A message from LincolnHealth about the recent uptick in positive COVID-19 tests:
Help Us Spread the Word About Vaccine Availability
We are writing to you after an extremely busy week of COVID-19 testing at LincolnHealth. Unfortunately, we have experienced a record-setting week of positive COVID test results (36 cases overall).
The common thread tying these cases together is the lack of vaccination in those who tested positive. It has become crystal clear that this vaccine works, and for the health of all concerned, we need your help in encouraging all eligible Lincoln County residents to be vaccinated as soon as possible.
Our COVID-19 vaccination clinic at the Boothbay Region YMCA has been doing great work, with more than 20,000 overall doses delivered to those age 18 and up since late January. Unlike the early days of vaccination when vaccine demand far exceeded supply, we’ve seen an increase in open appointment slots and a high number of patient cancelations and no-shows. This is not unique to Lincoln County – all MaineHealth clinics have available appointments this week.
On behalf of our vaccination team, we ask you to help spread the word about the availability of scheduled vaccination appointments as well as walk-in opportunities.
The best way for people to make an appointment remains visiting www.vaccine.mainehealth.org where they can choose the best time and location across the MaineHealth system to get the vaccine. At this time, there are no waitlists. Those who are uncomfortable using the internet can call 1-877-780-7545.
Those age 16-18 can get an appointment at the MidCoast Hospital clinic in Brunswick by clicking here, as it is the only clinic nearby administering the Pfizer vaccine recommended for this age group.
The clinic at the Boothbay Region Y now offers walk-in appointments Monday through Friday from 8:15 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. In addition, walk-ins are also available Wednesday, May 5, from 4:15 to 6 p.m., and Saturday, May 8, from 8 a.m. to noon. On Friday, May 14 the clinic will close at 11:45 a.m.
People must be over age 18 and should bring a photo ID and an insurance card if they have one. There is no charge for the vaccine. We also are working with local agencies to provide free transportation to assure getting to the clinic is not a barrier. To schedule a ride, people should call 207-633-1915 or email LincolnCovidVaccine@MaineHealth.org.
We know the best chance to put COVID-19 in our rear-view mirror is to increase the number of people who are fully vaccinated. While the results in Maine are better than most states, we still have some work to do.
Thank you in advance for your partnership and support.
Sincerely,
Tim Fox, MD
Chief Medical Officer
Cindy Wade, RN, MHA
President
