Natural State News

The Arkansas Banker’s Association is teaming with the Arkansas Pharmacist’s Association to set up clinics at bank facilities so residents can get COVID-19 vaccine shots.

Laurie Trogden, CEO of the Arkansas Banking Association, said in an interview that the goal is to avoid crowded spaces at pharmacies giving the shots and use more expansive spaces at banks.

"Rural pharmacies have small store locations, so they may not have a location to have their vaccine clinics,” Trogden said. “Obviously, you don't want folks crowded around in a small store. Banks stepped up and said, 'We have facilities that may have parking lot space or maybe several lines in the drive-thru lanes.'"

During an interview with journalist Roby Brock, host of the Talk Business & Politics news show, Trogden said the project will make use of space at banks to administer the shots in bank parking lots, drive-thru lanes and lobbies.

“They (banks) have a variety of space that can be utilized by pharmacies to go on-site and do the vaccine shots,” Trogden said.

Trogden said the idea to partner with pharmacists to provide space at bank sites for the vaccination originated with banker James Cargill, incoming chairman of the Banker’s Association.

“He had an idea and brought it to me. We talked about it and said, 'I think this is really good,'” Trogden said. “We went to the Governor’s Office and got their thoughts on it – who paired us with the Pharmacist’s Association."

Trogden added that seven banks had signed up the first two days and the project has gained momentum since.

“One (clinic) is being set up in Little Rock and will run every Tuesday,” she said. “It can give up to 150 shots in a day.”

Trodgen said some banks have recently reopened their lobbies for banking services to the public after being shut down during the pandemic. More will open in April.

She said clinic locations are being locally publicized. People should call their pharmacy to find out the locations where shots are being given.

“Ask if there is a clinic (bank site) in your area and sign up,” Trogden said.