December 21, 2020
Getting vaccinated against COVID-19 is one of the best and safest ways to protect yourself and everyone around you. Learn how your Empire plan covers the vaccine and your vaccination, how health authorities are ensuring vaccine safety, and when the vaccine will be available.
1. Empire members will receive the COVID-19 vaccination at no cost.
Empire will cover the cost of the COVID-19 vaccine. Empire members won't have out-of-pocket costs for the vaccine during this national public health emergency. This applies to all members, regardless of the type of health plan they have, or which doctor or healthcare professional they choose to visit for COVID-19 vaccination.
2. The FDA has approved the vaccine.
Researchers have studied vaccine reactions and potential side effects throughout the trials. The FDA and outside experts carefully reviewed all of the clinical trial data when weighing approval of the vaccine. The FDA, CDC, and vaccine manufacturers will continuously monitor vaccine safety and quality.
3. Vaccine distribution has begun.
Vaccine supplies will increase over time. The CDC says all adults should have access to the vaccine in 2021. Right now, the CDC recommends that healthcare workers and residents of nursing homes and long-term-care facilities be the first Americans to receive the vaccine.
The CDC recommends that frontline essential workers and people who are 75 years old or older be vaccinated next. Other essential workers, people who are 65-74 years old, and people who are 16-64 years old and have high-risk medical conditions would follow.
According to the CDC, frontline essential workers include:
The CDC considers other essential workers as those who work in the following fields:
Empire will keep you updated. If you’d like to learn more about the vaccine, visit the CDC’s website.
Empire is committed to supporting you and your health. Stay up to date on the vaccine and its availability through the Sydney Health mobile app or by checking back here on our website.
© 2021 Empire. Services provided by Empire HealthChoice HMO, Inc. and/or Empire HealthChoice Assurance, Inc., independent licensees of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. Serving residents and businesses in the 28 eastern and southeastern counties of New York State.