Galveston County opens COVID-19 vaccine waiting list for high-risk people

HOUSTON – Galveston County and local health partners on Wednesday announced a new online waiting list application for those wishing to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.

Appointments are currently available for high-risk individuals who meet the criteria in Phase 1A and 1B. You do not have to be a Galveston County resident or a UTMB patient to be on the waiting list, officials said.

The waiting list will start accepting candidates on Wednesday at 16:00

Go to utmbhealth.com/vaccine to sign up for the waiting list.

Officials said applicants will be asked to create an account and answer a few health questions, which will be used by medical professionals to ensure that those most at risk of being hospitalized at COVID- 19 will have the opportunity to schedule a meeting as vaccine consumption becomes available.

The waiting list will be based on the level of risk, and people will be able to register continuously for the waiting list, officials said.

Once a person is eligible to receive the vaccine based on their level of risk, they will receive an email warning them to schedule an appointment. Within the notification, there will be a link to the website where they can schedule a meeting. The programming link will be valid for only 24 hours, officials said.

A separate email address is required for each person interested in joining the waiting list.

For those who do not have access to the internet or a working e-mail address, a telephone bank can help them with the waiting list registration process. They will be asked to provide an email and mobile phone number for a relative or close friend to ensure they receive scheduling notifications.

The telephone bank can be accessed at 877-389-2318.

Galveston County, UTMB Health and Galveston County Health District continue to meet the eligibility requirements of the Texas State Department of Health Services and vaccinate only those under Phase 1A, health workers and Phase 1B, the elderly. 65 years of age or older or 16 years of age and over certain medical conditions.