New York State Sen. Joseph Griffo, R-I-C-Rome, released the following statement today regarding public health departments and the distribution of the coronavirus vaccine:

“The Governor must reexamine and reconsider the method and manner in which the state has chosen to distribute the COVID-19 vaccination. Local public health departments throughout the state have proven that they have the experience, abilities, training and infrastructure needed to effectively oversee the vaccine distribution process. It makes the most sense to allow these entities to do so and to augment the process with other support if necessary. While the Mohawk Valley Health System is an important, capable and committed partner in this effort, they should not be further burdened by additional responsibilities related to distribution of the vaccine, especially when they and other health care facilities are stretched to their limits during this pandemic. I concur with Oneida County Executive Anthony Picente Jr. that the priority and focus of health care institutions should remain on providing quality medical care and services to and ensuring the speedy recovery of patients suffering from COVID-19. Our local public health departments can handle the vaccine protocols and distribution.”
###