The drug manufacturer Pfizer has announced that early data indicates its coronavirus vaccine is more than 90% effective. They’re seeking emergency use authorization, which could make the vaccine available to some before the end of the year. And the FDA has issued emergency authorization for an Eli Lilly antibody therapy to treat mild to moderate cases.
That said, there has never been a more important time to make sure we’re doing everything possible to keep ourselves and our loved ones healthy. It’s up to us to continue our important work to keep our communities safe – from encouraging healthy habits to helping prevent the flu.
That’s why I’m so proud of the work our teams are doing at our Florida Blue Centers. The Florida Blue Centers are strategically positioned across the state. They’re designed as hyper-local community hubs for members – and nonmembers – to ask questions, receive health coaching and even take an exercise class.
This year, we’ve been challenged to reimagine these Centers after COVID-19 forced us to pivot to a virtual model.
Today, we’re offering online workouts. And our community specialists continue providing support over the phone. They’ve even compiled a staggering list of resources for those who have been impacted by COVID-19, including those who have lost their jobs or may be struggling to feed their families.
And when they had to think outside the box to ensure that, for the fourth year, we could team up with Walgreens to provide flu shots to the public at no cost, the Florida Blue Center team designed drive-up events OUTSIDE of our Centers.
These drive-up clinics have been a tremendous success across the state. But don’t take my word for it. We caught up with a few people at a recent clinic who say they’re grateful for the safe and effective solution. It’s more proof that outside-the-box thinking can have a tangible impact on the health of our communities.
“Thank you, Florida Blue and Walgreens," said one person who participated in the drive-thru flu clinic. "This is something that everyone needs and it’s a positive foot forward so that we can get everyone immune to this and prevent any disease especially with the COVID going on right now.”
Another person said providing the community with an opportunity to get a flu shot has never been more critical.
“It’s really important to get the flu shot, especially with the current climate to keep everybody safe, yourself and your family. Yeah, just thank you Florida Blue for doing this any allowing people without insurance to come and get the flu shot is super important so thank you.”