Houston Methodist CEO addresses frustrations over vaccine distribution

HOUSTON – Houston Methodist is running a clinic this weekend, but it’s only open to patients in the hospital system.

Similar “invitation-only” clinics have been set up by other hospitals in the Houston area, leading to claims of unfairness in the way the vaccine is distributed.

“We got it,” said Dr. Marc Boom, CEO of Houston Methodist. “We understand why people are frustrated. Everyone wants to be vaccinated now. “

Boom said those 75 and older invited to attend this weekend’s clinic represented people from all of Houston’s zip codes.

Boom said his hospital is working with four federally qualified health clinics to ensure they reach deep into some of Houston’s most vulnerable and affected areas. The goal, Boom said, is to reach more people in areas where there has been a high percentage of COVID-19 cases and where most residents are uninsured.

“I think we are working very actively and resolutely to resolve these issues and to make sure that we get vaccines to the arms of people fairly, equitably throughout our community as quickly as possible,” Boom said. “We were chosen by the state as the hub because we received vaccines so quickly.”

According to Boom, Methodist administered 44,000 first doses and 13,000 second doses of the Pfizer vaccine.

Boom said he was optimistic that the vaccine’s arrival would accelerate more quickly in a few weeks.

You can watch Boom’s full interview below.