All Veterans, their spouses and caregivers can soon get COVID-19 vaccinations from VA under the SAVE LIVES Act signed into law March 24.
For the latest information, Stay Informed here.
Covered individuals can receive a vaccine from VA due to the ongoing COVID-19 public health emergency. Under the bill, covered individuals are:
- Veterans who are not eligible to enroll in the VA health care system;
- specified Veterans who are eligible for hospital care, medical services, and nursing home care abroad;
- family caregivers approved as providers of personal care services for Veterans under the VA’s Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers;
- caregivers of Veterans participating in the VA’s Program of General Caregiver Support Services; and
- caregivers of Veterans participating in the VA’s Medical Foster Home Program, Bowel and Bladder Program, Home Based Primary Care Program, or Veteran Directed Care Program.
- Civilian Health and Medical Programs of the Department of Veterans Affairs recipients.
- Veteran spouses.
VA must prioritize the vaccination of (1) Veterans enrolled in the VA health care system, (2) Veterans who fail to enroll but receive hospital care and medical services for specified disabilities in their first 12 months of separation from service, and (3) caregivers accompanying such prioritized Veterans. Additionally, vaccines furnished abroad are authorized to be furnished in a geographic location other than a state regardless of whether vaccines are needed for the treatment of Veterans with a service-connected disability. This includes those participating in a VA rehabilitation program.
More information
To learn how to get COVID-19 vaccine from VA, visit https://news.va.gov/84404/veterans-designated-caregivers-can-get-covid-19-vaccine-va/.
Find answers to general VA COVID-19 vaccine questions at https://www.va.gov/health-care/covid-19-vaccine/.
To receive ongoing updates about VA’s COVID-19 vaccine efforts and to indicate your interest in getting the vaccine once you’re eligible, visit https://www.va.gov/health-care/covid-19-vaccine/stay-informed.
Read the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine fact sheet at https://www.fda.gov/media/144638/download.
View the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine fact sheet at https://www.fda.gov/media/144413/download.
Read the Janssen COVID-19 fact sheet at https://www.fda.gov/media/146305/download.
Army Veteran Dolores Rivera received her first Moderna COVID-19 vaccine at a mobile clinic in Hobbs, New Mexico, March 19, 2021. VA photo by Reynaldo Leal.
Edits
March 25, at 6:30 PM ET:
For the latest information, Stay Informed here.
March 25, at 7:10 PM ET:
Title changed from “All Veterans, their spouses, caregivers can get COVID-19 vaccinations from VA” to “SAVE LIVES Act allows VA to soon provide COVID-19 vaccinations to all Veterans, their spouses and caregivers”
The word “soon” was added to the sentence “All Veterans, their spouses and caregivers can soon get COVID-19 vaccinations from VA under the SAVE LIVES Act signed into law March 24.”
Sentence with link added: “UPDATE March 25th, 6:30pm: For the latest information, Stay Informed here.”
Topics in this story
More Stories
The Medical Foster Home program offers Veterans an alternative to nursing homes.
Watch the Under Secretary for Health and a panel of experts discuss VA Health Connect tele-emergency care.
The 2024 National Veteran Suicide Prevention Annual Report provides the foundation for VA’s suicide prevention programs and initiatives.
How about the Vet’s children? I’d like to schedule my 12-year-old daughter, once her age group becomes eligible.
Children who are CHAMPVA beneficiaries are included in the law. However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have not authorized any current COVID-19 vaccines for children under 16 years or 18 years of age, depending on vaccine manufacturer.
Any news about expatriates yet?
Has the vaccine been approved by the FDA?
If not, who is responsible if it hurts me?
If I am vaccinated, why do I still need a mask?
Does it stop me from getting COVID-19?
Does it stop me from spreading it?
Does it really alter my DNA like the Johnson and Johnson website say?
Why does the manufacturer’s not refer to it as a vaccine?
I am very concerned and would just like some answets
Yes, all COVID-19 vaccines have been FDA approved.
The biggest reason for continuing to wear a mask is that no system is perfect. Even vaccinated there’s still a very small chance that you could catch it and spread it. Unfortunate, but unavoidable. There’s also the reason of continuing to encourage those who aren’t vaccinated to keep wearing them. You’re not responsible for them, but continued masking helps the populace at large, so it’s more a good Samaritan thing.
The vaccines doesn’t prevent you from catching it, but they keep you out of the hospital. The antibodies that the vaccines create lessen the chance of catching it and, more importantly, lessen the severity of the symptoms to keep you out of the life-threatening situation that could result in hospitalization or even death, both of which are obviously expensive to you.
The vaccines do lessen the symptoms, and so they lessen your chances for spreading.
There’s no DNA alteration. A portion of the virus’s mRNA section goes in as instructions to your body to construct stuff to simulate having the virus in order to get the immune system response of antibody production. It’s not exactly high-falutin medical stuff, I think most people can understand it pretty quick if it’s presented simply enough–which is admittedly sometimes hard to find. Here’s a quick link to one article, but you should be able find an explanation that works better for you with a quick Google search if you need it. https://www.forbes.com/sites/victoriaforster/2021/01/11/covid-19-vaccines-cant-alter-your-dna-heres-why/?sh=14aeabe02491
I didn’t really have time to look into them not calling them vaccines. If that’s true I’d imagine it’s liability related due to our highly litigious culture, but I’m sure you can root that one out yourself.
My wife works at a federally funded clinic, and she said that the medical professional word is that any vaccine is better than none, except the Astrozenica(sp?) due to it’s low effectiveness, but that it’s not very present in the US anyway. As they put it, they’ll all keep you out of the hospital, and that’s the goal.
• The FDA has authorized 3 COVID-19 vaccines for public use: Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna, and Janssen COVID-19 vaccine. All these vaccines have been proven effective at preventing serious illness, hospitalization, and death from COVID-19 disease. Learn more about the vaccines here: https://www.va.gov/health-care/covid-19-vaccine/
• If you do get vaccinated, you should not stop wearing your mask. Even if you receive a COVID-19 vaccine, you’ll still need to wear a mask that covers your mouth and nose. You’ll also need to follow other safety rules like practicing physical distancing. This helps protect you, and others. For answers to more frequently asked questions about COVID-19 vaccines, go to the CDC website. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/faq.html
• The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has caused severe illness and death around the world. This is, in part, because the virus that causes COVID-19 spreads easily from person to person. We have some treatments to help reduce the effects of COVID-19 but a vaccine that helps prevent people from becoming infected is the best way to slow or stop the spread of the virus.
• mRNA vaccines that protect you from COVID-19 don’t alter your DNA. These vaccines work outside of your cell’s nucleus (where your DNA is kept). The vaccines teach your cells how to make a protein that triggers an immune response. Your cells then break down and get rid of the mRNA soon after they’ve finished using the instructions. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/different-vaccines/mrna.html
• Additionally, your health care provider can help you decide if it’s safe for you to get a COVID-19 vaccine. Before you get a vaccine, tell the provider giving you the vaccine about all your health conditions. To find out what you should know before you get a vaccine, including a list of ingredients, read the FDA fact sheets. https://www.va.gov/health-care/covid-19-vaccine/
Who actually supports Veterans, troops and families?
All but two Democrats voted for the bill and all Republicans voted against the bill. A modified version passed the Senate on March 6 by a vote of 50–49. The final amended bill was passed by the House on March 10 by a vote of 220–211 with one Democrat voting against it with all Republicans.
Thank you Democrats and President Biden for your support and sincerity.
Incorrect. This bill passed both houses by acclimation. You have it confused with the 2trillion bill
Any idea of about when the VA will actually open vaccinations to spouses?
The SAVE LIVES Act was passed on 03/24/21 and Veteran’s spouses and caregivers are now eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.
Spouses can call the Sioux Falls VA Medical Center and schedule their vaccinations now. Check with your local VAMC. Our local CBOC’s are not yet vaccinating spouses but should be soon.
Any individual presenting to VA for vaccination who characterizes their relationship as spousal, can receive the vaccine. This includes same sex and common law marriages. This also includes a widow or widower of a Veteran. If you characterize your relationship as spousal, you can receive the vaccine.
This is a JOKE – No the VA is not prepared to have spouses vaccinated for covid. I have known about this SAVE LIVES Act in the last month. All VA staff did not know about it prior to being passed. Now that it is LAW. They still cannot compile with vaccinating spouses. For now don’t waste your time calling on wandering around the VA web site finding away to get your spouse registered for a vaccine. All VA operators are wasting your time giving you excuses and do not actually have a way or answer. They do their best to sound like they know – the reality is the VA has not figured out how to implement registering spouses for vaccines. I do not appreciate the VA’s email updates implying that this is possible.
Oh, I know someday in the future it could happen, but I am afraid it will be too late for many Veteran families. If you are concern the best advice from an Old time 100% disabled Vietman Veteran find help from your county Health Department local to you. Get your vaccine as soon as possible and do not wait for the VA to figure out their bureaucracy.
Currently spouses are able to call the Sioux Falls VA Medical Center to schedule their vaccinations but the CBOCs are not yet set up for vaccinating spouses.
In March and April 2021, VA is beginning to conduct pilots of COVID-19 vaccination for individuals specified in the SAVE LIVES Act at select VA Medical Centers. These pilots will work through critical steps in the process including communications, operations including space and staffing, systems for registration, enrollment, scheduling, documentation, and data transmission.
The ability to open vaccines up to all age groups is predicated on a number of factors, including the age and chronic illnesses of Veterans receiving care at the facility and the availability of vaccine. We encourage those interested in getting the vaccine to sign up to tell us if you want to get a vaccine at VA. https://www.va.gov/health-care/covid-19-vaccine/
Question: My neighbor’s husband (deceased) served in nam, is she eligible?
Yes, I don’t see why not, but I agree with Edmond… don’t wait.
For COVID-19 vaccine eligibility, we define a spouse to include marriage, same-sex and common-law marriages. This includes a widow or widower of a Veteran. If the relationship is characterized as spousal, they can receive the vaccine. https://www.va.gov/health-care/covid-19-vaccine/
Got notified by text from Bedford Ma. V.A. to get my shots. Took 5 min. to set up the appointment. Went off without a hitch. Clinic was moved to Lynn Ma. which was even better for all of us vets from the north shore of Boston. If you have trouble try to reach out to your V.S.O. in your town hall or city hall. Everything that I have done through the V.A. health has been very easy. Thanks for listening.
Thanks to all our vets for your service. If you did not walk it you can’t talk it.
We were unable to get vaccines with the VA’s help for my home-bound 87-year-old heart and dementia afflicted Vietnam Vet father. So we had to make appointments 4 hours away to get vaccines. We had to take a caregiver to help move Dad and get him into a handicapped bathroom at a hotel we had to rent, and with a large enough rented car to get his wheel chair into – twice – to get both vaccines. It was a big deal, and a shame that we could not have had someone come to him and our mother, his supporter throughout his military career, to administer the vaccine. At least he should have been able to get the vaccine at the closer VA offices or his local doctor.
This is good to know. As a military retiree, my wife and I have already received both vaccine doses through the National Military Medical Center in Bethesda,
Unless posters are lying, the ability to schedule an appointment varies. Obviously VA healthcare clinics operate differently all over the USA and US territories. Anybody on this thread that believes it is easy to make an appointment over the phone or by text at the VA Clinic in Mayaguez, Puerto Rico, doesn’t understand the local culture. Once you get in they are fantastic.
Am i able to bring my 21 yr old daughter for a covid shot. I have been trying to get her an appt for weeks to no avail. She is in college remotely but at her job she is a gymnastics coach and around alot of ppl. Please let me know if this is possible. thank you
Children who are CHAMPVA beneficiaries are included in the law. https://www.va.gov/health-care/covid-19-vaccine/
I’m worried about how this expansion of VA health care eligibility may impact the quality of care my wife (a veteran) and I receive. The Act specifically used the word “Others” to describe those now eligible for VA vaccines. Is this opening a pandoras box, where the Act will be used to justify authorizing non veterans access to VA resources? Is it possible our VA clinics and hospital waiting rooms may soon be filled with non vets accessing federally funded free healthcare?
Same here! Appointment through text and set for next week. Couldn’t have been easier.
Well I got mine from where I work. But a little to late for my 79 year old wife and her caregiver , her 77 old sister. Glad your finally offering them..
Ya! In your dreams maybe next year 2022.
I really wish you the best as soon as possible. But good luck with the VA.
This is Great to Hear, however a premature In the announcement that Veterans and their Spouses should have said “SOON” because in a phone call today to VAMC Martinsburg WV. I called to schedule my wife’s shot since I was already going to be there in the next couple of days and couple of weeks (45 miles) the vaccine call center person was not aware (surprised of the info) Your coworker updated her she still told us no we had to wait because unless she was on caregivers list I couldn’t take her in and they would not schedule her. So Added stress to a false start. Back to Square One. It’s not like you didn’t know it was going to happen but then I did find in tiny print on the VA site “ At this time, we still have a limited amount of vaccines. We’re working to determine how quickly we can begin to offer vaccines to these other groups.” So it’s not like you didn’t know because you know enough to insert the statement hidden on the site but yet not in this announcement. Thanks
So how about all of the veterans who live overseas? I’m in a country with 4 or 5 US bases within an hour or so of my home, will we get access to the base clinic to receive our vaccines?
Sadly the US is one of the few countries to really push the vaccine effort so quickly. If I wait for Japan to vaccinate me, it’ll be near the end of 2021. They are dragging their feet every single step of the way.
I am still waiting for the VA to provide me with my ID Card that they took my picture for so I can make use of the Veterans Administration Healthcare System!
If it’s been more than 10 days since you’ve had your picture taken and you haven’t received your card, please call the VA medical center where you had your picture taken. Or call us at 877-222-8387. We’re here Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. ET. If you have hearing loss, call TTY: 711. https://www.va.gov/health-care/get-health-id-card/
I am VERY satisfied with the medical care that I have / am receiving from the St. Louis VA medical centers.
I have found every Doctor and medical personnel to be helpful and respectful to me.
The medical centers are clean and the staff are very welcoming.
Sincerely,
Virgil Don Carver
USAF
What about for those VA we live in other country outside for USA. It may be possible to return after this pandemia have some kind of relief all arround.
Nurse called to confirm my 6 month PMC visit and also scheduled the J&J , 10 days prior to appt. My WW11 Vet. father I care for, was also scheduled for the vaccine at that time.
We received our vaccinations together, within 5 minutes upon arrival, then saw my PMC 5 minutes after that. My 15 minute wait was done talking to my primary care Doctor who took his time to address all my concerns never rushing me out of his office.
The care received at the College Station outpatient clinic from doctors , nurses, and staff, always exceeds my expectations.
COOL! I’ll call my nearest VA clinic tomorrow to get in next Friday.
Thanks for clearing that up, Bud!
That’s GREAT! Now someone from the mother ship should let the minions in the field know (Specifically Huntsville, AL CBOC)!!! I went today to try and schedule my wife and they looked at me like I was from MARS!!! Business as usual…
I was told that during the highest level of covid19 cases that if I did not schedule my 1 year annual physical that I would be kicked out of the VA system. That I had only 1 year left to schedule. Hope this information helps someone else that if you do not use your VA benefits for two years you get kicked out. No excuses will be accepted even during a pandemic.
I have an appointment next week at the VA Health System Pittsburgh, PA near where I live to get my first COVID-19 Vaccine Shot, how do I schedule my wife to get her’s?
Veterans, caregivers, spouses, and CHAMPVA beneficiaries newly eligible under the law can go to http://www.va.gov/covid-19-vaccine to indicate their interest in receiving a vaccine from VA. Signing up will also give users regular updates about VA’s vaccine rollout process.
My wife and both had had Covid Jan/Feb 2021.
Do we need a first shot at this time March 2021.
When do we need a second shot?
Data from clinical trials show that the 3 authorized COVID-19 vaccines are safe in people who’ve been infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 in the past. If you’re currently sick from COVID-19, you should wait until you’ve recovered, and you’re finished with isolation to get a vaccine. If you’ve received passive antibody therapy to treat COVID-19, you should wait at least 90 days before getting a COVID-19 vaccine. Go to the CDC website for answers to more common questions about COVID-19 vaccines. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/faq.html
Hope you have a YEAR to wait if at the end of the VA line.
Here’s a shocker: VA is part of the current Admin’s established “pissing in the wind” approach to pretending that, unlike that Other Guy that got thrown out of office, the Pros from Dover have “A Plan” to vaccinate a third of a BILLION ‘mer-cans …in the next few months. The 24 March law is a well-intentioned attempt to broaden the vaccination pipeline but if you think that veterans can now, en-masse, go get their shot, you didn’t read the entire press release.
Here is a synopsis of the the VA’s scope & scale issue:
The VA-enrolled CURRENT eligible population is about 9.5 million. To-date, VA has vaccinated not quite 1.6 million. The new law expands the population eligible to 33m; almost 3.5x times the number that they are at 17% on…..at 200k per week of first-shot allotment. That 200k number comes from this para in the release:
“VA currently receives approximately 200,000 first, or single doses, of COVID-19 vaccine each week. VA estimates that it will need a minimum of 300,000 first or single doses of COVID-19 vaccine weekly to offer COVID-19 vaccination to an additional three million Veterans who are enrolled but not currently using VA health care. VA estimates that it will need approximately 600,000 first, or single doses, of COVID-19 vaccine each week to further expand vaccination to all individuals outlined in HR1276. First or single dose supply is the best indicator of VA’s capacity to offer expanded COVID-19 vaccination.”
My public-college math tells me… 33million -1.6 done = 31.4 million eligible veterans. 31.4 / .6 million first-shots per week = 52.3 weeks…AKA a freaking YEAR….if everything goes smoothly and shots go out at the cyclic rate. Your tax $ at work….
Bill signed yesterday, got the text this morning from the VA, and got scheduled for an appointment next week. Whole process was done via text and cost me about 2.5 minutes of my morning. Good rant, though.
Saw the message, called today, have an appointment for a shot tomorrow morning.
Same experience, took 5 mins to get appt, for 1st & 2nd injections got both without a hitch. For the trolls trying to inject drama into the process go to $&//. I have gone through many programs be they USAF, Dept of Defense, and/or VA and for the most part they were FUBAR. I highly commend the VA on how efficiently they are handling the mass vaccinations. Smooth, stress free experience. I was truly impressed.
When can i recieve a covid19shot my husband already recieved his vacsination. When can i recieve mine ?
All I got out of that was Orange Man good, Old Man bad.
I got the notification this morning and scheduled an appointment for next Tuesday. I think the VA is doing a pretty good job.
Received a letter a couple weeks ago, on Friday. Called. SOMEONE ANSWERED. Made appointment for the coming wednesday.
pulled up, handed a clip board and pen, parked, filled it out, went in, got my temp taken, was taken back a a few others, sat for no more than 5-3 minutes, was in there way longer BECAUSE I HAVENT BEEN OUT IN A YEAR, so i talked about anything, and the nurse was cool, didn’t feel the shot, walked out,
made my second appointment, waited 10-15 minutes, didn’t get sick or die, drove home.
All in all, the entire time of waiting for clip board, to vacate 30-40 minutes. All in all, THE BEST experience at ANY VA (including this one) E V E R! It was truly amazing after dealing with the VA in SIX different states (including DE) over the course of 35 years, With 22 days in the VA for surgery. BEST! If everything from here is downhill slow, i am good until i die! KUDOS VA Georgetown!.
Ha!!!
My wife who is a veteran and I called on Wednesday and got in on Friday. Got 2nd shot 2 weeks later. 15 minutes in line, no big deal. Some folks have to bring political views into everything.
I agree. My wife who is a veteran and I called on a Wednesday and got in that Friday. Got 2nd shot 2 weeks later. No problem. Some folks just have to bring politics into everything
Depends on where you live.
Well, sounds like Mr. Neemeyer had some sour grapes for breakfast.
As in Kyle’s case, I called my local VAMC this afternoon after reading the email from the VA. It took me no time at all to get my two appointments. First appointment in a week. I was offered an appointment even sooner but I declined.
Sure is encouraging to have some competent people leading the mission. Isn’t it great Thomas to have the opportunity to be positive about a success in our nation. I’m sure you aren’t a Debbie-Downer, so you must have just forgotten to show your support for all in the bio-pharmaceutical industry, all the health care workers, and all in the CURRENT administration who are working to bring a pandemic under control for the benefit of all A-m-e-r-i-c-a-n-s. What a great way to spend my tax dollars.
We’ve got three companies ramping up production and two more companies with new covid vaccines in the pipeline. We’ll soon have more vaccine than we can use in the US. Sorry that your glasses filter out all the good to be seen in the situation. Hope your vision improves soon.
Same here! Appointment through text and set for next week. Couldn’t have been easier. Didn’t even need to do any math!
I am the spouse and caregiver of a disabled Vietnam era vet. But since I am not quite 65 and we are not in the official Caregiver Support Program, I have been unable to get vaccinated even though I am 24/7 caregiving a veteran. After I read the bill was signed, I called the Covid phone line, spoke to a live person, got scheduled and will receive first vax today. It is amazing how quickly congress can work. When it wants to. Yes, all vets and caregivers vaccinated is a huge task. But at least the steps are being taken to get there.
Signed up and got my shot within a week at the VA, months ahead of when I would have been eligible if I waited on the Florida governor’s plan. Lots of veterans (first responders, police, nursing home patients, my dad, etc.) have already or will get their shots because they are eligible through other resources – so I’m not sure simple math applies.
Now I am hoping to get my spouse in once the VA actually opens it up to spouses – since it may be months before the state run eligibility.
Keith, spouses newly eligible under the law can go to http://www.va.gov/covid-19-vaccine to indicate their interest in receiving a vaccine from VA. Signing up will also give users regular updates about VA’s vaccine rollout process.
Mr. Neemeyer, like the “Other Guy”, I suggest that you and all of his die hard supporters follow his lead and take oxychloroquine. This would free up vaccines for the folks who not only believe in science but also care about humanity.
By the way, I am a 47 year old veteran who has received both Pfizer shots, the last on Monday, at the Orlando Lake Baldwin VA clinic. Scheduling was easy and was in and out within 25 minutes, 15 of which was for observation.
So much for pissing in the wind!
I sent this information to a vet in another city yesterday. He just phoned to say he has gotten scheduled. I was notified by the San Diego VA in January 2021 that I was scheduled for both the first vaccination in a week and the second in 21 days, both of which I’ve gotten. They had a very efficient set-up for administering the shots, with virtually no waiting on line. The VA is the ONLY organization that contacted me and scheduled me. The few other medical organizations that–as much as months later than the VA–informed me I was eligible did not have vaccine.
Thomas, Only one year… that pretty damn awesome if you ask me. Did you have a better plan that we could follow… or do you just want to sht on everything? You must be a glass half empty kind of guy. Is it perfect… nope. But guess what … at least they are making a plan and executing it. When you decide to make a plan, build all the hospitals, and come up with a vaccine, then you can figure out how to get millions of people the shot. Until then… why not try to help… or at the VERY LEAST shut your trap if you don’t have anything nice to say. Or did you mother never teach you that?
Are Veterans given a choice of Vaccine?
When I went to get mine at the VA recently, all they offered was the Moderna (first dose). Almost all the vaccines require a waiting period between 20 to 30 days before getting the second dose.
To my knowledge there isn’t a ‘choice’ anywhere for vaccine manufacturer, except for when you need your second shot, then you need to have the same type.
Your choice is to get the vaccine that is in the syringe or not apply to get the vaccine.
I was not offered a choice, but that didn’t matter. My goal was get the first one I can get (in this case Moderna) since even the single first dose offered some protection.
Where i live now i am offered the choice of the sputnik vaccine of nothing.
I am going with “nothing” until i get access to a different vaccine.
Carl, for the next several months, we’ll still have a limited amount of vaccines. It’s always your choice if you want to get a vaccine or not. Your decision won’t affect your VA health care or any of your VA benefits in any way. If you get a COVID-19 vaccine that requires 2 doses, you must get the same vaccine for both doses. To learn about vaccines available at your facility, go to the facility’s website. Once you’re on the site, From the left column, choose “Health Care Services.” When the dropdown menu opens, choose “COVID-19 Vaccines.” https://www.va.gov/health-care/covid-19-vaccine/
Months ago, after I recieved a notice from the VA indicating I could receive the covid vaccine, I called and asked specifically whether my wife of fifty three years would also be treated. The answer was a definitive “NO”. We’ve — just yesterday — gotten our second doses from a state-sponsored site. Nice to see a better initiative on the VA’s part.
What about vets who are also expats? How will we receive our vaccinations. Months ago I contacted the embassy in an attempt to get a vaccination, as I know they were all vaccinated, but I was told I was not eligible to receive the vaccine.
Thanks.
If I’m a veteran but dont get/need any care from the VA besides the vaccination. Am I still eligible? Wasnt super clear to what I was reading.
I was same status as you. I enrolled online for VA care, was approved in 5 min and got my shot the next week. You don’t have to get your care there to enroll. I am currently Tricare.
If you have a VA disability you are automatically approved and will go to the head of the line for the vaccine.
Good Luck
Before receiving the COVID-19 Vaccine, you should have no positive COVID-19 test within 90 days, or no symptoms of COVID-19 for 21 days. If you have any doubt, confirm with clinical staff.
Go to your nearest VA Medical Center and register. Please bring a copy of your DD-214 ID, proof of income, and proof of residence
Nathan, all Veterans (including those not enrolled in VA health care) fall under the newly eligible law for who can get the vaccine at VA. Go to http://www.va.gov/covid-19-vaccine to indicate your interest in receiving a vaccine from VA. Signing up will also give users regular updates about VA’s vaccine rollout process.
I’d be interested in the response to this query as well. I’m a U.S. veteran living in Italy. I’m registered at my VA clinic in Cape Coral Florida. Can I get a vaccine here in Italy so I can travel safely back to the States?
• Veterans, caregivers, spouses, and CHAMPVA beneficiaries newly eligible under the law can go to http://www.va.gov/covid-19-vaccine to register and indicate their interest in receiving a vaccine from VA. Signing up will also give users regular updates about VA’s vaccine rollout process.
• Those eligible who have entered registered their interest in getting the vaccine will be contacted by our VA by text message, voicemail, email, or phone about vaccination events, scheduling, and other opportunities.
• Veterans, caregivers, and spouses may be offered the vaccine from their employer, pharmacy, or local public health officials. We encourage everyone to take the first opportunity they have to get a vaccine at the most convenient location for them.
Veterans, caregivers, spouses, and CHAMPVA beneficiaries newly eligible under the law can go to http://www.va.gov/covid-19-vaccine to register and indicate their interest in receiving a vaccine from VA. Signing up will also give users regular updates about VA’s vaccine rollout process.
why are you repeating what the page already says?
The sign up feature will only allow you to enter a valid US zip code and there is no option for a foreign address.
I just learned of the new law supposedly signed yesterday, March 24, 2021 pertaining to all veterans not in the VA system, family care givers, civilian health personnel and veterans spouses are now eligible to receive their Covid 19 vaccination through the VA.
I called our regional VA in Sioux Falls this morning to inquire about getting my spouse a Covid 19 vaccination. I was told that she has to be enrolled in the Veterans Caregivers Program to receive the vaccination. If in fact that is the case I can accept that, but according to the new law just signed it states six or seven different categories that will now qualify for the vaccination.
It states all veterans, including those not currently enrolled in the VA system, family care givers, veteran caregivers, civilian health & medical programs and veterans spouses. It does not say veterans spouses currently enrolled in the family care givers program, it says veterans spouses.
I have now received both of my Covid vaccinations because I am considered high risk due to underlying health conditions and would really like my spouse to have her vaccination.
As one veteran stated above,” Headlines are One Thing but reality within the VA system is another”. I love my VA and feel they do an excellent job but education and communication within the VA system for things like this leave much to be desired.
Dave Knudsen, Sioux Falls, SD March 25, 2021 10:20 hrs.
So what’s happening is that some folks who think they know everything are giving you the wrong answer. What you state is in fact the case under normal circumstances. Now with this new law your spouse IS eligible with no restrictions. The law applies to ALL veterans and ALL spouses of veterans. Whomever gave you the response does not know about the law yet. It is too new and some folks may not have heard about it yet. They have no choice the “Save Lives Act” has been signed into law. It is in fact a law. The problem is that all VA hospitals across the country have been caught flat-footed. They have no Idea no how to implement the new law. All veterans should be writing to Secretary of Veteran’s Affairs so the hospitals could be squared away and get this implemented immediately.
Thanks Pat F. Called today for my spouse and got the answer that the VA was not set up for the new law yet. You think someone would have prepared the VA for this ahead of time. Every state seems to be dropping the ball from them-to-time on who and who someone can get vaccinated, it is a Herculean effort so it is not surprising.
Keith, we encourage you/your spouse to go to http://www.va.gov/covid-19-vaccine to indicate their interest in receiving a vaccine from VA. Signing up will also give users regular updates about VA’s vaccine rollout process.
You need to give people time to actually READ the law and figure out what they are saying is wrong.
Called my local med facility in Wilkes-Barre, PA (WBMC) this morning at 0815hrs to obtain an appointment for the Mrs under the recently passed SAVE LIVES Act (passed just yesterday) and was given the following info that may apply to any/all med facilities/clinics (you should check with your own as info may differ)… Although the act has passed and was signed into law
as of yesterday, March 24th, 2021, they ‘have not received any guidance on how/when to start scheduling those now eligible for the COVID19 vaccine, and are not scheduling appointments for those newly qualified. If you are enrolled in the medical program, and your contact phone number is on record, you will receive a text once scheduling is available’. That text system has worked quite well so far. That’s how I found out when I could get mine. I would recommend you contact your local medical facility for more accurate info as pertains to you. Doc
Same thing happened in Dallas. They said it’s not “fully implemented”, This is something that should not have been made public until it was “fully implemented”
Even though it has been enacted into law. The process to get spouses vaccinated is not as simple as given a veteran vaccinated. Spouses are civilians, and we run a military base system. More guidance from the VA on how to handle the process to ensure we run a smooth vaccination clinic.
I just called to make a Vaccine appointment for my spouse at the VA Medical Center in Hampton Virginia. I was told that the Hampton VAMC is not participating.
As someone above mentioned, headlines are one thing but reality with the VA actually providing care/immunizations is another.
This law was drafted in January and VA has known that it was making its way through Congress and would more than likely be put into law yet it appears that no one from the VA (except for this blog writer) prepared to be able to provide immunizations to spouses after the law was signed.
At this point, it will take the VA six months to get their act together to allow spouses to get their vaccines – which at that point, either the spouse will be dead from Covid or Will have received their immunization through some other means.
That is just how VA medical care rules. You either die, or get your care somewhere else
CF, we apologize for the inconvenience. At this time, Veterans, caregivers, spouses, and CHAMPVA beneficiaries newly eligible under the law can go to http://www.va.gov/covid-19-vaccine to indicate their interest in receiving a vaccine from VA. Signing up will also give users regular updates about VA’s vaccine rollout process.
How do I register my wife for vaccine
Greater Los Angeles VA
How do I schedule get my wife to get her shot at Greater Los Angeles VA Hospital?
Veterans, caregivers, spouses, and CHAMPVA beneficiaries newly eligible under the law can go to http://www.va.gov/covid-19-vaccine to indicate their interest in receiving a vaccine from VA. Signing up will also give users regular updates about VA’s vaccine rollout process.
The Des Moines VA just told me that they know nothing about a spouse of a veteran being eligible for a vaccine. I told them the VA sent out the email. Shameful.
VA employees were notified of this change AFTER the public. There is no system yet in place to implement this change. It was signed into law yesterday. We are awaiting further guidance from VA leadership.
I hope you are not suggesting that VA employees are not allowed to watch TV, or read newspapers, or go online for non-loony news feed. VA employees learned about the new law as soon as you and I did. They simply don’t have the implementing instructions which must be issued by VA management and then sub-distributed. Nothing happens instantly; it take time to implement changes.
We appreciate everyone’s patience as we prepare to offer more vaccines. Veterans, caregivers, spouses, and CHAMPVA beneficiaries newly eligible under the law can go to http://www.va.gov/covid-19-vaccine to sign up to tell us if you want to get a vaccine. Signing up will also give you regular updates about VA’s vaccine rollout process.
I live in Taos, NM where we have a VA Outpatient Clinic. I stopped by the Clinic to check on the availability of the Covid Vaccine. I was told that I could sign up at the VA Hospital in Albuquerque or could go to one of our supermarkets in Taos. It’s one thing to put VA Outpatient Clinics in remote areas but not sure what the overall benefit is? When will the Vaccine be available at all VA Outpatient Clinics? Are there any plans to distribute the J&J Covid Vaccine to outpatient clinics since it doesn’t require the special freezers to maintain its integrity?
the Baltimore VA hospital had an open house for ALL veterans the week-end of 30 Jan. I got there at 0900 and got my first. Three weeks later got there and got my second. Whether it was suppose to happen that way, I do not know.
My mom is the spouse of a Veteran…. she wasn’t offered the shot at the VA, but received it through her local Walmart. The pharmacy staff signed her up and she got a call within 2 days to come get her shot. She will go back to Walmart to receive her second shot. BEST BET… go to Walmart and have them sign you up. I signed her up 2 months ago through the State of TN website and still have never received word about getting her a shot.
If any Veteran’s attend an Adult Day Care facility, it could be possible that they can assist getting shots for the members and their spouses. I work at such a place and we had the local Health Dept come to our facility and administer shots (1st and 2nd) to all of our members (Veterans or not and their families) this did not include minor children as all of our members don’t have small children). If you are a caregiver to a Veteran, an elderly family member or non family member, you would have been eligible under Phase one as a Healthcare worker… all of us at the facility I work at received our shots in January under Phase 1 -Healthcare workers.
Well I was unable to make an appointment for myself let alone for my spouse at my VA. Disable veteran under 65.
We appreciate everyone’s patience at this time as we prepare to offer more vaccines. Veterans, caregivers, spouses, and CHAMPVA beneficiaries can go to http://www.va.gov/covid-19-vaccine to sign up to tell us if you want to get a vaccine. Signing up will also give you regular updates about VA’s vaccine rollout process.
How about those of us living abroad. Where can we go to get our shots? Embassy?
No choice as to which type of shot you can receive. Only Pfizer is available…no J&J…why?
For the next several months, we’ll still have a limited amount of vaccines. It’s always your choice if you want to get a vaccine or not. Your decision won’t affect your VA health care or any of your VA benefits in any way. If you get a COVID-19 vaccine that requires 2 doses, you must get the same vaccine for both doses. To learn about vaccines available at your facility, go to the facility’s website. Once you’re on the site, From the left column, choose “Health Care Services.” When the dropdown menu opens, choose “COVID-19 Vaccines.” https://www.va.gov/find-locations/?facilityType=health&serviceType=Covid19Vaccine
Apparently, the Washington D.C. VA does not include spouse’s for vaccinations as I inquired when I scheduled my covid shot. The scheduler said he heard about that, but the D.C. VA was not part of that deal. This was on March 22nd.
They are now. It is a law that was signed just yesterday. It looks like all VA hospitals will need some “time” to implement the law.
We appreciate everyone’s patience as we prepare to offer more vaccines. Veterans, caregivers, spouses, and CHAMPVA beneficiaries newly eligible under the law can go to http://www.va.gov/covid-19-vaccine to sign up to tell us if you want to get a vaccine. Signing up will also give you regular updates about VA’s vaccine rollout process.
I can not get a vacine appointement from Kahului, Maui, Veterans Clinic. They(the clinic). Never/rarely returns calls. Absolutely no response to my repeated calls to schedule covid vacine. As I’m age 70, Veteran, rated 100%
When will vaccinations be available at the Rock Hill, SC CBOC?
I’m not sure about the Rock Hill clinic but the South Charlotte V.A. is scheduling appt’s for the vaccine already for Vets. I live in Rock Hill as well. I received a text from the South Charlotte V.A. 2 weeks ago and am getting my first shot tomorrow. It’s only a 20 minute drive.
We appreciate your patience as we work to offer more vaccines. Veterans, caregivers, spouses, and CHAMPVA beneficiaries newly eligible under the law can go to http://www.va.gov/covid-19-vaccine to sign up to tell us if you want to get a vaccine. Signing up will also give you regular updates about VA’s vaccine rollout process.
It would have been nice to have included Veterans minor children.
None of the vaccines have been cleared to be administered to children under the age of 16.
Children who are CHAMPVA beneficiaries are included in the law. However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have not authorized any current COVID-19 vaccines for children under 16 years or 18 years of age, depending on vaccine manufacturer. https://www.va.gov/health-care/covid-19-vaccine/
If I had my first vaccine can I come with my spouse on March 31 to get my second one
My husband is do back for his second dose on March 31
I’m do back at CCF on April 9 2021
We still have a limited amount of vaccines. You and your spouse can each sign up to tell us if you want to get a vaccine at http://www.va.gov/covid-19-vaccine. We’ll determine if you’re eligible and contact you when we have a vaccine for you. At this time, we don’t know when that will be. https://www.va.gov/health-care/covid-19-vaccine/
Thank you ,I have been trying too find a location in Riverview where I can get the shots.I am a 71 year old Veteran of the Viet Nam War 100 percent disabled vet, I have been waiting for Feedback on reactions Of shots before I got one.Riverview Outpatient is closest too me. Ihave a nephew,22year retired Gunnery Sgt.HIs wife 2 daughters and 4 great great great nieces and nephews living with meI would appreciate any help Thank you for any help
Shaun,
I’m also 71 and 100% service connected. I have been fully vaccinated for about a month now. I live in my own home with my wife who is 10 years younger. If my wife got sick I would have to go into the VA system.
Rich
I am due for second shot March 26 2021 at Salem VA clinic and spouse has hers at Salem Health March 30. Only way we could get scheduled. Is there a provision in bill to allow her to get second shot through VA instead. Should I just call Salem to find out? Do they have the info that quick?….Thank you!….
Individuals must go to the same VA facility or non-VA facility for both COVID-19 vaccine doses. This is necessary as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) sends second doses of each vaccine to the same VA facility where the first dose was administered. This not only ensures that there are enough doses in each location; it also ensures that individuals will receive the same vaccine (either Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna vaccines) for both the first and second dose. It is important that Veterans receive both doses of the COVID-19 vaccine to be fully effective in protecting against COVID-19 vaccine. https://www.va.gov/health-care/covid-19-vaccine/
Wow!!! I am so impressed, after being told for months that I am not authorized to receive the Covid-19 vaccine, now I can get the shots. Thanks but no thanks, the state of Florida took better care of me than the VA ever did. All I ever get from the VA is “your income is too high to entitle you to get anything”.
Now ask me if I will support payraisesfor any VA administrators or the executive staff.
That’s the same nonsense they gave me when I first started applying for benefits a few years back, before they did the “overhaul” of the VA.
You should revisit, or try at a different location. When I moved to a different state (Illinois), I again applied. They told me that my income had nothing to do with it! “You served your country, that’s all that matters” is what I was told. How they will rate you is another story since everyone’s service connected disabilities are different. I’m glad I tried again.
Jay, what area in Illinois did you apply? Perhaps the given clinic in Illinois makes a difference, have tried since the early 1990’s while living in different states and have been denied for various reasons when I see others getting accepted. For years they had group “G” that was unfunded which gave them an easy out.
As a last resort income would enter the conversation.
Thank you in advance.
PS, a brother-in-law got a lawyer, perhaps two years ago and got the income rejection answer in Massachusetts. This was using a lawyer that others had used with success. I would really like to talk to the clerk that you used! I will be in Illinois in September in the Fox river Valley, Kane County.
I am a Viet Nam Era veteran and told the same thing here in Florida. Your income is too high to entitle you to get anything from VA. We served….how about that.
Hi Steve, thank you for your service. At this time, All Veterans are now eligible for a COVID-19 vaccine at VA.
Go to http://www.va.gov/covid-19-vaccine to sign up to tell us if you want to get a vaccine. Signing up will also give you regular updates about VA’s vaccine rollout process.
Had a real severe reaction to the Swine flu vaccination in Oct. of 1976. Should this prevent me from getting the Covid 19 vaccination.
Are the ingredients similar? Is there a possibility of anaphylactic shock for me?
.
I had the same reaction with the swine flu shot as you did back in 1976. I went to the er three times in a 24 hour period. I asked my Dr. The question. They didn’t have much information about the covid vaccine and how it would affect me in the same way as the swine flu vaccine. They pretty much told me get the covid vaccine anyway because it was important. I made an appointment and received the first dose of the Maderna vaccine and had no reaction at all. Everyone will have a different reaction I presume, but my out come was good. It is a scary experience to go through when you have had a reaction to a vaccine previously. Hope this help you make a decision.
To learn more about the side effects reported for the 3 authorized vaccines, read the FDA fact sheets. Find them here: https://www.va.gov/health-care/covid-19-vaccine/
Where can veterans get a vaccine in south west Florida?
Find your nearest VA health facility that offers COVID-19 vaccines: https://www.va.gov/find-locations/?facilityType=health&serviceType=Covid19Vaccine
I am in the high risk category and have received my first shot and soon to get my second shot. My wife hasn’t been able to get any shots yet. Is it possible for her to get her shots through the VA though I’ve already got mine?
The SAVE LIVES Act allows VA to provide COVID-19 vaccines to all Veterans, regardless of their VA health care enrollment status, as well as Veteran spouses, caregivers and some beneficiaries. Veterans, caregivers, spouses, and CHAMPVA beneficiaries newly eligible under the law can go to http://www.va.gov/covid-19-vaccine to sign up to tell us if you want to get a vaccine. Signing up will also give you regular updates about VA’s vaccine rollout process.
I’m a veteran and will receive my second shot this week. I would also like my wife to receive the COVID vaccine.
Veterans, caregivers, spouses, and CHAMPVA beneficiaries newly eligible under the law can go to http://www.va.gov/covid-19-vaccine to sign up to tell us if you want to get a vaccine. Signing up will also give you regular updates about VA’s vaccine rollout process.
I am interested in a second shot for my wife and myself. Is it possible to get the shot around Naples. I do have an appointment in Sunrise Florida on April 1st. That is 138 miles times 2. I am worried about a bad reaction to us on a distance of 2 hour drive we could encounter
Before you get a vaccine, tell the provider giving you the vaccine about all your health conditions, including concerns. At the moment, individuals must go to the same VA facility for both COVID-19 vaccine doses. This is necessary as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) sends second doses of each vaccine to the same VA facility where the first dose was administered. This not only ensures that there are enough doses in each location; it also ensures that individuals will receive the same vaccine (either Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna vaccines) for both the first and second dose. It is important that Veterans receive both doses of the COVID-19 vaccine to be fully effective in protecting against COVID-19 vaccine.
Okay. Is big news about vaccine for veterans spouses. One thing is making the headlines and the other is providing real and clear information. Bla, bla, caregivers and spouses. When will it start? Where will it start? how do I register my spouse? What are the requirements,?
I called de VA In Puerto Rico and they said, We don’t know any thing about this. I’m 58 years old and I have diabetes, high blood pressure, enfisema, cardiac and liver conditions. Once again, I called VA to get advice about the vaccine and what I learned to call, High Risk Person. To my surprise I wasn’t. So, you see headlines and news are just that, universal expressions based on ratings not fully on facts. Ohhhh! What about Ft. Buchanan, Puerto Rico. Military base for the elites. Not retired or veterans. I called them this week about spouse vaccine news? “Whe are still vaccinating civilians and soldiers. Are you for real? A base so small that is even a miracle to access by retired when most needed, crisis, hurricane, COVID and whatever else the want to do. Ft Buchanan has two entrances, one for the owners, and the one left and when ever, retired, veteran and now service conectes plus of course the elites. Just think about the crowd in such little place. When I served in the military I was proud of what I did. After retirement, every thing is segregation. A veteran has become just a number for politicians just to hit the headlines.
We appreciate everyone’s patience as we prepare to offer more vaccines. Veterans, caregivers, spouses, and CHAMPVA beneficiaries newly eligible under the law can go to http://www.va.gov/covid-19-vaccine to sign up to tell us if you want to get a vaccine. Signing up will also give you regular updates about VA’s vaccine rollout process.
How do I register my spouse for a covid-19 vaccine shot ? Can My spouse accompany me on the same day I’m scheduled to get my vaccination ?
We still have a limited amount of vaccines. You and your spouse can each sign up to tell us if you want to get a vaccine at http://www.va.gov/covid-19-vaccine. We’ll determine if you’re eligible and contact you when we have a vaccine for you. At this time, we don’t know when that will be
I had Pfizer vaccination 22 Jan 2021 at US embassy in Mexico. I was told that we will not be able to be given the second shot. Today is 24 mar 2021. Is first dose no longer good! Do I need to start. First shot again? I am not able to fly back to the USA until May 2021. What should I do? Do I just go ahead and look for the second shot in USA even though I received the First shot 22 Jan 2021? Any assistance provided would be beneficial.
Thank You,
Gregory P Sohn
US Army 1SG (ret)
Have you been watching the news? I’m pretty sure you could just stroll across the border pretty easily then just catch a flight home from wherever you crossed. Show CBP your “insert state here” drivers license and they’ll probably drop you off at the airport
While the VA is making progress, it failed to address another important veteran demographic with this bill. Those of us with dependent children eligible to receive the Covid vaccine were left out. It gives the perception that children are being categorized as less important than spouses or caregivers by the VA. Please readdress.
Children who are CHAMPVA beneficiaries are included in the law. However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have not authorized any current COVID-19 vaccines for children under 16 years or 18 years of age, depending on vaccine manufacturer.
As a 100% disabled Nam veteran I want to thank you for your website and all you do for us veterans!
I was offered a shot today at my clinic.
My question is, will veterans whom already received the vaccine be notified when their spouse be able to come to the VA to get their Covid-19 Vaccine? Thank you. Linnie Ray
We appreciate everyone’s patience as we prepare to offer more vaccines. Veterans, caregivers, spouses, and CHAMPVA beneficiaries newly eligible under the law can go to http://www.va.gov/covid-19-vaccine to sign up to tell us if you want to get a vaccine. Signing up will also give you regular updates about VA’s vaccine rollout process.
my wife is eligible can I get my kids vaccinated as well
Children who are CHAMPVA beneficiaries are included in the law. However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have not authorized any current COVID-19 vaccines for children under 16 years or 18 years of age, depending on vaccine manufacturer.
What does it take to get registered for the shot?
Please go to http://www.va.gov/covid-19-vaccine to sign up to tell us if you want to get a vaccine. Signing up will also give you regular updates about VA’s vaccine rollout process.
When can we vets and our spouses make an appointment for the vaccine?
Veterans, caregivers, spouses, and CHAMPVA beneficiaries newly eligible under the law can go to http://www.va.gov/covid-19-vaccine to sign up to tell us if you want to get a vaccine. Signing up will also give you regular updates about VA’s vaccine rollout process.
At VA Hospital in North Las Vegas NV when will spouses be able to receive Covid shots? My wife will be taking care of me after the VA Hospital operation to replace my left knee. Thank you for help on any information.
Veterans, caregivers, spouses, and CHAMPVA beneficiaries newly eligible under the law can are encouraged to go to http://www.va.gov/covid-19-vaccine to sign up to tell us if you want to get a vaccine. Signing up will also give you regular updates about VA’s vaccine rollout process.
I live in North Las Vegas, NV. I am retired MSGT Phillip Eisman. I am 60 percent disabled and May 26th the VA Hospital is going to operate on me to replace my left knee. If possible I would like my wife Nenita Eisman Tricare Prime to get her Covid shots before I go to the hospital. When I get out of Hospital two days after operation my wife will be the one taking care of me. Do you have any time yet when the VA Hospital in North Las Vegas, NV will start doing Covid shot for spouses?
Please have your spouse go to http://www.va.gov/covid-19-vaccine to sign up to tell us if you want to get a vaccine. Signing up will also give you regular updates about VA’s vaccine rollout process.
Are veteran spouses 46 y/o allowed to be vaccinated?
yes
Yes. Any individual presenting to VA for vaccination who characterizes their relationship as spousal, can receive the vaccine. Go to http://www.va.gov/covid-19-vaccine to sign up to tell us if you want to get a vaccine.
Are partners who live with the Veteran able to receive the Covid vaccination?
I’m wondering the same thing — getting married in a couple of weeks, but if we can get her first dose ASAP it would definitely be better and we’d feel better about her going back to work outside of the home.
Any individual presenting to VA for vaccination who characterizes their relationship as spousal, can receive the vaccine. This includes same sex and common law marriages. This also includes a widow or widower of a Veteran. If you characterize your relationship as spousal, you can receive the vaccine. An attestation at time of vaccination is sufficient proof; no other documentation is required. https://www.va.gov/health-care/covid-19-vaccine/
Dose my mother in law qualify for covid shots as a non military personal but son in law is veteran she is 85 years old
No, the only family member specified in the law is a spouse or a CHAMP VA beneficiary. For more information: https://www.va.gov/opa/pressrel/pressrelease.cfm?id=5649
What about surviving spouses with military ID and TFL?
For COVID-19 vaccine eligibility at VA, we define a spouse to include marriage, same-sex and common-law marriages. This includes a widow or widower of a Veteran. If you characterize your relationship as spousal, you can receive the vaccine. Family caregivers who are discharged from the Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers due to a Veteran’s death are entitled to 90 days of extended benefits following the date of death.
I like my wife to get the vaccine
Veterans, caregivers, spouses, and CHAMPVA beneficiaries newly eligible under the law can go to http://www.va.gov/covid-19-vaccine to indicate their interest in receiving a vaccine from VA. Signing up will also give users regular updates about VA’s vaccine rollout process.
Here in Colorado Springs I was so very impressed. So professional, courtesy. And so efficient from start to finish. THANK YOU!
I am homebound…and bed-bound veteran …is there anyway to have my Covid vaccine administrated at my home
It’s very hard to believe that it took an Act of Congress, signed by the President to get the VA off there butts dated March 24, 2021 to force the VA to provide Covid Vaccine Shots to Veterans. On January 16, 2021 Lee Co. VA Clinic in FL. was vaccinating 1,000 VET’s over the age of 75. Getting the vaccine shot was not based on the VA priority system 1 to 8 but solely on age 75. I’m 74 1/2 yrs old I’m 173% disabled Veteran getting special monthly compensation all from combat injuries. Yet if your a prior service Veteran with no disabilities, never been in a combat zone nor ever left the USA and you are not enrolled in the VA Health Care System but because you are age 75, you can get vaccinated for Covid-19. Now anyone who ever wore a uniform can get vaccinated? What happened to the priority system? Take care of 100% disabled Vet’s First, I sign up for the shots the first week of January, my VA PC says I’m on top of the list, Really?? Another lie and another administration, it never ends nor does it get fixed.
Major T. Sunderlage SF Ret.
The VA is a bit late in coming to the table. Ohio scheduled availability of the vaccine by age group. When my age group was scheduled, the Cincinnati VA denied my request for the vaccine claiming that they did not follow Ohio guidelines. The vaccine was obtained from my local pharmacy without issue. The VA does not walk the walk.
I called VA in Durham NC and told I wasn’t registered and would have to go through red tape to get the shot. The process she described for registering did not seem possible for an old soldier like me to figure out.
This is all B/S I tried 10 times and left messages to shedule , same old VA bs Im 70 100% and supposed to be at frt of line called and all i hear iscrickets same old govt BSHow about a response
We appreciate everyone’s patience as we prepare to offer more vaccines. Veterans, caregivers, spouses, and CHAMPVA beneficiaries newly eligible under the law can go to http://www.va.gov/covid-19-vaccine to sign up to tell us if you want to get a vaccine. Signing up will also give you regular updates about VA’s vaccine rollout process.
This is all B/S I tried 10 times and left messages to shedule , same old VA bs Im 70 100% and supposed to be at frt of line called and all i hear iscrickets same old govt BSHow about a response
NO THE FCK I CANNOT GET MY VACCINE!!! THEY WILL NOT LET ME IN THE VA BUILDING!!!! The VA and the government is breaking the Constitution!!! When and if I get Covid-19 the VA and The government will be sued!!!!!
How do Veterans and spouses that are not receiving VA Healthcare sign-up to receive the vaccine? The link is dated February.
Veterans, caregivers, spouses, and CHAMPVA beneficiaries newly eligible under the law can go to http://www.va.gov/covid-19-vaccine to indicate their interest in receiving a vaccine from VA. Signing up will also give users regular updates about VA’s vaccine rollout process.
This would be wonderful. My spouse has not got his shot yet. I have! I’m the Veteran and he is not. Women are Veterans too!
Veterans, caregivers, spouses, and CHAMPVA beneficiaries newly eligible under the law can go to http://www.va.gov/covid-19-vaccine to indicate their interest in receiving a vaccine from VA. Signing up will also give users regular updates about VA’s vaccine rollout process.
Hats off to Bay Pines VA! What a slick operation they set up for delivering vaccines. Locating everyone in the parking garage, they organized groups of 6 or 7 to receive the vaccine at the same time. They were able to give that shot of hope to over 700 vets a day!
I agree wholeheartedly. They did a great job and I went through the process pretty quick. The only wait was the 15 minute period after the shot. Way to go Bay pines!
Thanks for letting me know that my spouse now qualifies for a vaccine shot.
Thanks for letting me know that my spouse now qualifies for a vaccine shot.
I’m a 60 year old veteran with service connect disabilities only use the VA as my health provider, I take care my 82 year old mother and my older sister surviving cancer but I can’t get a vaccine anywhere least for all from my local VA. When will this All vets yo get the vaccine a real thing?
We appreciate your patience as we prepare to offer more vaccines. Veterans, caregivers, spouses, and CHAMPVA beneficiaries newly eligible under the law can go to http://www.va.gov/covid-19-vaccine to sign up to tell us if you want to get a vaccine. Signing up will also give you regular updates about VA’s vaccine rollout process.
I wonder how long it will take the VA to set up a proceedure for spouses to get the shot. Soon I hope.
Hi WIlliam, we appreciate everyone’s patience as we prepare to offer more vaccines. Veterans, caregivers, spouses, and CHAMPVA beneficiaries newly eligible under the law can go to http://www.va.gov/covid-19-vaccine to sign up to tell us if you want to get a vaccine. Signing up will also give you regular updates about VA’s vaccine rollout process.
Is there an income limit to enroll in the VA health plan? I am retired and my income is from pensions
While many Veterans qualify for enrollment and cost-free health care services based on a compensable service-connected condition or other qualifying factors, certain Veterans will be asked to complete a financial assessment at the time of enrollment to determine their eligibility for free medical care, medications and/or travel benefits. For more information, visit http://www.va.gov/healthbenefits/cost/financial_assessment.asp, call 1-877-222-VETS (8387) Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. ET or contact the enrollment coordinator at your local VA medical facility.
Can my wife get the moderna vaccine at the VA? She is not a veteran. She got
Her first shot feb 18. At Kettering hospital.
Please have your wife get her second shot at the hospital where she got her 1st shot. It’s better tracked. Especially with the lot number is on her first shot.
Individuals must go to the same hospital/clinic/pharmacy for both COVID-19 vaccine doses. This is necessary as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) sends second doses of each vaccine to the same VA facility where the first dose was administered. This not only ensures that there are enough doses in each location; it also ensures that individuals will receive the same vaccine (either Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna vaccines) for both the first and second dose. It is important that Veterans receive both doses of the COVID-19 vaccine to be fully effective in protecting against COVID-19 vaccine.
Now that my veteran husband has passed,I still can’t get a vaccine from the VA. I need someone to go over the head of transportation, for ambulance bills. The VA doesn’t want to pay because he’s less than 30%. When he signed to join he and the rest of the men & women went in 100, they all served & protected their country 100%, not B less than 30% or 50%. I was told if using outside hospitals to call the VA within 72 hours, which I did, they still will not pay for the ambulance during Covid.
A veteran friend of mine would like to know if he can get his Covid vaccine shot at the Lowell VA, or does he have to go to Jamaica Plain or Rogers in Bedford. I just want to pass the information on to him, he does not do emails.
For answers to general questions about getting a vaccine at VA, read our frequently asked questions https://www.va.gov/health-care/covid-19-vaccine/#questions-you-may-have-about-c or use our coronavirus chatbot https://www.va.gov/coronavirus-chatbot/. If you don’t find your answer there, call our MyVA411 main information line at 800-698-2411 (TTY: 711).
What about age requirements. If the vet or the dependant is under the state age requirement it is waive.
Children who are CHAMPVA beneficiaries are included in the law. However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have not authorized any current COVID-19 vaccines for children under 16 years or 18 years of age, depending on vaccine manufacturer. VA works closely with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other federal partners to provide COVID-19 vaccines as quickly and safely as we can. https://www.va.gov/health-care/covid-19-vaccine/
What about age requirements. If the vet or the dependant is under the state age requirment it is waive.
My mother and I took my father to the VA this morning in Columbia SC. She was told she was not able to receive the coronavirus shot but ahe has been married to him since 1958.
The individual locations have to catch up with the law/rules. A lot of the time people being turned around, after this law passed, is related to human error.
Phoenix VA’s opened up to all ages and I went down to register, I do go through the VA, to the new Hospital(recently moved) and schedule a vaccine appointment. The first woman I spoke to wasn’t aware over the weekend they changed the age requirement to all ages, she tried to correct me and tell me that I’d be on a wait list.
She just didn’t know. Of course the person setting actual appointments, not the person registering me into the database there, knew of it and I’ve got my second dose coming on the 6th. Keep contacting the VA if you think you should have been given a dose, the error might just be an individual incorrectly relating information. It’s been a madhouse of a year, keep trying.
We appreciate everyone’s patience as we prepare to offer more vaccines. Veterans, caregivers, spouses, and CHAMPVA beneficiaries newly eligible under the law can go to http://www.va.gov/covid-19-vaccine to sign up to tell us if you want to get a vaccine. Signing up will also give you regular updates about VA’s vaccine rollout process.
I hope we get rid of the coronavirus as soon as possible
Don’t hold your breath. The Chinese want it.