Focus on payments for influenza and pneumococcal vaccinations
March 2006
This guidance note has been produced by the General Practitioners Committee (GPC) to inform you of the nationally agreed prices for influenza and pneumococcal vaccinations. It should be read in conjunction with Focus on vaccinations and immunisations .
This is one of a series of guidance notes on the new contract. We would advise all GPs to read the contract documentation . The GPC has produced a list of frequently asked questions and answers .
The Directed Enhanced Service (DES) specification published by the GPC and NHS Confederation for influenza immunisation states that “payment will continue at the current existing rates in each country, uplifted by 3.225% per annum.” This DES now includes pneumococcal immunisation. Where the DES was provided by General Medical Services (GMS) and Personal Medical Services (PMS) contractors in 2004/05, the following rates should be used for both immunisations in England, Wales and Northern Ireland:
England and Wales - £7.28
Northern Ireland - £9.08 (includes data fee)
In Scotland, the payment is different for each immunisation:
Pneumococcal - £7.28
Influenza
if more than 50% of the age group have been immunised - £8.43
if up to and including 10% of the age group have been immunised - £6.83
if between 10% and 50% of the age group have been immunised a sliding scale is used - £6.83 to £8.43
These figures were uplifted by 3.225% for 2005/06. For 2006/07 rates will remain at 2005/06 prices.
GPs are also advised to read the DES directions, available on the Department of Health’s website which set out the minimum legal requirements for this DES, including Primary Care Trust (PCT) freedoms to commission from other providers and develop payment methodologies as appropriate.