May 2023 marks a significant milestone in our fight against COVID-19. The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has announced the end of the federal Public Health Emergency (PHE) for COVID-19, effective from May 11, 2023.
This decision is a testament to the tireless efforts of healthcare professionals, communities, and government agencies. Over the past two years, we’ve seen the largest adult vaccination program in U.S. history, with over 270 million people receiving at least one COVID-19 vaccine dose. Furthermore, more than 15 million courses of lifesaving treatments have been administered, and over 750 million free COVID-19 tests have been distributed. As a result, COVID-19 deaths and hospitalizations have seen a significant decline.
However, the end of the COVID-19 PHE doesn’t mean the end of our vigilance. Our health care system is now better equipped to handle potential surges of COVID-19 cases, and we have the tools necessary to detect and respond to new virus variants. The fight against the virus continues, and access to COVID-19 vaccines, treatments, and tests will remain available, including for those without health insurance.
Importantly, the end of the PHE won’t affect many aspects of the ongoing response to COVID-19. Access to vaccinations and certain treatments will generally remain unaffected. COVID-19 vaccines will continue to be accessible at no cost, with plans in place to ensure a smooth transition for the provision of these as part of the traditional healthcare market in the coming months.
The HHS Bridge Access Program will also maintain access to COVID-19 vaccines and treatments for uninsured Americans, and the FDA’s Emergency Use Authorizations (EUAs) for COVID-19 products won’t be affected by the end of the PHE.
As we look forward, our focus remains on protecting the most vulnerable, including seniors, the immunocompromised, and people with disabilities. The fight continues, as does the commitment to research into new, innovative vaccines and treatments and efforts to better understand and address Long COVID.
As we transition into this new phase, remember to adhere to public health guidelines, get vaccinated if you haven’t, and care for each other. Here’s to a healthier tomorrow.
Stay safe, stay informed, and stay hopeful.
Jonathan Portney
Sometimes we lose sight of this truth.