Answers to patients' top questions about the COVID-19 vaccine
Published by
Provider Networks Team
on
With the vaccine rollout underway, your patients are likely asking more vaccine-related questions. That’s why we’ve compiled some of the most common questions in an easy-to-read FAQ .
Reference the questions below and more on our Coronavirus Resource Center for patients, providers, and employers. We'll continue to update the information regularly. So check back frequently and share the link go.allwayshealthpartners.org/coronavirus with your patients.
Q:When can I get the COVID-19 vaccine?
A: AllWays Health Partners is aligning with state guidelines and adhering to the Massachusetts phased COVID-19 vaccine distribution timeline. Access will be coordinated through the Massachusetts Department of Public Health.
We are currently in Phase 1, and Massachusetts public health officials believe that the general public will be able to get the vaccine between April and June 2021. To learn which phase you are in and the latest information on the state’s distribution timeline, please visit Mass.gov.
Q: Where can I receive my COVID-19 vaccine?
A: When you are eligible to receive the vaccine, there will be several options to access the vaccine, such as your primary care provider, local pharmacy or through your local health department. To see the latest COVID-19 vaccination sites, please visit Mass.gov.
Q: Will I have to pay for the COVID-19 vaccine?
A: AllWays Health Partners will cover the administration of all COVID-19 vaccines that receive emergency use authorization (EUA) or full approval from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), at no cost to our members.
Q: Is the COVID-19 vaccine safe and does it have side effects?
A:The COVID-19 vaccine has proven to be extremely effective. Clinical trials were conducted to evaluate the safety of these vaccines, with thousands of participants across gender, age, race, and ethnicity. The Pfizer vaccine is 95% effective, and the Moderna vaccine is 94% effective.
Some people have experienced side effects after receiving the vaccine. For both the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines, most mild side effects resolve within a day or so. Visit the CDC to learn more about the safety and benefits of the COVID-19 vaccines.
Q: Can we stop wearing masks and social distancing after getting vaccinated?
A: Public health officials have advised to continue to remain vigilant with preventive measures, such as wearing a mask, practicing social distancing, and washing your hands, even after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine as distribution and vaccination continues to role out to the public. For more on how to prevent and slow the spread of COVID-19, please visit CDC.gov.
Q: Can children get the COVID-19 vaccine?
A: Currently, the Pfizer vaccine is approved for children ages 16 and older. The Moderna vaccine is not approved for children. It is approved for adults ages 18 and older. For medical questions about vaccinating your child, we encourage you to contact your child’s health care provider and visit CDC.gov for the latest information on the COVID-19 vaccine.
We encourage you to visit our Coronavirus Resource Center frequently to stay updated on the latest information about our COVID-19 response.