Dear Friends and Neighbors,
I’m sending this quick update to help make sure you have the most up to date information about COVID-19 vaccine distribution and administration in our state. There have been bumps along the way in the initial efforts to begin vaccinating Washingtonians, which I know is very frustrating and confusing. I hope you’ll find this information helpful.
What is the plan for distributing and administering COVID-19 vaccines in Washington?
- Vaccines are being administered in phases. As of 1/18/21, we are currently in Phase 1B-Tier 1.
- This visual timeline shows phase 1a and phase 1b and the estimated dates for each.
When and where can I get vaccinated?
- Visit the Phase Finder website and fill out a questionnaire to determine what Phase you qualify for. You can choose to be notified when your Phase is activated. The notification will also include information about where you can receive the vaccine locally.
- Contact your healthcare provider to find out when and where you can receive the vaccine, , or check out vaccine locations near you.
Will I be charged for the vaccine?
- The vaccine will be fully covered by the federal government without cost-sharing. This means you should not receive a bill for the vaccine or related services from the provider. This applies to people who are covered by private insurance, Medicaid, Medicare, and for those who do not have insurance. Providers are prohibited from charging patients who do not have coverage and/or cannot pay for administration of a COVID-19 vaccine.
- You should not be charged for an office visit if you only receive the vaccine. If other services are performed along with the administration of the vaccine, it may be billed as an office visit. Seek clarification from your provider beforehand and from your insurance company if you are charged an office visit fee.
We are committed to getting everyone in our state vaccinated, but it will take time.
- I know it is frustrating for those who cannot get an appointment right away, or for those who must wait until the state moves to future phases. It is important that only people in phases 1A and phase 1B-Tier 1 try to sign up for a vaccine appointment at this time, so pharmacies, clinics and hospitals can focus on vaccinating those who are eligible now.
- There will be broad public announcements when we are ready to start the next phase, including efforts to reach out to hard-to-reach and traditionally underserved communities. Thank you for your patience as we work to get millions of people across the state vaccinated.