Kin Guide · Back to School
Still need school vaccines? Franklin County is keeping the clinic open late Sept. 17
If your child still needs a school vaccine, Franklin County Public Health has an extended-hours clinic in downtown Columbus. Here’s the appointment, parking and cost information to know before you go.
Columbus, OH · September 11, 2026
The Short Version
- Thursday, September 17, 2026
- 8 a.m.–7 p.m.
- Franklin County Public Health — 280 E. Broad St., Columbus
- Appointments are preferred
- Immunization questions: 614-525-3719
Start here: make the appointment
Franklin County Public Health says appointments are preferred for the extended-hours clinic. If you know your child still needs a vaccine, do not make the trip the first step. Make the appointment the first step.
Not sure what your child needs? Call the immunization program at 614-525-3719 before you go. A five-minute call can save you a second trip.
Why this matters
This is not just paperwork. Franklin County’s HealthMap 2025 found a real gap across local school districts: Grandview Heights, Upper Arlington, Bexley, Worthington and Dublin reported at least 95% of kindergarten students entering school with all required vaccinations complete. Columbus, Pickerington, Reynoldsburg, Hilliard, South-Western and Whitehall reported 89% or less.
That makes catch-up access part of the story. Families need clear hours, a place they can get to and a straight answer about what happens if insurance or money is a problem.
Where you’re going
Franklin County Public Health
280 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43215
Extended school-age vaccination clinic hours on Thursday, September 17, from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
If you are driving, the useful address is actually the parking entrance. FCPH says its lot is on the east side of the building and must be entered from Gay Street.
What about cost?
Do not assume you cannot go because you are uninsured or worried about the bill. Franklin County Public Health says its public-health nurses offer vaccines to children and adults regardless of insurance status or ability to pay.
Your exact situation can still vary. If cost is the thing making you hesitate, call 614-525-3719 and ask before the appointment. Get the answer instead of guessing yourself out of care.
Before You Go
- Make the appointment first. FCPH says appointments are preferred.
- Find out exactly which vaccine your child still needs. Check with the school, your child’s health-care provider or FCPH.
- Ask what records or documentation to bring when you schedule.
- If you are driving, use 275 E. Gay St. for the parking-lot entrance and bring your parking ticket inside for validation.