The Vulnerable Peoples Homebound Vaccination Program (VPHVP) is an Australian Government funded initiative, supporting vulnerable populations to access the COVID-19 vaccine. EMPHN continues to accept referrals from GPs and other healthcare providers within the EMPHN catchment to vaccinate people who meet the homebound eligibility criteria and are eligible to receive a COVID-19 vaccination in line with the latest Australian Technical Advisory Group (ATAGI) advice.
Eligibility
People eligible for an in-reach vaccination service include but are not limited to:
- those who are experiencing homelessness, including those living on the streets, in emergency accommodation, boarding houses or between temporary shelters;
- those who do not have a Medicare card or are not eligible for Medicare;
- people with a disability or who are frail and cannot leave home (homebound individuals);
- people in rural and remote areas with limited healthcare options, including those who cannot travel to a regional centre;
- First Nations Peoples;
- people living in and remote communities;
- culturally, ethnically and linguistically diverse people, especially asylum seekers and refugees and those in older age groups who may find it difficult to use other vaccination services;
- children aged 5-11 who have complex needs, who are not captured by another suitable vaccination channel, and
- any other vulnerable groups identified as requiring dedicated support to access vaccinations.
Referral Process
To refer, please complete our referral form. 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.
Further enquiries
If you require more information, please contact covidresponse@emphn.org.au.