As part of its effort to ensure every eligible Chester County resident who chooses to have a COVID-19 vaccine is able to receive one, the Chester County Health Department has partnered with local emergency medical services (EMS) agencies to schedule at-home vaccine appointments for those who are unable to attend a vaccine clinic.
Through the partnership, advanced emergency medical technicians (EMTs) and paramedics are deployed to administer either the Moderna or Johnson & Johnson vaccine to individuals in their home setting. Caregivers for the individuals are also offered the vaccine, if needed.
Health officials identified individuals throughout Chester County who would benefit from receiving the COVID-19 vaccination at home through lists provided by the Pennsylvania Department of Aging, the Chester County Department of Aging Services, and self-identification of the need. All individuals were contacted to confirm their need, and appointments were scheduled to administer the vaccine.
The county's at-home vaccine program began in late March, and as of May 10, 232 first-dose vaccines had been completed in Chester County, covering all individuals identified as needing a vaccine in the home setting. On average, each EMS agency team covered 10 at-home appointments a day, given the travel time and the time needed to remain with the individual after administering the vaccine. The partnership with the local EMS agencies spanned all areas of Chester County, and the at-home vaccinations will continue as long as needed.
Additional Chester County EMS agencies that were providing at-home vaccinations as of May 10 include Berwyn Fire Company EMS and Event Medical Staffing Solutions (EMSS). Agencies that planned to participate at a later date are Longwood Fire Company EMS, West End EMS of Phoenixville and TowerDIRECT.
Any Chester County resident in need of an at-home vaccine appointment should call the Chester County Health Department at 610-344-6225.
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