COVID-19 Vaccine FAQ
We have received many questions surround the COVID-19 vaccine distribution. To alleviate confusion and be a constant resource for the community, we have compiled the top ten FAQs.
Q: Who is eligible for the vaccine?
A: Anyone living in Tri-State Memorial Hospital’s service area who is 65+ years, or 50+ living in a multi-generational home. At Tri-State, we adhere to the Washington State Department of Health COVID-19 Vaccination Plan, which can be seen here: https://www.doh.wa.gov/Portals/1/Documents/1600/coronavirus/VaccinationPhasesInfographic.pdf
Q: I am eligible, but I also have an underlying condition. Can I move up on the Tri-State COVID-19 vaccine waiting list?
A: No, you will not be moved up on the list. The Washington State guidelines do not prioritize based on health conditions, just age. At Tri-State Memorial Hospital, we adhere to those same guidelines.
Q: I live close to Tri-State Memorial Hospital; can I be put on a short-list just in case you have vaccine left over?
A: No, we do not have a short-list. If we have any vaccine left over, we call the next person on the Tri-State COVID-19 vaccine waiting list.
Q: Can I call the Tri-State COVID-19 Hotline and check my status on the waiting list?
A: We understand the concern that comes with not knowing when you will receive the vaccine. We ask that you remain patient and not call the Tri-State COVID-19 Hotline unless you have questions about COVID-19 testing, COVID-19 vaccinations, or you would like to be placed on the Tri-State COVID-19 vaccine waiting list. Repeatedly calling our hotline ties up the lines and prevents others who haven’t yet signed up from getting through.
Q: My provider’s office said they were putting me on the COVID-19 vaccine waiting list. Can I call the Tri-State COVID-19 Hotline and check?
A: No. If your provider’s office has taken your name, you have been placed on the COVID-19 waiting list. The Tri-State COVID-19 Hotline will call you when a time slot and the vaccine is available.
Q: I called the hotline and was put on the list two weeks ago. Why have I not been contacted for an appointment yet?
A: Tri-State Memorial Hospital is currently scheduled out by about four weeks. Although it may feel like a long time, we can assure you that we will call you back to schedule an appointment when we can. Calling the Tri-State COVID-19 Hotline will not move you up on the list to be vaccinated.
Q: I received the COVID-19 vaccine elsewhere; should I call the Tri-State COVID-19 Hotline to let you know?
A: If you are scheduled with Tri-State Memorial Hospital to receive the COVID-19 vaccine, yes, please call us to let us know you have already received it. If you are still on our waiting list, please wait to inform us until we contact you.
Q: I’ve called the Tri-State COVID-19 Hotline several times, and I have left several messages, but I still haven’t received a phone call back. What should I do?
A: Our Tri-State COVID-19 Hotline team is diligently working to answer calls and return messages as quickly as possible. Unfortunately, multiple phone calls to the hotline will clog up the phone lines and increase the wait time for a callback. We recognize the frustration that comes with not receiving a phone call right away. Please be patient with us as we work through the influx of phone calls.
Q: I am upset that I can’t get the COVID-19 vaccine right now. Who do I call to voice frustrations?
A: If you are frustrated about the COVID-19 vaccination process in Washington State, you may call Washington State Governor Jay Inslee at 360-902-4111.