GPs and pharmacists unite to increase flu jab uptake

GPS and community pharmacists in Wales have joined forces to try and increase the uptake of flu vaccinations among eligible patients.

BMA Cymru Wales’ GP Committee (GPC Wales) and Community Pharmacy Wales (CPW) have signed an agreement to work together to improve the uptake during the 2017-18 season.

Their ultimate is to achieve the 75% target set by the Welsh Government.

As part of the recommendations, community pharmacists will encourage patients who already have appointments made at GP practices to keep those appointments.

And GPs will direct patients who state they cannot attend flu vaccination clinics to community pharmacies.

Dr Charlotte Jones, chair of 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 inhouse vaccine supplies have been exhausted, with community pharmacists focussing on hard to reach groups.

“It ensures the lines of communication between GPs and community pharmacists in Wales remain firmly open, with patients’ health as a shared priority.

“It also embraces the principles of prudent healthcare by promoting NHS flu vaccination services, with patients taking a more proactive 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.”

Mark Griffiths, chair of Community Pharmacy Wales, added: “Year on year pharmacies have played a greater role in providing flu vaccinations and we are delighted to have come to this agreement with the BMA.

“This voluntary compact between pharmacist and doctor puts the patient at its very heart, allowing more people to get vaccinated.

“It also demonstrates that health professionals can work together in Wales in a way that meets the Welsh Government objectives for maximising access while at the same time taking the pressure off GPs.”

Patients can speak to their GP or community pharmacist about flu vaccinations.