APhA Urges CMS to Maximize the Use of Pharmacists to Respond to COVID-19 (November 2)

APhA is working with CMS to maximize the use of pharmacists to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic. APhA continues to emphasize the need for CMS to provide direct reimbursement for COVID-19 testing and all testing-related services provided in all eligible pharmacies.

APhA Urges Congress to Authorize Pharmacists’ COVID Testing and Immunization Services under Medicare in Next Pandemic Bill (July 24)

In a letter delivered on July 24 to Congressional Leadership, APhA requested immediate action to address the growing need to expand COVID-19 testing and immunization services by providing all pharmacists with temporary provider status in Medicare Part B.

APhA Urges CMS to Maximize Use of Pharmacists for Nation’s Public Health Needs During COVID-19 (July 7)

In July 7 comments to CMS, APhA advocated to clarify regulations and remove remaining barriers to ensure all pharmacists and pharmacies, including community pharmacies, can fully implement the recent HHS testing guidance and provide all patients with accessible testing, medications, and patient care services. APhA told CMS that pharmacists need a clear pathway for direct payment, and the same level of payment provided for other health care providers, during COVID-19—and for future public health emergencies. Advocacy Summary.

APhA Urges Admiral Giroir to Advocate for Regulatory Clarity for Payment for COVID Testing Provided by Pharmacists (May 8)

In a letter on May 8 to Admiral Giroir, APhA urged the Administration to provide additional regulatory clarity and for Congress to provide statutory authority recognizing pharmacists as providers of testing services to ensure access for Medicare beneficiaries in all communities across the country.

APhA Urges CMS to Remove Barriers on Pharmacist-Provided COVID-19 Testing and Telehealth Services (June 1)

On June 1, APhA submitted comments urging CMS to remove barriers on pharmacist-provided testing and clarify telehealth flexibility for pharmacist-provided patient care services. HHS and CMS have taken initial actions to increase the participation of pharmacists to increase COVID-19 testing. However, there remains a number of logistical, pharmacist and pharmacy payment (particularly regarding specimen collection), and patient access issues that must be addressed.