Due to overwhelming demand for the COVID-19 vaccine, many Idahoans have been unable to make an appointment to get a vaccination. Overwhelmed phone lines and websites at the public health districts and enrolled provider organizations has been frustrating for Idahoans. They have expressed their frustration on social media, in emails, and in phone calls.

Gov. Brad Little announced today through a press release that the State of Idaho has created a new COVID-19 vaccine appointment pre-registration solution to help alleviate the frustration of many Idahoans in trying to make an appointment to get the vaccine. The new system, called Idaho’s COVID-19 Vaccine Pre-Registration System, makes it easy for Idahoans to put their names on a waiting list.

This system allows Idahoans (and those who work in Idaho) who want to receive the COVID-19 vaccine to save their names to a statewide list. Vaccine providers can then easily find people who want the vaccine. By adding your name to the list, you are telling vaccine providers that you are interested in receiving the vaccine. You can add your name now, and you will be notified when you are eligible to receive the vaccine and a provider has vaccine available.

The new COVID-19 vaccine appointment pre-registration system is available at https://covidvaccine.idaho.gov/.

The new system is user-friendly. The instructions are in plain language. It was been built from the ground up, specifically for Idahoans.

I want to echo Gov. Little’s words – all Idahoans who choose to get the COVID-19 will be able to do so. It is our top priority.

One quick reminder: if you are in a priority group that is currently receiving the vaccine (e.g. 65 and older), make sure you pre-register through the new system so that an enrolled provider in your area can reach out to you and schedule your vaccine appointment.

Answering a few questions

The Idaho COVID-19 Vaccine Pre-registration System is open to all who live or work in Idaho. Please encourage your families and friends to sign up. If you have questions, or want more information about the system, you can also visit the Idaho vaccination information page on the DHW website. Below are some of the questions (and the answers) you may have about the pre-registration system.

Is there anything I need to do after I have registered?

No. An enrolled COVID-19 vaccine provider will contact you when it is your turn, and there is a vaccine appointment available.

Can I remove my name from the list if I change my mind?

Yes, there will be an email link sent to you after you have confirmed your email address. If you select that link, you will be directed to a confirmation page to confirm you want to be removed from this list.

Will it be my primary care provider that administers my dose?

Not necessarily. Although you may indicate a preference in the pre-registration process, another provider may call you to schedule your appointment and get the COVID-19 vaccine.

How much does it cost to get a COVID-19 vaccine?

There will be no charge to you from the enrolled COVID-19 vaccine provider for your COVID-19 vaccine. Providers that participate in the CDC COVID-19 Vaccination Program contractually agree to administer a COVID-19 vaccine regardless of an individual’s ability to pay for the administration and regardless of their coverage status, and also may not seek any reimbursement, including through balance billing, from a vaccine recipient. 

People without health insurance or whose insurance does not provide coverage of the vaccine administration cost can also receive COVID-19 vaccine for free. Providers administering the vaccine to people without health insurance or whose insurance does not provide coverage of the vaccine administration can request reimbursement through the Provider Relief Fund. 

Can I sign up my spouse, parent, or another adult?

Yes, if someone needs help to register, you can register as many members of your family you want using the same email address. They should be prepared to show proof of Idaho residency or proof they work in Idaho at the time of their vaccination appointment.

How long will it take to obtain my vaccination?

It could be days, weeks, or a few months. It depends on when it is your turn and the availability of the COVID-19 vaccine in Idaho. The biggest issue at this time is that there is not enough COVID-19 vaccine for everyone that wants it. Many are frustrated with this limited supply. Idaho public health officials are working with federal partners to increase the amount of vaccine sent to Idaho. Review information on our website to see the schedule for COVID vaccines in Idaho.

Which vaccine/manufacturer will I get?

At this time, it is not possible for you to select a specific vaccine or manufacturer.

If you want to get a COVID-19 vaccine, I would encourage you to sign up today using the new pre-registration system. Getting the vaccine will help stop the spread of COVID19. It’s the best shot we have to get Idaho back to normal.

I hope you all have a safe and healthy weekend.