Patients have been turned away from pharmacies despite booking a jab online.
Eligibility for Covid vaccines was tightened this year (Image: Getty)
Older who are not eligible for a Covid jab have been able to book a vaccine through the NHS system, sparking confusion, according to pharmacies. Eligibility was tightened for Covid jabs this year with only over 75s, people with weakened immune systems and elderly care home residents qualifying. Last year, the jab was offered to over 65s.
But the flu jab is available to a wider group including over 65s, people with certain long-term health conditions, and pregnant women. It is understood that an option for people to book both vaccines at the same time may have caused confusion.
Community Pharmacy England (CPE) reported that up to half of people who turn up for their appointment are having to be turned away at some sites.
CPE director of NHS services Alastair Buxton said lots of people appeared to be missing the information about eligibility on the booking system and making the assumption they were still eligible.
He added: “That obviously takes a lot of explaining to patients. It causes upset, concern and maybe anger for some patients. We’ve certainly had examples of some patients becoming abusive with pharmacy team members.”
The National Pharmacy Association (NPA) said the situation had been “deeply frustrating” for both patients and pharmacists.
NPA chief executive Henry Gregg said: “We are aware of reports from across the country of patients who are not eligible on the NHS for this year’s Covid vaccine arriving at pharmacies, having been able to book an appointment via the online system.
“This should have been avoidable and it is deeply frustrating for both pharmacies and patients.
“We urge any patient in this situation to treat pharmacy teams with respect as pharmacies try to manage the new NHS clinical criteria.
“We’ve urgently raised this issue with NHS England and the Department of Health and have asked for it be resolved as soon as possible.”
An NHS spokesperson said: “Covid-19 vaccine eligibility changed for this autumn and winter following the JCVI recommendation that it should be offered to people aged 75 or over, anyone with a weakened immune system, or those living in older adult care homes.
“Please double check you are still eligible to receive a Covid-19 vaccine before booking — the NHS website sets out whether your age, health condition or medication means you are eligible, and your GP practice or pharmacist will confirm this before giving you the vaccine.”
Other groups can pay for the vaccine privately.
