Vaccines on Wheels?

Vaccines on wheels? If we take COVID-19 vaccines beyond the walls of clinics and pharmacies, we can reach unvaccinated people. The other night, I hopped on a bus to vaccinate people at a public event in the town square. Here’s what I learned.

First, meet people where they are. As people went to and from the event, they stepped onto our bus to get their shots. None had had the time to schedule a vaccine appointment at a pharmacy or clinic. Some worked multiple jobs. Others couldn’t find child care. A postal worker who had just delivered a package walked onto our bus. As I gave him his shot, he said “I’m here because you are here. You made it easy for me.”

Second, vaccines are not enough. The bus was outfitted with two fridges, powered by the vehicle engine. Digital thermometers on the fridge doors transmitted temperatures wirelessly to ensure vaccines stayed cool. The bus driver told me, “we need vaccines but we also need equipment to bring vaccines to people.”

Third, nurses are heroes. It was inspiring to vaccinate patients with them and hear their stories. One was a nursing student finishing her training. Another had switched careers from being a cop to becoming a nurse just as the pandemic hit. And one nurse had come out of retirement to serve. When I asked her why she did it, she said, “I do this because it brings me joy.”

In summary:

• Look beyond our clinic and pharmacy walls. Put vaccines on wheels.
• Bring vaccines to people, don’t wait for people to come to vaccines.
• Invest in vaccines AND vaccine operations.
• Nurses go as far as it takes for patients. Let’s go as far as it takes to support them.