Vaccine appointment process needs to be easy

The initial rollout to the age 75-plus and frontline essential workers got off to an unsteady start in Hawaii, especially Maui.

We must not repeat mistakes when the 65plus round of appointments begins.

The vaccine appointment process needs to be simple and easy, both using phone access for those who don’t have internet or who have trouble using computers and by making computer registration easy to follow.

Public health officials need to provide clear and timely information about when and where vaccines are available and assistance in signing up. Existing online signups should be easier to use.

The vams.cdc.gov site is not as easy as you would think. For instance, one friend of mine went to that page where he was invited to log in, but no instructions on how to register so he could log in.

I have been told that the Maui Office on Aging has been checking its client list to make sure those who are homebound or who have language and other disparities have access to information on how to get the vaccine. Perhaps all Maui residents should be so vigilant in making sure their neighbors have the correct information.

AARP has published a guide to Hawaii’s distribution plans, explaining how distribution will work, eligibility, the timeline, vaccination locations and other key details. The state guide is available at aarp.org/hivaccine and is updated as new information is available.

Linda Dorset

Wailuku