|
Bridge Access Program COVID-19 Vaccine Now Exempt from Vaccine Replacement Policy
Since the Bridge Access Program (BAP) started in early September, we have distributed significantly fewer doses than anticipated. We recognize that a major factor in the lower uptake of COVID-19 vaccine may stem from concerns with wastage.
To mitigate these concerns and increase COVID-19 vaccination rates among our under-and uninsured adult population, we are now considering any COVID-19 vaccine acquired through the Maine Immunization Program's (MIP) Bridge Access Program exempt from our Vaccine Replacement Policy.
Enrollment and Reimbursement
As a reminder to all MIP enrolled provider - enrollment into the BAP is open to all providers. BAP providers are required to provide BAP COVID-19 vaccines to eligible patients (under-and uninsured adults, 19 years and older) at no cost which includes administration fees. However, MIP does have a program to reimburse BAP providers for administration fees at a rate of $50 per vaccination.
If your site is interested in enrolling as a BAP provider and/or in receiving reimbursement for Bridge Access Program COVID-19 vaccine administration costs, you will need to fill out an enrollment packet (attached below).
The following documents within the enrollment packet should be returned to: MEAdultVaccine@maine.gov.
*Vendor forms are only required for providers that wish to receive reimbursement for administration fees.
Once fully enrolled, participating providers will have access to order COVID-19 vaccine through MIP at no charge. Providers will email MEAdultVaccine@maine.gov, by the first Wednesday of each month, to request needed BAP vaccine for the upcoming month and MIP staff will place an order on the provider’s behalf.
To receive reimbursement for administrative costs, providers will report administration data and invoice to MIP staff on a quarterly basis. The state will then issue a reimbursement of $50 per administered dose of COVID-19 vaccine. This process will continue until funds are depleted or December 2024, whichever comes first.
BAP Reimbursement Forms
Providers currently enrolled in the Bridge Access Program will be receiving individual communication shortly with a timeline for when documents must be returned for reimbursement.
Providers are NOT required to fill out enrollment paperwork IF they are not interested in reimbursement for administration. Providers may order the BAP COVID-19 vaccine and administer as they would with any other 317 adult vaccine, but they may not charge the patient for an administration fee.
We thank you for all you have done and continue to do to ensure that all Mainers have access to COVID-19 vaccine.
Should you have any questions, please contact us at (207) 287-3746 or email: ImmunizeME.DHHS@maine.gov. For questions specific to the BAP and enrollment, please email: MEAdultVaccine@maine.gov.
|
