Bay Clinic believes that it will take more than just information to sway the hesitant to get vaccinated. CEO, Dr. Kimo Alameda cites a recent randomized survey by U.C.L.A. that found a third of the unvaccinated population said a cash payment would make them more likely to get a shot. The benefits were largest for those in the group getting $100, which increased willingness (34 percent said they would get vaccinated) by six points over the $25 group.
“We have to do more to encourage Hawai’i Island residents to get the vaccine and perhaps a monetary incentive through the use of gift cards might do it for some”, Alameda stated.
Bay Clinic is the first health entity in the State to encourage the unvaccinated with at least $50 worth in gift cards for the 1st dose and $50 for the 2nd dose, or $100 if they take the Johnson & Johnson vaccine. At the visit, patients will get a mahalo mystery gift bag with gift cards from a random selection of over 20 local supermarkets, restaurants, and otherfood eateries, as well as gas cards.
Dr. Alameda states “stopping the spread will take more than pleas from politicians, friends or medical professionals. Delivering real rewards beyond the vaccine’s health benefits maybe required. This incentive program is also a way to address the increasing food insecurity in East Hawai’i and support local businesses. Truly, a win-win. We will see how it goes.”
Bay Clinic offers all three (3) vaccinations at their COVID Clinic at 305 Wailuku Drive and at many of their outreach events. Appointments are available from 8 to 5 p.m., Monday-Friday. Call 808-965-3047 to schedule an appointment. Walk-ins are also accepted.
Bay Clinic provides services at ten different locations in East Hawaii from Hilo to Ka’ū. Bay Clinic is the only health entity on the island that also offers Dental, Behavioral Health, Women’s Health, Pharmaceutical, Pediatric, Tobacco Cessation, Diabetes Prevention, and the WIC Program. They serve over 21,000 patients with approximately 70,000 patient visits a year, and employ over 200 employees.