WACO, TX — Ascension Providence has administered its first COVID-19 vaccines to some of its healthcare heroes.
Brooke Fielder, a nurse manager, was the first to get the vaccine on Thursday, December 17.
Among the first group eligible are frontline caregivers, which includes those serving in the emergency departments, COVID-19 units and intensive care units.
“Caregivers continue to lead by example, and I encourage everyone in the communities we serve to get vaccinated when it’s made available to you,” said Dr. Jonathan Walker, Emergency Department Medical Director at Ascension Providence. “In particular, we know that the pandemic has disproportionately impacted high-risk, marginalized individuals, and people of color, and it’s important that we do everything possible to demonstrate that the approved COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective, and work to ensure all people ultimately have access to them.”
Ascension Providence says it anticipates to vaccinate the remainder of its associates in a phased approach as more doses become available.
“We are encouraging our own associates to receive the COVID-19 vaccine to help ensure the continued safety and well-being of them, their families and all those we are privileged to serve, and for the general public to do so once it becomes available,” said Philip Patterson, president of Ascension Providence. “We are taking extra steps to ensure these frontline staff have access to the vaccine, and we are working to eliminate social and economic barriers to ensure that they can receive the vaccine as a prioritized group. Vaccination is one of the most effective strategies to protect ourselves and others from COVID-19.”
Ascension Providence sites of care will share more information about vaccine availability for the general public as COVID-19 vaccines are available.
