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We vaccinated on a mass scale, thanks to you

Jamie Grebosky, MD, extends his gratitude to staff who helped with the COVID-19 mass vaccination events in Jackson and Josephine counties, which provided the first dose to more than 10,000 people.

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I would like to take a moment to express my gratitude to all our volunteers who have and are participating in the Asante COVID-19 vaccine clinics and the Jackson County and Josephine County mass vaccination events.

What we have accomplished since the end of December has been no small task. For the Asante leads involved in the events it felt like a marathon, and in many ways it was. There were early mornings, countless hours on their feet, protein bars for fuel and walking distances between 14 and 16 miles per day.

Even with all that, our team walked away filled with pride and appreciation for those involved and those who received a vaccine. With the help of Jackson County Public Health, Josephine County Public Health, the Oregon National Guard and our community partners, we were able to administer over 10,000 vaccinations over five days.

The events were open to people in Phase 1A and educators in Phase 1B, and were vital to vaccinating our community quickly. The positive responses we have received from this event are overwhelming.

See photos, below »

While the drive-thru events may be complete, Asante remains busy with the Asante vaccine clinic. Our clinics are now open to all Asante employees, including those currently working from home. Employees may schedule an appointment by calling (541) 789-2813 and selecting “Option 2.” Clinics are scheduled at Asante locations in Medford and Grants Pass.

If you have questions on the safety and effectiveness of the vaccine, we encourage you to review “The value of getting vaccinated,” which appeared in a recent Asante COVID-19 Update or email CO*****@As****.org.

Although vaccinations are key to fighting this pandemic, we need to diligently follow safety practices such as wearing a mask, physically distancing from others, cleaning our hands, avoiding social gatherings and staying home when sick. Thank you for all you do to stop the spread of the virus.

Cassy Leach, director of Ambulatory Quality and Operations, holds a vial of the Pfizer vaccine at the walk-in events held at the Josephine County Fairgrounds. Seated behind her is Eli Sager, DO, an APP family medicine provider.
The highly organized drive-thru event at the Jackson County Expo allowed staff to vaccinate more than 650 people an hour.
Scott Nelson, DO, volunteered at the Grants Pass mass-vaccination. Dr. Nelson, an APP colorectal surgeon, has been a public advocate for the COVID-19 vaccine.
Joining Dr. Nelson was Zia Choudhury, an APP family medicine physician in Grants Pass.
Patients were immunized right in their vehicles at the Jackson County Expo.
Facebook had some fun with the drive-thru event.
The Oregon National Guard helped out at both county events.
Help wanted: Vaccinators

The large-scale events in Jackson and Josephine counties began immunization of thousands of people against COVID-19 — which means thousands will also need a second dose in a few weeks.

Asante is seeking actively licensed providers — physicians, advanced practitioners, nurses, medical assistants and vaccine-certified pharmacists — to help administer first and second doses in Medford and Grants Pass with another location to be announced shortly. The system also will need general support from non-clinicians.

Volunteers may get the vaccine in advance of their service if they wish. To volunteer, submit this web form. (Asante employees may also email Va*********************@as****.org.) Someone will reach out to you with next steps. If you have questions, please email co*****@as****.org.

Tags: covid-19, immunization, Jamie Grebosky, mass vaccination
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If you have a question, please contact the author or relevant department directly.

3 Comments. Leave new

  • I received my first vaccine at the Mass Vaccination event at the Expo. I was very impressed with how well run and organized it was.
    I do have a question, for my 88 year old neighbor who will be in the next phase of vaccinations. She does not have a computer to schedule an appointment. Is there a phone number where seniors can call and schedule? I’m sure she’s not the only senior with no computer. I will watch online, for information, and will let her know when it is time to call.
    Thank you all so very much!

    Reply
  • Ginger Barnes
    January 26, 2021 3:19 pm

    My friend who is an educator got her dose during this mass vaccination.She said it went pretty smoothly. She text me this morning to ask my if someone calls hers for the second dose. Does anybody from Asante know what that protocol is? I did not have an answer for her today. If someone knows please let me know. Thanks

    Reply
    • Hi Ginger,
      She’ll need to go to https://www.asante.org/covid-19/vaccination-events/ and click on “Schedule booster.” There’s a form she can fill out and submit online.

      Reply

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