FAQ about Immunization Delivery
Questions and answers about Oregon's Immunization Practice
Q: Which immunizations may I administer?
A: Oregon’s new law does not place any limit on the immunizations that may be administered by a pharmacist. However, at this point the Health Division has approved protocols only for flu, pneumoccal disease, meningitis, T-D, and Hepatitis-B.
Q: Do I need to get authorization from a county health officer or from a patient’s physician?
A: No. Under Oregon’s law, the pharmacist has complete authority to administer the vaccine. However, pharmacists must follow protocols approved by the Oregon Health Division. Furthermore, pharmacists are required to report the administration of a vaccine to a patient’s primary care provider as identified by the patient.
Q: How do I obtain protocols?
A: OSPA will distribute immunization protocols to Oregon pharmacists who are registered as having a current immunization certificate.
Q: Can I administer vaccines to children?
A: No. The patient must be 18 years of age.
Q: What information am I required to provide to a patient about their immunizations?
A: Federal law, and the Oregon rules, require you to provide and explain current Vaccine Information Statements to patients before administering any immunization. These statements explain both the benefits and risks of a vaccine. They are also available from the Oregon Health Division.
Q: What records am I required to keep?
A: All of the required information is included on a reporting and record form jointly developed by the Health Division and OSPA. In addition, you will be required to report demographic data on immunized patients to the Board of Pharmacy, on a form to be developed by the Board.
Q: Can any pharmacist perform immunizations?
A: Only those who have received special training approved by the Health Division and the Board of Pharmacy may administer immunizations. At this point, only the certificate program offered jointly by OSPA and the American Pharmaceutical Association is approved in Oregon. Pharmacists also must hold a current, basic CPR certificate from either the American Red Cross or the American Heart Association.
Q: How can I get certified to deliver immunizations?
A: OSPA offers training programs as demand warrants. If you wish to become an immunization provider, please contact the OSPA office.
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