The 3rd Conversation is focused on bringing together disparate groups to connect as humans and explore how that relationship can be a source of power, healing, and fulfillment. In that vein, here are some items that piqued our interest or inspired us this week…
Empathy, humanity, connection: This doctor’s effort to create a “Vaccinated Volunteers” program is the good news story we needed today!
He started seeing a few patients at first — ones that weren’t even his — before and after his shifts. He would sit with them, give them a hand to squeeze, and exchange small talk. He would make sure they were comfortable and fill the empty void in the room. Later, he would reach out to their families, who are unable to visit, and update them on their loved one’s status.
“There’s something important just about being there,” Moor said. “Hand-holding through a glove is as close as we can get, but I think that’s not bad.”
As access opens and more and more individuals are eligible to receive the vaccine, we believe it’s vital for primary care to be even more involved in the ongoing vaccination effort. As we strive to reach herd immunity, we should take heed of these findings: Individuals with a long-standing provider relationship and a usual source of care are more likely to receive the flu shot.
Individuals from groups traditionally reluctant to receive vaccines might be the most likely to listen to and follow the advice of a trusted provider, when it comes to the COVID vaccine.
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