The Pennsylvania Department of Health recently expanded eligibility for the COVID-19 vaccine in the first phase of its launch. But supply levels have failed to keep up with demand, and those who may be eligible for the vaccine may still struggle to make an appointment.
The health department has a resource on its website, indicating the locations of the nearly 1,000 sites that offer vaccines.
In the Lehigh Valley, the two major healthcare chains are offering pre-registration, resulting in a notification when appointments are made. The Allentown Health Bureau opens new schedules on Thursdays.
But some other vaccination sites indicate that they have no appointments available, no opportunity for pre-registration and no indication of when more appointments may be available.
“What we ask for is patience, and that really is critical, patience,” said Amy Hutcheson, Director of Communications for the Department of Health in Pa.
Pennsylvania left each individual distribution site to take care of its own vaccine registration and consultation setting.
“Finding out that locals know better what’s going on in their area and can do the best job by connecting with their citizens,” said Governor Tom Wolf.
People eligible for the vaccine can choose to apply at multiple locations to increase their chances of getting it earlier. The state only asks people to cancel their other appointment requests as soon as they confirm it.
The system is a little different in neighboring New Jersey. The state makes people register through its website or direct line, creating a more centralized registration process.
“Whatever the vaccine record you have, if there are limited doses, you will get the same result,” said Hutcheson.
As more doses and locations become available, the state says it should improve.
“It will definitely stay level,” said Hutcheson.
Next week, the state will have an online eligibility questionnaire and a text alert system, notifying you when you can make an appointment. You will still have to make an appointment through individual providers.