Local health systems, including Einstein Medical and Jefferson Health, are preparing plans for the distribution of COVID-19 vaccines to their staff as soon as they become available, writes Nina Feldman for the WHYY.

Hospitals in the area have spent the last few weeks preparing ultra-cold storage, determining who will be first in line for the vaccine, and creating inoculation rotations to enable the vaccination of their workers as promptly and efficiently as possible.

Einstein Medical Center expects to receive four 975-dose vaccine shipments in the first round. Two will go to the Philadelphia campus and one each to Einstein Montgomery County in East Norriton and Einstein Elkins Park.

The highest priority for getting inoculated will be those working in the ICU and emergency departments. This will also include supporting roles for these areas, such as security and food service personnel.

Meanwhile, Jefferson will offer the vaccines from the first round to clinical employees in the emergency departments, ICUs, and COVID-19 units, who are at the highest risk of contracting the virus.

The health system anticipates it will receive the first batch of vaccines next week.

Read more about the distribution plans at the WHYY by clicking here.