Getting a flu shot is a simple way to protect yourself, your family and friends, and colleagues from the flu. For people who are homeless or living in poverty, though, it’s anything but simple, noted Diana Kane, MD, chair and medical director of Emergency Medicine at Chester County Hospital. “We have a fairly large indigent or homeless population in this area and they don’t have $20 to go to Walgreens and get their flu shot. A flu shot is probably the lowest item on their list when they are concerned about food and shelter.”
When people in poverty do get the flu, their risk of transmitting it to others is high. Homeless shelters and day programs gather people in close quarters. Those who are homeless with the flu can't quarantine themselves at home, Without the opportunity to rest in their own space, they also take longer to recover and are at higher risk of complications. The homeless and very poor often lack access to healthcare, which means they are more likely to end up in the ED with flu symptoms — putting staff and patients at risk and increasing the likelihood of bed shortages.
To help provide shots for those who can’t afford them, Kane brainstormed with Darren Girardeau, MSN, director of Emergency Services, Radiology Nursing and Transport, for ways to bring flu vaccines to shelters throughout West Chester. They came up with a plan and, starting last fall through the end of the year, the ED team offered vaccinations at several free flu vaccine clinics. A Penn Medicine CAREs grant helped to fund the actual vaccines while the hospital donated nurses’ time and other supplies such as needles and alcohol pads.
“It is not a difficult thing to use your skills to help those in the community; it is actually a gift,” said ED nurse Linda Detwiler, BSN, who administered vaccines at all three sites. “I find it very gratifying to be part of a team that goes the extra mile to help keep our community healthy.”