CVS Health and Direct Relief announced today that they have partnered to provide $1 million in flu shot vouchers to community health clinic patients in underserved communities who lack health insurance. Nearly 100 participating clinics will identify uninsured individuals from their existing patient populations and provide them with a flu shot voucher that is redeemable at any CVS/pharmacy or Minute Clinic location.
“Cost should not be a barrier to receiving important preventive health care such as a flu vaccination. While most insurance plans fully cover the cost of a flu shot, our partnership with Direct Relief will help ensure that thousands of uninsured patients will have access to a flu shot at CVS/pharmacy or MinuteClinic at no cost to them,” said Papatya Tankut, RPh, Vice President of Pharmacy Affairs at CVS Health.
Direct Relief’s network of more than 1,200 community health centers and clinics nationwide enables CVS Health’s generous contribution to reach people who need help.
“While flu shots offer the best protection against influenza viruses, too many families with low incomes and without insurance are unable to afford the vaccination,” said Damon Taugher, director of U.S. programs at Direct Relief. “Direct Relief is delighted to work with CVS Health to help protect thousands of people who are in tough financial situations access a flu shot at no cost to them this season.”
Community health clinics that received flu shot vouchers are located in the following metropolitan areas:
- Boston, MA
- Chicago, IL
- Dallas, TX
- Detroit, MI
- Houston, TX
- Los Angeles, CA
- Miami, FL
- New York City, NY
- Newark, NJ
- Orlando, FL
- Philadelphia, PA
- Phoenix, AZ
- Tampa, FL
- Trenton, NJ
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that everyone ages six months and older get an annual flu shot. All CVS/pharmacy and all Minute Clinic locations inside select CVS/pharmacy stores can administer flu vaccinations every day with no appointment needed, including evening and weekends.*
About CVS Health
CVS Health (NYSE: CVS) is a pharmacy innovation company helping people on their path to better health. Through our 7,700 retail pharmacies, more than 900 walk-in medical clinics, a leading pharmacy benefits manager with nearly 65 million plan members, and expanding specialty pharmacy services, we enable people, businesses and communities to manage health in more affordable, effective ways. This unique integrated model increases access to quality care, delivers better health outcomes and lowers overall health care costs. Find more information about how CVS Health is shaping the future of health at www.cvshealth.com.
*Certain immunizations have age and location restrictions. Flu shots are available when immunizing pharmacist, Minute Clinic nurse practitioner or physician assistant is on duty, while supplies last.
