LANSING, Mich. (WILX) – The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services on Monday announced a new equity strategy program so that more Michigan residents can receive a safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine.
Starting as soon as possible, mortuary service workers may be vaccinated as part of group 1A according to the recommendations of the CDC and the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices. In addition, 41 federally qualified health centers across the state will begin receiving vaccines to help vaccinate individuals aged 65 and over. These community health centers are located in underserved areas. In this way, healthcare providers can offer comprehensive, affordable and high quality medical services.
Currently, people aged 65 and over can be vaccinated across the state. Providers with specific plans to remove access barriers across the state will also be able to request a vaccine for people aged 60 and over.
In addition, food processing and agriculture workers, some 79,000 michiganders, will be able to be vaccinated as of March 1. This will help ensure the health and safety of Michigan’s essential farm and food workers and keep the state’s food supply chain moving.
MDHHS recently announced the state’s strategy to vaccinate 70% of Michiganders aged 16 and over as quickly as possible:
- All Michiganders have equal access to vaccines.
- Vaccine planning and distribution are inclusive and actively involve the state and local government, public and private partners; and is based on the experience and expertise of leaders of historically marginalized populations.
- Communications are transparent, accurate and frequent public communications to build public confidence.
- Data is used to promote equity, track progress and guide decision making.
- Resource management, efficiency and continuous quality improvement drive strategic implementation.
Updated vaccine prioritization guidelines can be found here.
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