Through which mechanism can a pharmacist administer immunizations?

A pharmacist can administer immunizations through both a prescription and a collaborative practice agreement, which is why the correct choice encompasses these two options.

When a pharmacist administers an immunization via a prescription, it means they are acting upon a specific order provided by a licensed prescriber. This method is commonly used for vaccines where individual prescriptions are required, ensuring that the administration is tailored to the specific patient's needs as determined by a healthcare provider.

On the other hand, a collaborative practice agreement allows pharmacists to work in partnership with physicians or other healthcare providers to manage a patient's healthcare needs, including the administration of immunizations. This agreement outlines the scope of practice and allows pharmacists to assess the need for immunization and administer vaccines without requiring an individual prescription for each patient, streamlining the process and improving access to immunizations.

Thus, both pathways are valid for a pharmacist to administer immunizations, affirming the correctness of the answer that combines both a prescription and a collaborative practice agreement. Insurance authorization typically pertains to payment aspects and does not directly address the legal mechanisms through which a pharmacist administers vaccines.