A month on from the first Mackenzie cases of Omicron, it is a pertinent time to take stock of the local case numbers and trends. Even though we are now in Orange on the Traffic Light Framework, we still need to take extra precautions to protect our most vulnerable and our Health System. The Medical Centre will remain using telehealth as the preferred consult method, streaming high risk and positive patients through our “Red Zone” and continuing to have people wait in their car when possible, to ensure that our clients and our frontline staff are maximally protected.
New Carparking Lines and Signs
To help with the car-park “waiting room,” our High Country Medical Trustees gave the lines and signage a tidy-up and refresh over the sunny weekend. Thanks to Peter, Sue, Sharon, Pip — and for support also from lan, Emma and Simon.
Covid and Flu Vaccination Clinics
Seasonal Influenza vaccination clinics continue through autumn. Lead nurse Paula has been busy at Outreach clinics in Otematata, Tekapo, and Aoraki Mount Cook throughout the first half of the month. A reminder that everyone is eligible to receive the vaccination, and these are at no cost for the groups listed at https://www.influenza.org.nz/eligibility/eligibity-criteria. To book your flu vaccine either send a request through Manage My Health or email admin@twizelmed.co.nz
Covid vaccination clinics are also still running, with clinics for children on Mondays from the 2nd of May. As we need to do these in batches, please book at reception and we will contact you with the time and date when we confirm the next batch of vaccinations. For adults, being boosted is still the best protection against severe disease. You can book your booster online through Book My Vaccine or ring/email reception for an appointment (admin@twizelmed.co.nz).
Welcome Back, Gemma!
Lastly, a hearty welcome back to our Nurse Practitioner Gemma, who will now be on duty for 3 days a week after her maternity leave period. We are very fortunate to have Gemma’s vast experience and skills, particularly in Rural Primary Healthcare. Gemma is also the Northern South Island representative on the New Zealand Rural General Practice Network (RGPN) Committee.
RGPN has recently joined the Hauora Taiwhenua Rural Health Network. The vision for Hauora Taiwhenua Rural Health Network is to advocate on behalf of rural health with one united voice on specific rural health issues, contribute to strong collective messages, and work together to plan and deliver the health services that meet the needs of rural communities. This work is particularly relevant for the upcoming transition to Health NZ / Hauora Aotearoa.
