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AMA (NSW) President Dr Michael Bonning has called for more innovative strategies to delivering flu vaccinations in response to the NSW Productivity Commission’s report Boosting NSW Influenza Vaccination Rate.
“Prevention is the best form of health care.” Dr Bonning said. “This report clearly shows that investing in vaccination saves hundreds of lives and millions of taxpayer dollars.”
The report found that around 500 lives and $500 million would be saved if just over half of people aged under 65 in New South Wales had a flu vaccination. Currently just 25% of under 65s are vaccinated.
“We need to expand the ways we deliver vaccinations.” Dr Bonning said. “The easier we make it; the more people will get vaccinated.”
AMA (NSW) would like to see increased funding for nurses in general practice to provide incidental vaccination.
“Providing co-ordinated care benefits everyone. It’s more convenient for patients and ensures they get the care they need.”
Dr Bonning also called for strategies such as providing pop-up clinics in well frequented areas such as Service NSW hubs.
“If people can’t come to us. Let’s go to them.” Dr Bonning said.
“We also call for greater steps to improve the delivery of vaccination to vulnerable residents as well as those with a disability. Vaccination rates for people with a disability are critically low.” Dr Bonning said. “While the current NSW Health strategy acknowledges issues with delivery to these groups, further funding and support is urgently required to ensure equal access.”
“Broadening the focus from vaccinating the elderly and children under five to take in the general population has proven benefits.”
The NSW Productivity Commission noted that flu-related deaths fell by almost three quarters in Ontario, Canada after it expanded its flu vaccination to include young and healthy people in 2000.
Media contact: 0419 402 955 | news@amansw.com.au