Targeting COVID-19 vaccinations in vulnerable populations
The Australian Government’s Vulnerable Vaccination Program (VVP) enables Primary Health Networks (PHNs) to develop and implement innovative, short term COVID-19 vaccination activities tailored to the needs of priority populations.
In order to support and coordinate the delivery of these activities across the South Eastern NSW PHN region, COORDINARE is offering reimbursement, funding, and small grant opportunities until 31 December 2024.
The purpose of these activities are to address any social, cultural or physical barriers that may be preventing vulnerable groups from accessing the COVID-19 vaccination, including concerns that are causing hesitancy in receiving the vaccinations.
A number of populations have been identified as having difficulty accessing COVID-19 vaccines. This includes (but is not limited to):
- those who are experiencing homelessness, including those living on the streets, in emergency accommodation, boarding houses or between temporary shelters;
- those who do not have a Medicare card or are not eligible for Medicare;
- people with a disability or who are frail and cannot leave home (homebound individuals);
- people in rural and remote areas with limited healthcare options, including those who cannot travel to a regional centre;
- First Nations Peoples;
- people living in and remote communities;
- culturally, ethnically and linguistically diverse people, especially asylum seekers and refugees and those in older age groups who may find it difficult to use other vaccination services;
- children aged 5-11 who have complex needs, who are not captured by another suitable vaccination channel; and
- any other vulnerable groups identified as requiring dedicated support to access vaccinations e.g. residential aged care and disability housing residents and staff.
