COVID-19 Vaccine Phase 1A Letter for Family Members
To Whom It May Concern:
California has a large population of people with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities. Recent COVID-19 studies have identified several groups within this population as being at high risk of COVID-19 complications and related fatalities. The purpose of this letter is to clarify that family members of certain people are “health care workers” pursuant to the State of California’s Vaccination Plan (https://covid19.ca.gov/vaccines/#When-can-I-get-vaccinated), and thus are prioritized for COVID-19 vaccination within Phase 1A.
These family members include those who care for people with any of the following conditions. This list is not necessarily exhaustive:
• Cerebral palsy • Down Syndrome • Epilepsy • Specialized health care needs, including dependence upon ventilators, oxygen, and other technology
The eligibility of these family members can be ascertained by documentation from their California regional center, verifying the qualifying condition of the member of their household who has an intellectual or developmental disability. A list of regional centers is available here: https://www.dds.ca.gov/rc/listings/. Alternatively, a family member may choose to present medical documentation of the qualifying condition of the member of their household who has an intellectual or developmental disability.
We hope this letter clarifies the eligibility of certain family members for the COVID-19 vaccine pursuant to Phase 1A of the State’s Plan, and thereby assists in protecting the health of Californians most at risk from COVID-19 impacts.
Sincerely,
NANCY BARGMANN
Director
Please reach out to your NBRC Service Coordinator for more information.
