JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – Michelle Yarnall, administrator of Pediatric Associates of Southwest Missouri in Joplin has been named Missouri’s Immunization Champion for her outstanding efforts to promote immunizations.
Nominated by the Bureau of Immunizations within the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS), Yarnall is recognized for initiating an innovative plan to continue serving patients during the pandemic.
Yarnall optimized the clinic flow to ensure patients could receive immunizations without having to physically enter the clinic, avoiding unnecessary and potential exposure. Parents and the patient would stay inside the vehicle in the parking lot in front of the clinic and the medical staff would take out all of the items needed to complete the well-child visit, including routine immunizations.
“This groundbreaking and inventive approach offered parents and their children the opportunity to stay healthy and well during a very difficult time,” the nomination read.
Immunization Champion selections come from a pool of health professionals, coalition members, community advocates and other immunization leaders. These awards acknowledge the outstanding efforts of individuals who go above and beyond ensuring immunization access in their communities. The Association of Immunization Managers (AIM), an organization dedicated to providing support to immunization programs nationwide, awards one winner in each state and the District of Columbia.