During the COVID-19 pandemic, underserved communities in Philadelphia received vital support through community education efforts and mass vaccination clinics. These initiatives, led by the University of Pennsylvania’s Center for Public Health in partnership with the Department of Family Medicine of Community Health (DFMCH), were key in bringing vaccines to those facing a wide variety of barriers. Thanks to support from community partners, the Center for Public Health has continued to expand these efforts for even greater impact.
One initiative, in partnership with DFMCH’s Community Partnerships for Wellness (CP4W), focuses on improving health equity in West Philadelphia through primary care services by providing physical exams, blood pressure and A1C testing, flu and COVID vaccinations, and additional support for other health needs.
Another initiative, funded by the American Academy of Pediatrics, aims to boost vaccine confidence and combat misinformation by creating English and Spanish educational modules to guide vaccine discussions in areas with low vaccination rates.
The third initiative partners with the American Geriatrics Society to test and report on strategies that reduce vaccine hesitancy and improve immunization rates among adults, while promoting health equity in vaccine access.
“It would not be possible to provide vaccines without the support of our partners and their willingness to host clinics,” said Heather Klusaritz of the Center for Public Health and DFMCH. “Through these partnerships, we’ve brought vaccines to communities facing geographic and structural barriers, addressing health inequities in West and Southwest Philadelphia.”
Together, the Center for Public Health and its dedicated community partners are committed to excellence in research, health equity, and creating a stronger, healthier region.