Am I eligible for the vaccine?
You can determine if you are currently eligible for the vaccine by registering at https://am-i-eligible.covid19vaccine.health.ny.gov/ (the “NYS Site”). You can also call the NYS Vaccine Hotline at 1-833-NYS-4VAX (1-833-697-4829). The rules for eligibility are updated frequently.
Where do I get the vaccine?
When you register at the NYS Site or call the NYS Vaccine Hotline, if eligible, you will be provided with a list of sites where the vaccine is being administered within 100 miles and information on how to make an appointment at each point of distribution. Vaccines are being administered by the County Department of Health, at pharmacies, private doctor’s offices, urgent care facilities, a mass vaccination site at SUNY Albany, and other locations. Registration for the SUNY Albany location is on the NYS Site. The vaccine is expected to be available at most local pharmacies in the coming weeks. Vaccine supply is limited, and you may have to call several places or check several websites before you find an available appointment. Be prepared to keep trying.
Please be aware that currently providers must prioritize as follows:
- hospitals must prioritize doctors and nurses
- local health departments must prioritize essential workers such as police, firefighters, public safety workers, and teachers
- pharmacies must prioritize those who are 65 and up.
SUNY Albany has no prioritization requirements and can take anyone eligible.
If you already know your preferred provider, you can contact them directly. You do not need to go through the NYS Site.
To try to register for a County Health Department appointment directly, go to www.columbiacountynyhealth.com. Under Announcements, click on Learn More. Then scroll down to “Available Clinic Registration” and click on the link. Currently, County Health Department vaccines are being administered at the Columbia-Greene Community College. Appointments fill up fast and there is no waiting list. Please be patient and keep trying.
You must have an appointment first to receive a vaccine at any location.
What if I don’t have access to the internet?
Please reach out to a friend or family member who may be able to register you. Even family members from a different state may register you. If you have no one to help you, you can contact the Office for the Aging at 518-828-4258 or call the NYS Hotline: 1-833-NYS-4VAX (1-833-697-4829).
Is there a cost for the vaccine?
No, the vaccine is free. There is no charge or co-pay. You do not need to have insurance.
How long will I have to wait to get the vaccine?
The vaccine supply is controlled by the Federal government and is limited. Everyone who wants a vaccine will get one eventually, but it will take months to vaccinate all New Yorkers. New York State receives vaccines every week, and then distributes them on a pro rata basis to regions based on the number of eligible people in its area. At the current rate, it will take 23 weeks for everyone who is currently eligible to receive one, however, we hope that supplies will increase over time. Please be patient.
What if I have no transportation to get a vaccine?
Please contact the Office for the Aging at 518-828-4258.
What if I am homebound?
For those who cannot leave their home, in-home vaccinations will be offered at some point in the future. No dates have been set yet. To prepare, we are compiling a list of names, phone numbers, physical addresses and email addresses (if you have one) so that you can be contacted when available. To get on this list, please email: [email protected].
What about the second dose?
When you get the first dose, the provider must schedule you for the second dose. A second dose will be reserved for you. The second dose will be administered about 3-4 weeks after the first, depending on the type of vaccine you receive.