Ferrell Hospital to begin vaccinating Phase 1B established primary care patients

ELDORADO - Ferrell Hospital will begin giving COVID-19 vaccines on Thursday to established primary care patients who are considered Phase 1B.

Phase 1B includes residents agent 65 and older and essential non-healthcare workers.

Because there is a limited initial supply of the vaccine, Ferrell Hospital is focusing its efforts on patients already established with a Ferrell Hospital primary care provider.

In the weeks ahead, as anticipated additional vaccine supplies arrive, appointments will become available to any member of Phase 1B in coordination with Egyptian Health Department.

Appointments for vaccinations through Ferrell Hospital are required and are being scheduled now.

Those who qualify may schedule their vaccine appointment by calling (618) 297-9677 and leaving a voicemail including the patient's name, date of birth, why they qualify as Phase 1B and a telephone number.

A vaccine clinic staff member will return the call as soon as possible with an appointment date and time.

Currently, vaccines are being offered at Ferrell Hospital only, not at physician offices. Patients with appointments should enter through the new clinic entrance.

The process and administration of the COVID-19 vaccine throughout the state is being directed and overseen by the Illinois Department of Public Health. Phase 1B workers in Illinois currently include first responders; education staff; food, agriculture and manufacturing workers; corrections workers and inmates; USPS employees; public transit workers; grocery store employees; and staff at shelters and day cares. More about the vaccine and distribution process is available at the IDPH website: https://www.dph.illinois.gov/covid19/vaccination-plan.