Pilot Program to Boost Childhood Immunisation Rates Through Whānau Āwhina Plunket

$1 Million Investment to Train Plunket Workforce as Vaccinators, Targeting Areas with Low Vaccine Coverage.

Health Minister Dr Shane Reti and Associate Health Minister Casey Costello have announced a pilot program to increase childhood immunisation rates, partnering with Whānau Āwhina Plunket to train their workforce as vaccinators. The initiative will target areas where vaccine coverage is particularly low and aims to remove barriers to access for families.

The Government is investing up to $1 million in collaboration with Health New Zealand and Whānau Āwhina Plunket to train its workforce and establish immunisation services at up to 27 sites across the country. Dr Reti emphasized the importance of expanding the vaccination workforce to meet the Government's goal of having 95 per cent of children fully vaccinated by 24 months.

Addressing Barriers to Immunisation

“This is a crucial step in reducing barriers to childhood immunisation,” said Dr. Reti. “By training midwives, pharmacies, and now Plunket nurses, we are ensuring that families can access vaccinations at multiple points of healthcare delivery.” The first of these sites, in Whangārei, is expected to begin offering childhood vaccinations by the end of 2024.

Role of Plunket in Supporting Immunisation

Associate Health Minister Casey Costello highlighted the essential role of Whānau Āwhina Plunket nurses in supporting new mothers and their families. Plunket already provides guidance to families on immunisation, making it a natural fit for delivering vaccines alongside its existing services.

“Plunket is well positioned to offer immunisation services in their clinics, at community events, and eventually in homes,” said Costello. "This will make it easier for families to get their children vaccinated, reducing delays and ensuring timely protection from preventable diseases.”

Collaboration with Healthcare Partners

The pilot program will also see Whānau Āwhina Plunket working in collaboration with Māori and Pacific health providers, general practices, and pharmacists to improve vaccination rates in underserved communities. This cooperative effort will build on the existing relationships and trust Plunket has established with families across New Zealand.

Broader Immunisation Efforts

This initiative is part of a wider Government push to increase childhood immunisation rates. The pilot complements a $50 million investment over two years for Hauora Māori providers to deliver additional vaccinations, particularly in regions with lower rates of coverage.

With the pilot set to launch at several sites by the end of 2024, the Government aims to build a more accessible and integrated immunisation network that can better serve the diverse needs of New Zealand families, ultimately helping to achieve the country's vaccination targets and protect children from preventable illnesses.