CMS is increasing the payment amount to providers administering the COVID-19 vaccine. The national average payment per dose is now $40, and varies based on provider type and geographic location. This is an increase of $12 per dose on average. Higher payment rates will encourage more providers to administer more doses in an effort to vaccinate the nation quickly.

The FDA issued emergency use authorization to Cue Health Inc. for its at-home, over-the-counter COVID-19 diagnostic test. This test can be purchased without a prescription and can be used whether the person is experiencing symptoms or not. Tests require a mobile app and Cue Cartridge Reader, and results are available in 20 minutes.

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has issued guidance on coverage and reimbursement for COVID-19 testing and vaccination. It states that the CARES Act requires plans and issuers to reimburse in an amount that equals the plan’s negotiated rate or the cash rate for the service. This applies to pharmacists that are providing COVID-19 tests and vaccines within the scope of their license and authorization. Source: National Community Pharmacists Association

The FDA has issued an emergency use authorization (EUA) for the Janssen COVID-19 vaccine, a pharmaceutical company of Johnson & Johnson. This vaccine differs from the Moderna and Pfizer vaccines because it is a single dose shot. While its effectiveness rates are slightly lower than the other 2 existing vaccines, the FDA has found it to be a safe and effective option for vaccinating the public against COVID-19. This EUA will help expand vaccine availability and distribution across the country.