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Thursday, Mar 28, 2024

Fast Access To Vaccines For Disabled

Despite being three times more likely to die from COVID-19 than the general public, people with developmental disabilities aren’t eligible to receive the vaccine during “Phase 1a” of California’s rollout.North Hills nonprofit New Horizons is fighting to change that.“It’s important they get the shot,” Chief Executive John Brauer told the Business Journal. “Our folks tend to already have compromised immune systems, health issues and are very susceptible to even the flu. In some cases, they don’t have the ability to make the same choices in terms of being safe, so it’s a constant battle to remind them to wear their masks and wash their hands.”So far, the nonprofit has shored up vaccines for about 170 clients living in group homes or skilled nursing facilities – a particularly vulnerable population due to their close proximity to others. Brauer said a physician partner provided the vaccines.

“It’s a good start,” he said. “We still have a whole lot more people to get to, though.” New Horizons and other local developmental disability nonprofits including the North L.A. County Regional Center in Chatsworth are in talks with Gov. Gavin Newsom and other state officials, urging them to open up vaccine distribution for all disabled people, not just those over 65 or in community care facilities.According to an email from the California Disability Services Association, Newsom addressed the prioritization of individuals with developmental disabilities at a Feb. 8 press conference at the Petco Park Vaccination Super Station in San Diego.

“People in the developmentally disabled community, with all the unique challenges and opportunities that present them in their lives, these vaccines need to be prioritized. And I’m committing to doing that,” Newsom said.

According to the email, “(Newsom) is working with Dr. Mark Ghaly, the CHHS Secretary, on developing the plan and is committed to figuring this out by ‘the end of the week.’”In the meantime, New Horizons has focused on spreading information regarding safety practices and how to access the vaccine once it becomes available.

“Many individuals with disabilities and some of their caregivers don’t have access to the internet. They just aren’t as available to do research and see what the options are. Part of our job is to make sure we’re sending out communications to make sure they know what resources are available,” Brauer explained.He said getting vaccinated is important not just for physical and immune health, but mental health as well.

“Our folks are so isolated right now. For folks that have behavioral issues or significant cognitive issues, this break in routine has been (hard). … We’re seeing higher rates of depression and other symptoms based on them being locked in their homes. We need to, where it’s possible and safe, get them back out and back into services,” he added. “Connection with the outside world is vital.”  

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