Fix this broken flu jab system says irate MSP

The Labour Central Scotland List MSP - who is bidding to become the first-past-the post victor at next May’s Holyrood elections- says that he too has been inundated with correspondence from “hundreds” of constituents.

Mr Griffin said: “Many vulnerable people have yet to receive any communication. I have asked NHS Lanarkshire and the Scottish Government to address these problems as a matter of urgency.

“Some of the most vulnerable, including people with serious underlying health conditions, have yet to be contacted; others have been given less than 24 hours’ notice to attend their appointment and many have been forced to travel long distances.

“People have also been unable to get through to the telephone helpline.

“Frontline NHS staff are doing a great job and working incredibly long hours to issue to the vaccine, but the system that has been imposed is resulting in many of those at the highest risk of getting seriously if they contract the flu virus being missed.

“It is imperative that the Health Board and the Scottish Government act now to address these growing problems.”

NHS Lanarkshire has since moved to reassure patients that staff are working hard to make sure everyone gets their vaccination as soon and as safely as possible before the flu season starts later in the year.