On December 16, PPMC staff took part in a historic moment as they rolled up their sleeves and received their initial dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. Among the first to add a vaccination sticker to her lapel was Chief Pharmacy Officer Nishaminy Kasbekar, PharmD, FASHP.
Kasbekar has directed the smooth, successful distribution of the vaccine in partnership with departments across the hospital. Powered by the collaborative efforts of Occupational Medicine providers, the Infection Control team, Facilities staff, and more, the Medical Library has functioned as a socially distanced vaccine clinic for the past several weeks, serving thousands of staff who have taken the next step toward ending the pandemic. Outside the library, staff have filled posters with notes about what the vaccine means to them.
For Kasbekar, it's hope. “I’ve seen our employees come to work every day with the possibility of exposure weighing on them. Vaccination to me means getting back to our lives,” she said. “I know some people are feeling hesitant, and my suggestion is to talk to your provider about vaccine myth-busting. As a pharmacist who has studied the efficacy and safety data, I am confident that the vaccine offers a safe way forward.”
Employees are being notified via email with the opportunity to make appointments for vaccination. If you have questions about scheduling, please reach out to your manager. For other vaccine FAQs, visit the UPHS Vaccine Information website.