Individuals dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid are disproportionately impacted by COVID-19, and health plans recognize that this population is at greater risk of adverse health outcomes from COVID-19 infection than the general public due to the complexity of their

Individuals with disability, including physical disability, are disproportionately impacted by the COVID-19 public health emergency and face significant challenges accessing vaccination sites and services.1 Many individuals with disability have diabetes, cancer, heart disease, obesity, or other health conditions that place

People with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) have historically experienced health and social inequities that are compounded by the COVID-19 public health emergency.[1] COVID-19 risk factors like diabetes or chronic lung or heart disease are more common for people with

In-home vaccinations remain a valuable strategy to support individuals with physical disability, chronic illness, injury or other condition, such as severe anxiety, or those who may require the help of another person or medical equipment to leave their home. Nationally,

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends that “identifying and addressing possible barriers to completing the COVID-19 vaccination series can help ensure equitable coverage across communities and optimal health benefits for recipients.” Health plans can play a valuable role in

Rural communities are experiencing a faster transmission rate of COVID-19 compared to urban or suburban communities. However, they face unique challenges exacerbated by the COVID-19 public health emergency, including fewer health care facilities and hospital beds, limited telehealth access, and

Health plans can play a critical role in expanding access to COVID-19 vaccinations. COVID-19 vaccines are available through a variety of locations, including mass vaccination sites, provider offices, local pharmacies, and community sites. Health plans are well-positioned to engage directly

Individuals who have difficulty leaving their home may have particular challenges receiving a vaccination at physician offices, clinics, or mass vaccination sites. In-home vaccinations are a valuable strategy to support individuals with physical disability, chronic illness, injury, conditions such as

Racial and ethnic minorities have experienced disproportionate outcomes of COVID-19, such as increased risk of infection, hospitalization, and death. Now that protective vaccines are available, Black and Hispanic people are being vaccinated at rates that are disproportionately low compared to

On April 1, 2021, Resources for Integrated Care (RIC) hosted a webinar entitled Strategies for Health Plans to Support Access to COVID-19 Vaccines for Vulnerable Populations. Multiple experts from the field joined us to share their valuable insights on the