MORE than 90 per cent of Hunter and Central Coast general practices have expressed interest in helping to roll out the COVID-19 vaccine, the region's primary health network says.
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Hunter New England Central Coast Primary Health Network chief executive Dr Richard Nankervis said GPs would be the key component in getting the inoculations into the Hunter and beyond.
"This overwhelming response to participate in the vaccine roll out is a testament to the ongoing commitment our local GPs have demonstrated over the past year to keep their patients and local communities safe and well during the pandemic", said Nankervis.
"One of the most pleasing aspects of this great response is that despite the large geographical footprint of our region, from the Hawkesbury River to the Queensland border, everyone living in our region will have the opportunity to access their COVID vaccination through a general practice."
The first stage of roll-out, which is due to begin in March after the Astra Zeneca vaccine is assessed by the Therapeutic Goods Administration, includes front line health workers, residential aged care and disability care residents.
Dr Nankervis said that it would be "an extremely busy time" for GPs but urged everyone who is eligible to receive the immunisation.
"When you get immunised, you protect yourself as well as helping to protect the whole community," he said.
"Our hope is that if enough people in the community get immunised, the infection will no longer spread from person to person. This would mean outbreaks are much less likely, and the need for preventative measures, like travel restrictions, would decrease."