FMI – The Food Industry Association expresses support as the federal government recognizes supermarket pharmacists – nationally and regionally – as essential partners in increasing future access to the COVID-19 vaccines.
“Supermarket pharmacists stand ready to be part of the COVID-19 vaccination effort. FMI’s member companies operate roughly 12,000 supermarket pharmacies nationwide, with pharmacists providing in-depth patient counseling and comprehensive immunization services,” said Leslie G. Sarasin, president and CEO. “Moreover, the ability for consumers to receive a COVID-19 vaccination at the same location where they already purchase food and other essentials not only makes vaccine access more convenient, but it also makes it safer and reduces the risk of exposure in the midst of a pandemic. Finally, already being such trusted health care providers to their customers, supermarket pharmacists can play a key role in addressing patient concerns and highlighting the importance of getting vaccinated.
“It is vital for supermarket pharmacies to be part of the solution. We look forward to working with HHS to ensure that supermarket pharmacies play a significant role in the country’s COVID-19 vaccination effort,” Sarasin said.
As the food industry association, FMI works with and on behalf of the entire industry to advance a safer, healthier and more efficient consumer food supply chain. FMI brings together a wide range of members across the value chain – from retailers that sell to consumers, to producers that supply food and other products, as well as the wide variety of companies providing critical services – to amplify the collective work of the industry.
