Health plan members who use pharmacy benefit manager Express Scripts will be able to access their COVID-19 vaccination record in the Express Scripts app if they received their shot at a retail pharmacy.

Members can also show a scannable QR code as proof of vaccination if they choose.

"We are committed to putting our members in control of their personal health information. As proof of vaccination becomes essential for safe travel, dining, work and school, our Express Scripts app will offer our members a simple, secure digital option for storing and showing their vaccination credential when needed," said Dr. Glen Stettin, chief innovation officer at Evernorth, Express Scripts’ parent company. 

"Pharmacies are a convenient option for getting a COVID vaccine. Our members who choose to get vaccinated at a pharmacy will have access to their vaccination record in the Express Scripts app, automatically – no extra steps required. No more worrying about having to carry, or losing, their vaccination card."

WHY IT MATTERS

Nearly 55% of the eligible U.S. population is fully vaccinated, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s COVID-19 data tracker. 

Earlier this month, President Joe Biden announced rules that mandate all employers with 100 or more workers require them to be vaccinated or tested weekly. Healthcare workers at facilities that receive Medicare or Medicaid funding have to be fully vaccinated, and all federal workers and contractors must get vaccinated as well.

“We’ve been patient, but our patience is wearing thin,” Biden said at a press briefing announcing the mandate. “And your refusal has cost all of us.”

He also urged large entertainment venues, like arenas, venues and movie theaters, to require vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test to enter. California now requires proof of vaccination or a negative test to attend large indoor events under a rule that went into effect this week.

THE LARGER TREND

More companies and governments are offering digital solutions to verifying vaccination status. In August, restaurant reservation app OpenTable partnered with biometric ID company CLEAR to help restaurants screen for vaccinated customers. 

In July, Google rolled out support for a digital COVID-19 card that can display test and vaccination information. 

England launched a digital vaccine passport in its NHS app in May, and the European Union’s Digital COVID Certificate launched July 1.