In my previous newsletter, I debunked common myths regarding the COVID-19 vaccines, check it out here. To read about how exactly the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines work, check it out here.
Many are wondering how they can finally receive the COVID-19 vaccine; here is a comprehensive guideline for the vaccine rollout and eligibility layout for residents living in Michigan. Because there is no federal vaccination plan as of yet, each state’s guidelines are vastly different. Feel free to share it, especially to those who are in need of the vaccine ASAP.
Eligibility
The CDC created priority groups to help states determine who should receive the vaccine first. The priority groups for the state of Michigan are as follows:
Phase 1A: Healthcare workers, long term care residents and staff
Phase 1B: People 75+ years and older that are not covered in Phase 1A, frontline state/federal responders, school and child care staff, corrections staff, other essential workers
Phase 1C: 65-74 year olds, those who are between the ages of 16-64 who have pre-existing conditions, all remaining essential workers
Phase 2: those ages 16-64 who are not covered above
How to Get the Shot
The short answer— it depends.
For…
Seniors (65+): You register through the hospital in which you receive your care. Some Meijer and Rite Aid pharmacies (starting Feb. 11) are distributing the vaccines to seniors as well.
Healthcare Workers: If you are affiliated with a hospital, they will schedule your vaccination. If you are an independent healthcare provider, your local health department can schedule your vaccination.
First Responders/Law Enforcement: Local health departments are responsible for scheduling your appointments; It is best to contact your employer or health department.
Teachers and Childcare Workers: Those who work in the public school and intermediate school districts are mainly working through their local health departments. For educators working in private and charter schools and child care workers, check with your local health department to see when you can make an appointment. Some hospitals do have agreements with school districts to provide the vaccine to educators.
Longterm Care Residents/Workers: These individuals are being vaccinated through federal pharmacy partners such as Walgreens and CVS.
Where to Sign Up
Many hospitals and healthcare systems are administering vaccines to patients ages 65+ through invitation only, based on those who are most vulnerable. Others are randomly inviting patients.
As mentioned above, some Meijer and Rite Aid pharmacies are receiving vaccine doses and are currently giving to those who are 65+.
To register through Meijer, click here.
Rite Aid has not released their vaccination plans yet but details will be posted online here.
In Wayne County, the Public Health Department is vaccinating people in Phase 1A who are not affiliated with a hospital or healthcare system. They are also vaccinating teachers who live and work in the county.
Click here to select your local health department and read about their vaccination information.
To learn about your hospital’s vaccination plan, below is a list of southeastern Michigan hospitals with the links to view their current vaccination programs.
St. Joseph Mercy Health System
Memorial Healthcare Owosso Hospital
What Happens After I Get My First Dose?
You will receive a written vaccination record card (pictured below) that also serves as a reminder of when to receive your second dose. It is incredibly crucial that you receive the second dose to ensure the best protection from COVID-19. The easiest way to prove you received the first dose in order to receive the second is by showing this card— so do not lose it!
Reminders
The vaccine doses purchased using U.S. taxpayer dollars will be given to Americans at no cost, therefore no one should have to pay for it. The vaccination provider, however, can charge an administration fee for giving someone a shot.
This layout is likely to change based on vaccine availability, so it is important to regularly check your hospital’s/local health department’s website.
I understand this may seem overwhelming or confusing, but if you have any questions, feel free to reach me at reemlfawaz@gmail.com. If you also would like me to research another state’s vaccination timeline, please let me know.
Thank you for reading!
Looking ahead, topics include: general FDA approval process, clinical trials, social determinants of health, and more.