Walgreens and HHS flu shot voucher initiative to deliver $15 million in vaccinations
DEERFIELD, Ill. – Walgreens is providing up to $15 million worth of free flu shot vouchers through its collaboration with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, in an effort to improve immunization rates among uninsured and underinsured Americans, the company announced Friday. Now in its fifth year, the voucher initiative has been instrumental in helping to protect more people from the flu each season, with Walgreens providing more than $40 million worth of vouchers since 2010.
“We’re proud to continue to grow our collaboration with HHS and to be working together to meet the health care needs of the communities we serve,” stated Richard Ashworth, Walgreens president of pharmacy and retail operations. “We know that cost can be a barrier for some people when it comes to vaccinations and other preventive care. And by providing access to flu shots at no cost for those who are eligible, we can make a significant impact by protecting more people throughout the flu season.”
“Since 2010, more than half a million individuals have received free flu shots and vouchers through this innovative partnership,” commented Nadine Gracia, deputy assistant secretary for minority health and director of the HHS Office of Minority Health. “In the face of persistent disparities in influenza vaccination coverage – especially among adults – this initiative reflects our ongoing commitment to expanding access to important preventive services for our most vulnerable and underserved communities.”
The Department of Health and Human Services is again assisting in the voucher distribution effort in communities across the U.S., and Walgreens is also currently distributing vouchers through a variety of outreach efforts, local events and community and faith-based organizations.
Each voucher is good for one flu shot at any Walgreens pharmacy in the U.S. and Puerto Rico, Duane Reade pharmacies in New York and Walgreens Healthcare Clinic locations, and is subject to the terms and conditions on the voucher.