GPs kick-off priority vaccine rollout

 Photo: Dr Ian Williams, GP and AMA Queensland councillor gives registered nurse Debra Bacon her COVID-19 vaccine

About 250 GP clinics will start administering COVID-19 vaccinations to vulnerable Queenslanders from today.

People who are eligible for phase 1b vaccination include healthcare workers, people aged over 70, people with a disability, people with an underlying medical condition and those in high-risk occupations.

“Public demand is very high, which is a great sign that Australians want to protect themselves and the community,” AMA Queensland President Professor Chris Perry said.

“This phase is expected to rollout over three months but most GPs have thousands of patients on the books, so the timing will depend on how many doses become available and when.”

Prof. Perry said the best way to secure a vaccination appointment was to use the online eligibility checker at health.gov.au or phone 1800 020 080.

“We want everyone vaccinated but it will be a gradual build-up, as more doses are supplied,” he said.

“This program shows how valuable it is to have a regular GP, someone who knows you and your personal health issues, and has your medical history in one spot.”