Increase COVID-19 vaccination among Aboriginal people in NSW – a message to General Practice in Hunter New England and the Central Coast

Building on trusted relationships with your patients and the local community, General Practice is well placed to overcome barriers to vaccination among Aboriginal people, including misunderstanding about eligibility and concerns about adverse reactions.

NSW Health suggests the following to increase COVID-19 vaccination rates among Aboriginal people:

• Ensure eligible Aboriginal people are prioritised for a vaccination appointment
• Contact existing eligible Aboriginal patients and offer priority vaccination
• Ensure people who enquire about COVID-19 vaccination are asked if they identify as Aboriginal, to confirm their vaccination eligibility
• Offer vaccination to Aboriginal patients when attending for other reasons
• If you are not providing COVID-19 vaccination, refer Aboriginal patients to another provider
• Display/use hardcopy posters and social media images to encourage vaccination

Information to support health professionals to talk to Aboriginal people about vaccination is available here.

NSW Health appreciates the significant contribution General Practice in Hunter New England and the Central Coast is making to the COVID-19 control and prevention efforts – thank you.