First phase of vaccinations fell short of expectations
Gov. John Carney took responsibility for the confusion that took place when some people jumped to the “front of the line” and received doses of coronavirus vaccine.
Carney also admitted that the state and health care systems fell behind in vaccinating front-line workers in Phase 1A.
Carney spoke at a Tuesday evening briefing that came after taking the oath of office for a second term and after speaking at the Delaware farewell for President-elect Joe Biden at New Castle County Airport.
Earlier in the day, the state had announced the launch of Phase 1B vaccinations.
Falling behind led to a mass vaccination “sprint” at locations that included big events Division of Motor Vehicles centers. According to Carney, the state was under pressure to ramp up vaccinations, since the federal government allocates vaccine based one the percentage of the population that gets shots.
The state was able to vaccinate 10,000 people in the weekend sprint, Carney said.
In launching the sprint, the state reached out to groups serving senior citizens to vaccinate some elderly residents. Word of mouth led to other residents showing up and seeking vaccinations.
Delaware later tightened requirements to include the elderly being required to show they had received reservations for vaccinations.
“The bottom line is that more needles went into people’s arms,” Carney said.
The governor said Delaware is currently getting 15,000 to 20,000 doses a week, but needs additional doses. At the 20,000 a week level, it would take a year and a half to vaccinate the adult population of the state.
As announced earlier, the state will set up a registration process that goes live on Monday morning. Initially, registration will be limited to those over the 65. Click here for the link to the sign-up process that became available on Wednesday.
State Division of Public Health Director Dr. Karyl Rattay said the registration process should be easy and will not require detailed medical information.
Registering more than once will not increase the odds of getting a vaccination, Rattay said.
Options other than mass vaccinations will also be available through primary care physicians and pharmacies.
Beebe Healthcare previous announced its primary care practice will initially vaccinate patients over the age of 80.
Carney said the state will continue to look for ways to provide vaccinations to groups such as elderly Delawareans with limited mobility.
