Getting the COVID-19 Vaccine

The COVID-19 vaccine is no longer administered as a routine immunization but is now offered through a process known as Shared Clinical Decision-Making (SCDM).

SCDM is a collaborative discussion between the healthcare provider and the patient or caregiver regarding the benefits and risks associated with vaccination. These discussions may take place through:
- Virtual or in-person meetings
- Live conversations or asynchronous communication methods (such as through a patient portal)
- One or multiple discussions
- Involving a single healthcare provider or multiple providers

The primary goal is to ensure that information about the vaccine’s benefits and potential risks is effectively communicated, and that the patient or caregiver has the opportunity to ask questions and make an informed decision to accept or decline vaccination.

It is recommended to document that the discussion took place and that a decision regarding vaccination was made in accordance with shared clinical decision-making, reflecting desire to receive the vaccine for protection.

Questions regarding this process can be directed directly to the immunization clinic at 559-998-4258.