NYSFTD call on Pfizer to donate 30,000 vaccines to city drivers

The New York State Federation of Taxi Drivers (NYSFTD) has called on Pfizer, a New York headquartered company, to donate 30,000 vaccines to city drivers who will transport patients to and from vaccine appointments. 

NYSFTD spokesperson Fernando Mateo made the call Wednesday at a press briefing in front of Pfizer headquarters in mid-town Manhattan.

Mateo also announced the launch of the E-Shuttle transportation program with Sentry Management Solutions.  

“The NYSFTD urges Pfizer and Governor Cuomo to help the first 30,000 city drivers so they can help vaccine efforts with the safe transport of New Yorkers in need. With the surge in COVID-19 cases and trips now happening with windows rolled up in the cold weather, drivers are more at risk of contracting and spreading the virus than ever before,” he said. “Vaccinated drivers are critical to ensuring a safe and successful vaccine program overall. Because the vaccine takes about ten days to take effect, patients need to continue taking all precautions including safe transportation during that time,” said Mateo.

Mateo also announced a vaccine transportation partnership (E-Shuttle) with Sentry Management Solutions, a healthcare transportation broker. 

“Sentry, using its transportation technology, is fully equipped and ready to schedule, track, record and monitor patients during transport for their first and follow-up vaccine doses. Patients at risk need to ask their health plans (HealthFirst, MetroPlus, EmblemHealth, Welcare etc) about their vaccine plan and should mention the need for safe transportation,” concluded Mateo.