Teenagers could miss out on HPV jab

Apr 16 2009 by Alison Dayani, Birmingham Mail

“But our GP at Great Barr Practice comes under Heart of Birmingham PCT, which like nearly all other areas, is giving the HPV vaccine in schools, so Emily can’t get it there either and she has fallen dangerously between the cracks.

“I don’t understand why everywhere can’t give this vaccine in the same way. It is a crazy system.

“My daughter leaves school in three months time and will fall off the system. I have had no letter about where to get her the vaccine and I feel I have to jump through hoops to get her protected. How many other girls are missing out?”

The Department of Health ordered all PCTs to offer the HPV immunisation, stating it would be “most effective” through schools.

Birmingham East and North PCT spokeswoman Sally Brooks said: “Several options were discussed and the GP delivery model was considered the most effective way forward.

“In making this decision, the trust was aware there would be some children living in other PCTs, where the vaccine is provided in schools, who are schooled in this PCT.

“Regular community clinics have been set up to cater for any child who may have missed out.”