How pharmacies and hospital groups are preparing to vaccinate those 65+ in Wisconsin
MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- The Wisconsin Department of Health Services announced this week that adults 65 and older will be eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine beginning Jan. 25.
CBS 58 reached out to various health care providers and pharmacies to see how those who qualify can get the vaccine.
Advocate Aurora Health:
A statement from Advocate Aurora Health said:
"Since launching our COVID-19 vaccination program on Dec. 15, we’ve administered more than 47,000 first doses and nearly 18,000 second doses to our team members. In recent weeks, we expanded vaccinations to EMS personnel, medical students, nursing students and non-Advocate Aurora Phase 1A health care providers.
Our vaccination program continues to be informed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines, taking a phased approach that prioritizes those most vulnerable based on risk factors including age and health conditions.
At this time, we are moving into the next phase of vaccinations for our patients. On a rolling basis based on risk factors, all Advocate Aurora patients will receive a direct communication to schedule their COVID-19 vaccine.
If you are a current Advocate Aurora patient, please ensure you have downloaded the LiveWell app from the App Store or Google Play Store as all vaccination appointments will be scheduled via the app. We have updated the app with easy to follow instructions to assist you in the process. Once notified with your vaccination code, we encourage you to visit the app regularly as we will continue to increase vaccine appointments as we receive more vaccine supply.
Along with other health providers and business partners, we will expand vaccinations to the broader community in line with these phased guidelines as supplies become available. Our website will be updated continuously as new information warrants.
Please visit aah.org/vaccine regularly for more information."
Ascension Wisconsin:
A statement from Dr. Gregory Brusko, chief clinical officer, Ascension Wisconsin said in part:
"In accordance with the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) guidelines, Ascension Wisconsin will begin COVID-19 vaccination clinics for its patients who are age 65 and older on Monday, January 25, 2021.
In this limited initial round of public vaccinations, those who want to be vaccinated must schedule an appointment and be a current patient of Ascension Medical Group Wisconsin (AMG-WI). AMG-WI is in the process of reviewing medical records for all existing patients and contacting eligible patients over the coming weeks who fit the above criteria. Please do not call our hospitals or clinics regarding vaccinations. As vaccines are limited at this time, AMG-WI will contact eligible patients."
Froedtert & the Medical College of Wisconsin:
"Because we do not know the number of vaccinations the state will provide us, the Froedtert & MCW health network will begin vaccinating patients [Monday, January 25] who are 65 years of age or older and who have a primary care provider with the Froedtert & MCW health network. Based on availability of the vaccine, we will expand to those who are 65 years of age or older and who do not have a primary care provider with us.
Froedtert & MCW health network will notify its patients 65 years of age who have a primary care provide with us through their MyChart account, if they have one, or a mailed letter.
While individuals are waiting to get the vaccine, we encourage the community to stay connected with us by downloading the Froedtert & MCW mobile app and signing up or linking your MyChart account (secure, personal online health account). We also have information on our website at froedtert.com/covidvaccine."
The Kroger Co.:
"We are working closely with DHS to secure vaccines for our pharmacies to administer to Group 1b but currently have a limited supply on hand. We will let the general public know when and where they can register for the vaccine when we have the required supply. For further information you can refer to picknsave.com/covidvaccine."
Walgreens:
"We don’t have the exact date yet as to when we will be able to start the vaccinations. Once those eligible are notified they will be able to register online. For individuals who are unable to use the digital scheduler, we will have alternative options available for arranging an appointment, including via phone. Individuals eligible to receive the vaccine according to state and local guidelines will be able to make an appointment, we will not be providing vaccinations on a walk-in basis."