The government must consider utilising Tasmania’s pharmacy network to help roll out COVID vaccines for 5-11-year olds.
Shadow Health Minister Anita Dow said it was crucial the government made a broad range of options available for parents and families wanting to get their children vaccinated.
“With 5-11-year olds now eligible to be vaccinated it is critical they can get access wherever they live and when it’s convenient for busy families,” Ms Dow said.
“Giving pharmacists the ability to administer this vaccine would provide a greater opportunity for children in rural and regional areas where clinics are less frequent to get vaccinated.
“Other jurisdictions have already put this plan in place and the government hasn’t provided an adequate reason why Tasmania could not follow.
“Tasmania’s pharmacies and General Practices have worked incredibly hard throughout this pandemic and I would like to thank them for their hard work and effort in the vaccine rollout.
“Today Pharmacists are once again putting their hands up to help Tasmania in a time of need and the government must seriously consider their role in the vaccine rollout to our 5- 11-year olds.
“School is set to go back in just a month’s time and it is vital the government do everything they can to ensure every Tasmanian child aged 5-11 has had the opportunity, no matter where they live, to be vaccinated before they return to the classroom.”
Anita Dow MP
Shadow Health Minister
