Three GP Practices in Hailsham will be offering the COVID-19 vaccine from next week, according to Health Officials.
Information has now been revealed as to when, and how, Hailsham residents can expect to receive their vaccine.
As of today, 19th January 2021, this is the latest information…
GPs from the town’s three surgeries – Bridgeside Surgery, Hailsham Medical Group and The Quintins Medical Centre – are working in partnership with Sussex Community NHS Foundation Trust to provide the vaccination to their patients, starting with those over the age of 80.
Preparations are progressing positively this week with the aim that the first vaccinations will take place next week subject to vaccine delivery.
Whilst some areas have central hubs that a group of GP practices use, it has been agreed that for Hailsham and the surrounding area the vaccination can take place for patients in all of the GP practices in Hailsham.
Residents will be receiving invites shortly and everyone will be contacted as quickly as possible.
As the roll out of this vaccine continues the timing for when people will be able to get their vaccination depends largely on the availability of the vaccine and the priority group they are in, but teams are working at pace to make sure everyone in the initial priority groups are offered an appointment and receive the vaccine as quickly as possible.
Officials are urging residents not to contact their GP practice – no one will be forgotten and you will be contacted by the first NHS service to offer you a vaccine.
East Sussex County Councillor, Gerard Fox commented: “Following the approval of the Oxford AstraZeneca vaccine, which has only been available nationally for two weeks or so, there are more options in terms of how local people can be vaccinated and Sussex NHS Commissioners have agreed a plan with the local GP practices and Sussex Community NHS Foundation Trust for patients in Hailsham to receive their vaccinations in their own GP practice with the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine.
He added: “Hitherto, residents over 80 were, in the main, only able to receive it at hospital venues. The wider national availability of the Oxford AstraZeneca vaccine more recently now makes a local GP-led solution possible. It is our expectation that Hailsham will be given priority in order that vaccination rates will catch up with other areas in Sussex.”
Mayor of Hailsham, Paul Holbrook said: “The Town Council office and indeed myself, have been overwhelmed in recent days with calls from those concerned about the fact that the vaccination programme is yet to include Hailsham.”
“But, please remember that this is the biggest vaccination programme in history and as I say, it will take time to get through to all eligible people and to fully vaccinate those that we want to vaccinate initially, i.e. those in the top priority groups.”
If anyone is concerned about how they will travel to get a vaccine during lockdown, it should be noted that, under the national guidance, it is permissible to receive a lift from someone or there are community transport providers offering this support in terms of transport for medical appointments.
You can find information about community and non-emergency transport on the East Sussex County Council website or call the community hub on 01323 443322.
For more information about the programme, including a Frequent Asked Questions please visit this website: https://www.sussexhealthandcare.uk/keepsussexsafe/sussex-covid-19-vaccination-programme
