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In response to the low vaccination numbers in vulnerable populations, the DoHAC funded the Vulnerable Populations COVID-19 Vaccination Program to remove barriers to vaccination.
Through the program CHN, ACT’s PHN, commissioned general practice, pharmacies, other health and community care providers to undertake activities to promote and support COVID-19 vaccinations to vulnerable groups. The funding also covered the cost of vaccination for non-Medicare patients. Activities included:
- in-reach clinics e.g., Residential Aged Care Facilities, Supported Disability Accommodation or Supported Independent Living residents, Embassies, sex on premises locations
- Pop-up clinics e.g. held in community facilities or events
- Mobile clinics e.g. vaccinations offered from a purpose-built van at locations responsive to need
- Clinics at the general practice or pharmacy premises
- Support to access vaccination e.g. transport
- Vaccinations in home to those who are homebound
- Resource development to support people with language barriers.
CHN commissioned the following providers to deliver these services:
- Women’s Centre for Health Matters
- Meridian Incorporated
- Gungahlin Square Priceline Pharmacy
- Amcal+ Pharmacy Belconnen
- Erindale Pharmacy
- Company Medical Services
- Erindale Healthcare
- Gungahlin Family Healthcare
- Guardian Pharmacy Belconnen
- Interchange Health Co-Operative
- Next Practice Deakin.
Over the last 8 months, 2,102 vaccinations were provided, including 161 for non-Medicare clients and 85 homebound people.
Testimonial
Guardian Pharmacy, Belconnen ran 3 successful vaccination pop-up clinics at the following venues:
- Havelock Housing provide a range of affordable, social and specialist disability housing to assist those in need across the ACT and Southern NSW region. A BBQ was held to encourage residents and homeless clients to attend, with 26 people receiving COVID-19 vaccinations.
- Ngunnawal Street Pantry is a home-based volunteer run service for the local community to access donated food, clothes and other essentials. Three pop-up clinics were held, with the third clinic vaccinating 83 people within some of the target groups including children aged 5-11, children with disabilities aged 5-11, frail aged and refugees, some without Medicare.
- Canberra City Care provide a range of practical help for people experiencing financial hardship. 26 people were provided with COVID-19 vaccinations.
