The Pennsylvania Department of Health has recently expanded eligibility for the COVID-19 vaccine during the first phase of its deployment. But supply levels have not been able to keep up with demand and those who may be eligible for the vaccine may still have difficulty making an appointment.
The health department has a resource on its website, which lists the locations of the approximately 1,000 locations that offer vaccines.
In the Lehigh Valley, the two major health networks offer pre-registration, which results in a notification when appointments are available. The Allentown Health Bureau opens new time slots on Thursdays.
But some other vaccination sites indicate they have no appointments available, no pre-registration opportunities, and do not indicate when more appointments will be available.
“What we’ve asked for is patience, and that’s really key, patience,” said Amy Hutcheson, director of communications for the Department of Bread Health.
Pennsylvania has abandoned each individual distribution site to manage its own vaccine registration and appointment.
“Imagine that local people know better what’s going on in their area and can do the best job connecting with their citizens,” Gov. Tom Wolf said.
People eligible for the vaccine may choose to sign up at multiple locations to increase their chances of getting it sooner. The state only asks people to cancel their other appointment requests once they confirm the appointment.
The system is a little different to neighboring New Jersey. The state causes people to register through their website or hotline, creating a more centralized registration process.
“Whatever vaccine record you have, if there are limited doses, you will get the same result,” Hutcheson said.
As more doses and locations become available, the state says it should improve.
“It will absolutely go level,” Hutcheson said.
As early as next week, the state will have an online test and text message alert system that lets you know when you can make an appointment. You will still need to arrange the appointment through individual providers.