Drugmakers Deploy Medical Staff for COVID-19 Efforts

Pfizer, Eli Lilly and Merck are allowing their employees who are licensed medical professionals to volunteer in COVID-19 medical efforts.

The three drugmakers combined employ thousands of doctors, nurses, pharmacists and other medical professionals. The companies are allowing qualified employees to serve for longer than is normally allowed under existing corporate volunteer programs.

Pfizer created its Global COVID-19 Medical Service Program to empower its medical staff to provide diagnostic, treatment and public health support. Under the program, licensed medical professionals can provide their services during the crisis while receiving their full pay and benefits.

Eli Lilly deployed its medical staff to service a drive-through COVID-19 testing facility in Indianapolis. The company’s scientists partnered with the Indiana State Department of Health to use the company’s laboratories to analyze the COVID-19 tests, as well as samples taken in Indiana healthcare facilities.

Merck said it will support its employees who are qualified to provide medical services and who want to aid communities affected by the pandemic. It intends to work with the Health Management Academy to identify facilities with the greatest need and the qualifying volunteers. — Jordan Williams