County officials implement equitable vaccine rollout strategy for marginalized communities

The City of Oshkosh's Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee meeting on March 25, 2025, spotlighted ongoing challenges and strategies in vaccine distribution, particularly for marginalized communities. A key discussion point was the accessibility of the vaccination registration system, which has faced criticism for being confusing and difficult for some residents, especially the elderly.

Committee members expressed concern over the initial rollout of vaccine appointments, where many individuals struggled to register online, leading to a system crash due to high call volumes. "We still have some elderly people in the community who actually tried to get in, but that did not work out," one member noted, highlighting the need for a more user-friendly approach.

In response, officials outlined plans to improve communication and outreach. They aim to hold back a percentage of appointments specifically for those without internet access, ensuring equitable access to vaccines. "We do plan on still holding back a percentage of appointments for people who may not be able to access Internet or technology," a representative stated, emphasizing the importance of targeted outreach to various community groups.

The committee also discussed the necessity of building partnerships with local organizations to disseminate information effectively. This includes reaching out to minority groups and ensuring that vaccine access is not hindered by barriers such as legal status or technology access. "We do not require a driver's license or health insurance to get your vaccine," officials reassured, aiming to alleviate fears among those hesitant to engage with the system.

As the vaccination process evolves, the committee is exploring mobile vaccination clinics to reach underserved populations, particularly migrant workers. "We're looking at doing some kind of mobile vaccination clinics that will likely be more possible once the Johnson and Johnson vaccine comes out," a member explained, indicating a proactive approach to ensure no doses go to waste.

The meeting concluded with a sense of optimism, as committee members acknowledged the progress made while recognizing the work still needed to ensure equitable vaccine distribution. "It's apparent to me that while there's still work to be done, there's been a lot of consideration for marginalized communities," one member remarked, reinforcing the commitment to inclusivity in public health initiatives.