As we prepare for the seasonal flu campaign, you may notice that some of your vaccinations are delivered by our Healthcare Support Workers (HCSWs). We’d like to explain why we ask for your consent in advance and how this supports safe, high-quality care.
Why is consent required?
Before any vaccination is given, we must ensure that you have provided informed consent. This means you understand:
- What the vaccine is for
- The benefits and possible side effects
- Who will be administering it
- That you are happy to proceed
When a vaccine is administered by a Healthcare Support Worker, consent is especially important because they are not independent prescribers. Instead, they work under a Patient Specific Direction (PSD).
What is a Patient Specific Direction (PSD)?
A PSD is a written instruction from a qualified prescriber (such as a GP, nurse prescriber, or pharmacist prescriber) for a named patient to receive a specific medicine.
Under this arrangement:
- A GP or other authorised prescriber reviews your suitability for vaccination
- They confirm that it is clinically appropriate for you
- They provide written authorisation for the vaccine to be given
- A trained HCSW can then safely administer the vaccine
Your consent forms an essential part of this process.
Changes in national guidance (The Green Book)
The UK immunisation guidance, known as the Green Book, supports the use of appropriately trained staff in vaccine delivery. Recent updates and guidance reinforce that:
- Vaccination can be safely delivered by a wider workforce, including HCSWs
- Clear processes, including prescriber authorisation and patient consent, must be in place
- Patient safety, competence, and governance remain the top priorities
This allows practices to safely expand their vaccination teams while maintaining the highest standards.
Why do HCSWs support vaccination clinics?
Using trained Healthcare Support Workers to administer vaccines offers several important benefits:
✅ Improved access to appointments
More clinicians are available to deliver vaccines, meaning shorter waits and more convenient booking options.
✅ Faster vaccine delivery
We can vaccinate more patients in a shorter time, helping protect the community more quickly.
✅ Better use of clinical expertise
GPs and nurses can focus on patients with more complex medical needs, while HCSWs support routine care.
✅ Maintained safety and quality
All HCSWs involved in vaccination:
- Are fully trained and assessed as competent
- Work under strict clinical governance
- Are supported by prescribers and senior clinicians
What this means for you
When you are invited for your flu or COVID-19 vaccine, we may ask for your consent in advance. This ensures:
- You are fully informed
- A prescriber has reviewed and approved your vaccination
- Your appointment runs smoothly
By providing consent, you are helping us deliver a safe, efficient, and accessible vaccination service for everyone.
If you have any questions or would prefer your vaccine to be given by a nurse or GP, please contact the practice — we are always happy to discuss your preferences.