Publix Super Markets administered its millionth dose of COVID-19 vaccine in Florida.
Publix, based in Lakeland, Florida, said yesterday that it has reached the mark in addition to providing more than 140,000 coronavirus vaccines in pharmacies in Georgia, South Carolina and Virginia.
Publix began administering COVID vaccines in early January, starting in Florida with 15,000 doses of the Modern vaccine.
“When Publix was approached to assist with the administration of these life-saving vaccines, we have no hesitation in saying yes because we believe it is a privilege to care for our communities in a time of need,” said Publix CEO Todd Jones in a statement . “I am extremely proud of our pharmacy, store and support teams for their hard work over the past 10 weeks. Your dedication and commitment to service has played a big role in the success of our efforts. “
Publix has been one of the supermarket chains most active in informing customers about the availability of the COVID vaccine, regularly announcing the dates when its online booking system at publix.com/covidvaccine becomes open for consultation, based on supply. The company exceeded 250,000 vaccinations in Florida and 50,000 doses administered in Georgia, South Carolina and Virginia in mid-February.
Yesterday, Publix opened its online reservation system for COVID-19 vaccination appointments at 70 pharmacies in 31 counties in Georgia, with federal guidelines requiring priority given to elementary and high school teachers and other school and daycare staff, based on participation. of the grocer in the Federal Retail Pharmacy Program, which sends the vaccine directly to pharmacies.
Also eligible for injections, according to the guidelines of the state of Georgia, are healthcare professionals; law enforcement, firefighters and first responders; people aged 18 and over with disabilities and certain medical conditions; people aged 55 or over; judges and court officials; parents of children with complex medical conditions; caregivers; and residents and employees of long-term institutions.
Earlier this week, Publix opened its reservation system for coronavirus injections at 55 South Carolina pharmacies in 16 counties for appointments available from March 18 to 24, except Saturday and Sunday.
COVID-19 vaccines are provided free of charge, although clients with health insurance are required to bring their insurance card for consultation and Medicare recipients the Medicare Part B card. Those without health insurance will need to provide their driver’s license or Social Security number.
Publix said it continues to communicate with other states in its operational area to provide COVID vaccines as part of its distribution efforts. Overall, the retailer operates 1,268 stores – including more than 1,000 pharmacies – in Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Tennessee, South Carolina, North Carolina and Virginia.