IMO to discuss swine flu vaccinations with HSE
The organisation that represents GPs in Ireland is due to hold talks with the HSE today to discuss concerns about the administration of a swine flu vaccine.
Up to 400,000 people in the highest risk categories are due to be vaccinated in the coming weeks, but many GPs have still not agreed to administer it to patients.
Doctors are annoyed that the only direct communication they have received from the HSE was a letter asking them to take over the first line of vaccination.
GPs have until this Friday to return a letter of acceptance, but the HSE has not confirmed how many have signed up.
The Irish Medical Organisation is expected to tell the HSE today that doctors are worried they will be overwhelmed by the task, which would include special clinics being set up in the evenings and at weekends.
Many GPs would have to contact patients with existing medical problems to advise them of the need to get vaccinated and to explain the possible side effects.
The IMO is also expected to argue that the €10 fee they will receive per vaccine is too low.
Up to 400,000 people in the highest risk categories are due to be vaccinated in the coming weeks, but many GPs have still not agreed to administer it to patients.
Doctors are annoyed that the only direct communication they have received from the HSE was a letter asking them to take over the first line of vaccination.
GPs have until this Friday to return a letter of acceptance, but the HSE has not confirmed how many have signed up.
The Irish Medical Organisation is expected to tell the HSE today that doctors are worried they will be overwhelmed by the task, which would include special clinics being set up in the evenings and at weekends.
Many GPs would have to contact patients with existing medical problems to advise them of the need to get vaccinated and to explain the possible side effects.
The IMO is also expected to argue that the €10 fee they will receive per vaccine is too low.