Florida Governor Greatly Expands Who Can Get COVID Vaccinations

LABELLE, FL. -- Today, Governor Ron DeSantis issued Executive Order 21-47 which expands COVID-19 vaccination in Florida to include the following: 

 During this first phase of vaccine administration, all providers administering any COVID-19 vaccine shall only vaccinate the following populations: 

 Long-term care facility residents and staff; 

Persons 65 years of age and older; Health care personnel with direct patient contact; 

K-12 school employees 50 years of age and older; 

Sworn law enforcement officers 50 years of age and older; and Firefighters 50 years of age and older. 

 In addition to hospital providers, physicians licensed under chapters 458 and 459, Florida Statutes, may also vaccinate persons whom they deem to be extremely vulnerable to COVID-19. 

Advanced practice registered nurses under chapter 464, Florida Statutes, and pharmacists licensed under chapter 465, Florida Statutes, may vaccinate persons determined by a physician to be extremely vulnerable to COVID-19. 

Such physician determinations shall include a statement that the patient meets the defined eligibility criteria established by a form prescribed by the Florida Department of Health. 

Editor's Note: It appears that because of the current shortage of vaccine, exceeding the supply, this new order may further complicate and confuse the public, who may now be waiting even longer to get the vaccine.