The Loretto Hospital, in partnership with Affinity Health, announced the opening of registration for COVID-19 vaccine trials slated to begin early 2021. Amid optimism surrounding anticipated FDA approval of an initial vaccine, the announcement coincides with public health officials’ assertions that multiple vaccines will be needed to ensure access and efficacy across all populations, including the Black and Latinx communities disproportionately impacted by the pandemic. Qualified participants for the COVID-19 vaccine trials at The Loretto Hospital must be 18 years of age, or older, and in relatively good health. Individuals interested in registering for consideration for participation in the trials should visit www.affinityhealthcorp.com. Selected participants will receive free healthcare for up to two years, regardless of insurance status, including medical examinations by Board certified physicians and bloodwork, and are free to opt out of the study at any point. To date, The Loretto Hospital has provided more than 18,000 COVID tests to community members at no out-of-pocket cost, regardless of insurance status, symptoms, exposure, or medical history. The hospital offers walk-up testing, 9 a.m. to Noon, Monday through Friday, with no physician referral or appointment needed. For additional information, visit www.lorettohospital.org/covid-19-testing/.