Frequently Asked Questions

What general information is available about COVID-19 vaccines?

Both of the approved vaccines are what is called mRNA (Messenger RNA) vaccines. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website, these mRNA vaccines contain material from the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes COVID-19. This material gives our cells instructions for how to make a harmless protein that is unique to the virus. This protein cannot build a virus or cause infection. After our cells make copies of the protein, they destroy the genetic material from the vaccine. Our bodies recognize that the protein should not be there and build antibodies that will remember how to fight the virus that causes COVID-19 if we are infected in the future.  While mRNA technology is new in vaccine development, this technology is being successfully used in cancer treatments.

Is the vaccine mandatory?  Or voluntary? What happens if I do not want to get the vaccine?

While getting the vaccine originally was voluntary, pursuant to the City of Philadelphia’s new mandate, ALL healthcare workers must be vaccinated for COVID-19 by October 15, 2021.
This applies to all healthcare institutions throughout the city (including Inglis), as well as all colleges and universities. And recently, there now movement towards a federal mandate.
Under this order, “healthcare workers” includes all employees, contractors, students, and volunteers who work in-person at an organization providing healthcare services — regardless of whether their job includes direct contact with service recipients.
As a result, all Inglis staff, across all entities and departments, regardless of role or work location, will be included in Inglis’ response to this mandate.
To meet the legal requirements of the City’s mandate, all of our staff must be fully vaccinated by October 15, 2021.  Please contact your supervisor, HR or Occupational Health with any questions you may have.
 

Will the drug fact sheet listing ingredients and possible side effects be available for review BEFORE the vaccine arrives and is available to Inglis staff and Residents?

Yes. A copy of the vaccine's ingredients and possible side effects has been attached to the end of printed version of these FAQs (available throughout Inglis House) but also is linked here. 

Do the vaccines have preservatives?

Neither the Moderna Vaccine nor the Pfizer vaccines have the following:  preservatives, eggs, or latex.
 

What’s the differences between each company’s vaccine?

Both vaccines contain very similar ingredients: mRNA material, polyethylene glycol (PEG) a fat particle to surround it, a cholesterol particle, salt (Potassium Chloride), a sugar (sucrose). 

When are we getting the vaccine?

Inglis vaccine clinic was held weekly for the last year (approx.) and has stopped as of 9/30/2021 based on vaccine mandate deadline, 10/15/2021.

Which vaccine will we be getting?

Philadelphia county, and therefore, Inglis, will be receiving the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine.

Is it a 1-step process, or 2-step vaccine?  Do you have to get it twice?

Both of the approved vaccines will require two (2) doses to be effective, given about 3-4 weeks apart. This is to make sure your body has enough antibodies to fight COVID-19. Getting two (2) doses within 3-4 weeks has been shown to be safe and there are other vaccines we have been using for years that require multiple doses without causing harm.

Do you have to get it in your arm, or can you get it in your thigh?

The vaccine is administered in your muscle and has been given in recipients’ arms. The vaccine is approved to be administered in your arm.

Why should I get the COVID-19 Vaccine?

Because you want to protect yourself and your loved ones, and to keep our residents and staff safe. Because you want to help stop the virus' spread in the community and you want to set an example for others, including residents, families, co-workers, and the community-at-large.

Why do some people not want to take the vaccine?

People have expressed concerns regarding the safety of the vaccine. Vaccines can cause side effects like a sore arm, low-grade fever, muscle aches, and pains. However, they usually go away after a day or two. The value of protection for vaccinated people and the public has made vaccine development one of the top public health activities in our history, second only to a clean water supply.

Do you anticipate that this will be a yearly vaccine?

It is likely that we will not know the answer to this question for some time. That will take more research. This vaccine may be like the annual flu vaccine, where we may need to have vaccine shots for COVID-19 on a regular basis. We just don’t know for sure at this time... 

How will it be given out in Inglis House?  To staff and residents at the same time?  How will the residents, get the vaccine?  By neighborhood, by diagnosis?

Walgreens has been contracted by the government to provide vaccines to long-term care facilities. Their employees will be supplying and administering the vaccine to both staff and residents over a period of 2 days. Residents will receive the vaccination in their room while a clinic will be set up in Founders' Hall for staff. We also offered a vaccine clinic in our Adult Day area weekly; this clinic is over 9/30/2021 based on the deadline, 10/15/2021.

What if someone refuses to get the vaccine?

That is their right to do so. Inglis must follow the federal mandate to fully vaccinate Healthcare Professionals. Therefore, if Inglis employees refuse to become fully vaccinated, they will receive a Final Written Warning on 10/15/2021, and failure to comply further will result in voluntary resignation. If you have a medical or religious exemption, that must be submitted to Human Resources or Occupation Health by October 14, 2021. Religious exemptions must be submitted to HR. Medical exemptions must be submitted to Human Resources. 

For staff or and residents that opt out of the vaccine, will that affect their levels of engagement at Inglis - ie., will they be restricted to certain activities or areas once Inglis reopens?

Yes. Residents that are unvaccinated will have precautions in place based on infection control guidelines and CMS guidelines. As of September 2021, 95% of our residents are vaccinated! 

Will the PPE, screening, or testing requirements change after the vaccine is administered?

Yes. Masks will still be required. For the time being and until further notice, all of our safety protocols will remain in place.

After administering vaccines what does that mean for opening/reopening phases of Inglis?

Our visitation and reopening is based on state and city guidelines about the positivity rate in Philadelphia County and in Inglis House. 

Is this vaccine one which contains a “dead” or inactive version of the actual virus?

Even though effective vaccines for other diseases do contain either live or "killed" 
viral particles, neither of the COVID-19 vaccines contain live or killed viral particles.

Are there serious allergic reactions to the vaccine? I have allergies, will they interact with the vaccine?

Study participants in the Pfizer vaccine were excluded if they had a severe adverse reaction associated with a vaccine and/or severe allergic reaction (i.e., anaphylaxis) to any component of the study intervention(s).   As of 12/28/20 Since the Pfizer vaccine program began, six (6) severe allergic reactions have been reported in the U.S. out of 272,001 doses administered, according to the most recent Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report. If you have a history of severe adverse reaction associated with a vaccine or any component of the vaccine, we suggest you consult with your Primary Care Physician for guidance regarding the vaccine risk vs benefits.

What happens if I feel sick after getting the vaccine and do not feel well enough to stay at work or to come to work the next day? Or other days?

The rules governing coming to work or being at work when you feel sick do not change after the vaccine is administered. If you suspect COVID illness and have symptoms that meet our COVID exclusion, you should stay home. Per Inglis protocol, if you feel you are unable to work you should be evaluated by your Primary Care Physician.

How do I know the vaccines are safe?

Safety is the most important priority in vaccine approval. To assess safety FDA typically advises that a minimum of 3,000 participants are included in the trial.  The current COVID-19 vaccine trials included more than 80,000 participants. Most side effects occur within 6 weeks of vaccination. To be more cautious, the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) requires 8 weeks of safety monitoring of the COVID-19 vaccines. Monitoring for safety will continue as the vaccine is distributed to the public.  The FDA used the same strict standards to approve these vaccines that it has for decades. No steps were “skipped.”  Two independent advisory committees reviewed the results. Members and experts of these committees have no conflict of interest and are not associated with any vaccine manufacturers.

During the testing phase was anyone with a disability and/or who was considered high risk apart of the testing phase? If so, what kinds and what were the results?

Neither vaccine specifically excluded people with disabilities. The Pfizer vaccine trial excluded people who were considered immunocompromised or medically unstable. It also excluded patients with a history of severe adverse reaction associated with a vaccine and/or severe allergic reaction (i.e., anaphylaxis) to any component of the study intervention(s).  People under the age of 16 years and pregnant women were excluded. The Moderna vaccine trial excluded: People under the age of 18 years, people with a known history of COVID-19, people who are pregnant or breastfeeding, people who are ill or have a fever three days before or at screening or vaccination visits, people who have a compromised immune system, and people who have had a significant adverse reaction to vaccination in the past (such as a severe allergic reaction) were ineligible to participate in the vaccine trial. 

What are the known side effects of the vaccine?

You can expect to have short-term discomfort:  fatigue, headache, muscle pain, chills, fever, and pain at injection site after vaccination. These reactions will last for 24-48 hours and are typically more pronounced after the second dose. Side effects mean your body is doing its job and making antibodies (IT IS A GOOD THING!). These side effects are normal, common, and expected.

What are the perceivable long-term effects from taking the vaccine?

The Phase 3 clinical trial of the COVID vaccine began on July 27 and has enrolled 43,661 participants to date, 41,135 of whom have received a second dose of the vaccine candidate as of November 13, 2020.  The phase 3 trial started 5 months prior, therefore, we do not have long-term data.
 

Does the vaccine hurt?

The most commonly reported side effects, which typically lasted several days, were pain at the injection site, tiredness, headache, muscle pain, chills, joint pain, swollen lymph nodes in the same arm as the injection, nausea and vomiting, and fever.

It is safe to get the COVID-19 vaccine even if you have had COVID-19.

Even if you have had COVID-19, it is important to get vaccinated. It could give you longer or better protection against the disease. COVID-19 within the past 30 days, it is not recommended that you get the vaccine.  If your infection was more than 30 days prior to getting the vaccine, and even if you have positive antibodies, you should still get the COVID-19 vaccine.

Has the vaccine been tested on individuals on different medications?

Pfizer did not enroll the following people in their vaccine trial:  Individuals who receive treatment with immunosuppressive therapy, including cytotoxic agents or systemic corticosteroids, i.e., for cancer or an autoimmune disease, or planned receipt throughout the study.

Does the vaccine impact fertility?

The FDA has not reported that the vaccine has an impact on fertility. 

Does the vaccine impact mental health or depression?

We have no evidence that the vaccine impacts mental health or depression, however patients with recent or active suicidal ideation were excluded from the study.

For people who had the BCG vaccine as children from foreign countries, does this Covid-19 vaccine has complications in these cases?

We have no reason to believe that people who receive BCG vaccine as children should be excluded from getting the vaccine.

If the virus mutates, will we still have the antibodies to fight COVID-19?

We cannot fully answer this question at this time. If the virus mutates a small amount, we would expect to have antibodies to fight future COVID infections. If there is a very large mutation, we may not be protected against future infections. 

Are meals included?

All three meals plus snacks are included.  We also have special holiday meals and parties throughout the year. Our menu committee also meets monthly with the dining services director to ensure the meals provided are nutritious and delicious. 

Does Inglis House have visiting hours?

Inglis House is the resident’s home, and therefore, residents are free to have guests. We just ask that you respect your neighbors' privacy and need to sleep. 

May I smoke at Inglis House?

Inglis House is a non-smoking facility.

What happens if my motorized wheelchair has a problem or breaks down?

Almost every resident at Inglis House has a motorized wheelchair, so we know our stuff! We have an on-site Wheelchair Repair Shop with a full-time staff technician devoted to repairing wheelchairs and keeping you as active and independent as possible.

How will I receive my mail?

Mail is delivered daily to residents’ rooms. If you need to mail something, our mail room on the Ground Floor can assist you. 

Am I able to bring my pet to Inglis?

Unfortunately, you are not able to have a pet move to Inglis House to live with you. However, Inglis House does offer a pet therapy program with trained animals who visit with residents. 

If I want to attend religious services am I able to do that?

Inglis is a multi-faith community with more than 15 religions represented. We have one full-time chaplain and a pastoral care program that is able to meet all the religious needs of our residents. We also have visiting clergy. You will be able to attend services, take part in religious discussions, and enjoy pastoral visits.

Is Inglis House a Nursing Home?

Inglis House is a wheelchair community, specializing in services to adults with severe neurodegenerative disabilities resulting in paraplegia and quadriplegia. Under Pennsylvania regulations, we are classified as a skilled nursing facility. We encourage our residents to be as independent as possible in a home-like environment. Our residents range from 20–90 years old and we provide a range of services and activities for everyone. 
 

How do I pay for Inglis House?

Inglis accepts Medicare, Medicaid, private pay, and some forms of private insurance. Contact Inglis House @ 215-878-5600 extension 5747 for assistance in determining if you have appropriate coverage.

Most residents pay for their stay through medical assistance grant from the state, this grant covers room and board and health care. Inglis will assist with the application process upon admission.   
 

What kind of activities do you have?

We have an extensive Therapeutic & Life Enrichment Services program that operates seven days-a-week. We have artistic programming such as gardening, painting, ceramics, dance classes and continuing education studies. We have a music therapy program including the availability of individualized lessons; a choir that performs throughout the year and a rock band, and an electronic band! We also have three trips a week to places such as restaurants, museums, sporting events, concerts, local attractions and shopping centers. Our residents are welcome to participate on these trips year-round.

How can I get on a computer?

We have an Adapted Technology Department that helps people of all different abilities to use their devices. We have a computer lab with assistive devices to meet all residents’ abilities and needs. We also have an In-Room Resident Helpdesk that will set up your WIFI right in your room and help if any problems arise. If you have a hard time using your TV remote or any other technology, we have a 3D printer that can create customized equipment just for you!

Will I have to share my room?

Every resident of Inglis House has a private room. Residents are encouraged to make their room their home by decorating and personalizing it. You can choose the paint color and decorate the room the way you want. All rooms include a flat screen TV and basic cable.
 

How will I receive care at Inglis House?

Inglis House has several physicians on staff that will provide primary care services. In addition, we have physician assistants and nurse practitioners who support the physicians. There is an in-house medical clinic that provides specialty services including; podiatry, neurology, optometry, dentistry, gynecology, and many others. When necessary, Inglis provides transportation to appointments, the hospital, and outside provider. 
 

How will I get medications?

Inglis House works with a pharmacy to obtain all medications. All prescriptions costs are covered by insurances or medical assistance grants.
 

What other supportive services do you have?

We have social services and mental health services. Additionally, each floor also has an Assistant Director of Nursing, two Clinical Leaders, two Neighborhood Life Leaders, (specialists in quality of life services), a Recreation Therapy Liaison and a Registered Eietician. 
 

Can I have a telephone in my room?

Landline telephones are available at an additional cost. If you do not have a cellphone, we may be able to obtain one for you for free and our adapted technology team can adapt it to maximize your ability to use it.  
 

Will I receive therapy services?

Absolutely! We have a recently renovated Therapy Gym “Wellness Center”, and we have a range of services including Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy, Therapeutic Recreation, Therapeutic Education, and an Adapted Technology Lab. Our Therapists help our residents adapt as their abilities change, recover from injuries and strokes and to maintain their functional level or to accomplish personal goals and achieve new abilities. 
 

What is the Inglis Innovation Center?

The Inglis Innovation Center is where all of Inglis’ community-based programming and services are headquartered. This centralized location allows individuals who live independently to create a customized set of opportunities to best address their needs. It is an accessible place where people can come and learn about the possibilities available to them through adapted technology; to explore employment opportunities; to access peer support or care management, or to participate in an engaging day program…or all of those things.

Where is the Innovation Center located?

2560 Belmont Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19131. The Center is on the ground floor of Building B at the Inglis Gardens at Belmont apartments.

Is this the first time Inglis is working with people with disabilities who live in the community?

No, Inglis has been working with individuals with disabilities for more than 140 years and for more than 50 years has been helping individuals who live independently in the community. The Innovation Center is Inglis’ way to reach more individuals who can benefit from our programs and services; from adapted technology needs assessments to socialization at the Connections day program and assistance managing mental health challenges through Journeys Certified Peer Specialists. 

Can anyone go to the Innovation Center?

Anyone who is participating – or is interested in participating – in an Inglis program or service located at the Center can access the Innovation Center. Call 1-267-295-5400 or send an email to community@inglis.org to make an appointment for a tour or to learn more about a program or service.

What is Inglis Community Support Services?

Inglis Community Support Services assists individuals with disabilities to live independently in the community. The purpose is to provide individualized assistance to help people accomplish goals and live their best lives.

What is the purpose of Inglis Community Support Services?

Inglis Community Support Services assist individuals with disabilities in living independently in the community.

Where are Inglis Community Support Services provided?

Though all Community Support Services are headquartered at the Inglis Innovation Center, 2560 Belmont Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19131, the programs (other than Connections Day Program) are delivered throughout the community to reach individuals where they are.  Connections is located only at the Innovation Center.

I do not use a wheelchair, am I able to participate in Inglis’ Community Support Services?

Yes, many participants receiving Inglis Community Support Services do not use wheelchairs and may never need one.

Do I have any say in my services?

Inglis Community Support Services are person-centered and directed by you. You identify your needs and guide the provision of services that you choose.

How do I pay for services?

There are several ways you can pay for different services.

Some programs like Connections Day Program, work with waivers from PA Waiver services, Veteran Affairs, MS Society, or some participants pay privately.

Inglis Employment Services receives payments through Office of Vocational Rehabilitation, Office of Long-Term Living through Community HealthChoices, or Private Pay

Care Management is covered through third party funding or private pay

How do I enroll in services?

Call 267-295-5400 or send an email to community@inglis.org. Our staff will be able to provide you with information and refer you to the Inglis services you seek.

What is Assistive Technology (AT)?

Assistive Technology enables individuals with disabilities to access and use technologies (computers, environmental controls, televisions, lights, etc.) that provide them with greater independence.

Whether using simple solutions like key guards or single switch controls, or more advanced options like voice recognition, eye-tracking software, 3D-printed solutions, or Smart Home Technology, the AT team works with individuals to help them accomplish their specific goals. Inglis has connected people with disabilities to the world around them through technology for more than three decades.

How does Inglis’ Assistive Technology Program work?

Inglis’ Assistive Technology program is goals-based, not curriculum based so our AT team will interview you and do a complete assessment of your skills and needs. The team will help you work toward accomplishing the goals you set.

Services are available on-site at the Inglis Innovation Center, and/or in your home, as needed. Once an Inglis team member assesses your needs, they will create a list of recommendations and will discuss options with you.

The list may include software and hardware devices that will help you to accomplish your goals. Inglis may create specialized 3D-printed devices if necessary, will install any software and hardware needed and teach you how to use them.

Where is Inglis’ Assistive Technology Program located?

The Assistive Technology (AT) Program is located at the Inglis Innovation Center, 2560 Belmont Avenue, Philadelphia PA 19131, on the ground floor of Building B of Inglis Gardens at Belmont apartments.  

There is also an Assistive Technology Program in Inglis House, specifically for the residents who live there, including two computer labs and an AT Tech & 3D lab.
 

How can assistive technology help me?

Assistive technology can help you access a computer, connect to internet, send email, use video chats to connect to family and friends, control the devices (lights, television, thermostat, etc.) in your home, more easily manage your wheelchair, and more. It can help you access technology and become more independent.

How much does Inglis’ Assistive Technology Program cost?

There is currently no fee for assessments, training or the installation of software or hardware. However, aside from any 3D devices made by Inglis in its lab, you are responsible for purchasing the hardware and software recommended by the Inglis team.

How can I access Inglis’ AT Program?

Please follow this link to visit the Assistive Technology Program page at inglis.org/assistivetech. To schedule an assessment, please contact Inglis’ Adapted Technology Director, Michael Strawbridge at michael.strawbridge@inglis.org or call 267-295-5400.

What is Inglis Employment Services?

Inglis Employment Services (IES) helps individuals with disabilities find employment by providing job coaching before, during, and after employment is secured.  Certified job coaches work to match individuals who have disabilities with employers who are looking for a solid, stable workforce – and provides the hands-on support needed to ensure that employee’s success. IES is also an employer with subcontracts managing more than 60 people with disabilities at 12 job sites.
 

What services does Inglis Employment Services (IES) provide?

• Job searching in various sectors
• Job search readiness (i.e., creating a resume, interview coaching, assistance requesting accommodations once a job is secured, etc.)
• Job training and coaching before, during and after employment is secured
• Support individuals overcoming barriers towards successful employment (i.e., securing transportation, using adapted technology in the workplace, etc.)
• Support for employers by matching the right individuals with the right jobs

What kind of jobs are available through IES?

Inglis has helped place individuals in a variety of positions throughout the Greater Philadelphia Region. Our largest employers are at PennDOT Photo Centers and the Horsham Air Guard Station, but we have found jobs for individuals in schools, retail shops and cafes.

Can IES help me find a job?

If you live in the Greater Philadelphia Area and have a physical or cognitive disability, IES can help support you through the job searching and hiring process, and provide training needed for you to be successful on the job.

How do I pay for IES’ services?

IES is an employment service provider for the Office of Vocation Rehabilitation and the Office of Long-Term Living through Community HealthChoices Managed Care Organizations. 

How do I contact IES?

Please call 1-267-295-5400 or send an email to community@inglis.org.

What is the Inglis Housing Corporation?

Inglis is the largest private developer of accessible, affordable housing in the region. Inglis has been creating housing communities since 1974 and today, owns and/or manages nearly 400 units throughout Philadelphia and South Jersey. Inglis’ newest housing community, Inglis Methodist Gardens, just received tax credits this year for 47 units providing accessible, healthy and affordable housing for disabled individuals and homeless families.

How much is the rent?

All but one of our apartment communities are subsidized by the Federal Government (Morris-Klein Apartments). Everyone’s rent is different. Your rent portion is based on 30% of your adjusted gross income.  For information about market-rate units: please call 1-866-246-4547 or contact the Inglis Housing Corporation office at 267-969-6310, or email us at housing@inglis.org.

Who is eligible for an apartment through Inglis Housing Corporation?

People who are over the age of 18,  meet certain income requirements (incomes below a certain level), and who require our apartments' accessibility features.

Can my children live with me?

Yes. Our Tenant Selection plan allows up to 2 people per bedroom.

How much is the rent?

All but one of our apartment communities are subsidized by the Federal Government (Morris-Kelin Apartments). Everyone’s rent is different. Your rent portion is based on 30% of your adjusted gross income.  For information about market-rate units: please call 1-866-246-4547 or contact Anna Cruz-Cannizzaro at 267-969-6310, or email us at housing@inglis.org.

How do I apply?

To learn more about apartment locations, housing partners or apartment availability for current market rate units available today or to fill out a pre-application form, please call 1-866-246-4547 or contact Anna Cruz-Cannizzaro at 267-969-6310, or email us at housing@inglis.org.

Who is eligible for an apartment through Inglis Housing Corporation?

People who are over the age of 18, below a certain income level, and who require our apartment's accessibility features.

What is Journeys?

Journeys is the first Certified Peer Specialist partnership program in the country designed to provide support to people who have a physical disability and mental health challenges. Journeys matches individuals who have complex physical disabilities and a mental health diagnosis with a trained Certified Peer Specialist (CPS) who has similar life experiences and truly understands. Because the CPSs are mobile, they can meet individuals where they are, both physically and emotionally, and provide support and assistance.

Where is Journeys located?

The office is located in the Inglis Innovation Center, 2560 Belmont Avenue, Philadelphia PA 19131, on the ground floor of Building B of Inglis Gardens at Belmont apartments. But our Certified Peer Specialists often meet with individuals outside of the Center – they can come to you.

What services does Journeys provide?

Among other things, Certified Peer Specialists can help:

• with care planning
• build a network of natural supports
• develop a Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP)
• complete Mental Health Advanced Directives
• facilitate collaborations with MCO service coordinators and health care providers
• navigate transportation and other resources to promote independence, health and well-being
• assist with nursing home transition planning

Am I eligible for Journeys?

You are eligible for help from a Journeys peer if:

• you are 21 years old or older
• live in Philadelphia
• are Medicaid eligible
• have a mental health diagnosis 
• have a physical disability

How can I participate in Journeys and find a Certified Peer Specialist to help me?

Please follow this link to the Journeys webpage.  you may also contact Journeys at Journeys@inglis.org or call (215) 581-3121.

What kinds of support do Care Managers offer?

The support provided may come in a variety of forms – from advice on who to contact for information on financial support, to connecting people with Inglis’ Adapted Technology team who can help with high-or-low tech solutions to overcoming barriers.  The focus is connecting people with the services they require – and may not even be aware those services are available.
 

How do I connect to an MS Care Manager?

Please call 267-295-5400 or send an email to community@inglis.org. 

How do Care Managers support individuals?

Care Managers assess and support people who need help as their abilities change and recommend programs and services that may help the individual in a variety of ways. Additionally, Care Managers visit individuals in their homes for assessments and follow-ups.