CHARLOTTE, N.C.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Local dentist Dr. Steven Ghim is giving members of the public another reason to smile by helping to administer COVID-19 vaccines through the Atlanta VA Health Care System. The work is in response to executive order #193 from Governor Roy Cooper on February 9, 2021, as well as subsequent approval on March 3, 2021 from the NC state dental board, to allow dentists to assist with the vaccination effort.
Following a request from the Atlanta VA, Ghim was the first NC dentist to participate in a vaccination event at Mercedes Benz Stadium (Falcons Stadium) in Atlanta, GA. The event, which included over 100 doctors, nurses, dentists and additional support volunteers, provided drive-through vaccinations for COVID-19 to veterans from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, March 13, 2021. More than 1,200 people received vaccination shots, most of which were the second dose of the Moderna vaccine.
Ghim notes that drive-through vaccination is a fast and efficient way for veterans and other members of the public to receive their shots. It eliminates the need to make an appointment and to wait at clinics or doctor’s offices, which helps those within the healthcare system respond more effectively to other medical needs throughout the crisis.
Additionally, Ghim says that VA systems in other jurisdictions can look to the Atlanta event as a model for how to provide veterans in their own local communities with speedy access to vaccinations. Ghim also sees a larger opportunity for dentists in NC -- and across the nation -- to work alongside other healthcare providers to combat the disease.
“The faster we have outreach,” Ghim stresses, “the better people will feel about getting back to the normalcy of everyday life.”
The Atlanta VA currently is planning additional vaccination opportunities for veterans. The next event may happen at Braves Stadium in Marietta, GA. Ghim says that, since dentists are authorized to help out, he’s ready to volunteer again if he’s needed.
About Dr. Ghim: Dr. Steven Ghim is a dentist and specializes in cosmetic dentistry. A veteran himself and Chief Dental Officer with the Air Force, he offers services in the South Charlotte/Blakeney region through his private practice.
