Unpaid caregivers of individuals who are elderly or have a disability, and who receive services through a Pennsylvania Department of Human Services program, are now eligible to receive their COVID vaccine. Interested caregivers can visit this website, scroll to the bottom, and check the box attesting that they meet this definition. They will then receive a letter that they can bring with them as proof of eligibility to their vaccination site.
A number of providers across the state are currently administering vaccinations, but appointments are required. When answering any questions related to eligibility, unpaid caregivers should categorize themselves as health care workers. Providers include:
UPMC
UPMC has an online registration form; once you register there, UPMC Vaccine Scheduling will contact you when appointments are available. If you have limited access to technology or need assistance in registering, you can call 844-UPMCVAC (844-876-2822) between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m., seven days a week (though high call volumes are expected).
AHN
You can sign up for a MyChart account with AHN, and you will be alerted when COVID vaccine appointments become available.
Giant Eagle
Giant Eagle offers an online scheduling tool, though supplies remain limited. For those who are unable to use the online scheduling tool, you should call your local Giant Eagle Pharmacy to discuss availability.
Rite-Aid
Rite-Aid has a website where you can confirm your eligibility and schedule a vaccination appointment, if any are available in your area.
This list is by no means exhaustive. A number of other vaccine providers, including local pharmacies, can be located using the Pennsylvania Department of Health Vaccine Provider Map.
Last month, we at the University of Pittsburgh’s National Center on Family Support put out a statement encouraging state health departments to include family caregivers in the first phases of vaccination prioritization. We are pleased to learn that the Department of Health in Pennsylvania is now including unpaid caregivers in their 1A vaccine categorization.