Reid Health partners with Darke County agencies to start COVID-19 vaccine clinic

Jan. 21, 2021 -- Nearly 500 people were to receive the COVID-19 vaccine Thursday thanks to a partnership between Reid Health and a trio of Darke County agencies.

Reid is providing space at its facility at 1101 Jackson St. in Greenville, Ohio, to be used for a joint vaccination clinic by Family Health, Wayne HealthCare and the Darke County General Health District.

Thursday was the clinic's first day of operation with 490 people expected to be vaccinated by the evening.

The partnership came together quickly as the trio of agencies looked for a site that would fit their needs.

Jared Pollick, Family Health Services Executive Director, approached Henry Chong, M.D., Bethel Cardiology of Greenville about whether Reid might have something available.

"We had just had a meeting in which he said if you need anything, let me know," Pollick said of Dr. Chong. "This turned around quickly.

"We're just trying to get our people here vaccinated. We're going to move heaven and earth every time we get doses to get them in people's arms as quickly as possible."

When Dr. Chong approached the Reid Health administration, leadership leapt at the chance to help.

"As soon as the administration was on board, things took off very quickly," he said. "I really thank the administration at Reid who stepped up so quickly to work with these people in a cooperative manner.

"This demonstrates Reid's commitment to Darke County and the healthcare of its residents. What a great opportunity. It's truly a win-win situation for everybody."

Those 80 years or older are eligible to receive the vaccine in Darke County at this time, but that's expected to be extended to anyone 75 and up next week. To sign up, they must call (937) 547-2399 to register."This demonstrates Reid's commitment to Darke County and the healthcare of its residents. What a great opportunity. It's truly a win-win situation for everybody."

The first person to go back to a room to be vaccinated Thursday was 95-year-old Bob Anthony of Greenville. His doctor told him to call and get in line for the shot when it became available.

"He said it was, what, over 80 years old (who were eligible) today? Well, we qualified for that," Anthony said. "A friend of mine came with me. He's 97. I hope it works."

There are no set hours of operation for the Greenville clinic. Pollick said they're at the mercy of when vaccine becomes available from the State of Ohio.

"The more doses they give us, the better. I want them to try to break us so we can get this done," he said. "At the end of the day, our goal is just to get people vaccinated as quickly as humanly possible."