15 February 2022 Bay of Plenty DHB COVID-19 vaccine rollout
Clinical update Paediatric vaccination clinics for tamariki aged 5 and older The Bay of Plenty DHB is committed to an equitable COVID-19 vaccine rollout, including for tamariki with disabilities, pre-existing conditions, needle-phobia and other barriers to vaccination. The following upcoming paediatric services are available for children aged five and older throughout the district: Service One • For tamariki with needle-phobia, autism spectrum disorder and/or other disabilities preventing COVID-19 vaccination at a community clinic. A play therapist will be present to assist children during the vaccination process. • Friday, 25 February 2022, in the outpatient department of the Whakatāne Hospital. • Available on request at Tauranga Hospital’s Day Stay Unit. • Services at both Tauranga and Whakatāne Hospitals are booked by referral only from a healthcare provider, including doctors and pharmacists. Doctors can refer patients through the e-referral pathway on www.bpac.org.nz. Pharmacists can email patient details to ask.covidvax@bopdhb.govt.nz. Service Two • For tamariki with pre-existing conditions and/or allergies that pose greater risk of COVID-19 vaccination. A paediatrician and play therapist will be present to assist with a safe vaccination process. • Saturday, 19 February 2022, in the outpatient department of the Tauranga Hospital. • This service with a play therapist is available on request at Whakatāne Hospital’s outpatient department. • Parents or healthcare providers can call 0800 829 000 to book tamariki for this service. If you or mātua (parents) you liaise with have questions about either of these services, or any other activity to support vaccination for tamariki with barriers to vaccination, please contact Katherine Sporle on 027 235 7827 or via ask.covidvax@bopdhb.govt.nz. Ngā mihi nui Katherine Sporle Disability lead: COVID-19 vaccine rollout Bay of Plenty District Health Board