Guidance on Nondiscrimination Practices and COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution

March 30, 2021

The Pennsylvania Department of Health (Department) is prioritizing distribution of the COVID-19 vaccine as a key element to mitigate the COVID-19 pandemic. Through phased vaccine distribution, the Department is working to efficiently and equitably distribute the COVID-19 vaccine across the commonwealth. The efforts of enrolled vaccine providers are fundamental to the Department's commitment to provide vaccines to Pennsylvanians in a way that is ethical, efficient, and equitable.

As an enrolled vaccine provider, it is crucial to ensure equitable distribution of the COVID-19 vaccine. This includes distribution of vaccine to individuals with disabilities and medical conditions, including but not limited to, Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS), and viral hepatitis. Enrolled vaccine providers are expected to be familiar with and consider all laws and regulations relating to nondiscrimination in the provision of health care services. Nondiscrimination in health services, including vaccine administration, is necessary to ensure all Pennsylvanians have access to preventive and comprehensive health services.

The COVID-19 vaccine is a critical tool to mitigating the pandemic across the commonwealth. The Department and enrolled vaccine providers have the collective task of ensuring all Pennsylvanians the ability to receive a vaccine throughout the phased vaccine distribution. Through a commitment to ethical and equitable distribution, enrolled vaccine providers contribute to the Department's vision of a healthy Pennsylvania for all.

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