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Why a Government Pneumonia Vaccine Decision May Lead to More Pneumonia
June 26, the day when the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) holds its next meeting. Why is that important? By the end of that day, the committee may take a vote which could lead to a more expensive pneumonia vaccine and to more older adults contracting pneumonia.
If the ACIP votes against Medicare coverage of the PCV-13 pneumonia vaccine, the next step could be a CMS ruling saying Medicare Part B would no longer cover it. Then, older adults would be given a choice — either pay for the vaccine out of pocket (as much as $200 per dose) or not to get it at all. This could also mean the end of private insurance coverage for the vaccine, especially if doctors stop discussing it as an option with their patients.
A reversal by ACIP would pose a clear and direct threat to older adult health. Recent CDC data indicated that there are more than 48,000 deaths and 257,000 emergency room visits each year from pneumonia.
June 26, the day when the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) holds its next meeting. Why is that important? By the end of that day, the committee may take a vote which could lead to a more expensive pneumonia vaccine and to more older adults contracting pneumonia.
If the ACIP votes against Medicare coverage of the PCV-13 pneumonia vaccine, the next step could be a CMS ruling saying Medicare Part B would no longer cover it. Then, older adults would be given a choice — either pay for the vaccine out of pocket (as much as $200 per dose) or not to get it at all. This could also mean the end of private insurance coverage for the vaccine, especially if doctors stop discussing it as an option with their patients.
A reversal by ACIP would pose a clear and direct threat to older adult health. Recent CDC data indicated that there are more than 48,000 deaths and 257,000 emergency room visits each year from pneumonia.
