Rutland COVID-19 vaccination programme update
A first attempt has been made to contact all patients in this group, often using a rapid automated booking system online. Where initial contact has been unsuccessful in this way, phone calls are being made to remaining over 80’s and other methods are used where phone is not possible (such as via next-of-kin where appropriate). It is hoped that vaccinations for housebound patients will be commenced after this week, subject to vaccine delivery.
In parallel with this, and in line with national guidance, some patients from the next priority group, ages 77 to 79, are starting to be invited using the automated booking system, which sends a text message to your mobile phone. Using the parallel approach of completing the over 80’s group, and starting on the next priority group, allows more patients to be booked to receive the vaccine, whilst using the batches in the most effective way.
There are over 2000 patients in the priority group aged 75-79 and the speed of the programme is dependent on vaccine supply, which although improving, remains erratic.
Please don’t worry if you have not received an invitation to book an appointment, everyone over 75 will be invited in the next few weeks. If you receive a text message to book an appointment but cannot do so from your mobile phone, please see the guidance on how you, or a family member or friend, can use a computer or tablet to follow the booking link and access the automated online booking system. Please do not phone your GP practice.
Most of the vaccine received in Rutland is administered to patients within 48 hours of receipt. Health and care staff are alerted to take up any spare doses that become available as a result of patient cancellations, to ensure every last dose is given.
More information and Frequently Asked Questions are available on the Rutland Health PCN website
