COVID-19 remains a serious health risk, and several key services still are available to help prevent infection and recover from the disease. Although the end of the official Public Health Emergency on May 11 scaled back many programs, the ones still operating provide important access for people facing barriers to health care.
Vaccine access:
The Washington Vaccine Locator, vaccinelocator.doh.wa.gov, is still running and is available in more than 35 languages. Enter a zip code to see nearby pharmacies and clinics giving COVID-19 vaccines and boosters. Each entry includes a date and time it was last updated, along with a phone number for the location. Experts say it is a good idea to call and confirm the vaccine you want — brand and age group — remains available.
The Washington COVID-19 hotline can also direct you to a COVID-19 vaccine provider. Call 1-800-525-0127, then press #. Language assistance is available.
Affordable vaccines:
Once the free federally supplied COVID-19 vaccine stockpile is depleted, Medicare, Medicaid, and most private insurance plans will cover the full cost of COVID-19 vaccines. People who do not have health insurance may be able to get COVID-19 vaccines and boosters free of charge through the state’s Adult Vaccine Program or Childhood Vaccine Program. Participating locations are mapped here.
The state’s Care-a-Van program continues to hold community vaccination events free of charge to the participants. Upcoming events are listed here.
Home tests for COVID-19:
Widespread access to free home tests has ended, but people with Medicaid coverage still qualify. Washington Apple Health (Medicaid) will pay for up to eight tests per month per person, available through participating pharmacies. This benefit continues through June 30, 2024.
Telehealth for COVID-19:
Oral antivirals, such as Paxlovid, are available by prescription only. A state program offers a free telehealth consultation and, if treatment is appropriate, a prescription for either free home delivery or pharmacy pickup. Start with the brief intake form here. The state will reassess the need for this program in June 2023.
Care Connect:
CareConnect WA provides housing assistance (money for rent or mortgage payments), grocery assistance, and care coordination for people isolating at home after a positive COVID-19 test. Now that emergency conditions around COVID-19 have ended, only households that haven’t previously received Care Connect assistance are eligible. Access help here. or call 1-800-525-0127, then press #. Language assistance is available.
Over the past three years, COVID-19 response programs have adjusted to pandemic conditions, federal instructions, and other realities. The DH team will continue to monitor changes and provide updates to CDO program partners.