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As COVID-19 numbers continue to rise and healthcare workers struggle to keep patients safe, indigenous communities across the U.S. fight to be recognized.
COVID-19, along with many other diseases, has disproportionately impacted tribal communities, who, at times, lack essential needs and access to adequate medical care. But COVID-19 is just the tip of a mammoth iceberg that has systematically crushed indigenous people for generations. This injustice has woven itself into the fabric of a nation, causing economic loss, environmental instability, religious and political oppression and more.
The current health crisis has exacerbated many health issues in indigenous communities, including heart disease, diabetes, PTSD, depression, and suicide. Tribal Health Programs and Urban Indian Organizations provide limited resources, health options, and timely information. As we know, COVID-19 is a virus that has been difficult to contain. But fear and misinformation have made it even more d
On Wednesday, December 30, Lincoln County Public Health and Pacific West Ambulance (PWA) received their first shipment of the Moderna COVID19 vaccine. Public Health received 100 doses, and PWA received 400.
Both agencies are working together to ensure that Emergency Medical Services (EMS), first responders and law enforcement personnel receive the first dose of the vaccine. PWA and the Lincoln County Sheriffâs Office began vaccinating emergency medical personnel on Thursday December 31, 2020. Samaritan Health Services will be finishing up their first doses for all hospital staff by the end of next week and will start the second doses January 11, 2021.
A Multi-Agency Coordination Group (MACG) has been set up to plan and prioritize vaccine distribution for the first group in Phase 1a. The group includes representatives from Law Enforcement, the Hospital System, Emergency Management, Public Health, Ambulances, and First Responders. As the county moves through the priority levels