As busy as Indiana physicians typically are, many still make time to volunteer at COVID-19 vaccination clinics, helping to implement the state’s vaccine distribution plan. They say the experience is just as rewarding for them as it is for the Hoosiers they inoculate.

Carrie Davis, MD, works full time as a Bloomington dermatologist. Since January, she has dedicated half of her Saturdays to working as a site monitor and vaccinator for the Monroe County Health Department.

“I signed up with the medical reserves as soon as I knew the vaccine was available,” Dr. Davis said. “I have vaccinated members of our community and even my own patients, which is fun and rewarding. It brings me great joy to be part of the effort to save lives and bring an end to this pandemic.”

Rita Fleming, MD, a Democratic state representative from Jeffersonville, said she’s volunteered with the Clark County Health Department vaccination effort to support frontline health care workers who are working overtime to end the COVID-19 pandemic.

"If volunteering my time means a nurse or physician can take a weekend off, I can relieve at least some of the burden placed on their shoulders,” Rep. Fleming said. “On the weekdays, I advocate for good public health standards in the Statehouse, and on the weekend, I'm a retired physician just helping in any way I can.

On one recent weekend, Rep. Fleming said, “I administered the vaccine to over 100 people, and they said I gave a painless shot! This is a lifesaving vaccine, and I'm so proud of all the work Clark Memorial Hospital and our local health department has done to administer it."

Other volunteers – please let ISMA know if you’re volunteering your time and expertise so we can recognize your heroic efforts in ISMA Reports or on ISMA’s social media pages. Information can be submitted to Julie Dart.