The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) has updated its Vax Verify immunization portal to include the use of the SMART Health Card.
The IDPH’s Vax Verify is an online system that allows Illinois residents 18 years and older to check their COVID-19 vaccination record. With the new the SMART Health Card, users can download a QR code to = confirm their COVID-19 vaccination status at businesses, events, and other locations.
“As a way to reduce the spread of COVID-19 and keep people safer, some businesses, events, organizations, and others are opting to require proof of vaccination before entering,” IDPH Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike said. “We’ve seen multiple surges of COVID-19 and more and more people are making the choice to get vaccinated. The ability to download a QR code will help residents confirm their vaccination status when requested.”
IDPH said in a press release that the QR code can be downloaded or kept in Apple Wallet and presented for COVID-19 vaccination verification. For business that either want to or are required to verify vaccination status can download the Commons Project SMART Health Card Verifier App on Apple AppStore and Google Play store.
In a move to reassure residents, the state said the verification system “follows best practices to protect confidential health information.” IDPH added that in order to download proof of vaccination, residents will go through a brief, one-time identity verification process to gain access to their immunization history. After the verification process, individuals can see their own record in the Illinois Comprehensive Automated Immunization Registry Exchange.
