
Insurance Coverage for COVID-19 Vaccines Extended Through 2026
Drugstores are prepared to deliver updated COVID-19 vaccines this fall, with insurers planning to cover the costs despite the vaccines no longer being specifically recommended by a key government advisory committee. Coverage is expected through various programs including Medicaid, CHIP, and private insurance, with most major insurers continuing to cover the vaccine at no cost through 2026. Vaccinations are widely available at pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens, and eligibility now includes all individuals aged 6 months and older, with recent FDA approval for those 65 and older and high-risk groups. Patients are encouraged to check with their insurers and healthcare providers about coverage and eligibility.