Pharmacists defend vaccinations in pharmacies as scientifically and legally valid
Pharmacists' associations in the Eastern Macedonia and Thrace region have responded to criticism from regional medical associations, emphasizing that vaccinations carried out in pharmacies are supported by both scientific standards and existing legislation.
In a joint statement, the associations highlighted the longstanding role of pharmacies within Greece’s primary healthcare system and stressed that pharmacists possess the academic training and professional certification required to safely administer vaccines.
They noted that legislative changes adopted in 2024 expanded the range of vaccines that can be administered in pharmacies, bringing Greece in line with practices already implemented in many European countries. The pharmacists also referred to previous legal challenges against pharmacy-based vaccinations that were ultimately rejected by the courts.
According to the associations, the administration of vaccines by pharmacists does not replace the role of physicians but rather complements the broader healthcare system by improving public access to preventive care. They argued that cooperation among healthcare professionals remains essential for protecting public health and increasing vaccination coverage.
