We've noticed your using a old browser this may cause issuse when experincing our site. We recommend updating your browser here this provides the latest browsers for you to download. This just makes sure your experince our website and all others websites in the best possible way. Close

NEWS: GPs press for resources for practices to deliver vaccine

New doubts have been raised about the ability of practices to deliver the COVID-19 vaccine in line with the latest guidelines.

Senior GPs are pressing for significant funding for general practice – matching that put into test and trace – to enable the programme, which, according to some projections could start next month. The GP committee of the Doctors’ Association said it had analysed government proposals and found them to “fall short” of what was needed to allow enough practices to vaccinate adequate numbers of patients.

It noted that practices have been told to keep patients on site for observation for at least 15 minutes after they receive the vaccine. It also called for clinicians to have access to research data. Funding would be needed for extra venues, necessary equipment – which might include deep freezing facilities – and for the extra complexity and time of administration, the GPs warn.

Dr Lizzie Toberty, from the committee, said: “A vaccine delivery programme is vital for the country to recover from the pandemic. Primary Care is the best-placed service with the expertise and knowledge to deliver the vaccine safely and efficiently. However, there must be adequate resources made available in order to do this. We urgently need funding to renovate buildings, provide adequate PPE, and enough staff to administer the vaccine safely. It must also be recognised that primary care needs to continue all of our vital, routine work too.

“We must prevent a repetition of the mistakes this country has suffered as a consequence of the underperforming Test and Trace programme. The current plans are not sufficient to give GPs a fighting chance to participate effectively in the vaccine programme.”

Labour leader Keir Starmer also wrote to Prime Minister Boris Johnson – now self-isolating after a new exposure to the virus – calling for a national action plan for the new vaccines. He called for “equitable access,” proposing the use of town halls and sports centres.

Rating

GP Practice News

GP news from Practice Index.

View all posts by GP Practice News
Remembering the little things – By Robyn Clark

January 11, 2024

Is the National Living Wage affordable?

March 14, 2024

No comments yet.

Leave a Reply

Get in the know!
newsletterpopup close icon
practice index weekly

Subscribe to the Weekly, our free email newsletter.

Keeping you updated and connected.