The Royal Pharmaceutical Society in England has written to Secretary of State for Health and Social Care Steve Barclay MP, calling on him to intervene over a proposed delay to the start of the flu immunisation programme.
Writing jointly with Community Pharmacy England, CSL Seqirus and the Healthcare Distribution Association, we called for a rethink of a proposed delay so that pharmacies can commence the service from 1 September as initially planned. We were concerned that the delay would impact flu vaccination uptake, add further pressure on pharmacy teams, and potentially affect other services being delivered later this winter.
Following our collective action, we are encouraged that NHS England announced that while the flu vaccination service will officially commence in October, pharmacy teams will still be able to vaccinate patients booked into September appointments.
James Davies, Director for England said, “Pharmacists and Pharmacy Teams play a vital role in vaccinating the public. I am pleased that our collective pressure has resulted in NHS England clarifying its position and that common sense has prevailed – flu vaccinations can continue in September. This decision will help to manage the pressure on pharmacy teams and the anticipated disruption our members were deeply concerned about.”
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