COVID-19 Monoclonal Antibody Therapeutics Can Now Be Requested Directly From the New York State Department of Health

The Department Launches Online Request Form for New York Healthcare Providers to Receive Covid-19 Therapeutics

ALBANY, N.Y. (September 27, 2021) – The New York State Department of Health today announced that healthcare providers can now request supplies of COVID-19 monoclonal antibody (mAb) therapeutics directly from the Department of Health through a new online ordering process.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) transitioned from the direct ordering process for monoclonal antibodies from the distributor, AmerisourceBergen, to a state-coordinated distribution system on September 13 to ensure the consistent availability of these critical therapeutics for patients throughout the nation.

"Ensuring prompt and equitable access to these potentially life-saving therapeutics is another vital tool in our fight against this dangerous virus," Health Commissioner Dr. Howard Zucker said. "While getting vaccinated still provides the best protection against COVID-19, the purpose of these therapeutics is to reduce the severity of symptoms and improve patient outcomes."

HHS will determine each state's weekly amount of monoclonal antibody products based on cases and use on a week-by-week basis. The Department will determine how much product each healthcare provider receives based on the supply allotted to the state from HHS. The Department will inform AmerisourceBergen of each provider's request and how much of the request should be filled. In addition to healthcare providers requesting monoclonal antibody therapeutics through the Department, updated guidance and informationaboutthe use of these therapeutics will also bepubliclyavailable at the new website.

The affected therapeutics are:

  • Bamlanivimab/etesevimab
  • Etesevimab (to pair with bamlanivimab already on hand)
  • Casirivimab/imdevimab

In high-risk COVID-19 positive patients, monoclonal antibodies decrease the risk of hospitalization and death. The therapeutics are currently delivered by IV infusion or subcutaneous injection to help fight infection by binding to the virus, preventing it from functioning in the body. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration, an agency within HHS, protects the public health by assuring the safety, effectiveness, and security of human drugs, including COVID-19 monoclonal antibody therapeutics.