Since April 2022, the government’s scheme to support individuals injured by Covid vaccines has seen expenses soar to a staggering £83 million. This figure comes as new statistics reveal that over 24,000 claims have been filed, predominantly concerning the AstraZeneca jab. To put it in perspective, the amount allocated for administrative and medical assessment costs has surpassed the £32 million that has been doled out in actual support to victims, more than doubling the aid provided.
The Taxpayers’ Alliance think tank has expressed that the public will be “stunned” to learn about the disproportionate spending. Baroness Heather Hallett, chair of the group, emphasized that the administrative costs and fees for medical assessors are largely driven by the sheer volume of claims received. Since taking over the administration of the Vaccine Damage Payment Scheme (VDPS) in November 2021, there has been a noticeable uptick in claims, highlighting the inefficiency of the current system. Hallett has called for a reevaluation of the payouts, suggesting they should reflect the severity of the injuries sustained, arguing that the scheme offers “too little, too late, to too few.”
The situation has prompted scrutiny over the large sums allocated to external medical providers responsible for conducting assessments. John O’Connell, chief executive of the Taxpayers’ Alliance, pointed out that the administrative costs have ballooned to far more than what has actually been distributed to those harmed by the vaccines. He criticized the scheme for its “unnecessary bureaucracy” and stated that the Department for Health and Social Care is currently “carefully considering” recommendations for reforming the scheme, with a response expected shortly from the government.
Meanwhile, the NHS Business Services Authority (NHSBSA) has assured that it continues to collaborate closely with the government in managing the costs associated with the VDPS. As the public awaits clarity on the future of the scheme and its funding, many are left wondering about the fate of those who have suffered vaccine-related injuries. The pressing question remains: will the government take decisive steps to improve the support for victims, or will the current inefficiencies persist?
Kaynak: Orijinal Haber