Next phase of vaccination plan under way in Brookings

Brookings Health System is partnering with Sanford Clinic Brookings and Avera Medical Group Brookings to distribute the COVID-19 vaccine to qualifying Brookings County residents.

The partnership follows last week’s announcement from the South Dakota Department of Health that vaccination eligibility would be opened up to select individuals within Phase 1D of the DOH’s COVID Vaccination Plan. Those now eligible include those 80 year of age and older, high-risk individuals, and people who live in a congregate setting

Brookings Health System is asking for patience as demand is much higher than supply. It’s estimated there are over 7,500 people in Phase 1d in Brookings County. Brookings is currently receiving about 300 vaccine doses a week. Health System CEO Jason Merkley says if vaccine allocations remain limited, it will take a great deal of time to give all eligible folks their turn.

Starting this week, Brookings County residents will be contacted by their primary care clinic if they meet the criteria.

The clinics will contact the oldest and sickest individuals first. People will receive a phone call when a vaccine dose is available.

Brookings Health System will work directly with congregate living settings to vaccinate residents.

Brookings County residents who qualify for the current Phase 1D selection and are not a patient at one of the clinics may join the vaccine waiting list on the Brookings Health System website.

 

 

January 19, 2021