Comment on CMS-2026-1256-0002
American Pharmacists AssociationOpposeAdvocacy
Summary: The American Pharmacists Association (APhA) opposes the proposed removal of COVID-19 vaccination reporting measures for healthcare personnel and long-term care residents. They argue that these measures remain aligned with CDC immunization schedules and are necessary to protect patients and healthcare workers from serious illness.
Dear Secretary Kennedy,
The American Pharmacists Association (APhA) appreciates the opportunity to provide HHS comments on the “Medicare Program; Hospital Inpatient Prospective Payment Systems for Acute Care Hospitals (IPPS) and the Long-Term Care Hospital Prospective Payment System and Policy Changes and Fiscal Year (FY) 2027 Rates; Requirements for Quality Programs; and Other Policy Changes” proposed rule.
APhA represents pharmacists, student pharmacists, and pharmacy technicians in all practice settings, including but not limited to community pharmacies, hospitals, long-term care facilities, specialty pharmacies, community health centers, physician offices, ambulatory clinics, managed care organizations, hospice settings, and government facilities. Our members strive to improve medication use, advance patient care, and enhance public health.