Patient vaccine phase is underway

Dear students and colleagues, 

Earlier this week, Governor DeWine highlighted the distribution timeline for Phase 1B of Ohio's vaccination program. This reinforced new directives from the State of Ohio, which require health care organizations to shift their focus to patient vaccinations.  

Currently, only Ohioans age 80 years and older are eligible for vaccination. The state intends to expand eligibility to additional categories on a weekly basis. A preliminary schedule may be viewed here. 

At this point in time, all Ohioans – including health care workers and medical students who have not yet been vaccinated – are considered “patients” under the state plan. As such, we all must adhere to the patient vaccination timeline, following Phase 1B and future directives from the State of Ohio.  

It is also important to note that Phase 1B does not extend to higher education personnel. Only personnel in K-12 schools will receive vaccinations in this phase.  

I encourage you to wait until you are eligible to receive a vaccine per state guidelines before contacting your local health department. Your patience will help to relieve pressure on our overburdened health care systems and public health departments.

Whether or not you have received the COVID-19 vaccination, each of us has a continued responsibility to help slow the spread. Wear a mask. Avoid large gatherings and close contact with others outside your household. Wash your hands often. Stay home when you feel sick. Adhering to these safety measures will be critical until herd immunity is achieved.  

Rest assured that the Heritage College and Ohio University continue to advocate for students and personnel to receive vaccinations as soon as possible. We are also coordinating daily with health care teams across the state to support safe and efficient vaccinations for our communities. The Governor’s most recent press conference even live-streamed vaccinations of Phase 1B patients taking place at Heritage Hall on our Athens campus! 

I am so thrilled that the Heritage College is able to play a role in the historic efforts to eradicate this global pandemic. Thank you for your continued dedication and patience as Phase 1B gets underway.  

 Sincerely, 

Ken Johnson, D.O.