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RPS responds to consultation on medicines regulations

 

The Government has consulted on changes to medicine regulations the support the effective rollout of a COVID-19 vaccine and the upscaling of flu vaccination programme in the UK.

We asked members for views and have submitted a response to the consultation.

The response covers topics including:

  • Balancing the effective roll-out of vaccines with patient safety.
  • Development of professional guidance and public information.
  • Training and competency of workforce administering vaccines.
  • Ensuring adequate vaccine supplies.
  • Professional indemnity.
  • Managing staff workload.

RPS President Sandra Gidley said:                                                                                                      

“A vaccine will be a crucial step in the fight against COVID-19 and it’s prudent that the Government is reviewing how the law might need to change to help deliver one quickly. But these changes should not become the norm.

“There will need to be a careful balance when rolling out a potential vaccine, which must be backed by evidence on safety, quality and efficacy. But the benefits far outweigh the risks.

“If we’re looking to roll out a vaccine at pace, then pharmacists and other health professionals involved in administering them must be given state-backed indemnity.

“The pharmacy profession will be vital in supporting public health efforts in the coming months, and I would hope the Government engages further with RPS and all the health professions as these proposals move forward.”

Read the RPS guidance on COVID-19 vaccines here.

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