Medicaid covered the first COVID shots and booster for Twana Bannister’s grandsons. However, when she took them to a CVS in Knightdale for their latest shot, she was informed that Medicaid was no longer providing coverage.
“When we got to CVS, they turned us away and said that they were denied by insurance, and if I wanted to get them vaccinated, I would have to pay $190.99 each,” Bannister said.
Bannister said both boys have Medicaid coverage. They are 6 and 9 years old.
“They said it was covered then but North Carolina is no longer paying for it and something about them having to be 19 and older,” Bannister said.
Bannister expressed concern after hearing reports about the rise in hospitalizations of kids due to respiratory viruses.
“The CDC was on there, and they were saying something about get your kids the COVID shots, get them the flu shots,” Bannister said.
CVS and the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services were contacted for information about COVID vaccine costs and coverage. CVS stated that they follow NCDHHS guidelines for vaccine administration and billing, while NCDHHS clarified that children with Medicaid can receive the latest COVID-19 vaccine for free at local health departments.
However, pharmacies are not currently providers in the Vaccines for Children Program, according to NCDHHS.
Bannister emphasized the importance of keeping her grandkids safe and healthy, especially with the kids being back in school and around other children.
