2020 and the COVID-19 virus have certainly thrown us all through a loop. Hopefully, with the new year and newly available vaccines, we will begin to see the light at the end of the tunnel! Regarding vaccine eligibility and availability, here are a few things you need to know.
Who is eligible for the vaccine?
At the time of this writing, Indiana first responders, healthcare workers, and those over the age of 70 are eligible to register for the COVID-19 vaccine. For the most up-to-date information about eligibility, visit Indiana State Department of Health’s Vaccine Information and Planning.
How do I schedule an appointment for the vaccine?
There are a few ways you can schedule a vaccine appointment. It can be done online on ISDH’s Indiana COVID-19 Vaccine Program Sign-Up. You can also call to schedule an appointment. From a mobile device, dial 2-1-1. From a landline, dial 1-866-211-9966.
If you choose to make your appointment over the phone, please know that these lines are experiencing a high volume of calls. Users are encouraged to try to schedule online, having a friend or family member help register you if necessary.
What should I know before scheduling an appointment?
Speak to a doctor before scheduling an appointment if you have had a serious or anaphylactic reaction to any other vaccine in the past, are breastfeeding, or are pregnant. For those who have had COVID-19, you should schedule your appointment no earlier than 90 days following your first positive test result.
What does it cost to get the vaccine?
The vaccine is available at no cost. Vaccine providers can bill a patient’s insurance for a fee to administer the vaccine, but will not be able to charge the patient.
Can I get the vaccine without insurance?
Yes. The registration process asks for insurance information, however, this portion of the form can be left blank if you are uninsured. Vaccination providers can seek reimbursement for administering the vaccine to uninsured individuals from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of the FFCRA, PPPHCEA, and CARES Act.
How do I schedule my second vaccination shot?
Scheduling for the second dose will be done at the time of your first vaccination. Times will be dependent on the version of the vaccine administered to you.
Do I get to choose which vaccine I get?
There is not an option to pick the vaccine you will receive on the schedule and registration forms. However, please speak to your vaccine administrator at the time of your appointment should you have any concerns.
Do I get to choose which vaccination site I go to?
Yes. Once you verify that you are part of a vaccine-eligible group and supply your ZIP code, the site will provide you with a list of locations close by and their appointment availability.
What do I do if all appointments are booked at my preferred vaccination site?
As you might expect, vaccines are in high demand. However, new vaccination sites and appointment times are added all of the time. If all appointment times are booked at your preferred location, try a different location if possible or check back later to see if more appointments have opened up.
What if I am almost 70… but not quite?
If you are ages 60-69, you can register for Deaconess’ COVID-19 Vaccine Call List. This is a list of people who would like to be called should there be vaccine doses left over at the end of the day that need to be used immediately. In order to utilize this service, you must be available to receive your shot on short notice and during evening hours, be able to arrive at the vaccination site within 45 minutes of receiving the call, and you must answer your phone when the call comes in regarding the available dose. If you do not answer, staff will move on to the next name on the list.
The Vanderburgh County Health Department has created a COVID-19 Back Up List for those 65 and older and those with the following pre-existing conditions: Obesity, Diabetes, COPD, Sickle Cell Disease, Chronic Kidney Disease, or Serious Heart Condition. They said this is not a first come, first served list, rather a list to ensure the vaccine is given to our most vulnerable citizens. They said you may be contacted in the event there are doses leftover at the end of the day and you MUST be able to get to the clinic within 30 minutes of the phone call.
EDIT: As of January 25, 2021, the VCHD has opened the COVID-19 Back Up List to everyone but, will give priority to Hoosiers 65 years and older and those with certain pre-existing conditions.
What should I bring to my appointment?
After you schedule your appointment, you will receive a confirmation email or text. Follow the link in that confirmation to make sure you have completed all of the registration steps. It is best if all paperwork is filled out before the appointment.
If you are a healthcare worker or first responder, bring your employee ID badge or other proof of employment and your insurance card. If you are 70 or older, bring your ID or birth certificate (proof of age) and your Medicare/insurance card to your appointment.
For additional and up-to-date Indiana COVID-19 and COVID-19 Vaccine Information Visit:
- Vaccine Information and Planning | Indiana State Department of Health
- COVID-19 Vaccine | Deaconess
- COVID-19 | Vanderburgh County Health Department
