CDPH Reports COVID-19 Vaccination Progress in Hard-to-Reach Communities, Continues to Promote Vaccines

The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) continues to promote COVID-19 vaccinations statewide amid increases in cases and hospitalizations, as well as increasing presence of COVID-19 virus variants. CDPH continues to focus on vaccinating the remaining population and maintaining vaccine accessibility through data-driven approaches that prioritize communities disproportionately impacted by the pandemic. Communication and outreach efforts have become more targeted, and CDPH notes ZIP codes with low rates of vaccination and communities experiencing outbreaks will drive efforts through public education, provider programs, and community events.

CDPH reported the state’s vaccination progress since launching the “Vax for the Win” incentive program as the state this week completed awarding all $50 incentive cash and grocery cards. According to CDPH, Vax for the Win helped improved vaccination rates in California’s hardest-hit communities and successfully reached Latino communities more than any other group.

To further support COVID-19 vaccine providers, CDPH has launched the $40 million CalVaxGrant program. The grant program will partially reimburse physician practices up to $55,000 to establish their offices as small, community-based vaccination sites. The funding can be used to offset expenses, including staffing, training, technology, infrastructure, supplies and equipment, and administrative overhead. Small practice providers with up to 200 physicians are eligible to apply. Additional information on the state’s grant program is available here.

CDPH also announced this week that partnerships with approximately 480 community-based organizations (CBOs) will be extended and expanded upon through the end of the calendar year to continue their critical work in connecting residents with vaccine information and providing direct appointment assistance.

Additional information from CDPH is available here.