This is the sixth permanent mass vaccine clinic as part of the city’s plan to make the COVID-19 vaccine as accessible as possible in traditionally underserved neighborhoods.
The Philadelphia Department of Health has committed to clinics in the city that can vaccinate up to 500 people a day.
The Athletic Association site started by appointment only, but officials later said it will be open and available for walks.
The Pennsylvania Convention Center site, run by FEMA, ends availability Monday night because the site begins its second dose stage. Site officials urge people to try an appointment by 8pm, but restrictions apply.
After Monday, there will be no appointment, but Farley says changes can be made depending on the supply.
“In response to the large amount of traffic we had, just yesterday we exceeded the number of 6,000 (per day) by almost 1,400 additional doses,” FEMA spokesman Charlie Elison said. “In order to mitigate the digital divide, the city developed a plan to ensure open access and access.”
Many senior citizens who spoke on Action News said they appreciate a local place because it was too difficult for them to get to the Convention Center.
“It was easy,” Jacqueline Martin of Pennsport said. “Everything was efficient. The city called me and asked if I had any way to get here. They told me they could send a bus, pick me up and take me home.”
Farley added the importance of smaller places.
“Overall, these sites run by the Department of Health account for a fairly small percentage of the vaccines that were produced. The biggest providers are the hospitals and our City Center vaccination center and pharmacies,” Farley said. “Still, these neighborhood clinics reach a significant population and you may not be able to reach these places.”
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