News Flash

Those who fit in the specifications of Phase 1A can make an appointment with a local provider to receive the vaccine. For the most up-to-date list of local providers, visit health.pa.gov. On the website, select “COVID-19 Vaccine,” and then the popular topic “Where Can I Get Vaccinated?” From there, use the interactive map to view providers in the Fayette County area.  At this moment, all local providers are scheduling their vaccinations exclusively online and supply is dramatically limited. 

Q: What if I do not have internet access?

The task force has set up an information line: 724-466-4142. This phone line is updated Monday through Friday and reflects the most recent information on county vaccine distribution. Those unable to make an appointment online are encouraged to call and LEAVE A MESSAGE.

Q: What if I live too far away from a provider with the vaccine?

Fayette County is aware of this issue but, due to vaccine storage requirements, EMA has not had any local providers with the ability to set up a mobile unit come forward at this time.  The Taskforce is addressing this concern and more information will be available soon. 

Q: I’m a veteran. Where can I get vaccinated?

Veterans in Phase 1A, who receive care through the VA Clinic will be contacted by his or her regular clinic. If a veteran has not been contacted about vaccination yet, he/she should get in touch with their clinic. Those who do not receive care through a VA Clinic will need to set up an appointment with a local provider. For more information, please contact the Fayette County VA Clinic at 724-439-4990.

Q: Neighboring counties seem to have a lot of vaccines.  Why don’t we have it in Fayette?

The supply shortage is a nationwide issue.  Some counties are still working through initial shipments and have more providers in place.  Fayette County has already vaccinated 2,955 residents, with 1,723 having received the second dose.  

Q: Why does my usual healthcare provider not have the vaccine?

Vaccine distribution is currently limited to healthcare facilities approved by the PA Department of Health as COVID-19 vaccine providers. Hospital systems and community health centers were the initially approved agencies to receive and provide the vaccine. Over the last few weeks, several pharmacies were approved as providers and have begun providing vaccines to the public. Primary care offices are not yet included in the distribution of vaccines, although many in the Fayette County have requested and are awaiting approval.  

All Community Clinics are required to provide 10 percent of their vaccine distribution to community members outside of their existing patients. Currently, with the small number of dosages available, local providers are committing that 10 percent to Phase 1A eligible health care workers who have not yet been vaccinated. (Example, a small pharmacy, a group of healthcare providers, etc.)

Q: I can’t get through to any of the providers.  What can I do? 

As vaccine distribution increases, the ability to register will increase, as well.  Unfortunately, the current supply shortage is limiting appointment availability.  Fayette County is working to create a registration plan for our residents. We appreciate your patience as the process moves forward. 

Q: Neighboring counties seem to have a lot of vaccines.  Why don’t we have it in Fayette?

The supply shortage is a nationwide issue.  Some counties are still working through initial shipments and have more providers in place.  Fayette County has already vaccinated 2,955 residents, with 1,723 having received the second dose.   

Q: I oversee an organization or company that needs to get vaccinated.  What should I do?

The Taskforce is asking for those identified groups in phase 1B to designate one leader within their organization to communicate with Fayette County EMA. For example, employees of a day care center could be represented by the director, or a senior living facility could be represented by the building manager. Once a leader is selected, the leader should email covidinfo@fcema.org to register the group. Having all members/residents/employees of a group contact Fayette County EMA separately will slow down the process tremendously. Once the leader has registered, EMA will contact them. They will then fill out a form to be put into EMA’s system and will then be contacted accordingly.

About the Taskforce

The mission of the Fayette County COVID-19 Vaccine Taskforce is to develop a comprehensive, countywide vaccine distribution plan. The task force is a highly collaborative effort focused on ensuring all Fayette County residents who wish to be vaccinated have organized access to the COVID-19 vaccine, as it becomes available. Members are working with local providers in accordance with CDC and Pennsylvania Department of Health guidelines to organize agencies, businesses and individuals into required groups, so that vaccines may be accessible to all who wish to receive them.  

Taskforce members Include:  Fayette County Commissioners; Fayette County Emergency Management Agency (EMA); Fayette Chamber of Commerce; Local, state, and  federal government officials; Uniontown Hospital; Highlands Hospital; Centerville Clinics; Southwest Area Agency on Aging; Fayette EMS; Intermediate Unit 1; and Fayette County School Districts.