Governor Kate Brown Visits Vaccine Clinic at Salud Medical Center in Woodburn

Press Release

Governor Kate Brown today visited the COVID-19 vaccine clinic at the Salud Medical Center, where efforts are underway to vaccinate historically-underserved communities in and around Woodburn, including seasonal agricultural workers. Salud Medical Center is the Woodburn branch of the Yakima Valley Farm Workers Clinic (YVFWC). Leading the tour was Dr. Antonio Germann, a member of the Governor's Medical Advisory Panel, and YVFWC Chief Medical Officer Kevin Heidrick.

"My goal is for all Oregonians to get vaccinated as quickly as possible, with a focus on those most vulnerable and hardest hit by COVID-19," said Governor Brown. "The work being done at Salud Medical Center is a great example of how we can quickly vaccinate Oregonians and ensure underserved communities have access to vaccines. We will continue our efforts to educate, inform, and empower Oregonians to make appropriate health care decisions."

Salud Medical Center is a community health center that provides comprehensive health care services. Nearly 40% of Salud's patients are uninsured and 45% are covered by the Oregon Health Plan. About 46% of patients served are migrant and seasonal agricultural workers. About 88% of the center's patients identify as Hispanic or Latino, Latina, and Latinx.

In addition to the vaccine clinic, the Governor toured Salud Medical Center's pharmacy, dental care office, behavioral health office, lab facilities, and COVID-19 testing room. Joining Governor Brown at the vaccine clinic were YVFWC Chief Medical Officer Kevin Heidrick, Dr. Antonio Germann, Clinic Director Julia Romanelli, YVFWC VP of Western Oregon Operations Tina Foss, and clinic staff, volunteers, and patients.

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