So, what is the relationship between the city and Philly Fighting COVID?
The Department of Health has provided the PFC vaccination site with about 1,000 doses per week so far, but does not oversee its registration system. It is similar to the city’s relationship with the Black Doctors’ Consortium and Acme Markets and other pharmacies authorized to give the vaccine.
Should I register for both? What about the other records?
According to the city’s announcement, Ministry of Health officials will work with other “pre-registration” sites to ensure they have access to information already collected by other organizations.
It is not clear whether there is a benefit to enrolling in these groups – as they are the ones who actually administer the vaccines. The city of Philadelphia is not giving any injections directly.
Is my data safe?
The data collected by the municipal form are maintained with the same level of security as other health information maintained by the Public Health Secretariat, the city said. For other records, it is not clear what security measures are being taken.
I am an essential employee. How do I sign up?
The city registry includes boxes that you can check to indicate that you are an essential worker.
How long will it take to get an answer about my vaccine appointment?
Farley said those who register in the city are unlikely to get an answer for weeks, if not months. The PFC is practically on the same timeline, with its website saying that doses will be released “in the coming months”.
When will I really be vaccinated?
The city does not yet have a specific schedule for immunizations. But we know the order in which Philadelphia is expected to be vaccinated. Here is an analysis.
Who will administer the vaccines?
The city has issued a request for proposals for potential vaccine clinics – so stay tuned for more information on this one.
Meanwhile, the PFC clinic is already up and running at the Convention Center. Hospitals, healthcare systems and pharmacies will also distribute doses, and the Black Doctors’ Consortium is running vaccination sites at several community centers.
Some large employers that have internal medical facilities will also give injections, according to Farley. He also indicated that, eventually, people with chronic illnesses should be able to obtain the vaccine through their doctors, but it is unclear when this will happen.
“There is no reason to call your personal health care provider to ask how to make an appointment,” said the city’s announcement.
WHY Billy Penn health reporter Nina Feldman and Max Marin contributed to the story.