Baylor University Medical Center issued the following announcement.
Getting the COVID-19 vaccine is one of the most important steps you can take to protect yourself, your family and your community. If you are protected from getting COVID-19, you cannot pass the disease to others — and vice versa. We need at least 70 percent of the population to get vaccinated in order to rid ourselves of the COVID-19 virus.
But we know you have questions. When will you get the vaccine? Where? How does it work? While we may not have all the answers today, we’re committed to keep you safe, informed and up to date as we navigate this process together.
Baylor Scott & White Health will be providing the COVID-19 vaccine to our patients and communities in phases as determined by the Texas Department of State Health Services, based on guidance from the CDC and the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP).
At this time, all Texas healthcare organizations that receive an allocation of the COVID-19 vaccine must distribute it based on this guidance.
COVID-19 vaccination schedule
Although timing of the different phases is unclear at this point, here’s what you can expect to see over the next several months. Keep in mind that these guidelines are subject to change by the FDA, CDC or Texas Department of State Health Services.
COVID-19 VACCINE PHASE 1
The first phase of distribution, which began in mid-December, will include healthcare workers who interface with potential COVID-19 patients, as well as patients and employees of long-term care facilities (i.e. nursing homes). This will be followed by other healthcare workers, police officers and first responders.
Once we receive additional supply and are allowed by the state to begin distributing to the rest of the community, we will work to make the vaccine available as quickly and conveniently as possible.
COVID-19 VACCINE PHASE 2
Those eligible in phase two include the following groups of adults:
- Over age 65
- Chronic kidney disease
- Diabetes
- Immunocompromising conditions
- Body mass index (BMI) greater than or equal to 35
- Age 55+ and who also have cardiovascular disease, hypertension, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or other chronic respiratory diseases
- BMI greater than or equal to the 85th percentile for their age and gender
- Sickle cell disease, congenital or acquired heart disease, neurodevelopmental disorders, or asthma that requires daily medication
- Tracheostomy, gastrostomy or positive pressure ventilation
After these higher risk groups are vaccinated, phase three will include the rest of the adult population.
According to the CDC and ACIP, these recommendations were developed with several goals in mind, including to ensure vaccine safety and effectiveness; reduce transmission and mortality of COVID-19; help minimize disruption to our society, economy and healthcare system; and ensure equity in vaccine allocation and distribution. Please refer to the CDC for more information on the COVID-19 vaccine.
What you can do while you wait
Due to rigid measures for storage and administration of the current vaccines, central administration sites will be designated. Communications channels are being developed so that everyone will know when they can receive the vaccine.
As the CDC designates which populations are authorized to get vaccinated, a process for notifying and vaccinating patients will be published. Baylor Scott & White Health will not maintain a waiting list for the COVID-19 vaccine — we will vaccinate eligible patients in accordance with state and CDC guidelines.
When the time comes for you to get the vaccine, it will be important to have the MyBSWHealth app downloaded and up to date with your information and medical history. Download the app or update your information today.
While you wait for the COVID-19 vaccine, continue to follow all safety measures to help slow the spread in your community. Use common sense and follow the three W’s: Wear a mask when outside of your home, Watch your distance and try to stay at least 6 feet away from others, and Wash or disinfect your hands whenever you touch something that someone else has touched.
As your trusted health and wellness partner, we’re committed to keeping you safe and informed. For answers to more frequently asked vaccine questions, visit BSWHealth.com/COVIDvaccine.
Original source can be found here.
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