VA kicks COVID-19 vaccine rollout into high gear

While the VA’s vaccination program ramps into high gear, the McHenry County Veterans Assistance Commission is responding to ensure veterans get to the Lovell Federal Health Care Center for their COVID vaccine appointments.

“More and more of our veterans are receiving calls from the Federal Health Care Center attempting to schedule vaccinations,” said Michael A. Iwanicki, superintendent of the McHenry County Veterans Assistance Commission.

Additionally, requests for transportation to North Chicago have been steadily climbing.

“As more vaccines become available the VAC anticipates making multiple trips to FHCC daily and possibly on Saturdays,” said Iwanicki.

In anticipation of the vaccine becoming available for VA patients 65 and older, the Lovell FHCC started putting highlighted informational links on the homepage of their website. Patients with risk factors who have not yet received an appointment for vaccination should call Lovell to discuss getting one at (224) 610-3899.

The FHCC is still phasing in its reopening so walk-in service is only permitted for the emergency room. Patients must have a face covering and an appointment to enter the facility.

The VAC transports veterans to the James A. Lovell Federal Health Care Center up to twice daily to cover morning and afternoon appointments. Veterans are picked up from designated bus stops in Woodstock, McHenry, and Crystal Lake.

Patients wishing to use the VAC transportation service are encouraged to call (815) 334-4229 and request an application. Applicants need only be a resident of McHenry County and a patient of the Lovell FHCC in North Chicago.

“The VAC has remained available to our veterans’ community throughout the pandemic,” Iwanicki said.

In addition to transportation, the VAC also assists local veterans with emergency financial assistance, VA claims representation including aid and attendance, and caregiver relief. The VAC Inc., a corporate arm of the VAC, also has funds to assist with emergencies not eligible for regular veterans assistance.

Veterans Assistance Commission : 667 Ware Road : Woodstock, IL 60098 : 815.334.4229