Persons with Comorbidities and Underlying Conditions Added to Vaccine Eligibility List
The State has announced that individuals with comorbidities and underlying health conditions will be eligible for COVID-19 vaccination starting Feb. 15th. While most staff and residents are already eligible, this may help with vaccination of some of the younger patients of home and community-based services (HCBS) providers receiving care and services in the community.
The Governor announced that this additional population will be served by local health departments (LHDs) across the state. The State will give hospitals one more week to vaccinate their staff and then reallocate the vaccine supply to LHDs for this population. LeadingAge NY is trying to ascertain where health care providers will be vaccinated moving forward if hospitals do not have adequate supply. We will keep members informed of any changes in this regard. This new population may also be vaccinated at State vaccination sites.
The Governor’s announcement is available here. Individuals must show proof of their health condition, likely through a doctor’s note, to show eligibility. If additional guidance is released on this issue, we will keep members apprised.
Contact: Meg Everett, meverett@leadingageny.org, 518-929-9342