As the flu season approaches, many individuals are looking for convenient and accessible ways to protect themselves and their families. The ACME pharmacy in Lawrence Park is stepping up to meet this need by offering in-home flu, COVID and RSV shot services. This innovative approach is changing the way residents think about vaccinations and making it easier than ever to stay healthy.
ACME Pharmacist and Broomall Resident Helen Richman said that together with pharmacy technician Maria Tucker, they started brainstorming and thinking outside the box of ways to be different from other retail pharmacies in the area. The in-home service eliminates the need for individuals to wait in crowded pharmacies, reducing the risk of exposure to other illnesses. This convenience is particularly appealing during the ongoing concerns surrounding public health.
This service is also especially beneficial for seniors, caregivers and those with health conditions who may find it challenging to visit a pharmacy. “In the past, many wheelchair-bound customers would ask us to come to their car and administer vaccinations, so that gave us the idea of in-home Flu shots,” said Helen. “As a caregiver myself for my elderly mom for many years, I know how difficult it was since she was non-ambulatory.”
Helen explained that because this was the first time ACME offered the service, they offered a single date to provide the in-home service. They let residents know through social media and fliers throughout the store. “Individuals or caregivers were able to call into the pharmacy for appointments on the scheduled date by providing name, address and phone number,” she said. “We mapped out the street locations in order and then, a day or two prior, contacted the individuals with an approximate time of our arrival.”
Customers responded positively to the in-home flu shot service. Many appreciated the personalized care provided by the pharmacists, who took the time to answer questions and address concerns. “They cannot thank us enough from the time we walk in, to the time we leave,” Helen said, proudly. “We were often referred to as angels.”
The next Acme Homebound Flu Clinic will be held Wednesday November 13th from 9-4pm. To schedule an appointment, call the Acme Lawrence Park Pharmacy at 610-356-3504. This fall ACME also offered several drive-thru clinics, another convenient way for residents to protect themselves this year. To learn more about getting vaccinated this season, call ACME pharmacy or visit their website.