The Northern Territory's COVID-19 vaccination surge workforce is set for a staged boost over the next five weeks with 50 student nurses and midwives coming on board.
Second and third year Charles Darwin University student nurses and midwives have already started work under the supervision of a registered nurse or midwife immuniser while participating in counselling, immunisation administration, observation and second dose booking.
All students will complete the National COVID-19 vaccination training program and NT Health essential training and orientation prior to commencing work.
Student nurses and midwives will be based at the Darwin and Palmerston COVID-19 Vaccination Centres to boost the workforce at both NT Health clinics.
The student nurse/midwife model of care provides a surge workforce that has the skills, competency and flexibility to support COVID-19 vaccination and testing sites as required.
This model has been successfully implemented in other states and worked to increase capacity while developing skills for new health professionals.
NT Health has worked closely with ANMF, AHPRA and Charles Darwin University to bring student nurses and midwives on board to assist the Territory's COVID-19 response.
More than 86% of Territorians have received their first COVID-19 vaccination dose and 73% are fully vaccinated.
To book your appointment at an NT Health COVID-19 vaccination clinic visit the website of call the COVID-19 hotline 1800 490 484.
COVID-19 vaccine bookings are available at pharmacies, GP clinics and ACCHOS.
Quotes from Health Minister Natasha Fyles:
"This is a unique and rewarding opportunity for student nurses and midwives to gain practical skills while boosting the Territory's successful response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
"Student nurses and midwives will be supported with a workforce of fully qualified nurses at the centre of this program.
"The Territory Labor Government's successful management of the pandemic has kept Territorians safe and we remain on track to achieve our target of 80% full vaccination in coming weeks."
