South Australians experiencing homelessness will be able to access the COVID-19 vaccination through an outreach program on trial located in the Adelaide CBD.
Central Adelaide Local Health Network (CALHN) and SA Ambulance Service (SAAS) staff members will use a decommissioned SAAS vehicle to transport and administer the COVID-19 vaccines to vulnerable community members residing at Baptist Care SA West.
CALHN Executive Lead for COVID-19, Rachael Kay, says the trial marks the first step of the outreach program.
“People experiencing homelessness may not be able to attend a clinic to receive their COVID-19 vaccine, so we are looking at what we can do to help get the vaccine to them,” Kay says.
SAAS COVID-19 Incident Commander, Chris Howie, says that South Australians who are homeless face challenges when it comes to accessing healthcare and are more prone to illness.
“A mobile service is a positive solution that not only protects vulnerable members of our community from COVID-19 but also others in South Australia – including paramedics and other healthcare workers,” Howie says.
“It is important that all South Australians have access to this vital vaccine. Our crews are committed to utilising their out-of-hospital expertise to help bring it to those who may not be able to access it by more traditional means.”
The program is being developed via a partnership between SA Health and the SA Homelessness Alliances. The outreach program will be provided through the Wayville clinic team for vaccinations and the ability to book for a second dose.