Exploratory Pilot Study Engages Community Health Workers to Test Drone-Based Package Delivery System for Personal Protective Equipment in High-Risk Appalachia Population

Authors: Frances J Feltner, William Mace Baker, Beth Bowling, Bart Massey, Sydney Howard, Ellen J Hahn

During the COVID-19 pandemic, a team tested using drones to deliver personal protective equipment (PPE) to remote Appalachian areas. Community health workers educated participants on PPE use, and drones delivered supplies to 10 clients. Most participants found the process easy, and mask-wearing increased from 60% to 90%. Participants rated PPE as effective in preventing disease, and 80% were very satisfied with drone deliveries. The study helped develop a request to expand drone use in remote areas and showed drones could support health promotion in isolated communities.