More Texans eligible for COVID-19 vaccine than available doses

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) – Demand for COVID-19 is growing every day and there are new efforts to get more doses to the state. Many who qualify for the first phase of distribution said they find it difficult to receive the vaccine.

Katlyn Reed is 80 years old, but cannot find a COVID-19 vaccine. “I probably tried to call in almost 20 locations,” the textbook writer said.

In the ongoing confusion of the vaccine launch in Texas, the elderly and their families still find it almost impossible to catch a dose of coveted vaccines.

“There aren’t enough to go around,” said Harry Still, who is looking for a vaccine for his mother. “It’s very frustrating and I mean it starts with the federal government and goes all the way to our local community.”

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In addition, the frustration is that people see others who are younger or do not seem to have a medical problem by posting pictures of themselves receiving vaccines on social media.

The reality is, however, that the number one reason for vaccine shortages is a lack of supplies. There just aren’t enough doses for everyone who wants one. According to the Texas State Department of Health (DSHS), the state agency distributed about 2.06 million doses.

However, Texas has about 1.6 million health workers considered in Phase 1A. Phase 1B, which includes seniors and those with pre-existing health conditions, comprises approximately 9.5 million Texans. So, even at best, there are currently only enough doses for one in five eligible Texans.

But there are signs of improvement. This week, DSHS finally pivoted from a “decentralized” model to a “hub” model.

The decentralized plan initially required Texans to receive vaccine doses from the neighborhood pharmacy or their own doctor. However, many Texans do not have a pharmacy near their home or a doctor attached to one of the major hospital systems.

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Now the focus is on vaccination centers that can vaccinate thousands of people a day. In Harris County, the Harris County Public Health Department, the Houston Department of Public Health and the Methodist Hospital are designated centers.

“We’re full for those hub slots for this weekend,” said Rob Phillips, chief executive at Houston Methodist. “We hope to get more offers from the state and we will always be able to make another hub when it becomes available.”

State officials said on Tuesday during an appeal to lawmakers that they expect the new Biden administration to release all doses of the vaccine when it takes over next week. Officials say available doses are expected to increase in Texas by early February.

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