Atrium Health creates COVID-19 registry

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Atrium Health is moving quickly to begin more trials of a COVID-19 vaccine in Charlotte.

A doctor with the healthcare provider told Channel 9 that trials could begin as early as next month.

Atrium launched its “STRIVE COVID-19 Vaccine Registry” Tuesday as researchers take on the challenge of finding a large, diverse pool of volunteers. They’re facing that challenge using knowledge and resources gained while testing for the virus.

Some are onboard about testing vaccines.

“I think it’s a good idea,” resident Dionne Taylor said.

Others are apprehensive about the research.

“I just don’t want to be the lab rat,” resident Sh’Ronne Spruill said. “You know what I’m saying? I don’t want to be the test. I would just want more information about it.”

Atrium’s registry would help researchers find people who would be willing to participate. Dr. Christine Turley, who is with Atrium Health Pediatrics, is helping lead the team of researchers.

She said there are many who will want to take part in the research.

“You don’t find anyone anywhere who hasn’t had a negative impact from COVID-19, and participating in a vaccine trial may be the first step for some people to take some control back a little bit.” Turley said.

Turley explained the process Tuesday and said people can sign up through the online registry and Atrium will contact them about volunteering.

Candidates will get a trial vaccine in two doses. They will be tested and monitored and will get some compensation for their time.

“In the first couple of months, there’s probably more engagement because of the dosing. The two doses of the vaccine and the blood tests,” Turley said.

Atrium Health currently tests for COVID-19 on a large scale, and Turley said the same resources, such as mobile test sites and community outreach, will help them achieve diversity.

“There’s a lot of different parts of Charlotte that potentially should want to be a part of this or at least get information about what’s developing here,” Turley said.

Atrium expects about 10,000 people to sign up. The healthcare provider won’t be developing a vaccine and hasn’t said which one researchers will use for their trials. They also don’t know when a vaccine will be available to the public.

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Cox Media Group