Patients frustrated at 'slow' Covid booster programme

Health bosses on the Isle of Wight insist 'constant efforts' are being made to increase the availability of Covid booster jabs

Published 26th Nov 2021
Last updated 26th Nov 2021

Patients have complained after being sent letters telling them to wait while at the same time being told the government website allows people aged over 40 to book.

The Government's vaccine minister has also advised people to get a booster jab 'as soon as possible.'

A number of patients have told Wave 105 the national booking system doesn't recognise the Solent and they're only being offered slots on the mainland.

Others have complained because walk-ins aren't currently available at the Riverside Centre in Newport.

Dr Matt Nisbet, clinical lead for the Hampshire and Isle of Wight COVID-19 vaccination programme, said: “Almost a year into the programme we are still vaccinating around 5,500 people every week on the Isle of Wight, which is a truly huge achievement by all of the staff and volunteers involved.

“We have sufficient vaccine supplies and dedicated teams are doing all they can to ensure those eligible can take up the offer of a jab on the island – whether it is a first or second dose, or a booster vaccine where appropriate – as soon as possible.

“We continue to be extremely grateful to our colleagues, partners and volunteers for their incredible efforts in protecting those in our communities who are most at risk from the virus, and work with them to increase capacity.”

"Due to an overwhelming response from eligible residents booking appointments to receive their booster vaccines on the Isle of Wight, the Riverside Centre remains very busy.

"Walk-ins are not currently available at Riverside. This is to ensure that we are able to accommodate the number of booked appointments needed.

"We understand that this may be frustrating for those who are not currently able to access their COVID-19 vaccine as quickly as they would like, however dedicated health and care teams across the island are working hard to provide additional capacity wherever possible. We will update you as soon as this is available.

"Appointments are released via the National Booking System and anyone eligible can continue to try to book via this link each day.

"You do not need to book an appointment on the mainland."

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