Sir Mike Penning MP visited Woodhall pharmacy in Hemel Hempstead to learn more about the national pharmacy NHS flu vaccination service. The service aims to make it easier than ever to get an NHS flu jab and to increase the number of at-risk people across England being protected from ill health over the winter months.
During the visit Mike Penning MP met Jay Doshi, who is member of Lions Club of Enfield the current pharmacy owner and pharmacist. They discussed the service, the benefits to patients and Mike received a flu vaccination
Mr Doshi, pharmacist, comments: “The NHS community pharmacy flu vaccination service, which is now available in Hemel Hempstead, is a great opportunity for more at-risk people to have their jab protecting them during the winter.
Woodhall Pharmacy has been in heart of the community over the last 30 years providing an essential and important service to its patients. We have constantly been evolving as the NHS has changed over the years, despite the threats and challenges to independent community pharmacy. The support we have received from the local community has made it all worthwhile.
Community pharmacies are the most accessible healthcare locations and this service makes it easier than ever for you to get vaccinated, in the main without the need for an appointment.”
Mike Penning MP commented, "The NHS flu vaccination service is an excellent service and so accessible, with no appointments required. It only takes a few minutes and many patients are loyal to their pharmacy, so everyone knows each other quite well, making it an easy experience. The vaccination will help protect people through the winter months avoiding an illness that can have serious consequences. I encourage at-risk people in Hemel Hempstead to make sure they get their flu jab."
About the pharmacy flu vaccination service:
All adults aged 65 years and over, and those aged 18 years or over and in clinical risk groups, can receive a free of charge NHS flu jab at community pharmacies across the country, often without the need for an appointment. People in at risk groups include pregnant women and those with certain medical conditions including asthma and diabetes. Pharmacists will be using the same vaccination as those offered by GPs and they are required to notify GPs when they vaccinate people.