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Covington

Covington talks about importance of vaccine

Staff Report

Local nurse practitioner Sarah Covington will be among the first to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. Covington owns Covington Healthcare in Tallassee.

"I, along with two other employees, are scheduled to receive the vaccine at Lake Martin (Dadeville) Hospital," Covington said. "They received 950 doses of the vaccine, specifically for front line workers. It is so important in our community for everyone to see that healthcare professionals believe in this vaccine, and are receiving it ourselves."

Covington's office will also be in line to receive the vaccine.

"Our office has an order with the Alabama Department of Public Health for 400 doses of the vaccine, once it is being distributed widely," Covington added. "We do not have a date to receive it as of yet, but are preparing for receiving it. Covington Healthcare has purchased a new freezer to meet the storage requirements."

In addition, Covington already has 200 doses of flu vaccine from ADPH on hand by way of the CARES ACT grant and are administering at no cost to anyone who wants it. The coronavirus vaccine will also be available at no cost, both from that grant money, and donation of supplies and labor from Covington's office.

"Several months ago, we made the decision to treat people who are uninsured, with COVID symptoms, at no charge. We have seen hundreds at no charge, so that we can help the uninsured have access to care, and a way to have a work excuse so that they help decrease the spread of this deadly virus. Sekeita Clausell, CRNP, my co-worker, along with Kayla Thornton and ReAnna Pattillo, all believe that the only way to help our community slow the illness and death rates, is by giving our time and energy to this."