Challenges and Limitations of the COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution in Arizona Federally Qualified Health Centers

Abstract

The rollout of COVID-19 vaccines was a massive undertaking for Arizona’s healthcare providers. Clinics all over the state were tasked with ordering, storing, distributing, and administering the vaccines to protect Arizonans against the COVID-19 virus. Safety net clinics in particular were integral for getting the vaccine to the most vulnerable members of the population, both in urban and rural areas. Challenges faced by these clinics need to be quantified in order for effective support to be given in the future. Specific Aims: 1. To compare and contrast the identified challenges and opportunities described by FQHC clinics during the COVID-19 vaccine roll out in early 2021. 2. To make recommendations for future best practices in the event of another global pandemic.