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Five Things to Know: Getting Vaccinated at CVS Pharmacy

July 24, 2019 | Pharmacy

Across the country, in nearly 10,000 communities nationwide, our customers turn to their local CVS Pharmacy to help lead them on a path to better health, not only through our prescription services, but our innovative assortment of health-focused products and services as well.

One of those services is vaccinations. Administered in all of our retail locations nationwide by a certified immunizer and by a nurse practitioner at our MinuteClinic locations, our vaccination offerings go well beyond the annual influenza shot. And since no appointment for vaccinations is required, CVS Pharmacy is a convenient and reliable place for customers to get CDC-recommended vaccines when and where they need them.

Here are some things to know before heading to a local CVS Pharmacy for a vaccination.

1. We offer more than just flu shots.

While vaccine availability may vary by state, all of our CVS Pharmacy and MinuteClinic locations offer most of the vaccinations commonly recommended by the CDC, including pneumonia, MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella), meningitis, and Hepatitis A and B.

Additionally, your pharmacist is an excellent resource for information about what vaccinations are appropriate for your age group.

An appointment for a vaccination is not required, but we do recommend that calling the store first to confirm that the vaccination you’re looking for is in stock.

2. Customers of most age groups can receive vaccinations in our stores.

At CVS Pharmacy, vaccinations are available for adolescents, adults and seniors, while at MinuteClinic, children as young as 18 months can receive certain vaccinations. Call your nearest location to talk to the pharmacist about what vaccinations are right for your age group and what’s available at that location.

3. Talk to your Pharmacist or Nurse Practitioner prior to your vaccination.

Before administering your vaccination, the immunizing pharmacist or nurse practitioner will want to know about any medical conditions you might have, any previous reactions to vaccines, and your medication history if you fill your prescriptions at another pharmacy. They will also be able to advise on any side effects that may result from your vaccination.

4. Most vaccinations are covered by prescription insurance.

In many instances, your vaccination will be covered by either your pharmacy benefit manager or your health insurer, depending on your plan and whether you go to a CVS Pharmacy or MinuteClinic for your shot.

If you’re paying out of pocket, your pharmacist can provide pricing information.

5. Your vaccination can be added to your medical record.

Following your vaccination, with your permission, CVS Pharmacy or the MinuteClinic practitioner can notify your primary care physician so that the shot is added to your medical record.

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For more information about vaccinations offered at CVS Pharmacy and MinuteClinic, as well as location-specific availability, visit cvs.com/pharmacy or minuteclinic.com/services.