In a press conference, Gov. Hutchinson announced Arkansas will be opening COVID-19 vaccinations to everyone in that is categorized in Phase 1-B which includes manufacturing workers, public transit workers, and those in essential government services, among others will be able to receive the vaccine. The governor also expanded Phase 1B to include food manufacturing workers before moving to open it to everyone eligible under Phase 1B on Monday, March 8.
The governor said there will now be a "vaccination appointment system," that will be offered statewide. This is only supplementary to a calling a provider. Because Arkansans have struggled with getting a vaccine, the state is devoting 30 personnel to run a call center within the Arkansas Department of Health. You can call 1-800-985-6030 to talk to a provider starting today (March 8, 2021).
Who’s getting the vaccine now?
Phase 1-B has started, which means vaccinations are happening now for:
- 65 years and older
- Education
- Police, fire, other first responders
- Corrections
- Food and Agriculture
- People with intellectual or developmental disabilities
- Essential Government
- Grocery Store/Meal Delivery
- Postal/Package Delivery Service
- Public Transit
- Houses of Worship
- Manufacturing
How can I get the vaccine?
If you are a long-term care resident or staff member, you will likely receive the vaccine through a clinic at the facility. If you work in a hospital, you will likely receive the vaccine through a clinic at your worksite. Others who are in 1-A can receive the vaccine through a community-based pharmacy. Click here for a map and a full list of those pharmacies around the state.
To schedule at Walmart, you can click here to log on to Walmart's vaccine site. You'll need to create an account, and then enter your zip code to see which stores near you are currently offering the vaccine.
To schedule at Walgreens, you can click here to make an appointment for your COVID vaccination. (You will set up an online account and complete a short screening before being approved and given a time/day/location.)