Corewell Health's Flu Shots Initiative Boosts Accessibility Across Southwest Michigan

Corewell Health, in partnership with Lakeland Care Network, is facilitating access to influenza vaccines for adults 18 years and older across Southwest Michigan through convenient drive-thru and walk-in clinics. This initiative aligns with the recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which advocate for annual flu vaccinations for individuals aged six months and older to offer protection against influenza. With September and October being optimal months for vaccination, individuals can benefit from enhanced protection throughout the flu season regardless of when they receive their shot.

A series of vaccination clinics have been scheduled to ensure wide accessibility for community members. These clinics offer both drive-thru and walk-in options and do not require prior appointments. Attendees can remain in their vehicles for drive-thru services, where nurses will administer the trivalent flu vaccine, targeting three groups of influenza Type A and B viruses. A high-dose version of the vaccine is available for individuals aged 65 and older, addressing the increased risk within this demographic.

The flu vaccination clinics will take place at various locations, including:

- Corewell Health Care Center Royalton, St. Joseph: multiple dates including Sept. 16, Sept. 19, Oct. 10

- New Buffalo Fire Department, New Buffalo: Sept. 17

- Hartford Fire Department, Hartford: Sept. 18

- First Congregational Church, South Haven: Sept. 23

- North Berrien Fire and Rescue, Coloma: Sept. 24

- Corewell Health Lakeland Hospitals, Watervliet: Sept. 25

- St. Joseph Today, St. Joseph: Sept. 26

- Corewell Health Dowagiac Primary Care Clinic, Dowagiac: Sept. 30

- Bridgman American Legion, Bridgman: Oct. 1

- Royalton Township Fire Station, St. Joseph: Oct. 1

- Corewell Health Center for Wellness, Benton Harbor: Oct. 1

- First Congregational Church, St. Joseph: Oct. 2

- New Heights Laundry Hub, Benton Harbor: Oct. 4

- Chikaming Township Fire Station, Harbert: Oct. 7

- Buchanan Police Department, Buchanan: Oct. 8

- Berrien Springs / Oronoko Township Fire Station, Berrien Springs: Oct. 12

- Lincoln Charter Township Fire Department, Stevensville: Oct. 14

- Corewell Health Lakeland Hospitals – Niles Hospital, Niles: Oct. 15

The financial aspects of the vaccination are structured to accommodate varying insurance coverages. Most health insurance programs cover flu vaccine costs, and individuals are advised to present their insurance card at the time of vaccination. For those opting to self-pay, the trivalent flu vaccine costs $37, while the high-dose option is priced at $74, payable via cash or check. This ensures that financial constraints do not prevent individuals from accessing critical vaccinations, as no one will be denied a vaccine due to inability to pay.

This comprehensive approach by Corewell Health and Lakeland Care Network aims to enhance community health resilience against seasonal influenza, making vaccinations accessible to all community members regardless of their financial situation or age, with multiple options and locations to choose from.