On Monday morning, we joined AARP South Carolina and several other organizations across the state for a press conference, urging SC DHEC and government officials to prioritize high-risk populations, such as people with disabilities and medical conditions, and older adults, in COVID-19 vaccination plans.
We held this press conference in response to the S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control board decision to allocate the state’s scarce supply of vaccine on a “per capita” basis, rather than through the CDC recommended Social Vulnerabilities Index, which would ensure equitable distribution of high-risk populations.
To be clear: this decision is dangerous, and will result in the most vulnerable South Carolinians, including older adults and people with disabilities (including people with healthcare needs), unable to properly protect themselves from COVID-19, despite being in the highest risk category.
Watch the full recording of the press conference below:
We need your help advocating for people with disabilities! Contact your state senators and ask them to amend the vaccine distribution plan so it is more equitable for all South Carolinians, with and without disabilities!