EMPHN is continuing to accept referrals for in-reach home visits from healthcare agencies, providers, GPs and health communities within the EMPHN catchment to vaccinate people who cannot leave home to receive a COVID-19 vaccination. The Vulnerable Peoples Homebound Vaccination Program (VPHVP) is an Australian Government initiative to provide vaccinations to the vulnerable populations. The homebound may include but are not limited to the frail aged and elderly, and people living with a disability or a mental health condition which prevents them from leaving their home.
The Eastern Melbourne (EMPHN), South Eastern Melbourne (SEMPHN) and North Western Melbourne (NWMPHN) Primary Health Networks have partnered to deliver the vaccination program to homebound clients within their specific regions. PHNs are well placed to support and coordinate local solutions in their regions and facilitate urgent vaccination of vulnerable populations in collaboration with COVID-19 vaccination providers including general practices, pharmacies, contracted providers and state health services (as appropriate and in accordance with local legislative frameworks).
The Vulnerable Peoples Homebound Vaccination Program can accept referrals for:
- Primary course COVID-19 vaccine dose 1 and 2
- COVID-19 vaccine immune-compromised dose 3
- COVID-19 vaccine booster
- COVID-19 vaccine winter dose
Our vaccine providers can now also co-administer flu vaccines to patients eligible under the National Immunisation Program (NIP) who are also receiving their COVID-19 vaccine. Please note that we cannot accept referrals for flu vaccine only.
Referral Process
Once we have received a referral, a vaccination provider will contact the homebound person (or nominated contact person) to schedule a time for the in-reach home visit.
Based on research and analysis, EMPHN has identified the following groups as most vulnerable in our catchment. If you have a patient or know of someone in the community who cannot leave the home to receive a COVID-19 vaccination, please send a request for vaccination using the link provided below.
Homebound
The target vulnerable populations are those people who may be homebound and cannot leave the home to receive a COVID-19 vaccination. They may include but are not limited to the frail aged and elderly, and people living with a disability or a mental health condition which prevents them from leaving their home.
Communities
EMPHN acknowledges groups including; homeless population, rural and remote communities, culturally and linguistically diverse communities with inclusive of individuals whom identify as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander require access to vaccines. Additionally, individuals without or not eligible for Medicare cards or have difficulty accessing the vaccine through existing mechanisms will be provided the opportunity to be vaccinated during this activity.
Contact Info
If you require more information, please contact covidresponse@emphn.org.au