Released 06/09/2021 - Joint media release
The ACT Government is offering more dedicated COVID-19 vaccination and testing for people with a disability.
Minister for Health Rachel-Stephen Smith said the Access and Sensory Vaccination Clinic at the Garran Surge Centre had been a popular option for people with disability and their support workers and carers since it opened in May.
“Following the transition of mass vaccination from Garran to the AIS Arena, the Access and Sensory Clinic is now moving to a dedicated space at the Weston Creek Community Health Centre. This will also enable it to expand from two days a week to five days a week from Monday 13 September,” Minister Stephen-Smith said.
“Existing bookings from next week onwards will be moved from Garran to Weston Creek and the increase to five days a week means additional appointments will be available. In the first instance, people with existing appointments will be contacted to bring them forward, with a focus on those who have been waiting longer.
“Weston Creek will also cease to be a COVID-19 testing centre this week, with that service moving to the Garran Surge Centre from Wednesday 8 September.
“This will include a dedicated Access and Sensory testing service for people with a disability, as well as walk-in testing for the general public. While the team has worked hard to provide accessible testing in various locations over the last few weeks, I am sure this dedicated option will be welcomed by people with disability and their families and carers.”
Minister for Disability and Mental Health Emma Davidson said support staff, volunteers or carers attending the appointment can receive a vaccination at the same time as the person with disability.
“The Access and Sensory vaccination clinic offers a quieter space, longer appointment times, a separate accessible entry point for wheelchairs and other mobility equipment,” Minister Davidson said.
“People with mental health conditions are also encouraged to book appointments at the Access and Sensory clinic. You do not need to provide proof of your mental health condition, making the process more accommodating for anyone who may not want to disclose their condition.”
Access and Sensory vaccination clinic appointments for tomorrow (7 September) will remain at Garran. Appointments for Thursday will be rescheduled to next week.
Appointments can also be rescheduled by calling the COVID-19 vaccination booking line from Thursday 9 September on (02) 5124 7700 between 7am and 7pm and selecting option 3.
- Statement ends -
Rachel Stephen-Smith, MLA | Emma Davidson, MLA | Media Releases