Specialists are helping patients overcome severe needle-phobia. 

About 180 South Australian children have benefited from a specialised immunisation service since its inception in 2021. 

Spearheaded by nurse Madeleine Miels, the service was born out of necessity to assist children with traumatic pasts, neurodiverse conditions, or crippling needle phobias. 

Initially, these fears often led to children fleeing or resisting nurses during vaccination attempts.

The Women's and Children's Hospital's specialist immunisation service has expanded to include children requiring sedation for minor medical procedures such as blood tests, dental check-ups, or x-rays.

In a recent development, SA Health has pledged ongoing funding of approximately $300,000 annually to make the service a permanent fixture at the Women's and Children's Hospital. 

This decision ensures that children with severe needle phobias or traumatic experiences receive equal access to healthcare.

Dr Laura Burgoyne, a paediatric anaesthetist at the Women's and Children's Hospital, says that this service is a last resort for children facing extreme trauma or phobias. It often involves the administration of nitrous oxide to calm or induce sleep in patients during vaccinations or medical procedures.

For many of the children, aged between 12 and 18, trust-building becomes crucial as they visit the hospital multiple times before undergoing sedation. 

Some children are under the care of the Department for Child Protection, while others have autism or intellectual disabilities.

Dr Burgoyne says the service is critical, and for many families, is their last hope after trying numerous alternatives.

Since its launch, the specialist immunisation service has assisted 180 South Australian children across 270 sessions. 

SA Health's recent decision to provide permanent funding has been met with enthusiasm from the medical community. 

Nurse Madeleine Miels, a finalist in the SA Child Protection Awards for her pioneering work, anticipates an expansion of the service, aiming to provide comprehensive care for children requiring blood tests.