Congratulations to the ANMC Pharmacy Team for receiving the Indian Health Service Director’s Award for Pandemic Heroism
December 13, 2022Congratulations to the ANTHC staff who support the Alaska Native Medical Center (ANMC) Pharmacy team for receiving the Indian Health Service Director’s Award for Pandemic Heroism. The ANMC Pharmacy team was recognized for their instrumental COVID-19 vaccine-response efforts, in collaboration with the State of Alaska. ANMC was the first site in Alaska to offer the COVID-19 vaccine and prioritized high-risk individuals. Due to the efficiency of the distribution, Alaska became the first state in the country to open vaccine availability to individuals over the age of 16, which led the way for the highest initial vaccination rate in the United States. The team effectively navigated logistical issues. Overall, ANMC received and stored over 72,000 doses, while prioritizing vaccines and tracking vaccine waste.
Intentional management of the vaccine distribution and administration resulted in less than 2% vaccine waste on the ANMC campus, and over 66,000 beneficiaries, employees and community members were vaccinated. To increase access, the team provided six weekend vaccination clinics. The team also conducted five visits supporting two rural Alaskan communities with vaccine transport, storage and preparation and administered more than 500 doses, which encompassed 75% of the eligible population. These visits ensured adequate staffing within the rural communities. ANMC Pharmacy shared this process with pharmacy leaders to implement across the state. These efforts prevented hospitalizations and contributed to 72% fewer COVID-19-related deaths compared to other states.
Thank you ANMC Pharmacy team for your hard work and dedication!