Connecticut has been quick to respond when it comes to the vaccine distribution schedule. As many of us are still waiting in line, some of us are unsure of how to schedule their vaccine. AFC Urgent Care West Hartford understands that it can be a confusing process, but we can assure you that with these steps, you’ll be ready when it’s your turn to start scheduling your COVID-19 vaccine appointment.
Who is eligible to get the COVID-19 vaccine?
As of April 1st, ages 16 and up are now eligible to schedule their vaccines. Going forward the vaccine distribution schedule will be based on age groups. Anyone who was supposed to be a part of previous age groups or phases like phase 1b will follow this schedule instead.
Connecticut is continuously updating their pages for the COVID-19 vaccine phases and who is eligible here.
In the meantime…if you’re waiting to schedule your vaccine or are in between doses, you can always visit AFC Urgent Care in West Hartford for urgent care services like X-rays, colds, flu treatment, walk-in Rapid COVID-19 testing, employer services and more!
**Important: If you were a part of phase 1a and did not get vaccinated and would like to get a vaccine, you can do so by making an appointment.
How do I make an appointment for a COVID-19 vaccine?
There are multiple locations across the state that are offering the COVID-19 vaccine. ***Please note that not every clinic or vaccine site across the state uses the same methods for scheduling an appointment.
The EASIEST way to sign up or make an appointment is by phone or using The CDC’s Vaccine Administration Management System (VAMS).
The Vaccine Administration Management System (VAMS) is a great tool that can be used to schedule appointments and to find clinics/centers across the state. You can start by enrolling for VAMS using this form, click here.
Important tips when using VAMS from the link above:
- Enroll with VAM’s first so that they can send you an email to create the account. You should receive an email from no-reply@mail.vams.cdc.gov about creating an account. They also advise that you check your SPAM folder just in case!
- When you get the email, create an account and then register.
- Choose a vaccine clinic or center and a time slot that works for you. You should also be planning for your second dose!
- The system also has a COVID-19 vaccine center finder with a default radius of 10 miles. You can increase the radius if you prefer.
Here is a cheat sheet on how to use VAMS in more detail: https://portal.ct.gov/-/media/Coronavirus/VAMS-Navigation-Tips.pdf
Connecticut’s COVID-19 Vaccine Appointment Assist Line is also another way to schedule your test. You can call 877-918-2224 between the hours of 8:00 am to 8:00 pm 7 days a week. Please be advised that there may be long wait times.
Other ways of scheduling the vaccine can include using the specific systems from health centers like Walgreens, CVS, Walmart, Hartford Health, Trinity Health and others to schedule and receive vaccination. Here is a more thorough list of alternative ways of scheduling an appointment.
AFC Urgent Care West Hartford is here to help
If you’re still unsure about the COVID-19 vaccine you can read our FAQ’s on the types of vaccines and their effectiveness here. We encourage you to get it when you are elligible to stop the spread of COVID-19.
AFC Urgent Care West Hartford knows that getting vaccinated is one part of the equation of slowing the spread. But, we are also here to help our friends and families stay COVID-19 free by offering multiple COVID-19 testing options 7 days a week. Testing is definitely detrimental for those who are waiting in between COVID-19 vaccine doses and for those who are waiting in line for the vaccine.
RAPID COVID-19 testing and standard PCR tests are offered on a walk-in basis with NO appointment needed! We are conveniently located on 1030 Boulevard next to the Sprint store. We also offer a variety of urgent care services like X-rays, blood work, and treatment for acute illnesses like colds, strep and more.
