Avantara Huron reaches goal of vaccinating 78 percent of staff

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HURON — Avantara Huron announced that more than 78 percent of its staff members have received the COVID-19 vaccine. This benchmark is part of a nationwide goal set by the American Health Care Association (AHCA) and LeadingAge, to vaccinate 75 percent of the approximately 1.5 million long-term care staff members, by June 30.

“We are proud to report that our facility has vaccinated 78 percent of our staff,” said Laurie Solem, Administrator for Avantara Huron.

“Our staff recognizes that getting vaccinated is one of the most effective ways to protect both our residents and ourselves against this deadly virus,” she said, “Since day one of the pandemic, the staff of Avantara Huron has worked day and night to keep our residents safe, and with the vaccine, we now have hope that the end is near. We are seeing a drastic decline of positive COVID-19 cases and deaths across the nation, which indicates that the vaccines are working.”

Healthcare workers were first in line to receive the vaccine, because of their essential role in fighting COVID-19. As more long-term care workers get vaccinated, the more they will help protect the residents they care for, in addition to protecting themselves from this deadly virus. Protection of staff is critical to preserve a long-term care facility’s ability to care for its residents.

In addition to protecting both residents and themselves, long-term care facility workers can serve as role models in their communities. By long-term care workers getting vaccinated first, they can positively influence the vaccination decisions of co-workers, residents, friends, and family.

Great Plains Quality Innovation Network has recognized Avantara Huron as a COVID-19 Vaccination Ambassador. The Great Plains Quality Innovation Network was enlisted by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (“CMS”) to help increase COVID-19 vaccination rates in North and South Dakota.

“Kudos to the team at Avantara Huron for your efforts to ensure residents are protected by encouraging and promoting vaccination among your staff. It is critical for health care professionals to be confident in dispelling myths and addressing questions from residents and staff who may be hesitant to receive the vaccine,” stated Michelle Lauckner, DNP, RN, RAC-CT; North Dakota Great Plains Quality Innovation Network - Nursing Home Lead.

“Each of us have been impacted by the pandemic; and through vaccination, we can prevent the spread to our friends, family and community. We applaud your efforts and are pleased to recognize Avantara Huron for this accomplishment,” added Lori Hintz, RN, CDP, CADDCT; South Dakota Great Plains Quality Innovation Network - Nursing Home Lead.

“While we remain optimistic, our work does not stop here. The virus is still a very real threat and we must continue to do all that we can to protect our seniors and frontline caregivers,” added Laurie Solem. “We will continue to encourage vaccinations, as well as follow all safety guidelines such as wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) and conducting regular testing. With the help of our communities and the public health sector, we are confident we will come out on the other side of the pandemic.”  

To learn more about Avantara Huron, please visit avantarahuron.com.