NORTHERN Health has marked one year of its successful COVID-19 vaccination program, providing more than 336,000 vaccines to the community to date.
Northern Health initially commenced the vaccination rollout at Northern Hospital Epping, when healthcare workers were prioritised to receive vaccines.
In June 2021, Northern Health commenced operating a mass vaccination hub at the Plenty Ranges Arts and Convention Centre, PRACC, in South Morang, in collaboration with the City of Whittlesea, to assist in a mass vaccination.
In January 2022, it also opened a paediatric vaccination clinic for children aged five to 11.
Northern Health chief nursing and midwifery officer Lisa Cox congratulated staff on their work during the past year and their contribution to protecting the community.
“I am very proud of all Northern Health healthcare workers, including our nurses, who have led and worked within the COVID-19 vaccination clinics both on site and externally at PRACC over the past 12 months,” she said.
“Our staff have contributed tremendously, not only to Northern Health’s COVID-19 response, but collectively with other health services and agencies to Victoria’s COVID-19 response, by providing a timely service to protect our staff, patients, community and the state of Victoria.
“Staff have had to work under an ever-changing environment, conditions and timelines, but have always delivered – and with a smile.”
Vaccination clinic nurse unit manager Shanice Molinaro said it was a ‘privilege and honour’ to have been a part vaccine rollout and to assist and support keeping the community safe.
“A very big thank you for all of the hard work and efforts by all that have been involved in the COVID-19 vaccination hub the last 12 months. The time, dedication and perseverance has assisted in keeping Victoria safe,” she said.
Meanwhile, DPV Health celebrated its own milestone of 100,000 administered vaccinations earlier this month and extended thanks to the communities of Hume and Whittlesea for getting vaccinated.
DPV Health has operated three vaccination hubs and more than 100 pop up location across Melbourne during the pandemic.
DPV Health primary care general manager Kylie Rhook said cooperation with councils and community organisations played an important role in achieving the milestone.
“This milestone is an outcome of the extensive collaboration with state government, local government, community organisations, community leaders and the wider community,” she said.
“Customising the vaccination program to have vaccination hubs at convenient locations, supported by community engagement and tailored communications, gives the community the best opportunity to access vaccinations.”
DPV marked the occasion last week with an event at Broadmeadows Town Hall, which included a free barbecue, face painting, balloon twister and a goodie bag giveaway.
