The New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) has emailed additional guidance to New York City-enrolled vaccinators about certifying COVID-19 vaccine eligibility for individuals with certain health conditions. The communication outlines two ways to prove eligibility:
- If the vaccine provider has access to records showing the person has an eligible condition, those records serve as proof of eligibility.
- If the vaccine provider does not have access to medical records, the individual must complete a NYC Certification of Eligibility for COVID-19 Vaccine Due to Medical Condition form. A letter from a health care provider is not needed to demonstrate eligibility for COVID-19 vaccination in New York City.
This guidance builds on New York State Week 10 guidance (attached). Starting today, February 15, COVID-19 vaccine eligibility expands to individuals with certain co-morbidities and underlying conditions. These individuals are eligible for vaccination at State-operated mass vaccination sites. In addition, hospitals and other vaccine providers should work with their local health department (LHD) to arrange for vaccinating individuals with co-morbidities and underlying conditions. For New York City hospitals, GNYHA is working with DOHMH on further guidance.
LHDs are authorized to determine what forms are required in their jurisdiction. Please note that New York State may audit eligibility records and providers should maintain records to respond to any audit. DOHMH has provided a Provider Access Line (866-692-3641) for questions from New York City providers.