Structural discrimination in the COVID-19 vaccination programme for people with mental health and addiction issues: now is the time to be equally well.

Abstract

People with mental health and substance use issues (tāngata whai ora katoa), regardless of ethnicity, are much more likely to be hospitalised or die from COVID-19 and were identified as a priority population (Priority Group 3) in Aotearoa New Zealand's vaccination roll-out plan. Data released by the Ministry of Health show that, despite tāngata whai ora katoa being a priority group, their vaccination rates are well below those of the general population. These inequities are pronounced for Māori with mental health and addiction issues (tāngata whai ora Māori). This is not acceptable. To support tāngata whai ora physical health and wellbeing, the onus is on all of us in the health system to actively reach out, have conversations, be supportive and provide accessible vaccination for people with mental health and addiction issues. Urgent action is needed. Now is the time to ensure tāngata whai ora katoa can be equally well.