261 Providing Equity in Immunizations and Research

Abstract

OBJECTIVES/GOALS: Disparities persist among minority and marginalized populations in immunizations and research. The Clinical Research Vehicle Team aimed to bring research to our community’s doorstep, building generalizability of research outcomes. Our mission adapted due to the pandemic to include increasing COVID-19 vaccinations and health education. METHODS/STUDY POPULATION: Community Engagement Events are planned when event organizers submit a request, then the proposal is discussed by the Clinical Research Vehicle (CRV) Team and UF HealthStreet. We go to underserved communities throughout Florida, food distributions, churches, community centers, rural areas, etc. At these events we offer services at no cost, including: COVID-19 and flu vaccines, as well as health screenings. We provide health education to individuals and refer them to UF HealthStreet for community resources, as appropriate. Research events are planned when researchers submit a request for the CRV, then the request is discussed by the CRV Team. The studies covered topics from COVID-19 research to the development of a diverse health database. Our fleet consists of two Community Health Vehicles and the CRV. RESULTS/ANTICIPATED RESULTS: As Community Engagement Events are ongoing, the presented numbers are reflective of the data available at the time of submission. Our impact includes administering 1,606+ COVID vaccines, conducting 1,081+ health screenings, collecting data from 944 screenings, providing 265 Flu vaccines, supporting 267+ community health events, and serving 25+ communities. The Clinical Research Vehicle facilitated 6 IRB-approved studies, administration of monoclonal antibody infusions, extended the capabilities of the Clinical Research Center, and enabled clinical trials aimed for novel treatments for COVID-19 positive participants. DISCUSSION/SIGNIFICANCE: Championing this initiative has shown an impact on vaccination rates and health education in communities. Experience and knowledge gained by our team throughout the pandemic while engaging with community members provided a platform from which to build generalizability of research outcomes and support translational science.