COVID-19 Vaccine: Frequently Asked Questions
- Why does MedCenter schedule slots with little notice?
- We will only open appointment slots when we have vaccines available on hand.
- What should I bring with me when I come in to get my vaccine?
- For their first dose, patients should bring a photo I.D. For patients getting their second dose, they must bring their photo I.D. and the shot card that they received when they got their first dose.
- When and how much COVID-19 vaccine will MedCenter Pharmacy get?
- MedCenter Pharmacy does not determine when or how much vaccine we will receive. Currently the CDC and the state of Texas determines allocation.
- Which COVID-19 vaccine does MedCenter Pharmacy currently have?
- MedCenter Pharmacy is currently receiving limited quantities of the Pfizer-BioNtech vaccine.
- Can people walk up to MedCenter Pharmacy to receive the COVID-19 vaccine?
- Patients must schedule an appointment to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. MedCenter will not accept walkups.
- Didn’t the CDC say the second group would go to people age 75 and older and essential workers?
- While the CDC provides guidance, the state of Texas will determine priority groups and the order in which they get the vaccine, as well as schedules of when to move into the next phase.
- Why does MedCenter Pharmacy require scheduling an appointment to get the COVID-19 vaccine?
- We have not been allocated enough COVID-19 vaccine to accept walk-ins at this time.
- Who is included in the next phase after healthcare workers?
- The state of Texas has determined that during Phase 1B, COVID-19 vaccines will go to people age 65 and older and people 16 and older with at least one chronic medical condition such as cancer, heart conditions and chronic kidney disease. For more details, visit the Texas Department of Health Services website.
- Why would MedCenter Pharmacy have leftover doses?
- COVID-19 vaccines can only be kept for a few hours once the vial has been punctured for the first dose. Per the government guidelines, providers can give the remaining doses that are near expiration points to people who fall within the next priority group. Every attempt is being made to prevent this, but no doses should be wasted.
- Do I need to pay to receive the COVID-19 vaccine?
- There will be no cost to anyone to receive the vaccine.
- Can I reschedule my appointment?
- Please notify the pharmacy immediately if you are unable to make your appointment. You may use the online scheduler to schedule a new appointment if slots are available.
- Will MedCenter Pharmacy issue any documentation proving the vaccine was received?
- Yes; the CDC is providing immunization cards to all pharmacies and MedCenter Pharmacy will provide a card to every person.
- Can I have an allergic reaction to the vaccine?
- People who have previously had a serious reaction to a vaccine should talk with their doctor or medical provider before receiving a COVID-19 vaccine.