We are getting numerous questions about why different counties in the state are at different places with their COVID-19 vaccine administration response. For the moment, all counties are supposed to still be primarily focused on Phase 1a (medical staff, and nursing homes). However, since the Moderna vaccines come in shipments of 100 doses, in some occasions there may be some left-over vaccine from week to week where Phase 1a recipients can not be found. Every provider in every county is encouraged to use this surplus vaccine. So, in some instances, some counties will vaccinate a few folks in Phase 1b (first responders, school staff, or those ages 70 and over) with this surplus Phase 1a vaccine. Also, since 100 doses goes much farther in a small county with a population of, say, 6,000, than it would in a county with a population of 70,000, everyone is going to have to become comfortable with the fact that some counties are going to get ahead of other counties when progressing through the COVID-19 vaccination phases.
Also, as far as the local health departments go, the State Department for Public Health arranges for our vaccines to be shipped to us from the drug companies. Likewise, any other area providers who are receiving vaccines (hospitals and maybe a few others), are having their orders also arranged directly by the State Department for Public Health. The local health departments have no input over which local providers receive the vaccine or how they distribute it. They are all supposed to be following the COVID-19 Vaccination Phase Guidance, but if they don’t, it is outside of our influence.
Once vaccinations move beyond the 1a schedule, will the pharmacies be participating in the next steps? Or, will that be county health depts or hospitals in those areas?
Laurel Co as an example has been taking appointments on their health website. And, some friends of mine reahed out to the Corbin hospital and registered for vaccine (they are both in their mid 70s, so 1b). Hospital called them Saturday (9th) morning and they went in and got their shots by noon.
I'm sorry but I don't know the answers to your questions. The State Department for Public Health is working directly with any local provider they want to authorize to give the vaccine. I answered your last question in last night's Daily Brief. For now, we aren't taking appointments on-line or by text. When we have around 20,000 seventy plus reisendents and may get 1,000 – 2,000 doses per week, keeping a waiting list seems counter-productive.
how do you get your name in line for vaccine if over 75?
We are not taking a "waiting list". We will schedule appointments when we have vaccine.
If you do not have a sign up list for covid vaccine how will we know when vaccine is available?
We aren't even sure if we will get anymore vaccine. If we do, we'll advertise it on our website and social media.
I am 72. How will I be informed when and where the vaccine is available in Pulaski County? Will my doctor be giving the vaccine?
The only place I know of right now that is getting first dose vaccines is Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital. You can reach out to them to see when they will again be taking appointments.