Aids Help Saxony-Anhalt argues that Mpox vaccination in the state is more cumbersome than in other places. There has been, since July 1, a contract for Mpox vaccination between the statutory health insurance funds and the Saxony-Anhalt Association of Statutory Health Insurance Physicians, but that does not solve the problem.
“In theory there is a rule, but in practice it simply doesn’t work,” said Sven Warminsky, the state director of Aids Help Saxony-Anhalt. “Anyone wanting to get vaccinated is sent on a veritable obstacle course.” The current process requires patients to first obtain a prescription from their primary care practice—with an appointment or long wait times. With this prescription they must then go to a pharmacy, which typically does not have the vaccine in stock. After placing the order, several days usually pass before the vaccine can be picked up. Subsequently, another vaccination appointment at the practice is required. The practice bears the risk if the cold chain during transport has not been continuously maintained, which makes the vaccination medically precarious.”
“This cumbersome procedure not only deters patients,” Warminsky continued. “Especially for a vaccination, you shouldn’t need five appointments and detours. Other states have long shown that it can be done more simply.”
Other states are doing it better
In seven states—including Berlin, Bavaria, and North Rhine-Westphalia—the vaccine is supplied as clinic stock: practices order centrally and vaccinate directly on site, without individual prescriptions, waiting times, or unnecessary risks. Therefore, Aids Help Saxony-Anhalt is urging the statutory health insurance funds to adjust the existing agreement together with the Association of Statutory Health Insurance Physicians and to classify Mpox vaccination as clinic stock.
Mpox (formerly monkeypox) is a viral illness transmitted through close physical contact, such as during sex. Vaccination is recommended for men who have sex with men and frequently change partners. For a basic immunization, two doses are required. Berlin recently reported an uptick in Mpox cases (TheColu.mn reported). (pm/dk)
