As the COVID-19 vaccine has been released for distribution, Caring People is taking every step possible to ensure that our clients and caregivers are kept aware of our response to the vaccine, according to and consistent with federal, state, and local public health laws and guidelines, as they evolve. More information about the vaccine is available on the CDC website. Below is a Question-and-Answer section, in an effort to provide you with more information.
Importantly, while an effective vaccine will help diminish the risk of transmission of COVID-19, we will continue to follow all of our infection control protocols, including wearing masks and appropriate PPE, and regular caregiver testing where applicable, to help ensure the highest level of safety for our clients, families, and team members.
If you have any questions about the vaccine for you and/or your family, we encourage you to reach out to your primary care physician to see when and how you will be able to receive your vaccination.
Your local office is always available to answer any questions or address any concerns you may have.
Looking to register for the vaccine? Here is a list of helpful websites within our areas of service:
CARING PEOPLE & COVID-19 VACCINATION Q & A
Q – Is Caring People requiring employees and clients to get the COVID-19 vaccine?
A – Given that the vaccine has been approved under an Emergency Use Authorization with the FDA, we are carefully evaluating our options, and at this stage, we are encouraging, not mandating, that employees receive the vaccine, consistent with other providers.
As you can imagine, this is a personal decision for all of our employees and clients, and we will do all we can to provide support. We will continue to evaluate the situation as we move forward and will maintain communication with clients and caregivers as new developments occur.
Q – Will Caring People be able to administer the COVID-19 vaccine to their employees and/or clients?
A – We are in the process of applying to be a vaccination distribution site in some states. We provided our caregivers, clinical team, and administrative staff with the information related to scheduling a vaccination appointment. We are also offering one-on-one assistance to employees in registering for an appointment if needed.
Currently, the vaccine is being distributed in phases. We urge our clients to contact their primary care physicians to inquire about obtaining the vaccine.
Q – The vaccine is new and I am not sure I want to participate now. Can I get the vaccine at a later time?
A – The COVID-19 vaccine must be given according to the prioritization plan established by the local public health departments. As a part of Phase 1, Caring People and other frontline healthcare employees are being offered the prioritized opportunity to receive the vaccine. As the phases continue, and the number of people participating in the vaccination program grows, accessibility may become limited or delayed. We are encouraging all of our employees and clients to take advantage of the vaccine when it becomes available to them.
Q – How much will the vaccine cost?
A – The vaccine is free. Its doses are purchased with U.S. taxpayer dollars will be given to American residents at no cost. However, vaccination providers will be able to charge an administration fee when a patient receives the shot. Vaccine providers can be reimbursed for the fee by the patient’s public or private insurance company or, for uninsured patients, by the Health Resources and Services Administration’s Provider Relief Fund.
Q – Will I have to get the vaccine once or annually?
A – This is not yet known. Once more people become vaccinated, scientists will have data to guide how often it will be necessary. Getting a COVID-19 vaccine might be like the polio vaccine, where it’s only necessary to receive the vaccine once in our life, or it might be like the flu shot, where it should be administered annually. As we have more research, health authorities and primary care providers will provide a recommendation on the vaccine frequency.
Q – I’ve already had COVID-19. Do I still need the vaccine?
A – Information regarding antibodies and immunities is not yet known. The CDC recommends that everyone receive the vaccination. They state that “both natural immunity and vaccine-induced immunity are important aspects of COVID-19 that experts are trying to learn about, and CDC will keep the public informed as new evidence becomes available.”
Got questions? Our clinical team is available to provide guidance and information regarding the COVID-19 vaccine.
Email info@caringpeopleinc.com
