In a University-wide email sent on Jan. 6, Emory announced it will invite faculty, staff and learners “whose work includes direct patient care under the currently authorized Tier 1A” to be vaccinated against COVID-19.
The email, sent by Executive Director for COVID-19 Response and Recovery Amir St. Clair, is the University’s first announcement regarding its vaccine distribution strategy. The email did not specify when the vaccinations will occur.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Phase 1a category includes health care personnel and long-term care facility residents. Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp announced on Dec. 30 that those over the age of 65 would be moved from Tier 1C to Tier 1A.
Emory students that face clinicals in the School of Medicine, School of Nursing and Allied Health Programs will be among the group invited for vaccination, the email reads.
The email outlined principles with which it plans to distribute the vaccine, which include “mitigating health inequities” and promoting transparency.
St. Clair joined the University in early December. At Emory, he works alongside “a University Planning Group, along with a number of operational units, which are mobilized to make timely decisions about vaccine distribution,” the email reads. St. Clair previously served as Aurora University’s assistant vice president.
The first Emory Healthcare worker was vaccinated on Dec. 17. Emory Executive Vice President for Health Affairs Jonathan Lewin said at a town hall on that date that vaccinations will be free for students, faculty and staff.
More information regarding the University’s vaccine distribution will be made available at a later date.
This story is developing. Check back for updates.
