CT Health Dept. Launches $8.2M Coronavirus Vaccine Outreach

CONNECTICUT — The Department of Public Health (DPH) today announced that it has entered into an agreement with Access Health CT, a quasi-public state agency, to increase vaccine access in communities high on the social vulnerability index. This partnership will utilize and expand on Access Health CT’s existing outreach infrastructure.

The memorandum of understanding calls for Access Health CT to use their current consultant, public affairs firm Grossman Solutions, to raise vaccine awareness and encourage residents to be vaccinated. Access Health CT will also amend its current contract with Faneuil, Inc. to support call center services for the Vaccine Appointment Assist Line.

The Social Vulnerability Index, developed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, uses 15 U.S. census variables to help local officials identify communities that may need support before, during, or after disasters.

The budget for call center support is $5.3 million and the budget for outreach, including door-to-door canvassing in 10 municipalities is for a maximum of $2.9 million, according to the MOU.

The door-to-door canvassing program will focus on knocking on doors in areas of need, and getting residents scheduled for a vaccination appointment. It will also support the advertising of mobile and pop-up clinics.

DPH is currently in the planning stages with Access Health and job opportunities have been posted online. Outreach activities will begin later in the spring.

"Our continued goal is to ensure that every resident of Connecticut who wants a shot, gets a shot, especially our residents in underserved and vulnerable communities," said Acting Public Health Commissioner Gifford.