CDC data shows people of color less likely to receive Paxlovid, other COVID treatments

People of color with a COVID-19 diagnosis were much less likely to receive Paxlovid and other treatments than white patients, according to new data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) (Source: “CDC data: People of color much less likely to receive Paxlovid, other COVID treatments,” The Hill, Oct. 27).
 
The CDC findings are consistent across all age groups and underscore the persistent disparities surrounding access to COVID-19 treatments, especially the antiviral pill Paxlovid. Paxlovid is the most commonly prescribed medication and the preferred outpatient therapeutic for eligible patients, according to the CDC.
 
During a four-month period from April to July 2022, Paxlovid treatment was 36% lower among Black patients relative to white patients and 30% lower among Hispanic patients relative to non-Hispanic patients, according to the study.