We also have a professional duty to protect our patients and if failure to attend immunisation programmes could potentially put our patients at risk then we are failing in that duty.  Can’t remember the section of the code of conduct but it is there in black and white.

 

In my experience if they fail to attend 2 appointments a letter is sent to their manager/ matron.  They normally attend pretty quickly after that.

 

Frank

 

 

 

 

 

Hi Sharon

In the NHS we view habitual non-attendance or refusal to have any vaccinations required occupationally as a contractural issue .  Under HSWA all employees are obliged to co-operate with their employer in the use of safe systems of work.  This would include Hep B.  As for MMR and Varilix this is more for patient protection and probably would not be such an issue in your environment.

Regards

Vicky Wells

OH Nurse Adviser

Hinchingbrooke NHS Trust

 

 

Hi Sharon

 

Re: non attendance for vaccination

 

Is it stipulated that it is a contractual requirement that they attend?  Is the reminder letter copied to their manager?  Is it possible to charge them if they do not cancel the appointment with enough notice for you to use the appointment time?

A signed opt out could also be considered but obviously only after all clients receive relevant information relating to the vaccine and the risk to their health if they do not attend for vaccination.  There also comes a time if you have exhausted all avenues that as adults they do need to take personal responsibility. 

 

MP

 

 

Can I ask initially NHS colleagues and then anyone who can offer suggestions how t hey deal with habitual non attendance for vaccinations? I have a "hit list" of a fair few people who dont attend for their hep B appointments despite a variety of interventions, we train them on induction, we offer appts we sent out reminders, information updates, notices to staff, remind them again blah blah blah. Is there a point that you give up?  In my world not quite the same of health worker undertaking exposure prone work - the risks to our staff are through search procedures and undertaking C&R.  However HSE having a big push on issues within HMPS and one of their pet subjects is  vaccination. I really dont want to get heavy handed but feel that I might have to if there is this consistant ignoring all attempts to get them to attend. Any suggestions?

Sharon Naylor
HMPS Occupational Health Advisor
*Please note new number at Lartin*
Long Lartin 01386 295310 (Monday, Tuesday and Friday)
Birmingham 0121 345 2606 (Wednesday and Thursday)

"Those that do not find some time every day for health must sacrifice a lot of time one day for illness"  Sebastian Knieff

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