Grateful pensioners first to get Covid jab at a GP surgery
PILOT SCHEME WELCOMED BY LOCAL RESIDENTS
EASTWOOD residents have become the first in the county to receive Covid vaccines at a doctor’s surgery.
People who are eligible for the jab were invited to have it at Church Walk Surgery as part of a trial scheme – following criticism over a lack of access to vaccination centres for many in the county.
Any residents over the age of 70 or classed as clinically extremely vulnerable who are registered at Eastwood Primary Care Centre, Giltbrook Surgery, Hama Medical Centre or Newthorpe Medical Centre, were invited to receive their vaccine yesterday and today.
David Harby, 78, received the jab yesterday morning. He said: “It was very good and very efficient. It is a relief because we don’t want the virus around any more. You can’t knock the service.”
The Eastwood resident added: “I think we’ve got to get the vaccine so we can help the NHS to help us.
“It’s very good to have it here as this is my local surgery. At least we’re getting somewhere now.”
Sonja Granger, of Eastwood, said: “I thought it was truly amazing. I got a phone call about getting the vaccine and I was able to walk five minutes to come here.
“It’s much better because when you’re old it’s quite a palaver to get in a car and go out.”
The retired teacher, 89, added: “It was superb in every possible way.
“I couldn’t believe how good it was – there was nothing to bother about at all. This service has been astounding and it is a tremendous practice in general.
“You can see how they work together and you get that lovely feeling that you’re all right when you go in.”
Hazel Wilson, who also got her vaccine yesterday, said: “I feel much better now I’ve had it. I was quite nervous beforehand.
“I feel like I’ve come out on a holiday just coming outside. It is nice to get out and get some fresh air.”
Alan Wesson, 79, added: “I’m feeling absolutely fine after the vaccine.
“It’s better being local because I can’t drive now. It literally took a minute to get to the surgery.”
Ahead of the GP surgery opening for vaccinations, a spokeswoman for the CCG said: “I can confirm that this (the Eastwood GP surgery) is a pilot.
“If this pilot is successful it could be rolled out at areas of low uptake across Nottingham and Nottinghamshire.”