What It’s Like Treating Immune-Compromised Patients During COVID-19

The beginning of COVID-19 pandemic marked a 180-degree change in my role as a pharmacist at UCLA Health. Patients who were once coming in, receiving their medications and patient consultations, were encouraged to stay home and skip their doctors appointments, thus resulting in them not receiving their medications.

My current patient population here happens to be those that have had a recent lung, liver, heart or other type of organ transplant. For this reason, about 90% of the patients I see and talk to each day are categorized in the immune-compromised group.

“[Transplant] patients are at extremely high risk of infection, as their immune system is already at an all-time low. My passion has been to help these patients as much as possible, and with the COVID-19 pandemic, I have had to ponder ways to make it safe and easy for them to receive their medications.” — Nicole Lavian

These patients are at extremely high risk of infection, as their immune system is already at an all time low. My passion has been to help these patients as much as possible, and with the COVID-19 pandemic, I have had to ponder ways to make it safe and easy for them to receive their medications. Mail order service is now being provided, along with virtual consultations, whether it is via Skype, FaceTime or simply over the phone. Patients no longer need to leave their homes and put themselves at risk. This truly goes without saying: “We came to work for you, please stay at home for us!”

My motivation is knowing that I wake up each morning and am able to help someone in need. Most importantly, I am able to put a smile on someone’s face. I am grateful for everything I do and for those I can help each day.