Vaccine experience smooth, wonderful

ON SATURDAY, Jan. 9, I received my first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine at the Optum Urgent Care facility on Journal Center Boulevard NE. I was anxious about the process, having to wait in line in the cold, would my appointment be recognized, honored, etc.

When I arrived about half an hour before my appointment, I found lines of cars being organized and directed through the parking lot toward tents on the far side. I pulled in behind the last car and recognized that I would be able to sit, comfortable and warm, in my car as I moved toward my vaccination. What a relief.

There were folks directing the lines, folks taking my information and entering it into tablets — yes, they did have my appointment! — folks guiding me forward, and finally, a gentle soul giving me the vaccination. Actually, there were then more folks, guiding me to the parking area to wait the 15 minutes to assure I did not have an adverse reaction, and finally folks advising me it was OK to leave, and guiding me out to the street. Uniformly, everyone was so kind, so considerate and so competent. Heroes, all. They were all standing and working in the cold, while I sat, comfortable and warm in my familiar car. What more could I ask?

And the system worked so well! From signing up online, to being regularly advised via email and text of the next steps in the process, when I was eligible for vaccination, when appointments were available and reminders of when my time was approaching. I’ve had a lot of experience with governmental processes and seldom found them so efficient and effective. The entire community, from the state, the governor, the Department of Health, all the way through Optum Urgent Care and each and every one of those heroes standing in the cold who provided such quality care, deserve our heartfelt gratitude and congratulations. You certainly have mine! Thank you.

STEPHEN PALEVICH Albuquerque