Doctors tell Cornwall patients not to call surgeries about Covid vaccine
NHS Kernow says many practices are being inundated with calls
Patients in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly are being urged not to contact their GP surgery about a coronavirus vaccination.
Doctors have tweeted an urgent message to those receiving invitation letters from the national booking service.
NHS Kernow says practices have been inundated with calls and is now asking people to book online or call 119 instead.
The hotline is free to phone from 7am, seven days a week.
Dr Rob White, a GP, clinical lead for the primary care network vaccination service and NHS Kernow Governing Body member, said: "Anyone who is in the groups currently prioritised in the guidance from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation and has received a letter from the national booking service should book online or call 119 (free, from 7am, 7 days a week) to book their appointment.
"Please do not contact your GP practice about your vaccination. Myself and fellow doctors have received a significant number of calls regarding booking a COVID appointment which stops people who need medical help getting through to the practice.
"It also has an impact on the vaccination programme by making it harder to book appointments for people in the priority groups".
GP, Dr Rob White
The GP-led primary care networks are currently vaccinating people aged 65 and over, or those aged 16-64 with underlying health conditions including those who are listed on the GP Learning Disability Register.
Practices in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, in line with national guidance, are currently not inviting people who are under 65 years old without an underlying health issues for vaccination.
Dr White added: "People across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly have been hugely supportive of the vaccination programme but we ask for their continued support by waiting their turn. When it is your time the NHS will contact you".
For further information about the Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly COVID vaccination roll-out, visit NHS Kernow's dedicated COVID-19 vaccination page.