One could point to the limitations in vaccination supply, variable logistical chains, inadequate and confusing health messaging and active COVID-19 vaccination misinformation. Although consultation was undertaken at the start of the vaccination rollout, uncertainties in vaccination supply and the variety of vaccinations able to be administered did not empower ACCHOs or local health services to adequately engage with their local communities. Continuous consultation and dialogue throughout the vaccination rollout, increased information about vaccination supply and vaccine types and receptiveness to feedback from ACCHOs about particular geographical or community issues regarding COVID-19 may have aided in improved vaccination rates among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and would have empowered ACCHOs to engage with their local communities with more certainty. The path forward is to ensure that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people do not experience increased morbidity or mortality due to COVID-19 and have access to an adequate vaccination supply, and this is of paramount importance. The only way forward to ensure that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are vaccinated is by engaging with, working with, consulting with and listening to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and trying to implement local community solutions to aid in vaccination uptake.

Source: The Guardian February 21, 2022 03:14 UTC