Frequently Asked Questions about the COVID-19 Vaccine

You probably have many questions about the COVID-19 vaccine.  Although details are changing rapidly, ASR is posting answers to frequently asked questions related to this vaccine.  We will continue to provide you with the latest information as it becomes available.

Who is eligible to receive the vaccine?

State governors ultimately determine the phased rollout of the vaccine, based on factors such as age, occupation, and level of risk for contracting COVID-19.  The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that health-care workers and residents at long-term care facilities receive the vaccine first.  Next in line are workers in essential and critical industries, people at high risk for severe COVID-19 illness owing to underlying medical conditions, and people 65 years of age and older.  For the latest information on the phases of the vaccine rollout, visit your state’s Website (for example, see the State of Michigan Website.

Is there a time limit for me to get the vaccine?

No.  Once you are eligible to receive the vaccine, you may schedule your vaccination at any time, even if your state has moved to the next phase of eligibility.

Where is the vaccine available?

For the most up-to-date information on vaccine availability and appointment scheduling, we encourage you to start with your local health system or public health department.  These facilities and agencies currently have the vaccine and are beginning to vaccinate eligible persons.  The list of administration sites will likely grow in the coming days and weeks and will be posted on the facility and agency Websites.  A list of vaccine locations may also be posted on your state’s Website.

Next, check the Websites of local hospitals, health-care facilities, and pharmacies.  Most of these providers have information regarding vaccine availability and distribution prominently displayed there.

How do I schedule a vaccine appointment?

To receive a vaccine, you must schedule an appointment, which will minimize wait times.  Many health systems are scheduling appointments online via their electronic record scheduler.  Visit the Website of your local health system or health department for information on scheduling an appointment.

Should I expect delays in scheduling my vaccine appointment?

You may encounter a scheduling delay because of the number of people wanting an appointment and the availability of clinical staff to administer the vaccine.  The list of vaccine locations is expected to grow in the coming days and weeks, increasing opportunities for you to schedule an appointment close to home.  Health systems are receiving shipments of the vaccine regularly, and the supply will be sufficient for everyone wanting to be vaccinated (within each phase of your state’s rollout order).

Is the vaccine covered under my health benefit plan?

Yes.  Your health benefit plan administered by ASR covers the vaccine and its administration, both in-network and out-of-network (if an in-network provider is unavailable to deliver the same service).  You will be asked to show your insurance card, but you will not be billed for any co-payments or other costs for the COVID-19 vaccine.

Why is the COVID-19 vaccine important?

Combatting the coronavirus and ending this pandemic requires all the tools we have available, and the COVID-19 vaccine is one of the most important tools.  This vaccine will not only protect you but also the people around you, particularly those at increased risk for severe illness related to COVID-19.  Visit the CDC Website or your state’s Website for more information on the benefits of the vaccine and how it can stop the spread of COVID-19.

If you have questions related to a specific health condition, please contact your primary care physician.  For questions about plan coverage for COVID-19 vaccines, call ASR Health Benefits at (616) 957-1751 or (800) 968-2449.