In alignment with the state and public health districts, St. Luke’s Health System opened COVID-19 vaccine appointments for Idahoans who are age 65 and older on Feb. 1. By the next day, St. Luke’s officials reported that roughly 100,000 people tried to schedule vaccine appointments online and that an overwhelming number of people called in to the hospital, shutting down its phone lines.
The hospital is asking the public to be mindful of, among other things:
- COVID-19 vaccine will not be given if proper proof of employment or age is not provided at the appointment.
- St. Luke’s patients can schedule appointments online using myChart for the quickest access.
- People who have never used St. Luke’s services may set up a myChart account online or by calling (08) 381-9000.
- Those who cannot use myChart may call St. Luke’s Connect at (208) 381-9500 to set up an appointment.
- People may also set up online myChart proxy access for family members or dependents.
Meanwhile, Blaine County officials in partnership with St. Luke’s Wood River and the South Central Public Health District will hold a virtual town hall to discuss COVID-19 updates on Thursday, Feb. 11. A panel discussion and question-and-answer session will feature Blaine County Commissioner Jacob Greenberg and healthcare professionals representing the health district and St. Luke’s. The public is being asked to submit questions in advance to town-hall@co.blaine.id.us. Participants can register ahead of time at attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/1164946176516754443.