RCGP response to the Department of Health’s National
Flu Pandemic Framework
Dr Maureen Baker, RCGP Honorary Secretary and Chair of its
Emergency Planning Group, says:
“The RCGP has urged GP practices to put
measures in place for coping with a pandemic and earlier this year,
in conjunction with the GPC, published a guidance document
Infection Control for General Practice.
“We welcome this new framework, in particular
the agreement to stockpile antibiotics for treatment of secondary
bacterial infections such as pneumonia – this is something the RCGP
has lobbied hard for as we know that antibiotic treatment in such
cases will save lives.
"We recognise that a lot of work has gone into
the planning and arrangements for managing a flu pandemic, and the
role of GPs and practice teams is now much clearer.
“It is apparent that GPs have a vital role to
play in the event of a pandemic and local health authorities should
be prepared to support practices in the best way they can.
“We would urge GP practices to consult this
framework and revise their service continuity plans
accordingly.”
Ends
For more information please contact
Lorna Fletcher in the RCGP press office 020 7344 3136 /
press@rcgp.org.uk