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Veterans Administration expands COVID vaccine eligibility to spouses, caregivers of military

Providence Journal - 4/7/2021

Anyone who served in the military, their spouses and caregivers are eligible for COVID vaccines through the Veterans Administration, the VA New England Healthcare System announced Tuesday.

The VA had been vaccinating veterans enrolled in VA health care, but was given authority to expand the eligible group through the SAVE LIVES Act, signed by President Joe Biden on March 24.

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“Since the start of the pandemic, VISN 1 medical centers have been focused on vaccinating as many veterans as possible, and we are excited to multiply our efforts thanks to the SAVE LIVES Act, “ Ryan Lilly, director of VA New England Healthcare System, said in a press release.

The VA says it must still prioritize veterans enrolled in VA care, but Still says he's confident that the VA would have enough "doses and the capacity to ensure those newly eligible will be able to be vaccinated soon.”

Those eligible under the SAVES LIVES Act can register on the VA's website, www.va.gov/covid-19-vaccine and get notified when the vaccine is available.

The VA says people should not visit their facilities without an appointment.

jperry@providencejournal.com

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On Twitter: @jgregoryperry

This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: Veterans Administration expands COVID vaccine eligibility to spouses, caregivers of military

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