Even if you are eligible, it can be challenging to obtain an appointment to receive a COVID-19 vaccine. They are not a guarantee of success, but the resources and tips listed below can be helpful for obtaining an appointment.

Social media connections: If you are on Facebook, the Maryland Vaccine Hunters group is invaluable. They provide tips, news about new sites coming online, and there is even a Helping Seniors Section (look on the right side of the page under Popular Topics in Posts) where you can find someone who can provide in-depth help.

Create accounts ahead of time: Because there is such a demand for the vaccine, appointments do tend to go quickly when they become available. It can be helpful to cut down on the time that it takes to sign up for an appointment by creating an account and being logged in before looking for an available appointment. Here are the places to create those accounts if you don’t already have them:

Signing up ahead of time and being logged in will not eliminate having to enter information when selecting an appointment, but it can help.

Website links: Once you’re logged in, there are a couple of portals where you can check for available appointments such as MD Vaccine Updates and VaxxMax. It has been my experience that batches of appointments tend to be added between midnight and 1 a.m., as well as between 7 a.m. and 8 a.m. daily. Available appointments outside of that time seem to be cancellations and can be extremely difficult to get.

Calling: You can try and call for appointments as well. The number for M&T Bank Stadium and Six Flags is 855-634-6829. There is an option to be called back or to wait on hold. Also, there has been some anecdotal evidence that appointments at Walgreens can be booked when they are available by calling 1-800-925-4733.

Whatever method you use to try and find an appointment, persistence is key. Hang in there and keep trying.