MORE THAN 1,200 SHOTS DISPENSED

2020 DRIVE-THROUGH FLU CLINIC

Traffic control, digital check-ins kept lines moving

Resident feedback on social media proclaimed the 2020 drive-through Flu Shot Clinic sponsored by OptumCare on Oct. 1 a success. Posters said it was efficient, with little waiting, well-organized and easy to navigate. The clinic was held in the Clubhouse 4 parking lot. Everyone wore a mask and stayed distant.

Although a final count is pending, more than 1,200 shots were dispensed by OptumCare staff and 14 nurses in training from California State University, Long Beach.

Traffic—carts, cars and scooters—was kept moving by Security and Recreation staff, 14 employees in all, and five LW volunteers. Digital check-in stands were set up and residents pulled into canopied stations to receive their shots without having to exit cars.

The clinic also accommodated people who chose to park and walk up to have their shots, either the regular adult dose or the stronger dose for high-risk people. That line was a little longer, but waits were typically less than 10 minutes.

The flu shot is more important than ever this year. In the past the high dose was recommended for anyone age 65 and older. This year, it is recommended for people with significant Most insurances cover the flu shot. How do you know if you can get the flu shot at Optum? If your primary care doctor works at any Optum location, call to schedule an appointment. If your primary care doctor does not work at an Optum location , call the office to see if Optum can bill your insurance. Flu shots are available at the HCC by appointment only (562-493-9581) or when seeing a Primary Care Physician.Flu shots are available at the HCC by appointment only (562-493-9581) or when seeing a primary care physician.

Some pharmacies are also offering flu shots. Check with your doctor’s office to learn more.

CSULB Nursing student Steven Castro displays a few of the shots ready to inoculate LWers against flu Oct. 1

LWer Terry Humpheys gets a shot from Gilbert Rodriguez of OptumCare. Wait times were minimal at the daylong clinic.