Broward Health to begin administering COVID-19 vaccines to seniors, community care providers

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – People 65 and older and community health care providers can pre-register to receive the COVID-19 vaccine starting Wednesday at Broward Health.

Community health care providers are defined as dentists, psychologists, physical therapists, social workers, nurses, nurses, mental health counselors, podiatrists, pharmacists, outpatient surgery technicians, and anyone who interacts with patients.

Dr. Aldo Calvo, medical director of outpatient services at Broward Health, said they are starting the campaign with a supply of COVID-19 vaccine developed by Moderna and the National Institutes of Health.

“We know that at least 20 million people were expected to be vaccinated by the end of the year,” Calvo said. “Unfortunately this will probably not happen, so by doing this community service, we will try to reach that number as soon as possible.”

The first priority of Broward Health’s public vaccination campaign also includes Broward Health’s accredited physician office staff, emergency medical services staff, and community health care providers’ office staff.

The age or place of residence or practice of the health care provider is not relevant during the pre-screening process, according to Jennifer Smith, a spokeswoman for Broward Health. For example, a 26-year-old official working for a psychologist in Miami-Dade County might qualify to receive the vaccine at Broward Health.

For more information on pre-screening and to register and make an appointment, call Broward Health Nurse Connect line at 954-759-7500. On Tuesday night, the system was overwhelmed with calls. Calvo asked the public to be patient.

“We’re doing our best,” Calvo said of Broward Health’s efforts to meet demand.

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