Pharmacies facing angry and confused patients over Covid jab eligibility

BBC News, The Independent 

Pharmacy teams have faced major issues in recent days, with many patients booking COVID-19 vaccinations through the National Booking System (NBS) despite not being eligible this winter. Only those aged 75 and over, and younger patients with weakened immune systems, qualify for free boosters this year.

Read our news story for further information: C-19 vac eligibility – resources to help pharmacy teams

Alastair Buxton, Director of NHS Services, described the situation as “unacceptable” in an interview with BBC News.

We also shared the following comment with the press.

Our Director of NHS Services, Alastair Buxton, said:

“Between a third and a half of people who turn up for their appointments are having to be turned away at many pharmacies. The situation is unacceptable. Patients arrive expecting a COVID booster, unaware that this year only those aged 75 and over, those living in adult care homes and younger patients with weakened immune systems, are eligible, and pharmacies can only give them the flu jab.

From the first day of the vaccination programme last week, it became clear that many patients were missing eligibility information and turning up expecting a COVID booster they were no longer entitled to. That obviously takes a lot of explaining to patients. It causes upset, concern and sometimes anger. We’ve certainly had examples of patients becoming abusive with pharmacy team members.”

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Coverage

Pharmacies facing angry patients over Covid jab confusion | BBC News

Pharmacies facing angry and confused patients over Covid jab eligibility | The Independent