Legality of Standing Order Programs

Use this information to obtain a more in-depth understanding of the legalities involved with implementing Standing Order Protocols in your practice.

Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)

  • On 10/2/2002, CMS removed the physician signature requirements for influenza and pneumococcal vaccinations from the Conditions of Participation for Medicare and Medicaid participating hospitals, LTCFs, and home health agencies (HHAs) http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm5204a4.htm .
  • SOPs are already allowed in outpatient facilities.​​

Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) of CDC recommends SOPs in both inpatient and outpatient settings.

  • By Congressional authority, ACIP sets US civilian immunization policy.​  ​

States Vary on Details of SOP Implementation