Healthy Choices Start Here: Asking for Vaccines & Vaccine Records

Before contacting a provider, it helps to know which vaccines are recommended for you. Recommendations vary based on:

• Age
• Health conditions
• Pregnancy status
• Job or school requirements
• Travel plans

If you’re unsure, you can simply ask your healthcare provider:

• “Am I up to date on my vaccines?”
• “Are there any vaccines recommended for someone my age or health condition?”

Your provider can review your history and make recommendations.

Vaccines are available in many convenient locations such as…

Local pharmacies

• Many chain and independent pharmacies offer vaccines.
• Common vaccines include flu, COVID-19, shingles, and others.

Doctor’s office or clinic

• Your primary care provider can give vaccines or refer you to another location if needed.

Health departments

• State and local health units often offer low-cost or free vaccines.
• Health departments can be a good option if you don’t have insurance.

You can find nearby locations using:

• VaccineFinder.org
• Arkansas Department of Health Field Offices
• Oklahoma County Health Departments

Most vaccine locations offer several options:

Online scheduling

• Many pharmacies and clinics allow you to book appointments online.

Phone

• You can call local clinics or pharmacies directly.

Walk-in services

• Some sites accept walk-ins.
• It’s still a good idea to call ahead to make sure the vaccine is available.

You don’t need special wording. Keep it simple and direct.

Example phrases

• “I’d like to schedule a flu shot.”
• “Can you check which vaccines I’m due for?”
• “I’m traveling soon—do I need any vaccines?”
• “I think I’m due for a tetanus shot. Can I get one here?”

Healthcare providers are used to these requests and can guide you through the process.

When you go to your appointment, bring:

• Your insurance card (if you have one)
• A photo ID
• Any vaccination records you already have

If you don’t have your records, don’t worry—you can still get vaccinated. The provider can help determine what you need.

Call your doctor’s office or clinic and ask for a copy of your immunization history.

Many states keep vaccine records in an immunization registry.

In Arkansas, you can request records through the state immunization program. You may need to complete a shot record release form.

• Arkansas - https://healthy.arkansas.gov/programs-services/community-family-child-health/immunizations/faqs-immunizations/

In Oklahoma, you can request records through the state immunization service or local health department.

• Oklahoma - https://oklahoma.gov/health/services/personal-health/immunizations/imm-shot-records.html

Some clinics and pharmacies provide vaccine records through online accounts or mobile apps.