South Australians experiencing homelessness can access the COVID-19 vaccination through a mobile outreach program on trial in the Adelaide CBD.
CALHN and SA Ambulance Service (SAAS) staff members will use a decommissioned ambulance vehicle to transport and administer the vaccine to vulnerable members of community at Baptist Care SA West.
Pictured: Baptist Care SA, CALHN, SAAS representatives at Westcare Church after administrating COVID-19 vaccinations.
The trial marks the first stage of the outreach program to service the complex and evolving needs of clients experiencing or at risk of homelessness across South Australia.
“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,” said CALHN Executive Lead for COVID-19, Rachael Kay.
SAAS COVID-19 Incident Commander, Chris Howie, said not having a safe place to call home means that some South Australians often face barriers in accessing healthcare and are more susceptible 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,” Mr Howie said.
The program being developed through a partnership between SA Health and the SA Homelessness Alliances and will be provided through the Wayville clinic team for vaccinations and ability to book for a second dose.
