Passports for vaccines have been a divisive topic, with opinions mixed in the middle as to whether this is the correct way to prove you are vaccinated. But like it or not, there has to be a way for you to show your vaccination record.
Depending on the state you live in, you may have received a cardboard vaccination card or piece of paper. This will contain all your information, such as your name, where you got the vaccine and when it was given.
For most people, this will be the only proof they have of being vaccinated against COVID-19 and therefore should always be kept safe. Some states have explored the possibility of linking immunization records to digital databases, but not everyone takes this approach.
So if you are walking with a fragile vaccine card in your wallet, you might want to think of other ways to make sure it doesn’t get damaged. Fortunately, the technology is here to help.
Take a photo or scan your card
If your gut told you to take a photo of the card as soon as you receive it, well done! This is one of the best ways to make sure your card is handy and easily accessible. You can also use the Notes application on your iOS device. Here’s how:
Open Remarks and press the Camera icon > Scan a document. This will open your phone’s camera and you can make a digital copy of your card. When done, tap the three dots in the corner and select Pin. This will ensure that it always stays in the front of the stack.
As Kim explains in an upcoming Digital Life Hack radio update, you can do this on Android devices as well. Here’s how: Open the Google drive application and press Add, then press To analyse. When finished, tap the three dots to add them to Favorites documents.
You can also use a traditional scanner printer and then email the document to yourself. That way, you’ll always have it ready in your inbox.
Other scanning apps available for iOS and Android phones will also do the trick, such as the popular CamScanner app. Download the free app here for iOS. Or, here for Android.
National guidelines are rare, but Washington State accepts “originals, copies, or photographs on a mobile device are acceptable.”
In other words, before you venture out into the world, grab your vaccination card on your phone. Then check if other passport apps can give you faster access to your favorite places.
Use a vaccination app or pass
As mentioned, some states allow you to use a mobile app to store and view your vaccination details. New York State uses the Excelsior Pass, which they themselves developed. It uses IBM’s Digital Health Pass backbone, but has recently been criticized for numerous privacy and security concerns.
Excelsior Pass is used in the state as a pseudo-passport, being required to enter venues such as concerts, baseball games, or public attractions. It stores information such as type of vaccination, site and date of vaccination. You can get the free app here for iOS. Or, download it here for Android.
California has also moved towards a vaccine passport. Residents can log on to the myvaccinerecord.cdph.ca.gov website and enter their contact information. When completed, you will receive a digital version of the details the CDC has about you.
You can save this information on your phone or show the generated QR code in a location to verify its validity. It’s not an app, however, and the state recommends residents keep their paper cards handy.
If you live in another state and want a digital copy of your vaccination record, there are several options available to you.
The VaxYes tool is developed by GoGetDoc and complies with the regulations of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). With a simple download, it uses AES 256-bit encryption to protect your information. It boasts that you have to go through four levels of verification to confirm your identity and validity.
If you have the CLEAR app for going through airport security, the company has made it easy for you. You can upload your data to its Health Pass function within the mobile application.
CLEAR members will be able to create a map linked to the Atlantic Health System (AHS), SMART Health Card QR Codes, and Human API Network Providers (HAPI). You can get the free app for iOS here. Or, download it for Android here.
Keep reading
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Like it or not, fake “vaccine passport” applications attempt to steal your data
The information in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended for health or medical advice. Always consult a physician or other qualified healthcare professional with any questions you may have regarding a health concern, advice, or health goals.
