COVID-19 Booster Shots for Older Adults
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) continues to recommend that individuals 6 months of age and older get vaccinated against COVID-19. Vaccine formulations are updated every year to match the current strains. If you have not had COVID-19 within the past few months, you are encouraged to get the latest booster. Historically, there has been a higher wave of infection during the holiday months from November to January, so it is especially encouraged for vulnerable populations to build immunity before then (John Hopkins).
From the CDC: “Vaccination is especially important for people at highest risk of severe COVID-19, including people ages 65 years and older; people with underlying medical conditions, including immune compromise; people living in long-term care facilities; and pregnant people to protect themselves and their infants.”
As of August 2024, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has discontinued the full coverage of COVID-19 vaccines. However, most insurance providers still fully cover COVID-19 vaccines. We recommend checking with your provider to determine whether you will need to provide a copayment for your vaccine. For residents of Santa Clara County (SCC) who have health insurance but are underinsured, consider applying for the Healthcare Access Program (HAP) operated by the County of Santa Clara Health System (CSCHS). Per CSCHS: “HAP provides free or discounted medically necessary services and supplies to eligible patients who (1) are uninsured or (2) have insurance and high out-of-pocket medical costs.”
For individuals with no health insurance, the County is encouraging everyone to apply and enroll into Medi-Cal so they can continue to access vaccines. Currently, there is no other way to get a free COVID booster other than with the aid of a doctor or health insurance plan. To apply, individuals can call the County’s Patient Access Department at (866) 967-4677 (County of Santa Clara).
To learn more about what options may be available to you, call (408) 350-3200, option 1 to speak with a Community Resource Specialist today.