2022 New Mexico – Uri Bassan
Uri Bassan, RPh
Immunization Program Manager
Best Buy Drugs
Uri was drawn to pharmacy as a profession because he didn’t want to sit in front of a computer all day. “Ironically, I ended up standing in front of a computer all day,” he said. What became evident during the COVID-19 pandemic was his even stronger desire to help others. The registered pharmacist and father of four led a team of Medical Reserve Corps volunteers who set up mobile clinics throughout the state, in fire stations, motels and any available spaces they could find, to administer vaccines. Uri’s story was featured in the New York Times on Nov. 24, 2021. Over a six-month period, the team logged more than 19,000 miles to administer 41,794 vaccines – as many as 700 shots at a single event. Their efforts helped New Mexico overcome the obstacles of poor health infrastructure, especially in the state’s vast rural areas. He is proud of his team’s contributions, “driving thousands of miles all over our large rural state to bring COVID vaccinations to the residents of New Mexico, especially the elderly and disabled.”
Contact: ubassan007@comcast.net