You recently (March 8) published a letter to the editor that was critical of MaineHealth’s COVID vaccination program as compared to that being conducted by Northern Light Health.

Alice Goshorn, 79, of South Portland receives a bandage after getting the first dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine from pharmacist Andrea Lai at the former Scarborough Downs Racetrack on Feb. 3. A reader who also was inoculated there praised the site’s layout and his experience with the staff. Derek Davis/Staff Photographer Buy this Photo

I personally think MaineHealth is doing a terrific job. They chose for now to only have a telephone registration and confirmation process, which the letter writer (Maureen C. Gavin) was critical of. However, keep in mind that everyone in the state does not have computer access, and some people, particularly the elderly, struggle using computers.

I preregistered over the telephone with MaineHealth when I first learned of the process. I was reassured when I received a confirmation call back several weeks later and I continued to receive weekly update calls. When I received the call that it was my turn to make an appointment, I was able to schedule my first shot for the very next day. The scheduler was thorough in explaining what I should expect, and when I went to the Scarborough Downs site for my appointment, the layout of the site and communication and efficiency of the staff were nothing short of impressive.

It is great that Northern Light Health is also doing a fine job. Compare this with what is happening in some other states where registering is like trying to secure tickets to a Rolling Stones concert (hours in virtual waiting rooms only to learn all reservations are taken), and I think we should all be thankful we live in Maine!

Ed Garber
Scarborough