Buffalo Firefighter Chris Whelan gets the COVID-19 vaccine at Roswell Park

Roswell Park Holds COVID-19 Vaccine Clinics For EMS Workers

Supports the NYS Dept. of Health vaccination program

Highlights
  • Vaccine distribution began Thursday for EMS workers at cancer center
  • Roswell Park one of several hospitals collaborating in state vaccine efforts
  • EMS workers to schedule appointments through NYS DOH

BUFFALO, N.Y. — As New York State continues its phased distribution of COVID-19 vaccines for frontline healthcare professionals, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center has started the process of immunizing Emergency Medical Services (EMS) workers. Vaccinations began Thursday morning.

NYS Department of Health is collaborating with Roswell Park, alongside several hospitals in the area, to hold these clinics to support the Phase 1A vaccination program. EMS workers will schedule their appointments through NYS DOH and receive the vaccine in a research-designated building on Roswell Park’s campus, separate from the patient population. All state and local safety precautions such as physical distancing, masking and entry screening are in effect.

EMT Billie Henry sits for the vaccine
EMT Billie Henry sits for the vaccine

“EMS workers have been at the forefront of this pandemic since the very beginning, and we are honored to support this effort in our community,” said Shirley Johnson, MBA, MS, RN, NEA-BC, Chief Clinical Operations Officer at Roswell Park. “This critically important service will help in our efforts to slow the pandemic.”

“There was a lot of anticipation this morning, I am very happy to get this,” said Buffalo Firefighter Chris Whelan, one of the first to receive the vaccine at Roswell Park. “It puts my mind at ease knowing that I am not only protecting myself but my family and fellow firefighters, as well.”

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Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center is a community united by the drive to eliminate cancer’s grip on humanity by unlocking its secrets through personalized approaches and unleashing the healing power of hope. Founded by Dr. Roswell Park in 1898, it is the only National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer center in Upstate New York. Learn more at www.roswellpark.org, or contact us at 1-800-ROSWELL (1-800-767-9355) or ASKRoswell@RoswellPark.org.

Media Contact

Rebecca Vogt, Media Relations Specialist
716-845-4919; rebecca.vogt@roswellpark.org