The Massachusetts Medical Society is closely monitoring the evolving situation with COVID-19 vaccine guidance. We are concerned that the lack of clear direction at the federal level could have real consequences for demand, uptake, and availability this
fall.
So far, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (ACIP/CDC) have not released recommendations. In the meantime, the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists
and the American Academy of Family Physicians have each issued thoughtful guidance for their patient populations. Understandably, physicians and patients are left with questions and frustration about the absence of one clear national voice.
The MMS recently met leaders at the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH). They are working with regional colleagues to review the best available information. DPH has indicated that despite the delay in federal vaccination guidance from previous
seasons, COVID vaccinations typically do not begin until early fall. Therefore, practices still have time to obtain vaccine supply to protect their patients as the respiratory virus season begins.
That said, the Healey-Driscoll Administration has taken actions to maintain access to vaccines for Massachusetts residents, which were outlined by the Governor in a recent press briefing, here: Governor Healey Announces Immediate Measures for Vaccine Availability
Currently, in Massachusetts, all individuals over six months of age are eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine in MA.
- DPH has issued a standing order allowing for all qualified pharmacy personnel at MA pharmacies to dispense and administer COVID-19 vaccine to all eligible persons per DPH recommendations. The standing order can be found here:
Standing Order for Dispensing and Administration of COVID-19 vaccine: 2025-2026 | Mass.gov
- The Division of Insurance (DOI), in coordination with DPH, has issued a bulletin that outlines the requirement for health plans/insurers to ensure that coverage remains in place for vaccines recommended by DPH regardless of federal action. The bulletin
can be found here: DOI Bulletins | Mass.gov
- On September 4, 2025, the DPH Board of Registration in Pharmacy (BORP) voted on sub-regulatory guidance that permits the DPH Commissioner to determine which routine vaccines can be administered by pharmacists in Massachusetts, instead of limiting
them only to vaccines recommended by ACIP/CDC. The updated guidance can be found here: Pharmacy Practice Resources | Mass.gov
- The 2024/2025 ACIP/CDC Guidance remains in place until further notice. DPH plans to issue updated guidance for the 2025/2026 respiratory illness season by the end of September 2025. Current DPH recommended guidance for vaccines can be found here:
DPH recommended guidance for vaccines | Mass.gov
In the weeks ahead, the Society will continue to partner with DPH and others to ensure our physician community receives timely and practical guidance, including on timing for upcoming guidance from the Department. The MMS knows that questions about eligibility,
boosters, insurance coverage, and liability all matter in day-to-day practice. We hope that some of the above updates will clarify the current federal and state landscapes. The MMS will continue to relay updates and clear direction over the coming
weeks as 2025/2026 guidance is released.
Confusion in this moment only adds to the ongoing challenge of vaccine hesitancy. As physicians, our role in reinforcing the safety and efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines has never been more critical.
"Our focus must remain where it always has — protecting our patients and communities," MMS president Dr. Olivia Liao said. "MMS will continue serving as a trusted source of science-based information and will advocate for you to have what you need in your
practices. I encourage each of us to keep engaging patients with clarity and compassion, dispelling confusion where it arises, and reaffirming the benefits of vaccination."
