Governor Kathy Hochul has announced new measures aimed at protecting access to vaccines in New York State. The New York State Department of Financial Services (DFS) is releasing guidance that encourages insurers to continue covering all vaccines recommended by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP). ACIP provides recommendations for vaccine use to control diseases in the United States, and insurers generally base their coverage decisions on these guidelines.
The DFS guidance also reminds insurers about previous requirements to cover COVID-19 vaccines for children. Additionally, it urges insurers to encourage employers and other organizations with self-funded health care plans to maintain vaccine coverage. This action follows an executive order from Governor Hochul that allows pharmacists to administer COVID-19 vaccines, supporting access to the updated 2025-26 COVID shot.
Governor Hochul stated, “New Yorkers deserve to have the resources available to get vaccinated if they choose to, and Republicans in Washington should not be able to take that from them. Vaccines not only prevent people from getting sick — they can save lives and prevent the spread of infectious diseases, especially as we approach our colder seasons and our children are back in schools.”
Adrienne A. Harris, Superintendent of Financial Services for New York State, said, “Public health experts have been clear that vaccines are an essential tool in combating the spread of infectious diseases and lowering the cost of health care. The cost of a vaccine should not be a barrier to this critical care. DFS strongly encourages insurers to continue to provide comprehensive vaccine coverage for all New Yorkers.”
Dr. James McDonald, Health Commissioner for New York State, added, “In 2024, we lost 2,775 New Yorkers related to COVID, that is enough to fill 7 jumbo jets. Vaccines are the best protection from serious illness and hospitalization. I want to thank Governor Hochul for her leadership in taking swift action to ensure that vaccines remain accessible and affordable for families across our state. By safeguarding coverage and availability, we can prevent illness, save lives and keep our communities healthy as we head into the colder months.”
New York is participating in a regional public health partnership with other Northeast states focused on vaccination strategies, disease surveillance efforts, emergency preparedness planning, and sharing laboratory resources among state public health agencies.
For more information about the guidance issued by DFS: Read DFS’s Guidance Letter to New York’s insurance industry.
