As the coronavirus continues to spread at high rates across the United States and updated vaccines hit the market, a federal program providing free COVID-19 shots to uninsured individuals has come to an abrupt end. The Bridge Access Program, funded by the federal government, had been a lifeline for over 1.4 million uninsured individuals since September 2023. Unfortunately, due to funding cuts, the program closed last month.
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Now, an estimated 25 to 30 million uninsured individuals will have to pay out-of-pocket for the COVID-19 vaccine, which could cost up to $200 compared to last year’s price of $115. This sudden change means that a person’s financial situation could determine their ability to access crucial healthcare services, a troubling reality highlighted by Raynard Washington, who leads the Mecklenburg County health department in North Carolina.
Fortunately, those covered by Medicaid, Medicare, and most private insurance plans can still receive the new vaccine for free. Children 18 and younger can also access free COVID vaccines through the federal Vaccines for Children program.
With updated COVID vaccines targeting current virus variants now available, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that everyone 6 months and older get vaccinated to guard against infection, hospitalization, and death. Although infection rates have surged in recent months, hospitalizations and deaths related to COVID have remained relatively low, according to the CDC.
The Philadelphia Department of Public Health noticed an increase in positive COVID tests, emergency department visits, and COVID-related hospitalizations over the summer, but fortunately, no significant rise in COVID-related deaths.