Health & Fitness
Rhode Island Enters '3rd Phase' Of Vaccine Distribution
Vaccine doses are available to residents around the state without an appointment necessary.
PROVIDENCE, RI — Rhode Island is entering a new phase of vaccine distribution, shifting away from long waits and scarce appointments to meeting residents where they are, making sure everyone who wants a vaccine dose can get one.
Gov. Dan McKee called the latest effort the "pick and shovel work," getting clinics set up on the ground in communities to make sure everyone has access to a vaccine.
"We've moved into the next phase of vaccine distribution, which means meeting people where they are," McKee said. "Business, churches, schools — we'll make it happen."
Find out what's happening in Cranstonfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Starting now, Rhode Islanders will be able to get a vaccine dose at both state-run and retail sites without having to make an appointment. CVS, Walgreens, Walmart and Stop & Shop will all accept walk-ups for vaccine doses, said Tom McCarthy, the executive director of the state's COVID-19 vaccination effort. This also applies to the state-run mass vaccination sites in Providence, Cranston and Middletown. Hours for each state-run site are listed below.
- Sockanosset Cross Road, Cranston: Tuesday to Saturday, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- Dunkin' Donuts Center, Providence: Tuesday to Saturday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Former Benny's Store, Middletown: Wednesday to Sunday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Although vaccine appointments will not be required, McCarthy encouraged residents to preregister to ensure dose availability.
Find out what's happening in Cranstonfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Schedule an appointment on Rhode Island's vaccine portal.
As part of the new approach, the Rhode Island Department of Health is moving away from the large-scale appointment releases on Tuesdays and Fridays. Instead, new appointments will be added as they become available throughout the week.
In addition, the department will phase out the vaccine interest preregistration list on May 3. Everyone on the list in need of an appointment has been notified, McCarthy said, and the wide availability of appointments means the weekly notification system is no longer needed. Anyone who signs up for the list from now until May 2 will be sent a link to schedule an appointment, McCarthy said.
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