Apps

New app launched in Scotland to support Covid-19 vaccine roll-out

A new app has been launched by healthcare bodies in Scotland to support the Covid-19 vaccine roll-out.

The Vaccine Management Tool has been developed by NHS Education for Scotland in partnership with NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, NHS Lothian and NHS Fife, NHS National Services Scotland and Public Health Scotland.

The app was piloted in NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde and NHS Lothian to assist with the winter flu vaccination programme and is now being used across Scotland to assist with the COVID-19 vaccination programme.

It will provide quick access to relevant patient information and collect data on how many people have received the vaccination. It means vaccinators can see whether it is an individual’s first or second dose and which vaccine has been administered. This data can also be sent to GP systems and, in time the information collected on the app will help demonstrate how effective each vaccine is by linking with testing data.

Jeane Freeman, Health Secretary, said: “The development of this tool has been a significant collaborative effort involving both clinicians and technical staff and I would like to thank all those involved.”

“Clearly we welcome anything which simplifies the process for vaccinators and having this app which can be used wherever they are working will be invaluable, allowing them to quickly access all relevant information on site.”

Stewart Irvine, Chief Executive, NHS Education for Scotland, said:“With tools like these, we are building integrated systems which remove additional burdens from hard-pressed health and care staff – allowing them to do what they do best.”