This qualitative paper, led by Kati (Assoc. Prof with the Rural Section at University of Otago) is the second to explore the COVID-19 vaccine rollout in rural Aotearoa NZ  funded through the Ministry of Health COVID-19 and National Immunisation Programme research and adds context and reality  to the COVID-19 vaccine uptake numbers posted last month.  A huge thanks goes to the healthcare and community providers that shared their stories over four rural sites across Aotearoa.

PRESS RELEASE: https://www.otago.ac.nz/news/newsroom/study-provides-rural-perspective-on-covid-19-vaccination-rollout

OPEN ACCESS https://www.publish.csiro.au/hc/HC23171

Abstract

Introduction. From a coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic perspective, Aotearoa New Zealand (NZ) rural residents formed an at-risk population, and disparities between rural and urban COVID-19 vaccination coverage have been found. Aim. To gain insight into factors contributing to the urban–rural COVID-19 vaccination disparity by exploring NZ rural health providers’ experiences of the vaccine rollout and pandemic response in rural Māori and Pasifika communities. Methods. Rural health providers at four sites participated in individual or focus group semi-structured interviews exploring their views of the COVID-19 vaccine rollout. Thematic analysis was undertaken using a framework-guided rapid analysis method. Results. Twenty interviews with 42 participants were conducted. Five themes were identified: Pre COVID-19 rural situation, fragile yet resilient; Centrally imposed structures, policies and solutions – urban-centric and Pakehā focused; Multiple logistical challenges – poor/no consideration of rural context in planning stages resulting in wasted resource and time; Taking ownership – rural providers found geographically tailored, culturally anchored and locally driven solutions; Future directions – sustained investment in rural health services, including funding long-term integrated (rather than ‘by activity’) health services, would ensure success in future vaccine rollouts and other health initiatives for rural communities. Discussion. In providing rural health provider perspectives from rural areas serving Māori and Pasifika communities during the NZ COVID-19 vaccine rollout, the importance of the rural context is highlighted. Findings provide a platform on which to build further research regarding models of rural health care to ensure services are designed for rural NZ contexts and capable of meeting the needs of diverse rural communities