As the state of Michigan opens the COVID-19 vaccine roll out plan to more residents, vaccine supply has not kept up with demand. While logistics are being worked out at the state and federal levels, people can take steps to get on a waiting list for the vaccine.
Here are some tips to provide to patients eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine:
-
Check vaccine eligibility at Michigan's coronavirus website.
- Most health systems, including Ascension, are only providing vaccines to their patients at this time. Encourage patients to be enrolled in their health system's patient portal. As vaccine supplies allow, health systems will contact patients to schedule a vaccine appointment. Walk-ins are not accepted.
- Remind patients to check email/text for messages regarding the vaccine appointment.
- Many vaccination sites are using automated phone calls to reach out to patients, so consider answering unfamiliar phone numbers.
-
Local health departments and Meijer pharmacy are accepting registrations for the vaccine. Patients will then receive an invitation via email or text message when they can schedule a vaccine appointment.
-
Patients should NOT receive any other vaccine 14 days before/after their COVID-19 vaccine (first and second dose).
Vaccinating healthcare workers:
Physicians and practice staff who didn't get vaccinated during health system clinics can contact their local health departments for appointments. Ascension indicated additional COVID-19 vaccine clinics for healthcare workers will be available in the future, however, there are no dates yet set. The Physician Alliance will share information on future vaccine clinics when/if it becomes available.