Oregon Seniors Struggle to Get Information on, Appointments for COVID-19 Vaccine

KATU reports that with Oregonians 80 years and older about to become eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine, several issues remain unaddressed, including how to get to a vaccination site when one cannot drive, and how to schedule appointments without online access. The Oregon Health Authority (OHA) currently advises people to get more information through their online vaccine eligibility tool, while a newly-opened 2-1-1 call center is proving to be frustrating. A spokesperson for Clackamas County said the tri-county area is cognizant of such issues, and is working on resolving physical barriers to getting vaccine as well as other hindrances. An informal focus group also has been organized to address some of these concerns. According to OHA, "most eligible Oregonians will get vaccinated at hospitals, local public health authorities, federally qualified health centers, and through mass vaccination events. Some Oregonians are receiving vaccinations from federal and state pharmacy partners. Each county is different." The authority also said OHA said people with questions can text ORCOVID to 898211 or e-mail ORCOVID at 211info.org.