6:44pm Friday 13th October 2006
By Claire Lomax
A team from a Bradford medical practice is taking to the road to ensure patients receive their flu jabs.
Bowling Hall Medical Practice, Rooley Lane, is running a series of community based vaccination sessions, including a clinic at Tyersal Pharmacy, in a bid to improve their level of take-up for the jab.
Chris Brennan, practice business manager, said: "It's tempting to think that flu is just a short term, minor illness.
"The reality is that flu can be serious for the over-65s and patients with chronic conditions. It is imperative they have a vaccination to protect themselves.
"Last winter, we vaccinated more than 80 per cent of our patients who fell into the at-risk' groups. This year we'd like to raise that figure."
The move to take the clinics out into the community has been commended by Jean Bland, chairman of Tyersal Action Group.
"We are busy creating a vibrant community in Tyersal, and this is a great example of progressive thinking by our neighbourhood medical practice," she said.
Mr Brennan emphasised that only patients registered at Bowling Hall Medical Practice could attend the vaccination sessions.
Patients in the at risk' groups who are registered with other practices are urged to contact their own doctor and make suitable arrangements.
"For patients who can get to the practice on Rooley Lane, there is a session for which they can book an appointment," said Mr Brennan.
"For those who need flexibility we have also arranged a walk-in clinic, for which no appointment is needed."
The session for which an appointment is required is Friday, October 20, at Bowling Hall Medical Practice from 8am to 1pm. Patients should call (01274) 224888 to book.
On Thursday, October 26, there will be clinic at Tyersal Pharmacy, 6 Tyersal Road, from 9.30am to 11.30am. An appointment is required and patients should call (01274) 224888 to book.
There is a walk-in clinic on Saturday, October 28, at Bowling Hall Medical Practice from 9am to 11am. No appointment is required.
e-mail: claire.lomax@bradford.newsquest.co.uk
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