MSP calls for review into 'chaotic' Fife flu vaccines

NSHS Fife has apologised and deployed more resources to tackle the backlog which came about after it issued letters to all vulnerable people urging them to book a slot.

The system buckled as it tried to handle 71,000 calls in just two days.

That led Alex Rowley MSP to raise the issue with Jeane Freeman, Cabinet Secretary for Health and Sport.

Mr Rowley (Labour, Mid Scotland & Fife) said he was still being contacted by people struggling to get an appointment.

He said: “The whole thing has been so poorly thought through and organised that it is chaotic.

“It is crucial that the issues are resolved, and I am appealing to NHS Fife to learn the lessons quickly because, on its performance, what hope would there be for a mass programme of vaccines if one can be found for Covid.?”

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Mr Rowley questioned why the health board hadn’t made arrangements through pharmacies, and asked for a review that includes looking at the best ways to deliver vaccines.

He added: “NHS Fife has failed badly and they must review and understand what went wrong so it does not happen again.”

Ms Freeman said NHS Fife has established a network of centres to cope with demand, and for people over 65 it had tried to get them to a venue close to their home.

She stressed it was important that everyone eligible for a free flu jab got it.

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