Question reference: S5W-32732
- Asked by: Patrick Harvie, MSP for Glasgow, Scottish Green Party
- Date lodged: 22 October 2020
-
Current status: Answered by Joe FitzPatrick on 17 November 2020
Question
To ask the Scottish Government how it plans to support older and vulnerable people in (a) Glasgow and (b) Scotland who are required to travel to receive their flu vaccination, in order to minimise the risk of contracting COVID-19.
Answer
Responsibility for delivering the Seasonal Flu Vaccine in 2020/21 rests with Health Boards and Integration Authorities. NHS Scotland Boards will use the delivery model which is most suitable for their local circumstances, whilst maintaining a COVID-19 safe environment and maximising efficiency. This is a change from previous years where GP practices took the lead role in providing flu immunisations.
The Scottish Government wrote to Health Boards in September, asking them to ensure that individuals contacting them for an appointment are offered alternatives in the event there were any difficulties in them travelling to the venue they are offered.
We have also written to the Chief Executive of NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, seeking their reassurance that accessibility of appointments is being prioritised, particularly for people aged over-65.
NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde are offering all people over the age of 65 an appointment to receive their seasonal flu vaccine at the nearest community vaccination centre. We have received assurances from NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde that additional measures are being taken to support the most vulnerable by providing additional resourcing at the vaccination centres and collaboration with the local pharmacies to utilise capacity for those who are unable to travel. The district nursing team will also be used for patients with mobility challenges or are housebound.