Informed Consent Practice - #VaxTheNation
Every care relationship is different. In many cases, the person being cared for can make their own decisions about their own medical treatment. It is important to #VaxTheNation that members of the community are making informed choices of the health care they are receiving and are seeking professional medical advice.
Before making a decision on getting the COVID-19 vaccine, it is a good idea to get information about the treatment and give yourself enough time to think about it.
Ask your local GP and/or your state medical health bodies (list can be found here) information to read. The information given can include:
Sometimes it is difficult to decide whether or not to undergo particular medical treatment. It is important to remember that it is okay to ask more questions.
If you are having trouble making a decision, you could:
As with all other vaccines, informed consent is required before administering each COVID-19 vaccine dose. Verbal or written consent is acceptable. Written consent is not mandatory, although may be obtained in some settings as per local practices. Providers should always ensure that informed consent is obtained and documented as per standard practices. The Australian Government has prepared an optional written consent form for those providers who choose to use one. For further information about valid consent, refer to the Australian Immunisation Handbook – Preparing for vaccination – Valid consent
Further information provided by ATAGI (Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation) can be found here.
**Please note that information on vaccine access is constantly changing. Please contact one of the services below for further information or your local GP on how to best access the COVID-19 vaccine.
Call this line if you need information about COVID-19, COVID-19 vaccines or help with the COVID-Safe app. The line operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
General enquires: covidvaccineenquiries@health.gov.au
Health sector enquiries: covidvaccinehealthprofessionals@health.gov.au
Eligibility checker: https://covid-vaccine.healthdirect.gov.au/eligibility?lang=en
National helpline: 1800 020 080
Secondary National Appointment Bookings Service: https://www.hotdoc.com.au/
This website contains links to other websites (Linked Websites). We provide these links for your information only. The information contained in the Linked Websites is not produced or authorised by use nor do we necessarily endorse or recommend such information. We are not responsible for any information contained in the Linked Websites and you assume full responsibility for how you choose to use it. Any medical information contained in the Linked Websites is for information purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. We recommend that you always seek professional medical advice in relation to vaccinations and other health issues.
We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of all across the continent. And pay our respects to their elders - past and present.
We honour the important role music has played and continues to play on these lands for thousands of years.
