News

RPS calls for increased COVID-19 protection for health workers

Representatives from the RPS and over 20 professional bodies and health organisations have met with the Government and NHS to call for increased COVID-19 protection for health workers.

In a meeting on Thursday with government, NHS and public health officials, the alliance of organisations called for UK Infection Prevention Control Guidance to be updated and for enhanced PPE for frontline healthcare workers.

Whilst welcoming the Government’s offer of further discussions, the alliance was disappointed that the UK guidance would not be updated at this time, despite emerging evidence and changes to guidance in the US and Europe. 

The alliance still believes that changes to the guidance are essential and should not be delayed.

New COVID-19 variants and recent rises in positive cases make the case urgent for healthcare workers to be fully protected and provided with FFP3 masks when seeing patients. 

RPS President Sandra Gidley said:

“Supporting pharmacy teams and calling for appropriate PPE has been a key focus for the RPS during the pandemic.

“With frontline health and care staff under continued strain, we owe it to everybody to make sure they get the protection they deserve.

“As our understanding of COVID-19 evolves it’s vital that national guidance and support keep pace.”

The meeting follows a joint letter to the Prime Minister in February.

Loading...

Email newsletter

Want the latest pharmacy news and updates straight to your inbox?

Sign up to our regular newsletter for the latest guidance, news, events and CPD opportunities.

Sign Up