© 2024 WGLT
A public service of Illinois State University
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Johnson & Johnson Vaccine Arrives At Hopedale Medical Complex

Courtesy Hopedale Medical Complex

Hopedale Medical Complex is among nine rural critical access hospitals statewide receiving direct COVID-19 vaccine allocations under a new safety net program.The Tazewell County-based health care system is now receiving a weekly vaccine allocation directly from the federal government under the Safety Net Direct Vaccine Allocation Pilot Program that seeks to boost vaccine access in rural, underserved areas.

Emily Whitson is chief operating officer of Hopedale Medical Complex (HMC).

"Particularly here, we have some very aged patients," Whitson said. "And patients that aren't going to have internet access, and/or they just don't use it. So that makes it even more difficult to make sure that population, which is the most vulnerable, are getting their vaccine."

Whitson said Hopedale Medical Complex has administered its first 200 doses of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine. It's considered easier to distribute because, unlike the Moderna or Pfizer vaccines, it doesn't require a follow-up second dose weeks after the first one is administered.

"It's a little more logistically-friendly. It's just one and done," said Whitson, adding HMC expects to receive 200 doses per week going forward.

Tazewell County Health Department Administrator Amy Fox said HMC's participation in the program has been in the works for weeks. She said the additional vaccine allocation will greatly benefit the rural population in the region.

"(It) will really be great for that area," Fox said. "They serve a large population of rural residents in southeastern Tazewell County, and into Mason County and McLean County."

The new Hopedale Medical Complex allocation is in addition to those already given regularly to the local health department and area pharmacies.

We’re living in unprecedented times when information changes by the minute. WCBU will continue to be here for you, keeping you up-to-date with the live, local and trusted news you need. Help ensure WCBU can continue with its in-depth and comprehensive COVID-19 coverage as the situation evolves by making a contribution.

Copyright 2021 WCBU. To see more, visit WCBU.

Tim Shelley is the News Director at WCBU Peoria Public Radio.
Olivia Streeter is the WCBU Summer Intern.