The Iola Walmart is one of 20 stores in Kansas to offer COVID-19 vaccinations as part of a federal program that distributes the shots directly to pharmacies.
Appointments can be made through the store’s website. However, according to the website, there were no available appointments as of Tuesday.
More than 1,000 Walmart and Sam’s Club locations were chosen as vaccination sites, targeting underserved areas with limited access to health care. The federal government is shipping limited doses of vaccine directly to pharmacies in an attempt to boost vaccinations. The company says on its website it is coordinating with state and local health officials.
The Allen County Health Department is aware of the Walmart clinic, which has its own independent source for vaccine supply and is not taking anything away from other county efforts, Susan Belt, regional preparedness coordinator for the Southeast Kansas Multi-County Health Departments, said.
“We’re happy to have them doing it. The more people who can get the vaccine, the better,” she said.
NOT JUST anyone can receive a shot, though. Those who sign up must meet state eligibility guidelines. Currently, Kansas is designated as Phase 2, which includes those age 65 and older, healthcare workers, and some essential workers such as first responders or teachers.
Vaccine allocations may be limited.
To schedule a vaccination online, you must log in to the Walmart website with an existing account, or create one.
You must confirm you are eligible, based on certain criteria such as age and risk of exposure.
You’ll be asked several questions to determine if you meet the criteria, and you will be required to bring identification and a medical provider’s note verifying eligibility, or a work badge or pay stub.
There is no cost to receive the vaccine, but those who have insurance will be asked to submit proof of insurance so the pharmacy can be reimbursed.
