Patient Confusion as COVID-19 Booster Eligibility Tightens
Local pharmacies across the South West are currently dealing with "major issues" and reports of patient anger following the tightening of the eligibility criteria for the free NHS COVID-19 booster vaccine this autumn.
The issue stems from widespread confusion over the changes, which mean many people who received the free jab last year are no longer eligible this time around.
What are Pharmacists Reporting?
- According to Community Pharmacy England (CPE), which represents chemists across the country, between a third and a half of patients turning up for their pre-booked appointments are having to be turned away at many sites.
- Pharmacies report that patients are often missing the key eligibility information when using the NHS online booking system.
- The situation is causing significant upset and frustration, with reports of anger and abuse directed at pharmacy staff trying to explain the new rules.
Healthwatch is asking residents of Devon, Plymouth, and Torbay to be patient and respectful towards local pharmacy teams as they work to manage the clinical criteria set by the NHS.
Key Changes to Eligibility
The free NHS COVID-19 booster is now being offered only to the following groups:
- All adults aged 75 and over (who will turn 75 before March 2026).
- Residents in care homes for older adults.
- Younger patients who are immunosuppressed (e.g., those undergoing some cancer treatment, transplant patients, and people living with HIV).
⚠️ Crucially, many people previously eligible are no longer covered, including:
- People aged 65 to 74.
- Those with long-term conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, respiratory illnesses, and most people with asthma.
- Pregnant women and frontline health and social care workers.
Advice for Local Residents
NHS England has acknowledged the problems and stated they have updated the wording on the booking website to make the new criteria clearer.
Before booking a COVID-19 vaccine, Healthwatch strongly advises residents to:
- Double-Check Your Eligibility: The NHS website has the most up-to-date criteria.
- Treat Staff with Respect: Local pharmacy teams are following new national clinical guidance. They are not responsible for setting the eligibility rules.
- Consider the Flu Jab: If you are ineligible for the free COVID-19 booster, you may still qualify for a free NHS flu vaccine, which pharmacies are often able to administer at the same appointment.
Have You Been Affected? Share Your Experience
If you have encountered issues or confusion when trying to access health services, including the vaccination programme, your local Healthwatch wants to hear from you.
Your feedback is vital and helps us raise awareness of problems like this with NHS planners locally and nationally.
