Salinas resident claims clinic charges fee for COVID-19 vaccine
SALINAS, Calif. (KION) A Salinas resident tells KION he would have been charged to receive a COVID-19 vaccination without proof of insurance.
Juan Romero, a salinas resident was surprised this morning at his appointment as he rolled up his sleeve to get the Covid-19 vaccine. He was told that if he didn't have insurance he would have to pay the cost of the administration fee of 40 dollars, said. Romero also said a form was given to him, to fill out an application for coverage of coronavirus testing costs where he was also asked questions about his immigration status.
"I feel that it will be an obstacle for people to get vaccinated," said Romero.
The CEO of Clinica De Salud Del Valle De Salinas, Dr. Maximiliano Cuevas said there has always been a charge for the administration of the vaccine.
“It's not new, anybody providing the vaccine is charging the administration costs,” said Dr. Cuevas. “The government doesn't really announce it that way but that's how it's done.”
It is important to note that this charge is usually billed to a person's insurance. Last week, the cost for the administration of the vaccine increased, he said. If the person does not have health insurance, filling out a state form will cover the cost. Dr. Cuevas also said filling out the form presented a barrier for some people and that many people did not want to fill out the application due to questions regarding their immigration status.
“I think that's where a lot of people get a little concerned,” said Dr. Cuevas. “And so as of two weeks ago, the state has stopped. Even though the form asks about citizenship, they don't require it.”
As a result, the Clinica De Salud Del Valle De Salinas decided to call the state and inform them about the issue and people's fears. They were advised to not require people to fill that portion of the application.
