This week Dr. Cara Christ, Director of the Arizona Department of Health Services, and Maria Cristina Fuentes, Director of the Governor’s Office of Youth, Faith and Family, briefed faith leaders on the COVID vaccination plan being implemented across Arizona.
Recipients of the vaccinations do not need to be United States or Arizona citizens. Recipients will need to provide some sort of identification with your photo and name (this could be a school ID, work badge, driver’s license, church issued ID card etc.). Your data will not be shared with any other federal or state agencies. The only use for the data kept on file will be to send you a reminder and appointment link for your second vaccination. No other data tracking is taking place using vaccination registration information.
Information about all vaccination sites across Arizona can be found at azhealth.gov/findvaccine. Individuals without computer/online access or needing assistance registering may call 1-844-542-8201 to be connected with someone who can help. Assistance is provided in both English and Spanish. When you are eligible to receive the vaccination, you may make an appointment at podvaccine.azdhs.gov. To learn more about COVID-19 vaccines and vaccination, please visit azdhs.gov/COVID19Vaccines. Because each county determines their own timeline for vaccination plan rollout, your county health department vaccination site will provide the most accurate information about when you are eligible to receive the COVID vaccine.
The vaccination process is currently vaccinating individuals who qualify under the “Phase 1A” and the “Phase 1B-Priority.” Dr. Christ and Director Fuentes confirmed that clergy are eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccination under Phase 1B – Other Essential Workers. Dr. Christ expects the full Phase 1B group (which would include clergy) to open for appointments towards the end of February and/or beginning of March.
Our ministry partner, The Arizona Faith Network, in inviting all faith leaders to use their voices to encourage vaccinations in their communities as soon as individuals are eligible. All faith leaders and faith organizations are invited to sign the Arizona Faith Leaders’ Statement and Pledge Regarding COVID-19 Vaccine to promote vaccinations throughout Arizona.