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No one escapes the 'Shot Lady'

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Heather Kelly
  • 920th Rescue Wing Public Affairs
PATRICK AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. (AFNS) --  It's a Saturday afternoon during the Air Force Reserve's 920th Rescue Wing drill weekend and the clinic is buzzing with activity. Servicemembers waiting for flight physicals pass the time chatting while others choke down copious amounts of water in preparation for their random-drug tests.

A determined and distinct voice travels down the hallway, cutting through the chatter.

"Who's next?" Maj. Paula Pino calls out to the occupants in the immunizations lab.

Affectionately known as the "Shot Lady," Major Pino, assigned to the 920th Aeromedical Staging Squadron, is charged with the task of ensuring every 920th RQW member is current on their immunizations. It's a never-ending mission, but one she doesn't take lightly.

"Nobody wants shots. We decided to take a different approach to get the job done," Major Pino said. "I wanted to make immunizations a friendlier place. People are very busy. they don't have time to come over for one shot. Reservists have two days to do what active duty (members have) a month to do. We try to make it more convenient, so we went mobile."

Major Pino is referring to her "The Away Team." Once a quarter, the immunizations team visits units to administer required shots to overdue members.

Another team Major Pino oversees is the "Strike Team." The immunizations team strategically calls overdue reservists on the phone to see if they're present during the drill weekend. If so, they'll bring the immunization clinic to them.

"A lot of times they just can't get out of the office and we understand," Major Pino said. "We take a proactive approach to ensure accountability. If you can't come to the clinic, we will come to you."

The practice has produced results, according to her patients.

"She's great at her job," said Master Sgt. Olga Medina, the wing military equal opportunity adviser. "She's kind and caring, but she's like a predator on prey. She'll get you if you're not current. You can run, but you can't hide!"

"Immunization currency affects a bigger picture," Major Pino said. "If we send folks out unprepared, we are not doing our jobs. It's just like equipment, physical training, uniforms, etcetera. It's a critical component of our mission readiness. We would like folks to understand we are here to help, not hurt."