RCGPNI: exceptional achievement for general practice as half a million receive booster

Chair of the Royal College of General Practitioners in Northern Ireland, Dr Laurence Dorman has praised the exceptional contribution of GPs and practice teams across Northern Ireland, as we reach the milestone of 500,000 booster jabs delivered in general practice

The Kilkeel GP further commented: “Today, we celebrate as we reach an incredible milestone where 500,000 booster vaccination jabs have been delivered by GPs and practice teams. This is testament to the passion and tireless work of my GP colleagues, who have, once again, stepped up as part of the emergency response to COVID-19. It is important to remember that this Herculean effort took place while maintaining routine patient care.”

“Across Northern Ireland, GPs went above and beyond, demonstrating flexibility and ingenuity, using all available community assets, including public halls and even shopping centres, to “get the jab done”.

“General practice is proud to work alongside our colleagues in community pharmacy and in Health and Social Care Trust vaccination centres as we all work towards a common goal. However, I am rightly proud that more than 50% of all COVID-19 vaccinations have been delivered in the community by family practice teams. This is another example, if it were ever needed, of the importance of GPs, our practice teams, and our expert community knowledge. It is essential that the Government invest in general practice, to ensure our service is sustainable and we can be here for our patients when they need us.”

“While we take a moment to reflect today and celebrate this milestone, we know there is more work to be done to keep our patients safe. The benefits of vaccination are clear and significant. Please come forward – protect yourself and your loved ones and get your vaccine or booster without delay.”