How pharmacists can help you stay up to date on immunizations and vaccines - New Day NW
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Published 2024-04-17
This includes the current COVID-19 vaccine, which is recommended for those ages 65 and older and those who are immunocompromised, with guidance from a doctor.
“We also offer all travel immunizations,” said Layla Yousify, PharmD, division manager of patient care services, Safeway Albertsons. “Anybody that’s traveling to any other country outside of the United States, they can come to our pharmacy and we will direct them to our travel health website.”
Based on the information you provide, the travel health website and a pharmacist will give you personalized recommendations for immunizations and any medications.
Pharmacists at Safeway Albertsons can also administer certain specialty medication injections.
“A lot of our pharmacies are certified and trained to administer medications that can be used for mood disorders, so long-acting antipsychotics, as well as medications that can be used for alcohol or opioid overuse or disorders,” said Dr. Belma Babic, patient care pharmacist, Safeway Albertsons.
PrEP is also available at Lakewood and Federal Way Safeway locations. PrEP is pre-exposureprophylaxis, a daily pill taken to lower your chances of getting infected with HIV.
“Our goal is to protect patients that are at an increased risk of HIV,” Babic said.
Those seeking PrEP will consult with a pharmacist to discuss if the prevention drug is right for them. Follow-up counseling and testing after receiving PrEP are also provided. No appointment is necessary to get started with a consultation or to get vaccinations.
“I think the most important thing that I want people to know for our company is that they can walk in any time of the day and get a vaccination,” Yousify said.
You can also make an appointment online if you prefer, and private rooms are available for consultations and to get personalized answers to questions.
“I think people should know that the knowledge and education we have and with the accessibility our pharmacists have, that could be super beneficial to them, so please come and ask our pharmacists any questions you have,” Yousify said.
To learn more and schedule an appointment, visit the Safeway Albertsons website.
Sponsored by Safeway Albertsons.
Segment Producer Suzie Wiley. Watch New Day Northwest at 11 a.m. weekdays on KING 5 and streaming live on KING5.com. Contact New Day.