Why the change
National guidance has recently clarified how consent for vaccinations must be obtained and recorded. This is to ensure patients receive clear information prior to receiving their vaccine. These changes do not affect:
Your right to choose whether or not to have the vaccine
The safety of vaccines
Who is eligible for the vaccine
How consent for vaccinations work
Before any vaccination, patients will be given information about
– What the vaccine is for
– Any possible side effects
– The option to ask questions or decline
This is called informed consent and you may receive this information as one of the following
– In a leaflet
– Via a link sent by text or email
– On our website
– Through a discussion with a GP, nurse or pharmacist
Who is responsible for consent
Under national guidance, a registered healthcare professional, such as a GP, nurse or pharmacist, isresponsible for obtaining and recording the consent. Healthcare Assistants (HCAs) are trained to administer vaccines but do not take consent.
Please contact the practice if you would like to speak with a GP, nurse or pharmacist prior to your appointment, or if you have any medical condition, allergy or questioning if the vaccine is suitable for you.
What the Healthcare Assistant will do on the day
On the day of your vaccination, the Healthcare Assistant will
– Check that informed consent has already been obtained
– Confirm you are still happy to receive the vaccine
– Ask safety questions regarding allergies, recent illnesses or any changes in health
– Involve a GP or nurse if there are any concerns or uncertainties
If you do have a question that needs a clinical decision, the HCA will pause the consultation and involve a registered clinician before proceeding.
If you have received the same vaccine in the past, consent will still need to be checked each time and you will always be given the opportunity to ask any questions or decline.