WOODSFIELD — Monroe County residents now have the option to register for future COVID-19 vaccine clinics through the health department’s newly implemented system.

In order to provide a more efficient vaccination clinic for residents, the Monroe County Health Department is now taking registrations from those in the community who would like to receive the vaccine during future clinics.

Linda Masters, administrator of the Monroe County Health Department, said the department will use the information collected to contact residents to schedule appointments for upcoming clinics.

“We will contact those who fit the criteria that were allowed to vaccine for; we will call them at that time and let them know when their appointment time is,” she said.

Masters said the department is hoping the appointment-based clinics will provide relief for residents. The appointment-only clinics will help reduce wait time and uncertainty among residents, she said.

“We’re hoping that it makes people feel better. They won’t have to come and wait, and they’ll know that they are getting a vaccination when we call and tell them when to come,” she said. “We’re going to try this and hope that it works out much better than the open clinics.”

The health department plans to hold weekly clinics as long as the supply continues.

Those wishing to receive the vaccine through the health department can email their name, address, date of birth and phone number to covid@monroecountyohio.com. Those who lack access to email may register by calling 740-472-4299.

Masters said there is no need to call if you have already registered by email. A confirmation email will be sent out once the department receives the information.

Masters urges residents to remain patient when waiting to receive a call from the department.

“It’s not going to be immediate, it’s going to be whenever they qualify for one of our clinics,” she said. “Please be patient, we’re doing the best we can do.”

An open drive-through clinic is slated for 1 p.m. today at the Monroe County Fairgrounds in Woodsfield for individuals in Phase 1A and some in Phase 1B — health care workers and personnel who are routinely involved in the care of COVID-19 patients, EMS responders and residents aged 75 and older. Residents are asked to remain in their vehicle, don a mask and wear loose-fitting clothing. Masters said no one is permitted to line up prior to 11 a.m.

The health department is hoping to administer around 200 vaccinations during today’s open clinic.

“I think we’ll have a good turnout. I hope we don’t have to turn too many people away,” she said. “We will provide them with the registration information if we do have to turn anyone away, but I’m hoping we’re able to service everyone who comes.”

The clinic tents will be placed further into the fairgrounds than in the past to reduce traffic along Ohio 26 and allow more vehicles to enter the designated area, Masters said.

Following today’s clinic, the remainder of the county’s clinics will be by appointment only.