First GP surgeries in Cornwall begin offering Covid-19 vaccine
It is part of the biggest vaccination programme in NHS history
The first GP surgeries in Cornwall are starting to vaccinate patients against coronavirus.
GPs and other primary care staff have been working around the clock to deliver this part of the roll-out.
It is the biggest vaccination programme in NHS history.
The latest stage is being delivered by GP-led primary care networks (PCN) with more joining on a phased basis during December and in the coming months.
St Austell Healthcare PCN, Truro PCN and Three Harbours and Bosvena Health PCN are the first primary care network-led GP surgeries to run local vaccination services.
The Covid-19 vaccine is being rolled-out nationally to people most at risk. People aged 80 and over as well as care home workers will be amongst the first to receive the vaccine.
The order in which people – including NHS staff - will be offered the vaccine is based on advice from the independent Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation at a national level.
When it is your turn to receive the vaccine, based on the priority groups set out by the JCVI advice, you will be contacted by the NHS please do not contact your GP practice, local hospital, or other local NHS services.
“I am delighted that today we see the first of our GP surgeries begin vaccinating people within the national priority groups.
“All of our primary care networks have been working together at speed with such determination and professionalism to make today happen.
“If you are invited for a COVID-19 vaccination appointment and are unable to attend please let the team know as soon as you can - this will enable someone else to use the appointment and get protected.
"Your appointment will be re-scheduled; you will not miss out on your opportunity.”
GP Rob White, clinical lead for the COVID-19 vaccination programme and NHS Kernow Governing Body member
“It’s a very proud moment to be part of the national vaccination programme, helping our patients return to a sense of normality.
“While we do this we ask for Cornwall’s continued support. Over the next few days staff at the local vaccination centres based in Truro, St Austell and Bodmin will be committed to vaccinating the priority groups. This is a huge undertaking.
“We would ask that you please do not contact your GP surgery for routine appointments or check-ups if at all possible. Alternative ways you can seek medical advice and treatment include the NHS website, and your community pharmacy, who can offer expert information and provide medication for many conditions.
“We continue to be available for urgent appointments for such things as pneumonia, high fever and appendicitis. If your condition is life-threatening always call 999. For urgent but not life-threatening you can always contact 111, if your usual GP is not available.”
GP Andy May, primary care network clinical director for Truro
You can find more information on the NHS website.