Strategy
Expand the Washington Department of Health staff capacity to support the distribution of COVID-19 vaccines and outreach to underserved communities during the pandemic.
Challenge
After the development of the COVID-19 vaccines, there was a need to develop a task force for vaccine dissemination to the public. In addition, support was required to engage providers, ensure equitable access, and facilitate the safe administration of the vaccine to the public. The Department of Health staff were not equipped to provide those services in addition to their usual duties.
Solution
The CDC Foundation provided funding for staff and equipment to facilitate these activities. The CDC Foundation also relieved the Department of Health’s strain by conducting screening interviews and training activities for new staff members. The staff was onboarded from October 2021 through October 2022. The program’s intended population was all Washington residents eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine and providers serving in the state.
Outcome
Staff capacity was increased rapidly and with minimal burden on the Washington Department of Health. The new staff filled gaps in Department of Health personnel and strengthened the COVID-19 task force. The partnership allowed the Department of Health to streamline its hiring process, which ensured that the additional staff was integrated into the task force in a timely manner.