GPs and pharmacists come together to tackle flu

CREDIT: This story was first seen on ITV News

BMA Cymru Wales’ GP Committee and Community Pharmacy Wales have signed an agreement to work together to improve the uptake of eligible patients accessing existing flu vaccination services, ITV News reports.

It is hoped this new scheme will help to achieve the 75% vaccination target set by the Welsh government.

Under the agreement, community pharmacists will encourage patients who already have appointments made at GP practices to keep those appointments.

Meanwhile, GPs will direct patients who state the cannot attend flu vaccination clinics to community pharmacies.

Dr Charlotte Jones, Chair GPC Wales, said: “The important message to get across here is that patients can access flu vaccinations routinely from their GP, or from their community pharmacist if they’re unable to attend their GP surgery.

“This agreement is another important step in the right direction towards collaborative working. GPs are encouraged to inform community pharmacies when in-house vaccine supplies have been exhausted, with community pharmacists focussing on hard to reach groups. Dr Charlotte Jones, chair of GPC Wales, said:

“It also embraces the principles of prudent healthcare by promoting NHS flu vaccination services, with patients taking a more pro-active approach to self-care. It acknowledges the need to respect patient choice about how and when and they access such services, if they choose to.”

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