Insufficient Paxlovid Distribution in Nursing Homes Leaves COVID Patients at Risk

A study analyzing prescribing data from nursing homes revealed that a low percentage of elderly residents with COVID-19 received antiviral treatments, including the highly effective Paxlovid pill from Pfizer. Only about 25% of residents were prescribed any antiviral medication between May 2021 and December 2022, despite Paxlovid being widely available. The underuse of Paxlovid in nursing homes likely resulted in avoidable mortality. Challenges with supply, prescribing guidance, and clinician familiarity with antiviral treatments may have contributed to the low usage. Facilities with geriatricians and non-profit organizations performed better in administering antivirals, while Medicaid recipients and non-White residents received the drugs at lower rates.