How to register for a covid-19 vaccine in New York
As President Biden looks to speed up the national vaccination effort Gov. Cuomo announced that his state are expanding eligibility requirements so more residents can get a shot.
On 24 March New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced that the state had administered more than 8 million covid-19 vaccine doses to residents, with more than one million of them coming within the past week.
Speaking about the quick progress, the under fire Gov. Cuomo said: "Our vast distribution network remains strong and steady in getting shots into people's arms all across the state, but we need to be mindful that we are still in a footrace with the infection rate and the progress we've made is only as good as our continued vigilance.”
The state has implemented a set of online tools for residents to check their eligibility to receive a shot and to book an appointment. Here’s everything you need to know…
How to check if you’re eligible for a covid-19 vaccine
Having managed to get the most vulnerable residents vaccinated against the coronavirus, New York has begun broadening the eligibility requirements to get more people vaccinated. President Biden has called on states to open eligibility out to all adults by 1 May, and Alaska, Arizona, Florida, Georgia and Mississippi have already done so.
As it stands, the covid-19 vaccines will be available to healthcare personnel; essential workers (teachers, childcare, grocery store, public transport, etc); public-facing government employees and all New Yorkers aged at least 50 years old, amongst others.
For a full list of those eligible to receive a coronavirus vaccine in New York, check out Who is Eligible for the Covid-19 Vaccine? You can also call the New York State Covid-19 Vaccination Hotline at 1-833-NYS-4-VAX (1-833-697-4829)
How to register for and book your covid-19 vaccine
Once you have confirmed that you are able to receive a coronavirus vaccination in New York, you must follow these steps to book your appointment.
Step 1. Enter your information on the New York Vaccine Online Tool and select an appointment. You should receive a confirmation email containing a barcode, which you must bring with you to the appointment.
Step 2. Before you attend the appointment you should fill in the New York State COVID-19 Vaccine Form which can be completed online. Once completed you will get a submission ID to prove that you have done so, which you must bring to the appointment. If you cannot access the online form it can also be completed in person at the vaccination site.
Step 3. When you attend the appointment you must remember to bring proof of eligibility, which can vary depending on your situation. For example, if you are over the age of 50 you just need any legal proof of your age, but those who qualify for a vaccine as a healthcare worker would require an employee ID card or a letter from the employer or affiliated organisation.
Step 4. If you received the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine and therefore require a second dose, the next appointment will be scheduled automatically when you receive your first dose. It will be at the same location and time as the first so bare this in mind when booking your initial appointment.