Guest column: Early efforts show room for improvement in state’s vaccine rollout
As Wisconsin expands COVID-19 vaccination eligibility to millions more residents, it’s important to be aware that many challenges still exist within our statewide distribution system that will require more focus and attention in the days, weeks and months ahead.
We recognize that Wisconsin is among the leaders across the country in getting its vaccine supply into arms and applaud the fact that over 70 percent of Wisconsinites 65-plus have been vaccinated, according to publicly available data from the Wisconsin Department of Health Services.
However, we remain concerned that only one in five (20.1 percent) of Wisconsinites age 55 to 64 are vaccinated, and only 18.8 percent of those age 45 to 54. The fact is that the virus has taken a particularly high toll on those ages 50 and older. Nearly 95 percent of the more than 530,000 deaths across the country have been among those age 50-plus.
That’s why it’s so essential for Wisconsin get this vaccine effort right. The stakes are too high to let any vulnerable groups slip through the cracks. The federal government has announced we can expect to have enough vaccines for the entire adult population by May 1. The question remains, will Wisconsin be ready to meet the demand?
AARP has been actively analyzing best practices from around the country to learn what works and identify areas that need improvement. The most effective systems have a centralized, widely accessible system to secure an appointment, with sign-ups available online or by phone, minimal wait times and no pre-registration requirements.
Wisconsin has set up an online vaccine registry, but it currently connects residents to vaccinators in only eight of 72 counties. It does have a toll-free number (844) 684-1064 set up to address questions and provide resources, but it falls short of connecting folks directly to appointments. We also need to ensure that we continue to expand the availability of mobile or in-home vaccinations as needed.
At AARP, we are committed to helping people cut through all the confusion around vaccinations. We fought to make the vaccine free, and now we are pushing to make the vaccination process as easy, safe and accessible as possible for all. We invite you to visit our website – aarp.org/wivaccine – to stay informed and up to date on the vaccine and its rollout across the Badger State.
By helping people get the facts and removing barriers to getting vaccinated, it allows people to focus their energy on what’s important – staying safe and deciding what’s best for themselves and their loved ones.
Sam Wilson
State director of AARP Wisconsin
