The Pharmacy Guild of Australia, Queensland Branch's Acting President, Chris Owen, said that an additional 82 community pharmacies would begin offering free COVID vaccinations to eligible Queenslanders from today.
Mr. Owen said the additional pharmacies are located in outer metro and regional areas of Queensland and would join the 49 community pharmacies already vaccinating against COVID-19, bringing the total number to 131.
"A list of locations and the Queensland community pharmacies currently providing COVID-19 vaccinations can be found at findapharmacy.com.au/qldpharmacy."
"I am pleased that the Prime Minister is accelerating the COVID-19 vaccination rollout through local community pharmacies," said Mr. Owen, "The only way to ensure we can stop these constant lockdowns is to get as many people as possible vaccinated."
"Today eligible community pharmacies will be invited to express their interest in vaccinating the community against COVID-19. All approved eligible community pharmacies can begin offering COVID-19 vaccines to community members, once they are certified and trained."
"Successfully vaccinating Australians relies on all immunisers working together to achieve one goal - providing many safe and accessible options for Australians to receive their vaccination."
"Including community pharmacies in the vaccine rollout is vital for rural and remote communities who don't have access to doctor surgeries or vaccination hubs."
"Community pharmacies are highly accessible, with 97% of consumers in capital cities and 66% in regional areas living within 2.5km of a pharmacy. Pharmacies are also the most frequently visited primary healthcare destinations, and staff are well placed for significant interactions with members of the public," 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."
