An Update on COVID-19 Vaccinations
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released booster shot recommendations for some high-risk groups who received the Pfizer vaccine. A booster shot is given to individuals when the immune system response to the primary vaccine series has likely decreased over time.
According to the CDC, the following individuals should get a Pfizer booster dose:
- People 65 years and older and residents in long-term care settings
- People aged 50-64 years with underlying medical conditions
A booster dose is also available to the following individuals based on their own health conditions and risks:
- People aged 18-49 years with underlying medical conditions
- People aged 18-64 years who are at increased risk for COVID-19 exposure and transmission because of occupational or institutional setting
Note that only people who received their second dose of the Pfizer vaccine at least six months ago are eligible for a booster dose.
This comes a few weeks after the CDC announced a new recommendation for an additional COVID-19 vaccine dose for certain individuals with moderately to severely compromised immune systems who previously received the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines. An additional dose is provided to improve the individual’s immune system response to the initial vaccine series.
According to the CDC, other fully vaccinated people do not currently need a booster shot or additional dose. Individuals can consult their doctor to determine whether they are eligible for a booster shot or additional dose if they are unsure.
COVID-19 Vaccine Appointments
Sutter is now scheduling appointments for Pfizer booster shots. Eligible individuals can schedule a booster appointment by calling (844) 987-6115 or by checking My Turn for available booster vaccine appointments near them. In accordance with established guidance, Sutter is also offering additional doses of Pfizer or Moderna for moderately to severely immunocompromised people. Eligible individuals can call (844) 987-6115 or sign in to My Health Online to book an additional dose appointment. Booster shot and additional dose appointments can’t be scheduled through a provider’s office.
If members have not yet received their initial COVID-19 vaccine series, they can schedule an appointment by phone at 844-987-6115 or book online through My Health Online. Members can also sign up on My Turn, California’s COVID-19 vaccine scheduling portal, for available vaccination appointments.
As a reminder, Sutter Health Plus covers COVID-19 vaccines for our members, including a booster shot or additional dose, even if it is administered out-of-network.
Safety Protocols
With the increasing vaccine supply, the total number of Californians fully vaccinated against COVID-19 now tops 70%, according to the state.
To maximize protection from the COVID-19 delta variant and prevent possibly spreading COVID-19 to others, the CDC still recommends wearing a mask indoors in public settings—regardless of vaccination status.
Additional Resources
For up-to-date information about COVID-19, visit:
- Sutter Health Plus COVID-19 Coverage, Cost and Access to Care for health plan information and FAQs
- Sutter Health COVID-19 Resources for clinical information, a COVID-19 interactive screener, patient information, and more
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for federal guidance, U.S. data tracking, and public health information
- California Department of Public Health for California-specific alerts, data tracking, resources and guidance
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California’s move to expand COVID-19 vaccination eligibility this month is welcome news. Please be assured that Sutter Health Plus is actively engaged and working to help members understand how to navigate their COVID-19 vaccine eligibility during this time.
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With COVID-19 vaccine supply increasing and eligibility expanding, California is taking a big step in its vaccine distribution. Please be assured that Sutter Health Plus is actively engaged and working to help members understand how to navigate their COVID-19 vaccine eligibility during this time.
COVID-19 Vaccine Eligibility and Appointments
Starting April 1, 2021, COVID-19 vaccine eligibility is expanding to include all Californians age 50 and up. Two weeks later, on April 15, 2021, all individuals age 16 and up will be eligible.
Until then, the currently eligible groups include people age 65 and up, essential workers (agriculture and food, education and childcare, emergency services, and public transit/airport and commercial airlines), individuals age 16-64 with severe health conditions, and individuals with a developmental or other high-risk disability as defined by the California Department of Public Health.
As supply allows, vaccinations are offered at multiple locations across the Sutter Health Plus service area, including at several large-scale and drive-through clinics. Members who are eligible to receive the vaccine can check appointment availability through:
- Sutter’s patient portal, My Health Online, or by calling the Sutter Health COVID-19 Vaccine appointment line at 844-987-6115
- California’s list of local COVID-19 resource websites to sign up for county alerts and find vaccination sites
- Network pharmacies
Members can also sign up on My Turn, California’s COVID-19 vaccine scheduling portal, to be notified when they are eligible to schedule a vaccine appointment. If a member is eligible and vaccine appointments are available through My Turn, they can schedule one.
As a reminder, if a Sutter Health Plus member is able to get a COVID-19 vaccine, it’s covered even if it is administered out-of-network.
Safety Protocols
At this time, state and federal health officials still recommend masking and physical distancing to be critical tools in preventing COVID-19 transmission until a large percentage of the population is vaccinated. It is important to remain vigilant and follow public health guidance.
Additional Resources
For up-to-date information about COVID-19, visit:
- Sutter Health Plus COVID-19 Coverage, Cost and Access to Care for health plan information and FAQs
- Sutter Health COVID-19 Resources for clinical information, a COVID-19 interactive screener, patient information, and more
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for federal guidance, U.S. data tracking, and public health information
- California Department of Public Health for California-specific alerts, data tracking, resources, and guidance