NHS Highland trials flu vaccination programme pilot scheme in part of Easter Ross
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NHS nurses are set to pilot the delivery of a flu vaccination programme in Easter Ross which could be rolled out across a wider area.
The delivery of flu vaccination programmes across Scotland has been carried out traditionally by GP practices. But that model of delivery may change in the future.
And, in a bid to help plan and develop future models, NHS Highland is piloting delivery of the flu vaccination programme by an NHS Highland immunisation team of nurses.
The scheme will apply to patients who are aged 65 years and over who are registered with the Alness and Invergordon Medical Group.
NHS Highland will hold a series of clinics within Alness and Invergordon for patients registered with the practices, as well as providing flu vaccinations for the residents of four care homes in the area, and those who are housebound.
This so-called “test-of-change” process will enable the health board to pilot, review and strengthen how NHS Highland will implement the vaccination programme heading into the future as part of the wider national 2018 General Medical Services Contract.
The flu vaccination programme will begin this autumn.
It claimed that its new approach could help reduce pressures on existing services, and “ensure improved outcomes” for patients with access to the “ right professional, at the right time, as near to home as possible”.
NHS Highland’s Associate Medical Director for Primary Care, Dr Paul Davidson, explained: “NHS Highland has an agreement with the Alness and Invergordon Medical Practice to administer the flu vaccination programme for 2019 for the 65 years and over group of patients.
“We have worked closely with the Alness/Invergordon medical group to ensure all relevant individuals are informed about the clinics and we are grateful to the practice for their assistance.
“NHS Highland will also deliver vaccinations for residents in Redwoods Nursing Home, Castle Gardens Nursing Home, Kintyre Care Home, and Mull Hall Care Home.
“This is part of a process to streamline the flu vaccination programme and make it as easy as possible for people to receive their immunisation.”
NHS Highland said that the Alness and Invergordon Medical Practice had kindly agreed to write to all of the patients affected by the trial and to detail how they can make an appointment for the clinics.
NHS Highland’s staff have also made contact with the care homes to advise of the processes required.
Additionally, posters will be displayed around Alness and Invergordon advising people as to how they can make an appointment.
Patients can call 01463 706924 to book an appointment.
