The state Department of Health announced March 31 that vaccine eligibility is being accelerated to eventually include all Pennsylvanians before the end of April.
Originally the state had broken down eligibility into three phases, depending on age, health issues and occupations. Until last week, only the first phase – 1A – was in effect, meaning only individuals in that phase were eligible to schedule a vaccination appointment.
On March 31, eligibility in 1A widened to include law enforcement, firefighters, grocery workers and food/agriculture workers.
On Monday April 5, individuals in Phase 1B will become eligible to schedule appointments.
The following Monday (April 12), the eligibility list expands to Phase 1C.
Finally, all remaining Pennsylvanians will be eligibile the following week, starting Monday, April 19.
A link on the health.pa.gov website has information on the criteria for each eligibility phase.
The health.pa.gov website also includes a Vaccine Provider Map to help residents find a provider nearest to them. Those without internet access can contact the Health Hotline at 1-877-PA-HEALTH.