PRESS RELEASE

Flu Shots Available at Plainfield Health Center
Season Still in Effect and Vaccination Recommended

For Immediate Release: Thursday, January 13, 2005-PLAINFIELD, NEW JERSEY- The Plainfield Health Center (PHC), one of nineteen Federally Qualified Health Centers in New Jersey, dedicated to providing cost effective primary health care services for the residents of Plainfield and surrounding communities, announced today that it has approximately 800 adult and 300 child flu vaccines available to the community. The vaccines are available to both PHC patients and non-patients effective immediately.

While those individuals identified with high risk of complications as a result of flu are strongly encouraged to get vaccinated, the Center for Disease Control has lifted the restriction regarding age or disease condition. The vaccine is available until March 31, 2005. The Plainfield Health Center encourages those seeking the vaccine to come to the Center during clinical hours, 8AM to 8PM Monday through Thursday, 8AM to 5PM on Friday and 8AM to 1PM on Saturday. No appointment is necessary. The cost of the vaccination is covered by most insurance companies. Those without insurance may qualify for reduced rates through PHC’s sliding fee for service. If not a PHC patient, registration will be required. Vaccinations will be provided on a first come basis, while supplies last.

Vaccines were initially in short supply, however the Plainfield Health Center was able to obtain a limited amount for the Plainfield area. “Normally, those who get flu shots do so in late fall, however we are still in the height of the flu season and vaccine protection is highly recommended,” said Dr. Walsh, PHC Chief Medical Officer.

For information regarding the registration process, call 908.753.6401, extension 160.

About The Plainfield Health Center

The Plainfield Health Center, incorporated as the Plainfield Neighborhood Health Services Corporation, was born in 1969 under the auspices of the 1960's Model Cities Neighborhood Program. Led by a dedicated group of community activists, the Center was initially created to provide accessible health care to the residents of the West End of Plainfield.

Since then, the Center has grown, added more services, increased the number of specialties of professional health staff, and expanded its reach to the entire City of Plainfield and neighboring communities, and to the City of Elizabeth. Today, the Plainfield Health Center serves more than 21,000 patients annually. Its total care program provides adult medicine, obstetrics and gynecology, pediatrics, adolescent medicine, school based services, dentistry and ancillary support services.

copyright © PHC 2005