TITLE
Title
BRIDGE ACCESS PROGRAM FOR COVID-19 VACCINES ($265,306)
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SPONSOR
Sponsor
Dr. Iulia Vann
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BACKGROUND
Background
The program, initiated by the CDC, aims to provide COVID-19 vaccines to all individuals aged 19 and older, irrespective of insurance status or ability to pay. County Public Health is an approved provider, and the program extends coverage with no out-of-pocket expenses for uninsured or underinsured residents. Guilford county receives vaccine for the bridge program directly from the state, an estimate of at least 100 vaccinations will be provided through this program. State calculations for grant award are based on a variety of considerations such as population size of the county, social vulnerability index algorithm as well as other public health analysis.
Program Components:
Administrative Fees: Cover billable administrative fees for each COVID-19 vaccine administered.
Advertisement: Launch an extensive advertising campaign encouraging residents to get vaccinated, emphasizing accessibility for those without a pay source.
Educational Materials: Develop materials for distribution at public health events and through community partners to raise awareness and provide information.
Operational Costs: Allocate funds for hosting off site COVID-19 clinics upon community request to enhance accessibility.
Equipment Purchase: Acquire equipment necessary for proper vaccine storage and handling.
Electronic Health Record Enhancement: Utilize funds to enhance the Electronic Health Record system for efficient client notification about vaccine availability.
The program ensures access to vaccines for all residents, aligning with the CDC's goal. It also addresses the surge in COVID-19 cases, including the highly contagious new variant, and complies with state and federal laws mandating communicable disease control and prevention.
While the county is not the sole provider, other entities can apply. Public Health is already an approved provider, emphasizing collaboration to extend vaccine coverage. The surge in COVID-19 cases, including the new variant, necessitates proactive measures. The proposed funding will not only meet immediate needs but also contribute to long-term community health and safety. Compliance with state and federal laws further emphasizes the significance of this program.
Estimated spending plan for these funds include:
$60,000 hourly nurse salaries for COVID-19 clinic staffing
$115,306 vaccine storage equipment
$90,000 advertising to encourage the community to get vaccinated against COVID-19.
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BUDGET IMPACT
Budget Impact
General Fund
$265,306 increase in appropriation to Health & Human Services
$265,306 increase in State & Federal Revenue
NO ADDITIONAL COUNTY FUNDING REQUIRED
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REQUESTED ACTION
Requested Action
Amend the FY24 Adopted Budget to increase State and Federal Revenue by $265,306 and increase appropriation to the FY2023-24 Health and Human Services Budget by the same amount in support of the Covid Bridge Access Program.
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