Immunisation
Program Co-ordinator: Wendy Wilcox
Description
The Immunisation Program aims to decrease the prevalence of vaccine preventable diseases through improved immunisation coverage rates in the community.
This is to be achieved through the following strategies:
- Providing assistance for GPs and practice staff to effectively and efficiently manage, deliver and monitor immunisation in their Practice;
- Increasing the number of GPs/Practices that are up-to-date and comply with the National Guidelines on the safe transport and storage of vaccines (cold chain);
- Increasing the number of GP members participating in the General Practice Immunisation Incentive and PIP programmes and encourage improved participation of those currently involved;
- Improving community awareness and understanding of the importance of Immunisation.
GP Incentive Payments - General Practice Immunisation Incentives Scheme
Financial immunisation incentives for GP’s began in July 1998. The General Practice Immunisation Incentives scheme (GPII) provides financial incentives to GPs who monitor, record, promote and provide age appropriate immunisation to children under the age of 7. See Health Insurance Commission website for further information about General Practice Immunisation Incentives Program.
Division GP Support – How we can help you ?
Education
Provision of a range of education, information and support opportunities to GPs and practice staff, based on identified education/training needs.
Practice Support and Visits
Assistance to practices with the use and accuracy of lodging immunisation information electronically into the ACIR database to maximise incentive payments and increase accuracy of data on immunisation rates in the Shoalhaven.
Cold Chain Management
Assistance to practices to comply with minimum standards of cold chain management of vaccines.
Updates
Provision of updates on vaccines and relevant immunisation issues.
Immunisation Resources developed by the Shoalhaven Division of General Practice
Cold Chain
- Purchasing thermometers
- Daily vaccine fridge log
- Cold Chain Guidelines
- Resetting Vaccisafes
- Cold Chain Failure Protocols
Consumers
- Post Vaccination Parent Advice Sheet
- Hepatitis B Information for Parents/Carers
- Immunisation for 4 year olds Advice Sheet/Poster
- Changes for 18 month olds
Resources for Practice Staff and Practice Nurses
Contact the Immunisation Program Liaison Officer if you require any of these resources.