We have been hearing from many in the community about their interest in COVID-19 Vaccinations. Here is what we know. Currently, only Phase 1A individuals who fall into the general category of Health Care Workers and Residents of long-term care facilities are being vaccinated. This category includes a wide range of workers that provide patient care in hospitals, health clinics, private practices and in the community at large. The Maine CDC expects that Phase 1A should be completed at or near the end of January. Thereafter, Phase 1B will be initiated – this group will include persons 75 years of age or greater, and Front-Line Essential Workers. It is hoped that the vaccination process for Phase 1B individuals can be started in February. As that time approaches, we will communicate additional information about the next phase.
At Houlton Regional Hospital we are working diligently with the Maine CDC to vaccinate these priority groups just as quickly as possible. As you probably know, there are Vaccination Supply constraints in play here in Maine, so that is a complicating factor. Right now, we are working with the employers of front-line essential workers and we are preparing lists of our patients who are 75 years of age or greater so that we will be ready for the next Phase in February. Please call your provider’s office if you are 75 or older and are interested in receiving vaccine.
We know that you have questions, and we will continue to be as transparent as possible with the information that we have.
For more details on the vaccination process and vaccination phases here in Maine, please check out Houlton Regional Hospital’s Website and Facebook page. There you will find regular updates on COVID-19 and Vaccination in our region. Thank you for your continued cooperation!
– Ellen Bartlett
Infection Preventionist/ Public Information Officer
Houlton Regional Hospital – Quality Care delivered by Exceptional People!