A novel drive-through approach to vaccination of children and young people with neurodevelopmental disability

Abstract

Disparities in preventative health care likely contribute to comorbidities associated with neurodevelopmental disability. These comorbidities are risk factors for poor outcomes of COVID-19, making COVID-19 vaccination a priority for this population. In mid-2021, the Australian Technical Advisory Group (ATAGI) recommended the COVID-19 vaccination rollout include children and young people at risk of severe COVID-19 associated disease. This cohort included children/young people severely immunocompromised, with disability, and/or complex, multiple health conditions. Children and young people with neurodevelopmental disability can be challenging to vaccinate in conventional clinic environments and may experience exacerbation of behaviours posing barriers to vaccination. Remaining unvaccinated for COVID-19 increased risk of secondary complications and affected access to carers and respite facilities. This paper describes a novel, individualised approach to safe vaccination for this cohort. In consultation with stakeholders, a drive-through clinic vaccination model was developed and implemented for children/young people with neurodevelopmental disability. The model prioritised person-centred care and minimised triggering factors experienced in community clinics. Data were collected on successfully administered vaccine doses; administration safety and adverse events following immunisation. Parents/carers and staff provided reflective feedback. Twenty-four children and young people used the model with successful vaccination rate of 96% (n = 23). Most patients received multiple doses through the clinic (n = 16). Some patients were vaccinated after unsuccessful attempts elsewhere. Feedback from carers and staff was positive and no adverse events were reported. This model is generalisable to other health services and may be applied to other vaccinations for people of all ages with neurodevelopmental disabilities.