THE Royal Flying Doctor Service has now delivered more than 1200 doses of the Covid-19 vaccine to rural and remote communities across Queensland.
RFDS crews from Charleville, Mount Isa and Cairns have supported the delivery of the COVID-19 vaccine to 22 remote communities across Queensland, including Gregory Downs, Urandangi, Djarra, Camooweal, Burketown, Boulia, Bedourie, Blackall, Pentland, Ravenswood, Greenvale, Mount Surprise, Einasleigh, Windorah, Stonehenge, Birdsville, Jundah, Yaraka, Yowah, Noccundra, Eulo, and Eromanga.
This has included the delivery of both first and second doses.
RFDS (Queensland) chief executive officer Meredith Staib said the Flying Doctor was pleased to assist the Hospital and Health Services and Primary Health Networks in facilitating access to the COVID-19 vaccine.
Despite the challenging circumstances of the past year, Ms Staib said the RFDS continued to provide vital emergency medical and primary health care services for regional, rural and remote Queenslanders.
"The RFDS in Queensland has transported 40 patients with COVID precautions. Across Australia, the RFDS has conducted more than 3050 episodes of care for confirmed or suspected COVID-19 patients," she said.
"Several procedures have been adjusted, including increases to decontamination procedures for aircraft and pre-screening at our primary health care clinics.
"The protection of our remote communities was, and continues to be, a particular focus. All RFDS staff now undergo a wellness check before flying or beginning their work shift."
Ms Staib said for more than 93 years the RFDS has helped rural and remote Queenslanders overcome the tyranny of distance to access healthcare services.
"The RFDS in Queensland is incredibly well positioned to now assist in the delivery of the COVID-19 vaccination program," she said.
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