Baptist Health Lexington vaccine center closing Wednesday, May 12

LEXINGTON, Ky. (WTVQ/Baptist Public Affairs) — After a massive seven-day planning effort from Baptist Health Lexington’s vaccine planning team, their first COVID-19 vaccine clinic opened in the hospital’s education center on December 14.

More than 35,000 doses have been administered, an accomplishment to be celebrated.

After five months serving the community, the clinic will close on May 12.

Chief Nursing Officer Dee Beckman, DNP, MBA, MSN, RN, NE-BC, managed workflow while the clinic was on campus and after it moved to Lexington Green in January.

Supply and demand was an initial challenge since many staff and community members wanted the vaccine, yet the supply was limited.

Once in the community, distribution was focused on ages 70 and older. When state guidelines evolved in a matter of weeks to include all ages, Baptist Health adapted quickly.

Beckman created an “angel list” to reach out to individuals who needed assistance in making an appointment.

Eloise Spradlin, 90, received help with scheduling and receiving her vaccine.

“I am relieved and happy,” she says.

Spradlin felt getting the shot was important to be able to feel safe going out of the house and so she wouldn’t infect others.

“I am proud of our Baptist Health employees who came together for the purpose that brought us to healthcare. We focused on the care and health of our community,” says Beckman. “I was there each day, saw and heard the gratitude, and am grateful for the opportunity to serve our community and try to restore health and normalcy.”

The day the clinic opened stands out to Amy Wheeler, MSN, clinical coordinator. When the UPS truck backed into the loading dock and unloaded the first box of the Pfizer vaccine, she felt excited. Later that day, the first five doses were given to staff and physicians.

“It took hundreds of employees, volunteers and students to make it all possible. They are all appreciated,” says Wheeler. “It is a true honor to have a role in this effort. The last year has been so difficult, and knowing that people can begin to return to some level of normalcy because of our efforts makes me very proud.”

An 18-year Baptist Health volunteer and current Auxillary president-elect, Suzy Thurman, was at the clinic receiving her shot when she was asked if she would volunteer.

“I jumped at the chance. I was at the clinic every day for about six hours. It was the best experience I’ve ever had,” says Thurman. “Our nurses are quick to put people at ease, and the clinic runs so smoothly.” 

Corey Givens, 18, Sayre School student, shared his experience.

“It was easy arriving to [and checking in to] the clinic. I had a good interaction with the staff. It’s important to get the COVID-19 shot because it can help lead [us] back to normal.”

Phil Greer, 74, wasn’t worried about receiving his vaccine because of his trust in Baptist Health as a great organization.

“My first and second shot went just perfectly,” he says.

For more information visit kycovid19.ky.gov.