HARRISBURG, Pa. - The Pennsylvania State Board of Pharmacy voted Wednesday to restore access to COVID-19 vaccines in the commonwealth. The decision allows pharmacists to again administer COVID vaccines without a prescription, a practice that had been disrupted by recent changes in federal guidelines.

The board’s vote allows Pennsylvania pharmacists to follow vaccine recommendations from health authorities like the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Academy of Family Physicians, and the Food and Drug Administration. This change bypasses the need to wait for action from the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, an approach that caused delays and uncertainty.

The recent federal guidance, issued by the Trump administration, prompted major pharmacies, including CVS, to stop offering COVID-19 vaccines to many residents. Previously, pharmacies served as an option for some people, including seniors. The new rules required prescriptions for COVID vaccines, a departure from the prior system.

Governor Josh Shapiro’s office said the board’s vote aligns Pennsylvania with neighboring states and provides clarity for both pharmacies and patients.

Victoria E. Elliott, CEO of the Pennsylvania Pharmacists Association, said the decision removes potential barriers to vaccine access. She said pharmacists are now in a position to serve patients who rely on the convenience of pharmacy-based vaccines.

Heather Beauparlant, president of the Pennsylvania Academy of Family Physicians, said the move expands options for patients and empowers them to make informed health care decisions.

“With COVID and flu season upon us, the board’s decision puts patients first by allowing them to make the healthiest choices for themselves, their families, and communities,” Beauparlant said.

Sid Tenneti, a senior vice president at CVS Health, said the company will ensure COVID-19 vaccinations are available as soon as possible at its locations across Pennsylvania. He said appointments can be scheduled online or people can walk into the pharmacies.