Week in Review: Older Adults Have Unique Challenges, Needs During COVID-19 Pandemic

Top news of the week from Pharmacy Times surrounding the novel coronavirus.

5. Federal Guidance Allowing Pharmacists to Provide COVID-19 Testing Applauded by Health Care Leaders

US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Alex Azar released a statement on how the authorization for pharmacists will mean easier access for patients who need COVID-19 testing. Read more.

4. Addressing COVID-19 in Rural, Community Pharmacies

Our chief pharmacy editor, Troy Trygstad, PharmD, MBA, PhD, discusses various challenges and opportunities for pharmacists in rural areas during the COVID-19 pandemic. Read more.

3. FDA Eases Restrictions on Blood Donations by Men Who Have Sex with Men

FDA updates guidelines after man who recently recovered from COVID-19 was told that he could not donate blood for 12 months because he takes Truvada as a pre-exposure prophylaxis treatment. Read more.

2. School Closures’ Impact on Health Care Workforce May Affect COVID-19 Mortality

School closures during the COVID-19 epidemic raises unique challenges regarding the benefits weighed against the costs of resulting health care worker absenteeism. Read more.

1. Older Adults Have Unique Challenges, Needs During COVID-19 Pandemic

In addition to differing symptom presentations and health challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, caretakers and medical professionals should be aware of older adults’ mental and emotional health. Read more.