APhA alarmed by elimination of ACIP voting membership

, /PRNewswire/ -- Vaccines save lives and are the best defense against many diseases. Pharmacists and the public rely upon the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) for scientifically backed recommendations and information to support balancing their health risk with choice. The American Pharmacists Association (APhA) supports those scientists and researchers who dedicate their careers to critically evaluating and analyzing data to recommend evidence-based vaccines that protect the public. APhA is deeply troubled that the United States Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) Secretary unilaterally removed all 17 ACIP voting members without following formal protocols. This move continues a pattern of unscientific decisions and has dire consequences for objective non-partisan representation on ACIP. APhA strongly urges that the voting membership of ACIP be comprised of scientists, researchers, and clinicians—including pharmacists—who possess the clinical and scientific acumen to provide evidence-based recommendations for vaccines, in a non-partisan manner.

APhA recognizes there is risk and choice when it comes to any medication, including vaccines. Pharmacists consistently work with patients to balance their individual health conditions and risks with choice of therapy, whether it be medications or immunizations. As such, pharmacists are best positioned to have these conversations with their patients. We recognize that the risk and choice of medications and vaccines must be founded on rigorous, peer-reviewed science and driven by empirical evidence. It is highly concerning that removing 17 scientists overnight eliminates the historical knowledge, scientific training, and clinical expertise required to equip pharmacists and the public to make appropriate choices for health based upon the risk.

SOURCE American Pharmacists Association