NHS Grampian apologises for vaccination delays at The Shand Centre in Dufftown and calls on people to arrive at allocated time
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NHS Grampian has apologised for delays faced by members of the public queueing for their Covid-19 vaccination at Dufftown's Shand Centre on Tuesday.
Many elderly residents were forced to wait outside in adverse weather conditions and NHS Grampian has "sincerely apologised" to all involved.
However, the health board – which has offered another appointment to those who chose to go home instead of waiting – has said the matter is not down to lack of staffing, but due to people turning up either early or late for appointments.
This could have been due to the snow meaning people arrived early or got caught up and missed their time slot.
An NHS Grampian spokesperson said: "Unfortunately, we did have some long queues at the Dufftown vaccination clinic on Tuesday.
"We apologise sincerely to anyone affected by this.
"Staff on site worked extremely hard to get people through the clinic as quickly as possible and advised those arriving of the potential waiting time.
"Anyone who chose not to wait, particularly in light of the current conditions, will be issued with a new appointment. Again, we can only apologise for any inconvenience caused."
It is hoped that similar delays can be avoided in future if people arrive exactly when their appointment is scheduled – and not before.
"We are extremely grateful everyone's willingness to attend their vaccination appointments and would urge people to arrive at the allocated time, in order to assist the smooth running of clinics," the spokesperson added.
"Anyone unable to attend safely, given the current weather, should refer to the contact details in their appointment letter to rearrange."
Some people from Keith who were due to be vaccinated in Dufftown have also been redirected to the Longmore Hall in town, due to the bad weather.