HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. – [Veterans Affairs] Bedford Healthcare System in Bedford, Massachusetts, officials announced this week that COVID-19 vaccine eligibility has expanded to include all veterans enrolled in VA healthcare, regardless of age.
Veterans can call the vaccination call center at 781-687-4000 to make an appointment. This line is open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., but the vaccination clinic is open daily, including weekends.
Additional information on vaccine eligibility, including how to enroll into the VA system, can be found at www.bedford.va.gov/services/covid-19-vaccines.asp. VA Bedford is currently administering the Pfizer BioNTech vaccine.
“Resources for obtaining the vaccine are becoming more available through the state, and now the VA, and we encourage eligible individuals to look for all opportunities to get vaccinated rather than waiting to receive it from the installation,” said Lt. Col. Ryan Gough, 66th Medical Squadron public health emergency officer.
Gough said wherever personnel receive the vaccine, they should plan to receive both doses at the same location to ensure doses and brands remain consistent.
“You cannot mix brands of the vaccine by receiving a first dose of Moderna and a second dose of Pfizer,” said Gough.
The commonwealth is offering vaccinations to persons included in Phases 1 and portions of Phase 2 of the Massachusetts vaccination plan, including people aged 65 and up, low income and affordable senior housing staff, as well as people with at least two co-morbidities listed by the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention.
New Hampshire is currently administering the COVID-19 vaccine in Phase 1. Information on eligibility and registration can be found at www.vaccines.nh.gov.
The most up-to-date information on Hanscom’s vaccination distribution plan and eligibility can be found at www.Hanscom.af.mil/Coronavirus.