New drop-in and mobile vaccination clinics are expected to operate in East Renfrewshire as part of plans to deliver the winter booster and flu jabs programme.
Eastwood MSP, Jackson Carlaw wrote to NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde to ask for clarification on the use of local drop-in clinics to allow more people to be vaccinated quickly.
Mr Carlaw also raised a reported absence of any remaining upcoming appointments on the online booking portal for Carmichael Hall in Giffnock.
NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde responded to advise that a mobile bus will now operate in East Renfrewshire and the other local authorities within the health board region where drop-in appointments will be available for both Covid booster and flu vaccines.
The mobile bus service is intended to be in place during October, November and December.
Drop-in centres were available in September and they will return to Carmichael Hall when additional capacity has been put in place.
NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde is also engaging with national colleagues to find out why there is an absence of available bookings on the online portal for vaccine and flu appointments at Carmichael Hall in Giffnock.
The online booking system for vaccination appointments is not directly controlled by NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde.
The vaccination programme will run up to 31st March 2024 but the aim is for all people who are eligible to receive their booster vaccination by 11th December 2023.
Eligibility to receive the booster jab includes people who are over the age of 65, residents and staff in care homes for older adults and frontline health and social care workers.
Scottish Conservative MSP for Eastwood, Jackson Carlaw said:
“It is vital that all local residents who are eligible for the Covid booster and flu jabs are given every opportunity to receive the vaccinations whether by pre-arranged appointment or visiting a drop-in clinic.
“I have been in contact with the health board over delivery of the winter vaccination programme and it is welcome that additional drop-in and mobile clinics are being arranged for East Renfrewshire.
“However, the reported issues with the online appointments booking system for Carmichael Hall in Giffnock is a concern and there needs to be a concerted focus on resolving any difficulties.”