(WWJ) Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has expanded access to COVID-19 vaccines in Michigan.
Nationally, the new COVID shots are approved for all seniors. However, the FDA narrowed their use for younger adults and children to those with at least one high-risk health condition, such as asthma or obesity.
In an executive directive issued Wednesday, Whitmer instructs state agencies to ensure that the COVID-19 vaccinations are available to all Michiganders, and that they're covered by health insurance whenever possible.
Specifically, the governor's office said state departments are instructed to do the following:
- Issue clear, accessible guidance to pharmacists, providers, and the public about the safety and efficacy of the COVID-19 vaccine.
- Issue guidance instructing pharmacists and providers to encourage prescribing and administering COVID-19 vaccines to patients.
- Identify, review, and remove barriers to vaccine access to ensure COVID-19 vaccines remain widely available in Michigan.
- Ensuring to the extent possible that all health insurance plans under MDHHS and DIFS regulatory authority - including Medicaid and insurance plans in the individual, small group, and large group markets - cover COVID-19 vaccines.
“Cold, flu, and COVID-19 season are upon us. We all have a role to play in keeping our communities safe and healthy,” said Whitmer, in a statement, “Today’s executive directive ensures Michiganders can get the COVID-19 vaccine. According to medical experts, vaccines remain the most effective way to stay healthy. I’m committed to providing Michiganders with the best options for their families. Let’s keep working together to protect our families and ourselves.”
Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, Michigan's Chief Medical Executive, said it's incredibly important for Michiganders to get vaccinated this cold, flu and COVID-19 season.
“Protecting ourselves from cold, flu, and COVID-19 also protects our loved ones, our hospitals, health care workers, and so many more. With this executive directive, we’re connecting Michiganders with trusted resources from medical experts and helping more families get the safe and effective flu and COVID-19 vaccines. We encourage Michiganders to speak with their healthcare providers as they prepare for this season. Let’s do our part to stay healthy and keep Michigan strong.”
Bagdasarian noted that the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, the American Academy of Family Physicians have all made evidence-based recommendations that make clear that vaccination remains a safe and effective means for protecting against COVID infection. These recommendations are consistent with prior guidance and reflect the scientific consensus regarding the safety and benefits of immunization.
Research conducted by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services supports these conclusions. According to their study, the 2023–2024 vaccine reduced the risk of COVID-19-associated emergency room and urgent care visits by 65-70% for children in the first two months after vaccination.
To view the full executive directive, click here.