Vaccine comes to Lawrence PMMA for senior living residents & staff
After months of being on the front lines in the battle against COVID-19 Lawrence Presbyterian Manor will begin the process of vaccinating residents and staff on January 11th, 2021.
“There’s no doubt the senior population has been hit hard by the virus, along with the health care workers who’ve treated them,” said Christie Patrick, executive director at Lawrence Presbyterian Manor. “We couldn’t be happier to know there’s finally a bit of light at the end of such a difficult year.”
The vaccine clinic was made possible through the Pharmacy Partnership for Long-Term Care Program. Lawrence Presbyterian Manor will receive the Pfizer vaccine in limited doses, which will be given to at-risk residents in health care and assisted living as well as essential health care workers. All those vaccinated on January 11 will need to receive a second dose in in 21 days.
Regarding independent living residents, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC’s) Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices has recommended prioritizing people over the age of 75 and essential frontline workers during the initial phase of vaccinations. Those ages 65-74 would be prioritized next, including those 16-64 with high-risk medical conditions. It’s important to note that these are guidelines. Kansas and Missouri will determine vaccine distribution priorities.
“I’m relieved to be able to receive this vaccine,” said resident Mary Lou Wright. “It’s encouraging to know there’s much to look forward to after a year of challenges. Little did I think when I moved into the Presbyterian Manor last June, that the arrangements would be made for us to receive our vaccine here. It is also a big relief for my kids. I can’t say enough about the incredible staff here at Lawrence Presbyterian Manor and how they’ve handled the past year with professionalism and dedication.”
“Knowing that I’ll be able to do my job and provide residents with the peace of mind that I’m protected from the virus is the best possible news,” said Linda Heskett, employee. “I can’t say enough about how the community has supported all of us through everything we’ve faced this year.”
While side effects related to the vaccine are rare according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Lawrence Presbyterian Manor will closely monitor those who receive vaccinations. Potential side effects include injection site pain, fatigue, headache, muscle pain, chills, joint pain and fever.
The vaccine being distributed at Lawrence Presbyterian Manor is being administered by Walgreen’s, who has partnered with Pfizer and the federal government to ensure safe distribution to at-risk populations during the first round of inoculations through the Pharmacy Partnership for Long-Term Care Program.
While vaccinations will lower the risk of transmission throughout the community, precautions remain in place.
All employees are encouraged to follow CDC guidelines and best practices as these are continually updated. We have been screening individuals as they enter the community building for a shift and before individuals have any direct contact with residents. All staff are educated to stay at home if they are experiencing symptoms of a respiratory illness or not feeling well. Employee surveillance testing will continue as required by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) based on county positivity rates for COVID-19 testing.
For more information about Lawrence Presbyterian Manor’s response, go to PMMA’s (Presbyterian Manors of Mid-America’s) website, PresbyterianManors.org/media-room.
