On Jan. 27, 2021, the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) notified The Medical Center of Elberton that it would be suspended from the COVID-19 Vaccination Program in Georgia. The suspension became effective immediately for a term of six months, ending July 27, 2021. The suspension is for The Medical Center of Elberton only. Five other vaccine providers in Elbert County, including the Elbert County Health Department, will continue to receive vaccine.

DPH was notified January 26, 2021 that The Medical Center of Elberton vaccinated individuals in the Elbert County School District who were outside of the current Phase 1A+ eligible population. Following an investigation and a verification of vaccine administration through GRITS (Georgia Registry of Immunization Transactions and Services), the information received by DPH was deemed factual. During the suspension, the facility is not eligible to receive COVID-19 vaccine shipments. They may use remaining COVID-19 vaccine inventory for second dose administration to patients as applicable.

All COVID-19 vaccine providers agree to vaccinate only individuals who fall into the designated priority groups. Again, this is to ensure that the limited supply is going to those who are most at risk. Every Georgian deserves protection from COVID-19, and healthcare providers around the state are working to make that a reality. Until more vaccine becomes available, it is critical that we protect the most vulnerable.

DPH is working with the Northeast Georgia Health District to increase the amount of vaccine to other providers in Elbert county to ensure the needs of residents are met. We recognize that residents of Elbert County and neighboring areas may be concerned about reduced local availability of COVID-19 vaccines. The Elbert County Health Department intends to offer expanded COVID-19 vaccination services for eligible local residents. To make an appointment at the Elbert County Health Department, please visit: bit.ly/NEHDCOVIDVaccine.

It is critical that DPH maintains the highest standards for vaccine accountability to ensure all federal and state requirements are adhered to by all parties, and vaccine is administered efficiently and equitably. As Georgia’s federal allocation of vaccine increases, DPH will be able to ship vaccine to additional providers statewide and expand vaccination eligibility to more Georgians, without limitations.