The Medical Association of the State of Alabama is voicing “strong concerns” over a federal plan to cut the state’s allocation of monoclonal antibodies, a key tool used in the fight against COVID.
“Alabama’s hospitals are full and under tremendous stress. That’s why physicians are very concerned about federal efforts that will end up limiting our supply and access to this effective treatment,” said Dr. Aruna Arora, President of the Medical Association. “We’re calling on the federal government to help us provide more of this treatment – not less – so we can save lives and keep COVID patients out of the hospital.”
State health officials announced last week the U.S. Department of Health and Human Service was halting treatment expansion plans and imposing limitations on the state’s allocation of monoclonal antibodies. While the limitations are expected to be temporary, the cuts will impact some 228 providers, including 142 non-hospital locations and doctor’s offices that administer the treatments.
Dr. Arora said many patients who receive monoclonal antibody treatments report feeling better within 24 to 49 hours but stressed they are not a replacement for vaccination.
“The best way people can avoid COVID-19 and hospitalization is to get vaccinated. Monoclonal antibody treatment is not a substitute for COVID vaccinations. However, if someone does test positive for COVID-19, they should immediately talk to a physician and see if they qualify for monoclonal antibody treatment. It can be a life-saver if given in the first 10 days of symptoms,” Dr. Arora said.
Healthcare providers review criteria
The Alabama Department of Public Health said healthcare providers have been asked to review criteria for administering the treatment based on the patient’s risk of progression to severe COVID-19 disease.
ADPH said post-exposure treatments should be considered for people who are exposed and are:
- At high risk for developing severe COVID-19
- 12 years of age or older and weigh at least 88 pounds
- Not fully vaccinated or vaccinated but immunocompromised or on immunosuppressive treatment
Treatment should be given within 10 days after close contact with a positive case to patients who then test positive themselves.