Ensuring equity of delivery for people living with disability

A dedicated clinic for people who have a disability, impairment or long-term health condition to receive their COVID-19 vaccination has been established at the New Plymouth Vaccination Centre.

The low-sensory clinic will cater for anyone who would find it challenging to attend a regular clinic, whatever the reason.

Andrea Rowe, Taranaki COVID-19 Vaccination Programme disability lead, said “We are vaccinating more than 400 people a day as a norm, which can make for a busy, high-energy, noisy clinic.

“Some people find this a hard environment to be in, and so we decided to a create a calmer space that made receiving a vaccination a more positive experience.”

The clinics will take place every Thursday morning between 9am and 11am for booked appointments, and any requirements can be accommodated.

“We really want people to tell us what barriers they feel are preventing them from receiving their COVID-19 vaccination, so we can find a way of removing them,” says Andrea.

Rachel Court, Taranaki COVID-19 Vaccination Programme operations lead, said “Delivering an equitable roll out for the people of Taranaki is something we are passionate about as a team, and the accessibility clinic is one example of that.”

If anyone would like to attend this clinic, or is a carer for someone who would like to attend, please contact Andrea on Covid.VacEnquiries@tdhb.co.nz