Two weeks into the COVID-19 vaccination effort of 5- to 11-year-olds, Richmond and Henrico Health Districts (RHHD) are now offering walk-up appointments for youth seeking their primary series and eligible adults seeking booster shots.
When boosters and shots for 5- to 11-year-olds became available, RHHD requested individuals in either group make an appointment. Requesting booster appointments allowed RHHD to ensure access for walk-ins seeking their initials series. Once 5- to 11-year-olds became eligible for Pfizer COVID-19 vaccines, RHHD requested parents make an appointment for their child to ensure an easy and convenient experience for families.
The former appointment policy was flexible and allowed those who walked in seeking boosters or a 5- to 11-year-old vaccine to be accommodated if there was clinical capacity; otherwise, they would be scheduled onsite for an appointment occurring on another day.
Beginning Tuesday, November 16, any eligible person of any age who is seeking their first series or booster dose can walk in to RHHD clinics. This includes the Arthur Ashe CVC, which is operated by VDH contractor AshBritt. Appointments can still be made at vax.rchd.com or by calling 804-205-3501, but they will no longer be required.
“After a couple of weeks of offering pediatric COVID-19 vaccines, our teams have more experience running pediatric clinics and we have a better sense of demand and clinic flow,” explains Joanna Cirillo, public health nurse. “We are now confidently able to offer all of our appointments to walk-ups… we hope this makes the process even easier and more accessible.”
Individuals interested in walking up or scheduling an appointment can find many options listed at vax.rchd.com or by calling 804-205-3501. Most clinics have all types of COVID-19 vaccines available, but individuals should look for a clinic that offers the type of vaccine they are seeking.
About Richmond and Henrico Health Districts: RHHD are sister public health agencies serving Richmond’s and Henrico’s communities. Our mission is to expose and address the root causes of health disparities, protect health by preventing the spread of disease, and build health equity by partnering with communities and working collaboratively across sectors.
