.4 million free vaccines but is no longer available just as updated vaccines hit the market.
Uninsured Americans Face Financial Burden
Approximately 25 to 30 million uninsured adults are now required to pay for the updated COVID-19 vaccine.
Dr. Raynard Washington, public health director of Mecklenburg County, warns, “We are reverting back to a system where a person’s financial ability will determine their ability to be healthy.” The impact on public health could be severe.
Rising Vaccine Costs
Last year, Pfizer and Moderna vaccines were priced between $110 and $130 per dose. With the program’s end, experts anticipate costs could rise as high as $200 this year.
For many uninsured Americans, this presents a financial hurdle that could deter them from getting vaccinated.
Local Health Departments Struggling to Cope
Local health departments are facing a tough challenge. In Mecklenburg County, North Carolina, there are around 100,000 uninsured adults, but not enough resources to buy adequate vaccines.
“Even if 10% of those adults wanted a vaccine, it would cost several hundred thousand dollars,” Washington explained.
CDC’s $62 Million Allocation
The CDC has allocated $62 million from unused vaccine contract funds to help states purchase vaccines for uninsured and underinsured adults.
However, experts like Dr. Rebecca Weintraub emphasize that this amount is insufficient to cover the vaccine demand, given the financial strain on state and local health departments post-pandemic.
Experts Call for a Vaccine for Adults Program
Experts suggest the need for a federally funded Vaccine for Adults Program, similar to the Vaccines for Children Program.
Such a program would provide a sustainable solution to ensure low-income or uninsured residents can access vaccines without financial barriers.
Public Health Impact of Unaffordable Vaccines
With COVID-19 rates surging in recent months, the lack of affordable vaccines could lead to increased infections, hospitalizations, and possibly deaths.
Dr. Raynard Washington urges that vaccines are “still the No. 1 best tool we have to keep people safe, healthy, and alive.”
Infection Rates Are On the Rise Again
COVID-19 infection rates have surged across the U.S. over the summer, with a notable uptick in positive tests and hospitalizations in major cities in California and New York.
However, death rates have remained relatively low, possibly due to earlier vaccination efforts. The new vaccines aim to continue this trend, but access is now a concern.
Role of Pharmacies in Vaccine Access
Some experts recommend a pharmacy discount program to help uninsured or low-income individuals afford COVID-19 vaccines.
This approach could supplement state and local efforts and ensure broader access to vaccines across communities.
Encouraging Vaccination Despite Barriers
Despite the financial hurdles, public health officials encourage people to get vaccinated, especially those who are medically vulnerable.
“Consider vaccination when the vaccines are available,” Dr. Washington advises, stressing the importance of protecting against severe illness or hospitalization.
The Future of Vaccine Access
With the end of the Bridge Access Program and rising costs, innovative solutions and federal support are critical to ensure everyone can afford to stay protected against COVID-19.
The push for a Vaccine for Adults Program may be a crucial step forward in achieving this goal.
