Dear colleagues,
We’ve got some cause for optimism this week: we’ve reached 750,000 doses delivered across our West Metro COVID-19 Vaccination Program, Victoria has reached its 70 per cent first dose milestone, there are early signs that cases are starting to stabilise in the west, and the Doggies are in the Grand Final this weekend.
Western Health priority booking for staff and household contacts
We’ve seen huge demand for this new service with a total of 2188 booking requests received. We’ve so far vaccinated 1487 household members and we’re working hard to process the remaining requests as quickly as we can. Thanks for your patience.
Push for mandatory vaccination for healthcare workers gains pace
As Russell flagged in his webinar last week, it is likely the Victorian Government will make vaccination mandatory for healthcare workers soon. This follows the direction for residential aged care workers that came into effect on 7 September, and the NSW and Queensland Governments’ recent introduction of mandatory COVID-19 vaccines for health workers.
There is no time to delay. If you have not yet been vaccinated, I urge you to get your first dose as soon as possible. Please also get your second dose of vaccine as soon as it is due.
If you have been vaccinated elsewhere, it is vital that we have your records up to date. If you have not yet done so, please complete this quick survey to get your records updated.
We’ll have more information for you soon regarding mandatory vaccinations for healthcare workers.
Vaccination blitzes
In addition to accommodating the general population, our vaccination hubs have been busy with blitzes for residential aged care workers, VCE students, pregnant women and construction workers. Walk-in times for construction workers are available at our Melton and Wyndham Eagle Stadium sites (8am-11am every day, and 4pm-5pm on Thursday and Friday until Sunday 26 September).
More workforces can now access reserved Pfizer appointments
As of 12 September, more workforces at risk of COVID-19 are able to access reserved Pfizer appointments including residential care workers; family violence workers (DFFH-funded); family and parenting services staff; sexual assault services (CASA); child protection staff; housing staff; correction staff and residents; COVID response authorised officers involved in household engagement programs, hotel quarantine and ports of entry; Victorian Building Authority Authorised Officers; other care services workforces who undertake frontline activities
People who get vaccinated as part of access to reserved Pfizer appointments should follow the standard six-week dose interval between COVID-19 vaccine doses. Priority appointments can only be made via the Coronavirus Hotline on 1800 675 398. On-site attestation (can be verbal) or a signed eligibility declaration form is all that is required for people who are accessing reserved Pfizer appointments.
Have a great week – and I hope it’s good news for all you Doggies supporters.
Regards,
Shane Crowe
Executive Director Nursing and Midwifery