Nov 13, 2020

Arlington, VA - FMI – The Food Industry Association shares its pleasure that the federal government recognizes supermarket pharmacists - nationally and regionally - as essential partners in increasing future access to the COVID-19 vaccines. Leslie G. Sarasin, president and chief executive officer of FMI, offered comment in response to yesterday’s announcement by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) regarding the administration’s plan to distribute and administer coronavirus vaccines through pharmacies, including those of supermarket companies:

“Supermarket pharmacists stand ready to be part of the COVID-19 vaccination effort. FMI’s member companies operate roughly 12,000 supermarket pharmacies nationwide, with pharmacists providing in-depth patient counseling and comprehensive immunization services. Moreover, the ability for consumers to receive a COVID-19 vaccination at the same location where they already purchase food and other essentials not only makes vaccine access more convenient, but it also makes it safer and reduces the risk of exposure in the midst of a pandemic. Finally, already being such trusted health care providers to their customers, supermarket pharmacists can play a key role in addressing patient concerns and highlighting the importance of getting vaccinated. 

“It is vital for supermarket pharmacies to be part of the solution. We look forward to working with HHS to ensure that supermarket pharmacies play a significant role in the country’s COVID-19 vaccination effort.”