PHN immunisation online community launches with calls for further collaboration

NPS MedicineWise and the National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance (NCIRS) have launched an online PHN immunisation community designed to serve as a central hub where PHN staff can have the latest evidence-based information, tools and immunisation resources at their fingertips.

The online community encourages PHN immunisation staff to share ideas, best practice and collaborate with peers across Australia.

With news, updates and the latest immunisation guidelines, the online resource offers a national, coordinated approach to help PHNs to deliver immunisation programs that are consistent with the goals of the National Immunisation Program (NIP). PHN staff, Commonwealth and jurisdictional health and human services department staff and other key stakeholders will have access to the online resources.

NPS MedicineWise and NCIRS have collaborated to develop the online community using the NIP framework and incorporating insights gathered through interviews and co-design workshops with key immunisation stakeholders in health communities across Australia.

Dr Lynn Weekes, CEO of NPS MedicineWise says, “This is excellent use of technology – creating an online environment, a central hub for PHN staff who have to keep abreast of the latest changes to immunisation protocols and guidelines. While it offers practical information that will help to ensure PHN immunisation staff can support local providers in the best possible way, it is an online community where they can network, share ideas and actively collaborate with their peers.”

An advisory group has been established to provide strategic guidance from a stakeholder perspective on the priorities and performance of the program. The group is co-chaired by Professor Kristine Macartney, Director of NCIRS, and Learne Durrington, CEO of WA Primary Health Alliance.

Professor Macartney says, “The PHN online community gathers key messages that PHNs are tasked to communicate to immunisation providers in their areas. Additionally, we will support PHN staff by answering their immunisation questions. PHNs can be confident that any information they receive is from reliable sources, and will offer up-to-date, evidence-based immunisation information.”

Community engagement will be encouraged by offering face-to-face and online opportunities where PHN staff can share and exchange ideas and information with other PHNs and key stakeholders.

PHN staff are encouraged to register at phnimmunise.org.au to access the latest immunisation information.

Media enquiries

Eve Hanks:

• 0419 618 365
• ehanks@nps.org.au