HEALTH chiefs have issued a “sincere apology” to residents for the way in which its flu vaccination programme has been delivered so far this year.

Concerns were raised by members of the public over how NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (NHSGGC) has handled its winter flu programme, with many people aged 65 and over yet to receive their free vaccination.

NHSGGC now says all remaining letters to people aged 65 and above will be sent out this week, and their appointment will be scheduled before the end of November.

Senior members of the health board team met with local MPs and MSPs on Monday to understand in more detail the concerns of constituents and explain the actions that are under way to resolve these issues.

Jane Grant, chief executive of NHSGGC, said: “On behalf of the health board, I would like to sincerely apologise to all those people who have experienced issues with their flu vaccination appointments. 

“We are very sorry for any distress and anxiety this has caused, especially among the more vulnerable members of our local communities.

“There have been a number of challenges with the delivery of the flu vaccination programme and we have taken action to ensure this situation never happens again.

“The flu vaccination programme has been especially challenging this year, due to the increased number of eligible people, and because it is vitally important that we adhere to physical distancing guidelines when administering vaccinations. 

“However, we will make sure that we learn the lessons from what has happened this year and put measures in place to avoid these issues being repeated.

“We have now employed an additional 20 call handlers to manage enquiries so that more people can be supported in a more timely way." 

If members of the public do need to change their appointment, contact the health board on 0800 707 6699 or via email at adult.flu@ggc.scot.nhs.uk.