MAYWOOD, IL --- Loyola Medicine has been selected as one of 10 regional hospital systems to distribute COVID-19 vaccinations in the State of Illinois. The first vaccines will be directed to the 50 counties with the highest death rates per capita at 10 regional hospital coordinating centers.
Loyola University Medical Center (LUMC) will receive vaccines, as they become available, from the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), based on community need and disease risk. The first priority (phase one) for vaccine distribution will include critical workforce members who provide health care, staff and residents in long-term care facilities, and critical workforce members who provide essential functions of society.
Immunization will require two doses, spaced three-to-four weeks apart depending on the specific vaccine.
Currently, the IDPH has approved vaccination distribution for adults age 18 and older.
Loyola Medicine distribution sites will eventually include Gottlieb Memorial Hospital, MacNeal Hospital and other locations. Loyola’s capabilities will expand as the vaccine becomes more widely available to the public.
“Loyola Medicine has the laboratory and storage capacity and capabilities, as well as the breadth of experience, to oversee this vital function,” said Shawn P. Vincent, president and CEO of Loyola Medicine. “We look forward to working closely with IDPH and the Governor’s office to ensure the safe, timely and appropriate distribution and administration of vaccines in our region.”
Patients and community members should wait until Loyola’s vaccine centers are open and/or their providers notify them if they are in the phase one category of patients eligible for a COVID-19 vaccine. At this time, since the delivery date is not set and vaccines have not arrived, Loyola cannot schedule vaccine appointments.
Stay informed about COVID-19 vaccines by visiting Loyola Medicine’s website loyolamedicine.org/coronavirus.