The Pharmacy Guild of Australia, Queensland Branch’s Acting President, Chris Owen, has said that Queenslanders had accessed almost 30,000 COVID-19 vaccinations through the 700 Queensland community pharmacies administering vaccinations in metropolitan, regional and remote areas.
A complete list of community pharmacies participating in the COVID-19 vaccine rollout can be found on findapharmacy.com.au/qldpharmacy.
Mr. Owen said community pharmacies across Queensland are now working around the clock to meet the demand from Queenslanders.
“We’ve been amazed at the response from Queenslanders across the state wanting to come in have access to COVID-19 vaccinations,” said Mr. Owen, “In particular, we have seen a lot of interest from the community with pharmacies located in the urban areas. The feedback we’re receiving is that Queenslanders welcome the ability to access the vaccine through their local community pharmacy.
“With 97% of consumers in capital cities and 66% in regional areas living within 2.5km of a pharmacy, it makes sense for pharmacy to be at the forefront of the rollout. Community pharmacies are also the most frequently visited primary healthcare destinations,” said Mr. Owen.
“The message we’re sending Queenslanders when it comes to vaccines is clear,” said Mr. Owen, “If you’re over 18, get the vaccine.”
“Community pharmacists are primary healthcare experts, including for vaccines. Pharmacists are one of the most trusted primary healthcare professionals and are readily available to discuss the COVID-19 vaccine’s risks and benefits to ensure that patients make informed decisions,” said Mr. Owen.
“Regardless of your age, when you arrive at your community pharmacy, your pharmacist will undertake a health assessment and discuss the risks and benefits of the COVID-19 vaccine. Both the patient and vaccinator need be satisfied that the benefits outweigh the risks before any vaccination takes place,” said Mr. Owen.
“Anyone administering a COVID-19 vaccine in community pharmacies has undergone the Commonwealth’s mandatory training with the Australian College of Nurses on this specific vaccine.”
Mr. Owen said community pharmacies continued to receive doses of AstraZeneca and would begin offering the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines in September this year.
