Governor Janet Mills announced a change this week in Maine’s vaccination plan to make all Maine adults eligible for a COVID-19 vaccine by May 1, in line with a federal directive. During a Thursday address to the nation, President Joe Biden said he would be directing all states to make all American adults eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine by May 1. 

Governor Mills announced an age-based vaccination approach two weeks ago, and following the President’s directive, the planned vaccine schedule is now as follows: 

· March 3: Age 60 and older 

· April 1: Age 50 and older 

· May 1: All adults 

As the supply of vaccines increases in Maine, it is our hope that Maine DHHS and Maine CDC will soon to include community physicians in its COVID-19 vaccination plans. The MMA Executive Committee and staff plan to meet soon with state leaders. 

Medical practices have the detailed records needed—whether it be age, preexisting conditions, or other risk factors as well as already established trust with patients. 

We are encouraging patients to continue trying to get vaccinated elsewhere for now, however, without community physicians working alongside current plans, high-risk patients will be left behind. The revised state guidelines direct any remaining or newly employed eligible Health Care Personnel to seek vaccination at one of the more than 60 provider-based vaccination sites listed on the Gov’s website. 

Age-eligible Maine residents are encouraged to make an appointment at a local vaccination site as soon as possible. Maine residents age 60 and over are now eligible for vaccination.  Find a vaccination site now. 

The Maine COVID-19 Community Vaccination Line helps Maine people get information about vaccine clinics. 

Community Vaccination Line: 1-888-445-4111; Monday -Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., or Saturday-Sunday: 8 a.m.- 2 p.m. 

For more information about updates to Maine’s COVID vaccination plan, please check for updates on the Governor’s COVID vaccine webpage. 

Additional Vaccine Resources: 

COVID-19 Vaccines 

Emergency Use Authorization for Vaccines Explained 

Emergency Use Authorization for Vaccines to Prevent COVID-19; Guidance for Industry 

Development and Licensure of Vaccines to Prevent COVID-19; Guidance for Industry 

How Do COVID-19 Vaccines Compare