“Focus on the Facts: COVID-19 Vaccines and Communities of Color” January 26, 2021 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM

In recognition of the National African American Enrollment Week of Action, DC Health Link in partnership with Kaiser Permanente will host a Lunchtime Town Hall entitled

“Focus on the Facts: COVID-19 Vaccines and Communities of Color”.

Many in communities of color across the country have expressed mistrust in the American health care system and are reluctant to take the COVID-19 vaccine, a situation attributed to the enduring legacy of egregious medical mistreatment in America.  Despite the virulence of COVID-19 and its new variants, communities of color who are disproportionately impacted by the virus, are getting vaccinated at a much lower rate than other groups. 

This interactive town hall will focus on the vulnerabilities and impact of communities of color and COVID-19, address myths and facts about the vaccine, as well as discuss overcoming barriers to vaccination. Additionally, health insurance enrollment opportunities during a pandemic will be shared.

Moderator – Allison Seymour, WUSA9

Welcome / Opening Remarks –  
Wayne Turnage, Deputy Mayor, Health and Human Services

Panelists –

COVID-19: Myths vs. Facts
Ashlee Williams MD, Specialist in Internal Medicine, Kaiser Permanente
"The Vulnerabilities of Black Communities and COVID-19”

LaQuandra S. Nesbitt MD, MPH, Director, DC Department of Health
“Surviving the Pandemic & Medical Implications of the COVID Vaccine: A Focus on the Facts"

Dr. Tollie Elliott, Chief Medical Officer, Mary’s Center
“Now More Than Ever: The Importance of Health Insurance” 

Purvee Kempf, General Counsel and Chief Policy Advisor, DC Health Benefit Exchange
Q & A – Submit your questions in advance when you register