Governor Brian Kemp provided an update on the COVID-19 vaccine distribution Tuesday afternoon.
Georgia is currently ranked 50th among states in the number of vaccines distributed.
The Governor says one reason for the low numbers received by the CDC and state agencies is slow reporting by some pharmacies. That affects some 250,000 doses.
"We have confirmed with the CDC and the White House Coronavirus Team that the doses were administered, but that they were not reported as administered here in our state.
Kemp also said some private providers are holding on to doses for the second shot instead of giving out all the shots as soon as possible. That practice also negatively impacts Georgia's numbers.
The Governor is working to remedy that situation, by sending a letter to all providers.
"We expect providers to be utilizing no less than 80% of their weekly allocation of first-doses within seven days of receiving those doses. And also reporting administration to the state within 24 hours. Moving forward, we'll be prioritizing future allocation of doses to providers based on provider inventory, effective distribution, and partnerships with local community organizations."
The state will also reallocate vaccine doses to areas that have a higher demand. In particular, from South Georgia to Metro Atlanta and North Georgia.
The state is expected to receive a large increase in the number of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine the week of March 29th.
