How to find a Covid-19 vaccine: tips, locations, what to bring

A government-provided vaccination site, such as a community health center or public health department, may be a safer bet if you’re worried about surprise medical bills or if you don’t want to reveal your citizenship or status. immigrant. They also tend to be free. In our research for this article, we found that many of them state on their websites that they are not asking for health insurance information, proof of insurance, or immigration status. Check with your local facilities to be sure.

Vaccines are usually covered by your health insurance, but it’s worth checking with your insurer and office before making an appointment. Surprise bills are a problem in this country. If your profession is what gives you eligibility, provide proof of employment, such as work ID, letter of employment, or pay stub. If you qualify because of underlying health conditions, you may need to proof of your state of health, like a letter from your doctor.

Private practices and retail outlets, such as pharmacies, generally require that you bring a username and health insurance card and may ask for the name of your attending physician. Immunization sites run by government departments, such as community health centers and public health departments, do not usually ask for health insurance information, but you will likely need it. proof of residence in the state. Depending on your state, school records, sample mail addressed to you, or a statement from another person may substitute for government-issued identification. Check with the specific vaccination site you have chosen.

In the United States, the three vaccines currently available to the public via FDA emergency clearance are from Moderna, Pfizer-BioNTech and Johnson & Johnson Janssen. The mechanisms by which they work differ, and two of them require second doses at different times.

• Modern: Requires two doses. The second injection should be given four weeks after the first (maximum six weeks).
• Pfizer-BioNTech: Requires two doses. The second injection should be given three weeks after the first (maximum six weeks).
• Johnson and Johnson Janssen: Requires a dose. There is no need for a second shot.

In its clinical trial, the Johnson & Johnson vaccine had lower overall efficacy than Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech, but all three are excellent at prevent severe cases of Covid-19 this would lead to hospitalization or death.