HaysMed
After 25 impactful years, HaysMed is retiring its traditional drive-thru flu shot clinic and launching a more flexible, integrated approach to community health. Starting this fall, flu shots will be offered during its monthly blood screening events- providing a convenient, one-stop opportunity for preventive care.
Why the Change?
The decision to discontinue the drive-thru format comes in response to changing community needs and increased access to free flu shots at local pharmacies such as Walgreens, Walmart, and Dillon’s. While the HaysMed drive-thru clinic once served nearly 4,000 individuals annually, recent participation has dropped below 1,500. This new format allows the hospital to better align with current trends and improve accessibility for the community.
What to Expect:
Participants can now receive a free flu shot, participate in blood screening lab draws, or do both- all in one visit. Flu shots will be available on the following Saturdays from 6:30 a.m. – 10:00a.m. at Entrance B (Miller Pavillion), using parking Lot B on September 6, October 4, or November 1, 2025.
Children’s flu shots will be administered in the same area as adult vaccinations to simplify the experience for families. To help with flow and minimize wait times, participants may choose to go directly to the flu shot station or begin with blood screening.
Since its inception, HaysMed has proudly administered 69,802 flu shots to the community. In 2024 alone, the hospital provided 1,300 adult and 378 pediatric vaccines free of charge, thanks to the support of the HaysMed Foundation.
The HaysMed flu shot events have also supported local families through food donations. In 2024, participants donated 583 pounds of canned food to the Community Assistance Center. Since 2007, the hospital collected a total of 26,854 pounds- nearly 13.5 tons of food!
All attendees are encourage to bring a non-perishable food item to continue this tradition of giving back.
Watch the HaysMed 2025 Flu Shot video below about this change.
HaysMed is thrilled to continue partnering with Fort Hays State University and Fort Hays North Central Tech nursing students, who will assist with flu shot administration. Their involvement ensures hands-on learning and reflects the spirit of community collaboration.
Flu Shot Key Details:
· Free flu shots available for individuals 6 months and older
· No appointment necessary
· Participants may choose to receive a flu shot, participate in blood screening lab draws, or both
· Consent forms available at haysmedfoundation.org/flu – please complete, print, and bring a signed copy for each person being vaccinated
· Short-sleeved shirts recommended for ease of vaccination
· Egg-free vaccines will not be available; individuals with egg allergies should consult their healthcare provider
· High-dose flu vaccines for those 65+ will not be offered at these events
For more information about blood screenings, visit the most recent monthly blood screenings article. For flu shot updates, maps, and logistics, visit haysmedfoundation.org/flu/.
Together, HaysMed is working to keep the community healthy, strong, and connected- now in a format that’s more convenient than ever.