State House Report on Flu Shot on the Mark, says Pennsylvania Medical Society
For the past two years, Pennsylvania patients and physicians have dealt with problems associated with the influenza vaccine. First, there was a shortage, followed by distribution problems. In a nutshell, many doctor offices went without appropriate supplies, leaving some patients without a vaccine.
As a result, the Pennsylvania House of Representatives formed a special committee to investigate the situation. The committee was led by Matthew E. Baker (R–Bradford/Tioga) and Peter J. Daley, II (D–Fayette/Washington). Thirteen other House members also sat on the committee. All should be applauded for their efforts.
On several occasions, the committee invited the Pennsylvania Medical Society to testify on behalf of doctors and their patients. During these hearings, the Medical Society stressed that supplies first must reach those most vulnerable to influenza infection and complications. The Medical Society also made several other suggestions to address price gouging and ways for the state to get involved, such as using its purchasing power to create a reserve supply.
When the committee’s report was issued, the Pennsylvania Medical Society was happy to see its recommendations included along with many other good suggestions.
As we enter this flu season, there are no signs that Pennsylvania will face a flu vaccine shortage this year. So, hopefully, after two years of worries, our patients should receive the care they need. However, it makes perfect sense for the committee’s recommendations to be put into motion for future use. As we all know, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.
Last Updated: 10/5/2007