COVID-19 Vaccine Sign-Ups Irk Many Tri-State Area Seniors

The Wall Street Journal reports that many seniors in the tri-state area are frustrated with how the COVID-19 vaccine rollout has been impeded by awkward online appointment systems and a limited supply of inoculations. Neither New York, New Jersey, nor Connecticut supports a single website where people can find all vaccine providers and look for appointment openings, so many residents say they are spending days clicking between sites to find an appointment. Senior advocates say the rollout has gone a little smoother in Connecticut, where vaccines are now available to those 75 and older, but it is still difficult for homebound residents or those who lack computer savvy. Tri-state officials say the lack of supply is the biggest problem, while the new Biden administration has said it would invoke the Defense Production Act to increase vaccine distributions. New Jersey health officials announced that a new hotline will open this week with live agents who will walk people through the process or set up appointments for them. State director of AARP Connecticut Nora Duncan said the state's sign-up process appears easier for seniors who are computer literate compared to other parts of the region, but vaccine distribution remains a "mixed bag."