Editor, The Transcript:
I went to the Cleveland County Health Department for a H1N1 flu shot today.
After all of the hype, I was fully prepared for a long, tedious wait in line. I was expecting all of the warmth, compassion and efficiency of the Department of Motor Vehicles. What I found was a very efficient government service. They had a person greeting people, directing them to the vaccine area. Once inside, a lady gave me forms to fill out and a number. I sat down, filled out my one page form. After waiting no more than five minutes, they called my number. I signed in, and was directed to get my shot. A nurse gave me my inoculation and also smiled and chatted with me. Total time elapsed: 20 minutes. This might sound like a slow day at the clinic, but they were moving people through their system so quickly and efficiently, that it was deceptive. There was a steady stream of people coming in and going out. I'd estimate maybe 75 people were inoculated during my 20-minute visit. Obviously, they had planned and organized for just this sort of health crisis. They were well staffed, professional, efficient, cheerful and friendly.
To the men and women of the health department, thank you for your service.
Mike Thomas
Norman
