College of Medicine Students Step Up to Volunteer at COVID-19 Vaccine Clinic

The University of Kentucky COVID-19 vaccination clinic at Kroger Field was able to increase its vaccination capacity by about 1,000 people per week thanks to volunteers from the University of Kentucky’s health care colleges, including the College of Medicine. This story was adapted from its original publication on UKNow.uky.edu.

The University of Kentucky’s COVID-19 vaccination clinic was able to extend its weekend hours and increase vaccination capacity by about 1,000 people a week thanks to volunteers from the University of Kentucky’s health care colleges, including the College of Medicine.

The College of Medicine provided more than 50 volunteers – faculty, staff, and students – who participated by serving in roles from everything from immunizers to wayfinders.

“This extra five-hour shift not only means increased vaccination capacity, but it also offers students an excellent experience and a valuable public service opportunity,” said Robert DiPaola, MD, acting provost for the University, who also is the project lead for UK’s Screening, Testing and Tracing, to Accelerate Restart and Transition (START) team. “Our medical students are trained and qualified to help out and in addition, they are paired up with other health care providers.”

Medical student Cameron Wade was quick to agree to volunteer when the chance became available. “For my own personal perspective, I have a loved one with an immunocompromised condition and so it’s very important for me to help get as many people vaccinated as possible.” n