Jenna Castorena couldn’t believe her ears when she picked up a call in March from the Outpatient Pharmacy at CHOC Hospital. She was juggling a lot at the time, most importantly protecting her medically fragile son Robert from contracting COVID-19.
Robert, who has epilepsy, cerebral palsy, chronic lung disease and several gastrointestinal issues, depends on multiple medications. He needs them to control seizures, manage stomach troubles and prevent pneumonia. He was due for refills when his mom heard from the CHOC Pharmacy.
“It was amazing! The pharmacy called to let me know they would personally deliver Robert’s medications to our home so we wouldn’t need to venture out in the pandemic,” recalls Jenna. “I can’t imagine how much work went into creating this personalized service, but I am incredibly grateful to the team for always making the safety and wellness of patients a priority.”
CHOC launched the prescription delivery service at the start of the pandemic in California, as lockdown orders were taking place across the state. The temporary service was intended for all CHOC Outpatient Pharmacy patients, particularly for those with severely compromised immune systems. Some of the patients rely on public transportation, placing them at increased risk when out in public.
Since the service began in March, the Outpatient Pharmacy has logged more than 10,700 miles and delivered more than 3,400 prescriptions. A quarter of the medications are difficult to obtain in the community.
“Our goal is to ensure our patients receive their medications in a timely manner and without unnecessary risk during the pandemic. We want to keep them safe and healthy, and provide additional peace of mind to their families,” explains Grace Magedman, PharmD, executive director, pharmacy services, CHOC.
Long-time CHOC supporter Hyundai Motor America heard about the delivery service and was quick to lend support. The company was already in the process of donating $200,000 to CHOC’s COVID-19 Relief Fund. Their generosity inspired local dealer, Russell Westbrook Hyundai of Anaheim, to donate three Hyundai Santa Fe vehicles for use in delivering the medications.
“During these challenging times, it’s heartwarming to see the community come together, and we would expect nothing less from our friends at Hyundai,” says Magedman. “Our prescription delivery service has been a valued resource for so many families who must take extraordinary efforts to protect their children, and it couldn’t have been possible without the inspiring commitment of our heroes in Pharmacy and collaborating departments. We are grateful for the role we play in safeguarding the health and well-being of the community we serve, especially its most medically fragile members.”
