Friday, 29 June 2012
Radical changes are needed – my reflections on themes from the NHS Confederation conference
Radical changes are needed – my reflections on themes from the NHS Confederation conference: Reflecting back on the conference, Anna Dixon considers outstanding reform issues, including the difficult decisions that must be made around hospital reconfiguration. (Blog, 28 Jun 2012) Kings Fund
Healthcare across the UK: A comparison of the NHS in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland
Healthcare across the UK: A comparison of the NHS in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland: The report finds variations in health outcomes across the four nations, and will help health departments examine how better value for money could be achieved. The National Audit Office
NHS walk-in centres being closed
NHS walk-in centres being closed: Walk-in centres are rapidly becoming a casualty of the tougher financial climate in the NHS in England. BBC News
US healthcare reform law upheld
US healthcare reform law upheld: A key component of US President Barack Obama's landmark healthcare reform act, called the "individual mandate", is upheld, the Supreme Court rules. BBC News
Cancer awareness campaign fails to improve diagnosis rates
Cancer awareness campaign fails to improve diagnosis rates: A DH-backed cancer awareness campaign failed to detect more cases or improve recognition of symptoms, casting doubt over whether a recent £8.5m bowel cancer campaign was worthwhile. GP Online
CCGs will disappear like fundholding, top manager warns
CCGs will disappear like fundholding, top manager warns: The new system of clinical commissioning groups (CCGs) is unlikely to last longer than the GP fundholding scheme of the 1990s, according to one of the most senior hospital managers in the NHS. GP Online
Guidance and information on supporting revalidation
Guidance and information on supporting revalidation:
This guidance has been devised to simplify the appraisal process and the supporting information doctors need in order to revalidate. Following extensive work and consultation coordinated by the AoMRC, the specialty guidance frameworks have been produced based on AoMRC’s core framework (agreed by all member colleges and faculties) to ensure commonality in appraisal for revalidation regardless of a doctor’s specialty.
This guidance has been devised to simplify the appraisal process and the supporting information doctors need in order to revalidate. Following extensive work and consultation coordinated by the AoMRC, the specialty guidance frameworks have been produced based on AoMRC’s core framework (agreed by all member colleges and faculties) to ensure commonality in appraisal for revalidation regardless of a doctor’s specialty.
NHS IT directors: Spending cuts will be detrimental to patient care - Computing
NHS IT directors: Spending cuts will be detrimental to patient care - Computing:
 Computing | NHS IT directors: Spending cuts will be detrimental to patient care Computing The survey, commissioned by IT services company 2e2, found that 87 per cent of the respondents said they were under pressure to cut costs to achieve the government's aim to save £20bn from the NHS budget by 2014-15. According to 2e2, this translates to ... |
Doctors vote to strike again as pension row escalates
Doctors vote to strike again as pension row escalates:
NHS faces bank holiday-style service after BMA conference calls for further industrial action
Doctors voted on Thursday to ramp up their pensions dispute with more industrial action that threatens to reduce the NHS to a bank holiday-style service, dealong only with emergency cases.
Most of the 500 delegates at the British Medical Association's annual conference backed a motion calling for doctors across the UK to escalate the industrial action, a week after protests that deprived tens of thousands of patients of a planned operation or appointment with specialists or GPs.
However, there is some tentative optimism among BMA leaders that a resolution to the year-long dispute could soon emerge from behind-the-scenes talks.
Delegates agreed that more industrial action was necessary to try to force ministers to backtrack on pension arrangements that have infuriated the profession because they will force doctors to work until they are 68, pay more to pension contributions and forfeit their final salary scheme.
The BMA motion said any future action "should be in conjunction with other public sector unions" and that the ruling council of the medical union "should consider a range of options in defence of our pensions".
The options included a withdrawal from the establishment of clinical commissioning groups, bodies that will become key in the NHS in England under the coalition's controversial health reforms.
In secondary hospital care, the option is for "withdrawal of labour with emergency cover only". Such a move would mean the NHS being able to offer only a minimal service, similar to that given on Christmas Day or bank holidays when staff deal only with emergency cases.
The move does not bind the BMA's council, which will discuss what steps the union should take on Friday afternoon.
The motion was passed despite warnings from delegates, including Ivan Camphor, a GP who said doctors would risk losing patients' goodwill by taking further action.
Kevin O'Kane, a London hospital consultant, who proposed the motion with Anna Athow, a council member, said the move would show the health secretary, Andrew Lansley, that doctors would fight – by taking several further days of action, if necessary – until they received fair treatment over their pensions.
O'Kane, who chairs the BMA's 32,000-strong London region, told the gathering in Bournemouth: "We need to send out a very strong message to the government that we are serious about this, and get another day of action on the books. Let's get more days of action announced and get some momentum around this. Mr Lansley, we are very serious about this and you had better believe it."
But the conference rejected a part of the motion calling on the BMA council to name a date for a second day of action. That rejection could have heeded the advice of the BMA's outgoing chairman, Hamish Meldrum, who just before the vote advised against support.
Meldrum, who this week warned doctors that further action would damage patients' trust in them, indicated to delegates that there might be an announcement soon about progress on breaking the deadlock. A lot of discussions had been held since last week's day of action and there could be some news soon, he said.
Making his final address to the BMA after leading the 140,000-strong organisation for five years, Meldrum said it might "not be wonderful that things go back to 2008 [when the BMA agreed a pensions deal with the Labour government]", but that there might be developments.
On Monday, Meldrum hinted thatdoctors might be persuaded to call off the dispute if ministers agreed to concessions over two key concerns:
• Doctors having to carry on in their jobs until they are 68, which, some say, will be impractical for A&E doctors and certain categories of surgeons. .
• The planned increases in doctors' pension contributions that are due to happen in 2013 and 2014.
However, Department of Health sources confirmed that while the detail of those two issues was still to be agreed, doctors would receive no concessions in response to taking, or threatening to take, industrial action.
A letter sent by Lansley on Wednesday to Christina McAnea, Unison's head of health, who is co-ordinating the opposition of 15 health unions to the pension plans, indicated there could be scope for agreement on the two issues identified by Meldrum.
Lansley wrote: "We also need to discuss contribution rate increases in years two and three and how this will feed through in tiered contribution rates. This work needs to be taken forward in a spirit of partnership focussed on achieving pension arrangements that will best meet the needs of staff and employers."
In another seemingly emollient passage, he said: "I recognise that trade unions are particularly concerned about the increase in normal pension age. The implications of this will be considered in the Review of Working Longer, and the government has also committed to keep the link under review as recommended by Lord Hutton."
Sources involved in the dispute suggested that, as part of a potential resolution to the dispute, certain sorts of doctors might be able to do less onerous tasks than usual when they reached their mid-60s.
Lansley's letter also made clear that he would be pressing ahead with implementing the shake-up of the NHS pensions scheme, partly because "the majority of NHS staff" had not rejected the proposals in a series of votes – that often had low turnouts – which had been held by unions including Unison, Unite, the Royal College of Nursing, and the Royal College of Midwives The Guardian
Doctors voted on Thursday to ramp up their pensions dispute with more industrial action that threatens to reduce the NHS to a bank holiday-style service, dealong only with emergency cases.
Most of the 500 delegates at the British Medical Association's annual conference backed a motion calling for doctors across the UK to escalate the industrial action, a week after protests that deprived tens of thousands of patients of a planned operation or appointment with specialists or GPs.
However, there is some tentative optimism among BMA leaders that a resolution to the year-long dispute could soon emerge from behind-the-scenes talks.
Delegates agreed that more industrial action was necessary to try to force ministers to backtrack on pension arrangements that have infuriated the profession because they will force doctors to work until they are 68, pay more to pension contributions and forfeit their final salary scheme.
The BMA motion said any future action "should be in conjunction with other public sector unions" and that the ruling council of the medical union "should consider a range of options in defence of our pensions".
The options included a withdrawal from the establishment of clinical commissioning groups, bodies that will become key in the NHS in England under the coalition's controversial health reforms.
In secondary hospital care, the option is for "withdrawal of labour with emergency cover only". Such a move would mean the NHS being able to offer only a minimal service, similar to that given on Christmas Day or bank holidays when staff deal only with emergency cases.
The move does not bind the BMA's council, which will discuss what steps the union should take on Friday afternoon.
The motion was passed despite warnings from delegates, including Ivan Camphor, a GP who said doctors would risk losing patients' goodwill by taking further action.
Kevin O'Kane, a London hospital consultant, who proposed the motion with Anna Athow, a council member, said the move would show the health secretary, Andrew Lansley, that doctors would fight – by taking several further days of action, if necessary – until they received fair treatment over their pensions.
O'Kane, who chairs the BMA's 32,000-strong London region, told the gathering in Bournemouth: "We need to send out a very strong message to the government that we are serious about this, and get another day of action on the books. Let's get more days of action announced and get some momentum around this. Mr Lansley, we are very serious about this and you had better believe it."
But the conference rejected a part of the motion calling on the BMA council to name a date for a second day of action. That rejection could have heeded the advice of the BMA's outgoing chairman, Hamish Meldrum, who just before the vote advised against support.
Meldrum, who this week warned doctors that further action would damage patients' trust in them, indicated to delegates that there might be an announcement soon about progress on breaking the deadlock. A lot of discussions had been held since last week's day of action and there could be some news soon, he said.
Making his final address to the BMA after leading the 140,000-strong organisation for five years, Meldrum said it might "not be wonderful that things go back to 2008 [when the BMA agreed a pensions deal with the Labour government]", but that there might be developments.
On Monday, Meldrum hinted thatdoctors might be persuaded to call off the dispute if ministers agreed to concessions over two key concerns:
• Doctors having to carry on in their jobs until they are 68, which, some say, will be impractical for A&E doctors and certain categories of surgeons. .
• The planned increases in doctors' pension contributions that are due to happen in 2013 and 2014.
However, Department of Health sources confirmed that while the detail of those two issues was still to be agreed, doctors would receive no concessions in response to taking, or threatening to take, industrial action.
A letter sent by Lansley on Wednesday to Christina McAnea, Unison's head of health, who is co-ordinating the opposition of 15 health unions to the pension plans, indicated there could be scope for agreement on the two issues identified by Meldrum.
Lansley wrote: "We also need to discuss contribution rate increases in years two and three and how this will feed through in tiered contribution rates. This work needs to be taken forward in a spirit of partnership focussed on achieving pension arrangements that will best meet the needs of staff and employers."
In another seemingly emollient passage, he said: "I recognise that trade unions are particularly concerned about the increase in normal pension age. The implications of this will be considered in the Review of Working Longer, and the government has also committed to keep the link under review as recommended by Lord Hutton."
Sources involved in the dispute suggested that, as part of a potential resolution to the dispute, certain sorts of doctors might be able to do less onerous tasks than usual when they reached their mid-60s.
Lansley's letter also made clear that he would be pressing ahead with implementing the shake-up of the NHS pensions scheme, partly because "the majority of NHS staff" had not rejected the proposals in a series of votes – that often had low turnouts – which had been held by unions including Unison, Unite, the Royal College of Nursing, and the Royal College of Midwives The Guardian
NHS facing 'colossal' care bill unless system is overhauled urgently
NHS facing 'colossal' care bill unless system is overhauled urgently: The Coalition is failing to live up to its pledge to find an urgent solution to the funding crisis over care for the elderly, the leaders of the Royal College of Nursing and Age UK claim today.
The Daily Telegraph
The Daily TelegraphWarning over shortage of midwives
Warning over shortage of midwives:
The Government must address the "serious shortage" of midwives, the Royal College of Midwives said, as an independent report found that numbers of staff are one of the main challenges facing maternity services. The Independent
The Government must address the "serious shortage" of midwives, the Royal College of Midwives said, as an independent report found that numbers of staff are one of the main challenges facing maternity services. The Independent
Thursday, 28 June 2012
Most patients would recommend Kettering General Hospital
Most patients would recommend Kettering General Hospital:
A majority of Kettering General Hospital patients would recommend the service to friends and family, a survey has revealed. Evening Telegraph
A majority of Kettering General Hospital patients would recommend the service to friends and family, a survey has revealed. Evening Telegraph
Local health profiles published for every county and council in England
Local health profiles published for every county and council in England: Details of local health needs in every county and council in England have been published, alongside tools to help users analyse the data.
You can find Northamptonshire here.
You can find Northamptonshire here.
New health visitor service ''will be dynamic''
New health visitor service ''will be dynamic'': New parents will get more support from health visitors in the home and community, says Department of Health Public Service
Update on induction for junior doctors
Update on induction for junior doctors: The Joint Negotiating Committee for Junior Doctors (JNC J) has issued guidance for the induction of junior doctors. NHS Employers
Healthcare public health advice service to clinical commissioning groups: guidance to support the provision of healthcare public health advice to CCGs
Healthcare public health advice service to clinical commissioning groups: guidance to support the provision of healthcare public health advice to CCGs:
This guidance aims to help local authority based Directors of Public Health and NHS commissioners with local planning in the transition year before the new healthcare system goes live in April 2013. It is intended supersede the draft guidance issued to local public health teams and CCGs in February 2012.
This guidance aims to help local authority based Directors of Public Health and NHS commissioners with local planning in the transition year before the new healthcare system goes live in April 2013. It is intended supersede the draft guidance issued to local public health teams and CCGs in February 2012.
The home cure
The home cure:
This report examines whether, through changes to delivery, out-patient home care programmes can achieve better outcomes. Introduced in the 2000s to reduce ‘bed-blocking’ in hospitals, evidence now suggests that effective reablement can facilitate swifter discharge and reduce the need of ongoing home care support by up to 60 per cent. The savings to both health and social care services are substantial; but in reality performance is variable. This report finds that reablement services could benefit from deep structural changes to how they are delivered.
This report examines whether, through changes to delivery, out-patient home care programmes can achieve better outcomes. Introduced in the 2000s to reduce ‘bed-blocking’ in hospitals, evidence now suggests that effective reablement can facilitate swifter discharge and reduce the need of ongoing home care support by up to 60 per cent. The savings to both health and social care services are substantial; but in reality performance is variable. This report finds that reablement services could benefit from deep structural changes to how they are delivered.
Assessment of health-system crisis preparedness: England
Assessment of health-system crisis preparedness: England:
This report describes the level of preparedness of the English health system to deal with crises, regardless of cause. It also examines the risk-prevention and risk-mitigation initiatives of the country. While the main focus is on the national level, some attention has been paid to weaknesses in the command structure at the regional level. Recommendations on possible action are included.
This report describes the level of preparedness of the English health system to deal with crises, regardless of cause. It also examines the risk-prevention and risk-mitigation initiatives of the country. While the main focus is on the national level, some attention has been paid to weaknesses in the command structure at the regional level. Recommendations on possible action are included.
Guidance offered to GPs on spotting autism
Guidance offered to GPs on spotting autism:
Family doctors have been given new guidance to help them identify autism in adults to help them get the help they need.
The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) published the guidance to see NHS staff better equipped to recognise the signs and symptoms of autism in adults.
There are half a million people in the UK with an autism spectrum condition (ASC) including Asperger syndrome... Healthcare Today
Family doctors have been given new guidance to help them identify autism in adults to help them get the help they need.
The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) published the guidance to see NHS staff better equipped to recognise the signs and symptoms of autism in adults.
There are half a million people in the UK with an autism spectrum condition (ASC) including Asperger syndrome... Healthcare Today
Adults with autism need more help in accessing services
Adults with autism need more help in accessing services: Early diagnosis of adults with autism can help them access the services they need, including assistance with getting jobs and keeping hold of them. NICE
Obese and smokers less of a burden on the NHS than the healthy who live longer - report
Obese and smokers less of a burden on the NHS than the healthy who live longer - report: Healthy people live longer and end up needing 24 hour care, report says.
The Daily Telegraph
The Daily Telegraph
Don't sign, hospitals warned before PFI deal
Don't sign, hospitals warned before PFI deal: An NHS hospital trust was officially warned not to sign the £500 million PFI deal that left it on the brink of bankruptcy, an independent report discloses.
The Daily Telegraph
The Daily TelegraphOne in four hospitals, clinics and care homes fail to meet basic standards for patient safety and quality of care
One in four hospitals, clinics and care homes fail to meet basic standards for patient safety and quality of care:
One in four hospitals, clinics and care homes in England are failing to meet basic standards for patient safety and quality of care, according to the most comprehensive study of its kind. The Independent
One in four hospitals, clinics and care homes in England are failing to meet basic standards for patient safety and quality of care, according to the most comprehensive study of its kind. The Independent
Wednesday, 27 June 2012
Healthy hearts campaign
Healthy hearts campaign:
A high-profile campaign called Know Your Pulse is launching in Corby on Monday, July 2, with an event to coincide with the Olympic Torch relay visiting the town. Evening Telegraph
A high-profile campaign called Know Your Pulse is launching in Corby on Monday, July 2, with an event to coincide with the Olympic Torch relay visiting the town. Evening Telegraph
Evaluation of the 2010/11 local pilot cancer symptom awareness campaigns
Evaluation of the 2010/11 local pilot cancer symptom awareness campaigns:
These projects covered 109 primary care trusts (PCTs) across England, targeting a total population of over 13.6 million. The report is aimed at local NHS staff. NHS Networks
These projects covered 109 primary care trusts (PCTs) across England, targeting a total population of over 13.6 million. The report is aimed at local NHS staff. NHS Networks
Two-hour meninigitis test developed
Two-hour meninigitis test developed: A potentially life saving new test that quickly identifies the main cause of bacterial meningitis, septicaemia and pneumonia cases in young babies has been developed by British scientists.
Telegraph
TelegraphBlood clot patients to receive routine cancer checks
Blood clot patients to receive routine cancer checks: Tens of thousands of people with deep vein blood clots will be checked for cancer every year under new NHS guidelines, after evidence emerged the blockages could be an early warning sign of tumours.
Telegraph
TelegraphAt least 30 health trusts in a critical condition
At least 30 health trusts in a critical condition:
More than 30 NHS trusts could be forced to merge, devolve services into the community and make job cuts as part of a radical restructuring of hospital care across England. Independent
More than 30 NHS trusts could be forced to merge, devolve services into the community and make job cuts as part of a radical restructuring of hospital care across England. Independent
Public health advice service for clinical commissioning groups
Public health advice service for clinical commissioning groups:
This guidance aims to help local authority based Directors of Public Health and NHS commissioners with local planning in the transition year before the new healthcare system goes live in April 2013.
The healthcare public health advice service (PDF, 278K) is a means of ensuring that specialist public health advice in NHS commissioning is not lost when the new healthcare system is created. It includes examples of existing Memorandums of Understanding and has a frequently asked questions section.
The policy intention is to make it, through regulations, a mandatory requirement for local authorities to provide this service to clinical commissioning groups (CCGs), but the detail of the arrangements will need to be planned locally by CCGs and Directors of Public Health.
This document replaces the draft guidance that was published on the Department of Health website on 22 February.
As part of the Health and Social Care Act 2012, CCGs will have access to public health advice, information and expertise in relation to the healthcare services that they commission and will be provided by local public health teams based in local authorities. Department of Health
This guidance aims to help local authority based Directors of Public Health and NHS commissioners with local planning in the transition year before the new healthcare system goes live in April 2013.
The healthcare public health advice service (PDF, 278K) is a means of ensuring that specialist public health advice in NHS commissioning is not lost when the new healthcare system is created. It includes examples of existing Memorandums of Understanding and has a frequently asked questions section.
The policy intention is to make it, through regulations, a mandatory requirement for local authorities to provide this service to clinical commissioning groups (CCGs), but the detail of the arrangements will need to be planned locally by CCGs and Directors of Public Health.
This document replaces the draft guidance that was published on the Department of Health website on 22 February.
As part of the Health and Social Care Act 2012, CCGs will have access to public health advice, information and expertise in relation to the healthcare services that they commission and will be provided by local public health teams based in local authorities. Department of Health
The 2012 Local Health Profiles published
The 2012 Local Health Profiles published:
The 2012 Local Health Profiles give a snapshot overview of health for each local authority in England in a user-friendly format. They are a valuable tool for local government and health services in helping them understand their community’s needs, so that they can work to improve people’s health and reduce health inequalities. Produced by the Public Health Observatories of England, health profiles are available as interactive maps and charts on the Local Health Profiles website. The profile for each local authority in England includes:
The 2012 Local Health Profiles give a snapshot overview of health for each local authority in England in a user-friendly format. They are a valuable tool for local government and health services in helping them understand their community’s needs, so that they can work to improve people’s health and reduce health inequalities. Produced by the Public Health Observatories of England, health profiles are available as interactive maps and charts on the Local Health Profiles website. The profile for each local authority in England includes:
- an ‘at a glance’ summary description of people’s health in the area, which includes information on locally identified priorities
- maps and charts showing how the health of the area compares to the national view and information on health inequalities within the local authority
- charts presenting changes in death rates over a 10 year period, compared to rates for England
- a ‘spine chart’ health summary showing the difference in health between the area and the regional/England average for 32 indicators within five domains (our communities, children’s and young people’s health, adults’ health and lifestyle, diseases and poor health, and life expectancy and causes of death)
NHS Confederation response to Secretary of State decision to consider placing South London Healthcare Trust in administration
NHS Confederation response to Secretary of State decision to consider placing South London Healthcare Trust in administration: NHS Confederation deputy chief executive David Stout said the decision showed the government was starting to grasp the nettle on the difficult issues the NHS faces. NHS Confederation
Impact of telehealth
Impact of telehealth: The Nuffield Trust has published 'The impact of telehealth on use of hospital care and mortality'. This report evaluates the impact of telehealth on hospital use and mortality from the Department of Health's Whole System Demonstrator pilots. The study found indications of a positive impact on hospital admissions and patient mortality, however, there was less evidence that telehealth will reduce costs. For intervention patients, the overall costs of hospital care (including emergency admissions, elective admissions and outpatient attendances), were £188 per patient less than for those in the control group. However, this cost difference was not statistically significant.CASH News Feed
Role shadowing arrangements for junior doctors announced
Role shadowing arrangements for junior doctors announced:
Junior doctors will spend a minimum of four working days shadowing the job that they will be taking up from this summer, it was announced. The Department of Health asked Medical Education England (MEE) for advice on enabling junior doctors to make the transition from student to doctor and employee in the safest way possible.
The MEE Shadowing Steering Group on national shadowing arrangements for appointees to the foundation programmer published by Medical Education England advised that shadowing should be undertaken with the aim that junior doctors are safe, provide a high quality service to patients and are well prepared to start work as a new doctor.
NHS Medical Director, Professor Sir Bruce Keogh, said:
‘There is some evidence of increased risk to patients as new doctors take their first steps. So, learning from pilots across the country, we have agreed that all new first year doctors should undertake a period of paid shadowing the doctor they will be replacing, for a period of at least four days. That scheme will start this year, and will operate in late July every year.
Patient safety and providing a high quality service is at the heart of a modern NHS. This shadowing period could potentially save lives, and will equip new junior doctors with the local knowledge and skills needed to provide safe, high quality patient care, from their first day as a doctor.’
Three pilots have been carried out over the last three years, at University Hospitals Bristol NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge / University of East Anglia, and Cardiff Medical School. Department of Health
Junior doctors will spend a minimum of four working days shadowing the job that they will be taking up from this summer, it was announced. The Department of Health asked Medical Education England (MEE) for advice on enabling junior doctors to make the transition from student to doctor and employee in the safest way possible.
The MEE Shadowing Steering Group on national shadowing arrangements for appointees to the foundation programmer published by Medical Education England advised that shadowing should be undertaken with the aim that junior doctors are safe, provide a high quality service to patients and are well prepared to start work as a new doctor.
NHS Medical Director, Professor Sir Bruce Keogh, said:
‘There is some evidence of increased risk to patients as new doctors take their first steps. So, learning from pilots across the country, we have agreed that all new first year doctors should undertake a period of paid shadowing the doctor they will be replacing, for a period of at least four days. That scheme will start this year, and will operate in late July every year.
Patient safety and providing a high quality service is at the heart of a modern NHS. This shadowing period could potentially save lives, and will equip new junior doctors with the local knowledge and skills needed to provide safe, high quality patient care, from their first day as a doctor.’
Three pilots have been carried out over the last three years, at University Hospitals Bristol NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge / University of East Anglia, and Cardiff Medical School. Department of Health
SIGN discharge document
SIGN discharge document: The Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network has published 'Guideline 123: the SIGN discharge document'. The aim of this document is to present a template for a single discharge document that can be used as both the Immediate Discharge Document (IDD; sent to the GP on the day of discharge) and as the final discharge summary/ letter (in its extended format) for more complex cases. It is of relevance to all hospital medical and nursing staff, allied health professionals, general practitioners, community nurses, pharmacists, out-of-hours services, and patients their carers and relatives. This SIGN discharge document replaces SIGN 65 and reflects a number of developments including advances that have been made with regard to the production, use and transmission of electronic documents within NHS Scotland, changes in terminology, and the importance of medicines reconciliation. CASH News Feed
Call for mental health research topics
Call for mental health research topics: RCN members are being encouraged to submit research topic proposals for the National Confidential Inquiry into Suicide and Homicide by People with Mental Illness (NCI) to consider.Royal College of Nursing
Tuesday, 26 June 2012
Single Operating Model for Commissioning Primary Care
Single Operating Model for Commissioning Primary Care:
The NHS Commissioning Board Authority has published the single operating model for the commissioning of primary care services within the NHS.
The new system will come into effect from 1 April 2013. At this date, the NHS Commissioning Board will take on many of the current functions of PCTs with regard to the commissioning of primary care health services, as well as some nationally-based functions currently undertaken by the Department of Health.
Securing excellence in commissioning primary care describes the system by which the NHS Commissioning Board will use the £12.6bn the NHS spends on commissioning primary care to secure the best possible outcomes for patients. In time, through this new system, the NHSCB will also develop the future strategy for primary care.
The benefits the Board Authority hopes to achieve from this change are:
The document is based on three guiding principles:
The NHS Commissioning Board Authority has published the single operating model for the commissioning of primary care services within the NHS.
The new system will come into effect from 1 April 2013. At this date, the NHS Commissioning Board will take on many of the current functions of PCTs with regard to the commissioning of primary care health services, as well as some nationally-based functions currently undertaken by the Department of Health.
Securing excellence in commissioning primary care describes the system by which the NHS Commissioning Board will use the £12.6bn the NHS spends on commissioning primary care to secure the best possible outcomes for patients. In time, through this new system, the NHSCB will also develop the future strategy for primary care.
The benefits the Board Authority hopes to achieve from this change are:
- Greater consistency and fairness in access and provision for patients, with an end to unjustifiable variations in services and a reduction in health inequalities
- Better health outcomes for patients as primary care clinicians are empowered to focus on delivering high quality, clinically-effective, evidence-based services
- Greater efficiencies in the delivery of primary care health services through the introduction of standardised frameworks and operating procedures.
The document is based on three guiding principles:
- People should have access to continuously improving, high quality primary care provision regardless of where they live
- The commissioning system should be clinically led and professionally managed to balance the needs of local communities within a single operating system
- There should be consistency in the contractual relationship between providers and the NHS Commissioning Board as the commissioner.
- Securing excellence in commissioning primary care
- Securing excellence in commissioning primary care: Annex 2 Tasks and functions
- Securing Excellence in Commissioning Primary Care: Key Facts
- Securing Excellence in Commissioning Primary Care – frequently asked questions
Single operating model for commissioning in primary care
Single operating model for commissioning in primary care: Source: NHS Commissioning Board
The NHS Commissioning Board Authority has published the single operating model for the commissioning of primary care services within the NHS, which will come into effect from 1 April 2013. Please see the link below for details. NeLM - News
The NHS Commissioning Board Authority has published the single operating model for the commissioning of primary care services within the NHS, which will come into effect from 1 April 2013. Please see the link below for details. NeLM - News
NICE to meet with venture capitalists?
NICE to meet with venture capitalists?: Source: Kantar Media Intelligence Health News
According to an article in the Financial Times, NICE is to begin talks with venture capitalists to discuss which experimental treatments would be most likely to be purchased by the NHS. It states that this approach could strengthen the UK's life sciences sector by helping funders direct money into those experimental treatments that are more likely to be determined as cost effective.
Professor Carole Longson, director of NICE's health technology evaluation centre, told the Financial Times: "We are exploring the possibility of providing advice to the investment community. Our focus lies in providing clarity about the data that [need] to be generated in order to demonstrate the value of products to the healthcare system." NeLM - News
According to an article in the Financial Times, NICE is to begin talks with venture capitalists to discuss which experimental treatments would be most likely to be purchased by the NHS. It states that this approach could strengthen the UK's life sciences sector by helping funders direct money into those experimental treatments that are more likely to be determined as cost effective.
Professor Carole Longson, director of NICE's health technology evaluation centre, told the Financial Times: "We are exploring the possibility of providing advice to the investment community. Our focus lies in providing clarity about the data that [need] to be generated in order to demonstrate the value of products to the healthcare system." NeLM - News
World class education and training, for world class healthcare: introducing Health Education England (HEE)
World class education and training, for world class healthcare: introducing Health Education England (HEE):
This document aims to raise awareness of the role of HEE and Local Education and Training Boards. It sets out the role of the new organisation for NHS chief executives, directors of HR, all staff in HEE sender organisations and trade unions. It outlines the vision and purpose, values and culture and the proposed advisory structure.
NHS Evidence - Health Management
This document aims to raise awareness of the role of HEE and Local Education and Training Boards. It sets out the role of the new organisation for NHS chief executives, directors of HR, all staff in HEE sender organisations and trade unions. It outlines the vision and purpose, values and culture and the proposed advisory structure.
NHS Evidence - Health Management
Voice algorithms to spot Parkinson's
Voice algorithms to spot Parkinson's:
Mathematician Max Little has created a program which uses algorithms to detect Parkinson's disease from voice recordings.Mr Little, who is a TED Fellow, is due to present his findings at the TEDGlobal Conference in Edinburgh and is asking for people to volunteer in order to create a database of recordings. At present, detecting Parkinson's disease can take a long time as it cannot be identified using ... Healthcare Today
Mathematician Max Little has created a program which uses algorithms to detect Parkinson's disease from voice recordings.Mr Little, who is a TED Fellow, is due to present his findings at the TEDGlobal Conference in Edinburgh and is asking for people to volunteer in order to create a database of recordings. At present, detecting Parkinson's disease can take a long time as it cannot be identified using ... Healthcare Today
Vow to improve care home standards
Vow to improve care home standards:
The Government pledged today to drive up standards in care homes for people with learning disabilities after a watchdog's report claimed nearly half were substandard. Independent
The Government pledged today to drive up standards in care homes for people with learning disabilities after a watchdog's report claimed nearly half were substandard. Independent
Administrator to cut services after takeover of ailing NHS trust
Administrator to cut services after takeover of ailing NHS trust:
An NHS hospital trust which is losing more than £1m a week is set to be taken over by a Government appointed administrator with the power to sack staff and cut services as part of a radical restructuring programme. Independent
An NHS hospital trust which is losing more than £1m a week is set to be taken over by a Government appointed administrator with the power to sack staff and cut services as part of a radical restructuring programme. Independent
Monday, 25 June 2012
Review of the NHS equal pay toolkit - your views needed
Review of the NHS equal pay toolkit - your views needed:
We are running a short survey to find out whether the toolkit helped. The purpose of the survey is to establish the extent to which NHS organisations are conducting equal pay audits, and whether the toolkit is being used
effectively. The survey will take you five minutes to complete. Complete the survey now. NHS Networks
We are running a short survey to find out whether the toolkit helped. The purpose of the survey is to establish the extent to which NHS organisations are conducting equal pay audits, and whether the toolkit is being used
effectively. The survey will take you five minutes to complete. Complete the survey now. NHS Networks
Use of personal budgets up by nearly 40 per cent
Use of personal budgets up by nearly 40 per cent:
This means that 52.8 per cent of people eligible for personal budgets are actually using them to arrange their care as at March 2012. According to Sarah Pickup, president of ADASS: “The number of people supported in the community as at March 31 this year was 818,700. This represents a 7.7 per cent fall on the previous year’s figure of 886,939 reflecting the increased use of enablement and other services designed to reduce the need for ongoing support.” NHS Networks
This means that 52.8 per cent of people eligible for personal budgets are actually using them to arrange their care as at March 2012. According to Sarah Pickup, president of ADASS: “The number of people supported in the community as at March 31 this year was 818,700. This represents a 7.7 per cent fall on the previous year’s figure of 886,939 reflecting the increased use of enablement and other services designed to reduce the need for ongoing support.” NHS Networks
Games4Life aims to get the nation active this summer
Games4Life aims to get the nation active this summer:
The latest campaign from Change4Life, Games4Life, aims to inspire the nation to get active during this year’s summer of sport.
With more than 1,200 hours of sport on TV over the summer (which works out at 13 hours a day), Games4Life intends to build on the excitement and encourage millions of people to get involved and get active.
A new survey shows that 93% of us will be tuning into some of this coverage during the next 3 months and while we watch:
The campaign will bring ideas and inspiration to the public’s fingertips via the Change4Life website, which is full of fun, easy and free ways for everyone to get moving.
And for families, a new mobile app – the Fun Generator – will equip them with more than 100 ideas on how to get active. Find out more on the Change4Life website Department of Health
The latest campaign from Change4Life, Games4Life, aims to inspire the nation to get active during this year’s summer of sport.
With more than 1,200 hours of sport on TV over the summer (which works out at 13 hours a day), Games4Life intends to build on the excitement and encourage millions of people to get involved and get active.
A new survey shows that 93% of us will be tuning into some of this coverage during the next 3 months and while we watch:
- over half of us will snack on crisps
- 4 in 10 adults will drink alcohol
- 1 in 5 will eat a takeaway
The campaign will bring ideas and inspiration to the public’s fingertips via the Change4Life website, which is full of fun, easy and free ways for everyone to get moving.
And for families, a new mobile app – the Fun Generator – will equip them with more than 100 ideas on how to get active. Find out more on the Change4Life website Department of Health
Junior doctors must shadow jobs
Junior doctors must shadow jobs: Junior doctors will have to spend at least four days shadowing their first job in the NHS before starting work, the government has announced. BBC Health News
H5N1 human pandemic 'possible'
H5N1 human pandemic 'possible': Researchers say the H5N1 bird flu virus could mutate into a form that could be spread rapidly between humans.Kings Fund Health News
Telehealth cuts deaths but fails to save NHS costs, study finds
Telehealth cuts deaths but fails to save NHS costs, study finds: Telehealth can cut deaths and avoid hospital admissions but is unlikely to save the NHS ;1.2bn as claimed by ministers, the first study into a DH-backed telehealth trial shows. Kings Fund Health News
Careful planning for industrial action ensured patient safety remained a priority
Careful planning for industrial action ensured patient safety remained a priority: An update following Thursday’s industrial action by doctors. NHS Employers
Quality and outcomes framework frequently asked questions published
Quality and outcomes framework frequently asked questions published: NHS Employers and the General Practitioners Committee of the British Medical Association have now published the updated set of joint QOF frequently asked questions (FAQs) for use by primary care organisations and general practice. NHS Employers
Bird flu pandemic just "three mutations" away, scientists show
Bird flu pandemic just "three mutations" away, scientists show: A bird flu pandemic may be close to being a real threat after scientists discovered the virus is already just "three mutations" away from evolving into a strain which would be able to pass from human to human.
Telegraph
TelegraphFriday, 22 June 2012
GP Ratings app launched
GP Ratings app launched:
Patients can now use a new iPhone app to pick which GP surgery to register with.
Called ‘GP Ratings’, it has been developed by FineFettleApps.com and provides information on all 8,344 GP surgeries in England by using data from the 11 million responses the Department of Health’s national GP Patient Survey which was undertaken last year. It uses star ratings to enable people to find their 10 closest...
Healthcare Today
Patients can now use a new iPhone app to pick which GP surgery to register with.
Called ‘GP Ratings’, it has been developed by FineFettleApps.com and provides information on all 8,344 GP surgeries in England by using data from the 11 million responses the Department of Health’s national GP Patient Survey which was undertaken last year. It uses star ratings to enable people to find their 10 closest...
Healthcare Today
NHS patient feedback challenge expert panel announced
NHS patient feedback challenge expert panel announced:
The "challenge" is a one year programme to identify how feedback from patients can be used to improve services. It is an opportunity to share, spread and implement the measurement and improvement of patient experience across the NHS. The NHS patient feedback challenge is backed by a £1m fund. NHS Networks
The "challenge" is a one year programme to identify how feedback from patients can be used to improve services. It is an opportunity to share, spread and implement the measurement and improvement of patient experience across the NHS. The NHS patient feedback challenge is backed by a £1m fund. NHS Networks
NHS Commissioning Board local area teams and clinical senates
NHS Commissioning Board local area teams and clinical senates:
NHS Commissioning Board Authority Chief Operating Officer Ian Dalton and Medical Director Professor Sir Bruce Keogh have shared the outcome of the work to agree the geographies that the NHS Commissioning Board (NHS CB) local area teams will serve, as well as the outcome of related work to confirm the number, and coverage, of clinical senates.
The letter, and the accompanying briefing pack which sets out the geographical boundaries, is available below.
Letter from Ian Dalton and Sir Bruce Keogh
NHS CB Local Area Teams and Clinical Senates Briefing Pack
NHS Commissioning Board Authority Chief Operating Officer Ian Dalton and Medical Director Professor Sir Bruce Keogh have shared the outcome of the work to agree the geographies that the NHS Commissioning Board (NHS CB) local area teams will serve, as well as the outcome of related work to confirm the number, and coverage, of clinical senates.
The letter, and the accompanying briefing pack which sets out the geographical boundaries, is available below.
Letter from Ian Dalton and Sir Bruce Keogh
NHS CB Local Area Teams and Clinical Senates Briefing Pack
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More NHS action 'not ruled out'
More NHS action 'not ruled out': More days of industrial action are not being ruled out by doctors' leaders as they ponder their next move in the battle over pensions. BBC News - Health
Health checks for carers in QOF from 2014/15
Health checks for carers in QOF from 2014/15: Annual health checks for carers could be added to the QOF from 2014/15 after provisional targets were approved by a NICE expert panel. Kings Fund Health News
SIGN publishes guidance on its discharge document
SIGN publishes guidance on its discharge document: Source: SIGN
The Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network (SIGN) has published guidance on 'The SIGN Discharge Document' - presenting a template for a single discharge document that can be used as both the Immediate Discharge Document (IDD; sent to the GP on the day of discharge) and as the final discharge summary/ letter (in its extended format) for more complex cases. It is of relevance to all hospital medical and nursing staff, allied health professionals, general practitioners, community nurses, pharmacists, out-of-hours services, and patients their carers and relatives.
This document replaces SIGN 65 and reflects a number of developments, including advances that have been made with regard to the production, use and transmission of electronic documents within NHS Scotland, changes in terminology, and the importance of medicines reconciliation. The essential components of a discharge document however remain largely unchanged...
The Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network (SIGN) has published guidance on 'The SIGN Discharge Document' - presenting a template for a single discharge document that can be used as both the Immediate Discharge Document (IDD; sent to the GP on the day of discharge) and as the final discharge summary/ letter (in its extended format) for more complex cases. It is of relevance to all hospital medical and nursing staff, allied health professionals, general practitioners, community nurses, pharmacists, out-of-hours services, and patients their carers and relatives.
This document replaces SIGN 65 and reflects a number of developments, including advances that have been made with regard to the production, use and transmission of electronic documents within NHS Scotland, changes in terminology, and the importance of medicines reconciliation. The essential components of a discharge document however remain largely unchanged...
Quality care for older people with urgent and emergency care needs ('The Silver Book')
Quality care for older people with urgent and emergency care needs ('The Silver Book'):
The focus of this guide is on care for older people over the first 24 hours of an urgent care episode, with the specific remit to help decrease variations in practice; influence the development of appropriate services across the urgent care system; identify and disseminate best practice; and influence policy development.
NHS Evidence - Health Management
The focus of this guide is on care for older people over the first 24 hours of an urgent care episode, with the specific remit to help decrease variations in practice; influence the development of appropriate services across the urgent care system; identify and disseminate best practice; and influence policy development.
NHS Evidence - Health Management
Academic Health Science Networks (AHSNs)
Academic Health Science Networks (AHSNs):
The Department of Health are seeking expressions of interest to create an AHSNs. The goal of AHSN’s will be to improve patient and population health outcomes by translating research into practice and developing and implementing integrated health care systems. The document sets out the draft designation and establishment process. It is aimed at the NHS, care trust, special health authorities, and local authority chief executives, medical, nursing, finance and public health directors, NHS chairs, university deans of medical schools, schools of nursing and midwifery and allied health professionals.
NHS Evidence - Health Management
The Department of Health are seeking expressions of interest to create an AHSNs. The goal of AHSN’s will be to improve patient and population health outcomes by translating research into practice and developing and implementing integrated health care systems. The document sets out the draft designation and establishment process. It is aimed at the NHS, care trust, special health authorities, and local authority chief executives, medical, nursing, finance and public health directors, NHS chairs, university deans of medical schools, schools of nursing and midwifery and allied health professionals.
NHS Evidence - Health Management
Hospitals aim to save £2.35bn
Hospitals aim to save £2.35bn:
New figures have revealed that hospital trusts are planning to take £2.35bn out of their cost base during the current financial year.
An investigation by HSJ looked at figures from 133 acute non-specialist trusts, which revealed that the average cost improvement programme (CIP) target across the sector is 5.3% of turnover in 2012/13.
Almost half were trying to make savings from reducing their pay budget. Healthcare Today
New figures have revealed that hospital trusts are planning to take £2.35bn out of their cost base during the current financial year.
An investigation by HSJ looked at figures from 133 acute non-specialist trusts, which revealed that the average cost improvement programme (CIP) target across the sector is 5.3% of turnover in 2012/13.
Almost half were trying to make savings from reducing their pay budget. Healthcare Today
Doctors' strike: just 8 per cent take action
Doctors' strike: just 8 per cent take action: Just eight per cent of doctors working in the NHS took part in industrial action today, Government figures suggest.
Telegraph Health News
Telegraph Health News
One in ten patients hit by doctors' action, Department of Health claim
One in ten patients hit by doctors' action, Department of Health claim:
One in 10 patients have had their operations, outpatient appointments or treatments rescheduled due to the British Medical Association's (BMA) industrial action, figures suggest. Independent
One in 10 patients have had their operations, outpatient appointments or treatments rescheduled due to the British Medical Association's (BMA) industrial action, figures suggest. Independent
New report calls for improvements to patient transfer information
New report calls for improvements to patient transfer information: The report of the Keeping Patients Safe When They Transfer Between Care Providers: Getting the Medicines Right project has been published. Royal Collecge of Nursing
Winter flu season at all time low
Winter flu season at all time low: Overall GP consultation rates for influenza-like illness in England and Wales indicate that the 2011/2012 flu season was the lowest on record* according to the Health Protection Agency’s (HPA) annual flu report published 21 June 2012. Health Protection Agency
Thursday, 21 June 2012
A fifth of GPs offering emergency care only as doctors strike
A fifth of GPs offering emergency care only as doctors strike:
A fifth of GP surgeries will only see emergency patients and some routine hosptial appointments have been postponed as doctors’ strike tomorrow. Evening Telegraph
A fifth of GP surgeries will only see emergency patients and some routine hosptial appointments have been postponed as doctors’ strike tomorrow. Evening Telegraph
Quality improvement through clinical communities: eight lessons for practice
Quality improvement through clinical communities: eight lessons for practice:
The authors of this paper review and analysis literature in order to provide practical lessons on how to
improve the quality of healthcare by using clinical community-based
approaches. NHS Networks
improve the quality of healthcare by using clinical community-based
approaches. NHS Networks
Doctors start industrial action
Doctors start industrial action: The first industrial action by doctors for almost 40 years is under way, as medics boycott non-urgent care in a dispute over pensions. BBC News
Research fills in Map of Medicine
Research fills in Map of Medicine: About half of GPs and a quarter of community staff are using the care pathways tool Map of Medicine, new research suggests. EHI News
Emergency preparedness during transition
Emergency preparedness during transition: The following Dear Colleague Letter has been published by the Department of Health 'Maintaining NHS emergency preparedness, resilience and response staff capability during transition'. This letter provides direction of how resilience to respond to incidents must be maintained during transition. CASH News
Reaping the strategic rewards of revalidation
Reaping the strategic rewards of revalidation: NHS leaders gathered to hear the strategic benefits of implementing revalidation, on the first day of the NHS Confederation’s annual conference and exhibition. NHS Employer News
Personal health budget pilots: fifth interim evaluation report
Personal health budget pilots: fifth interim evaluation report:
The fifth interim independent evaluation report about the personal health budget pilot programme has been published by the personal health budgets evaluation (PHBE) team.
The report is based on interviews with 52 budget holders and 13 carers and suggests that there is widespread potential for personal health budgets to lead to improvements in health and wellbeing.
The report highlights that the role of information, advice and support is vitally important. It identifies some challenges, and work continues to explore these in more detail, to develop methods to overcome them and help the NHS to deliver personal health budgets in the longer term. Department of Health
The fifth interim independent evaluation report about the personal health budget pilot programme has been published by the personal health budgets evaluation (PHBE) team.
The report is based on interviews with 52 budget holders and 13 carers and suggests that there is widespread potential for personal health budgets to lead to improvements in health and wellbeing.
The report highlights that the role of information, advice and support is vitally important. It identifies some challenges, and work continues to explore these in more detail, to develop methods to overcome them and help the NHS to deliver personal health budgets in the longer term. Department of Health
Supporting recovery in mental health
Supporting recovery in mental health: The Implementing Recovery through Organisational Change project is a new approach to helping people with mental health problems that aims to change how the NHS and its partners operate so they can focus more on helping those people with their recovery. NHS Confederation
Financial pressure in NHS 'worst seen' NHS managers warn - Telegraph.co.uk
Financial pressure in NHS 'worst seen' NHS managers warn - Telegraph.co.uk:
 Telegraph.co.uk | Financial pressure in NHS 'worst seen' NHS managers warn Telegraph.co.uk Cinderella services like learning disabilities, mental health for children, some diagnostic services and physiotherapy which are not scrutinised as closely as ... NHS chiefs gloomy about care prospectsFinancial Times Health group warns NHS is 'tanker heading for iceberg'Manchester Evening News Today in healthcare: Tuesday 19 JuneThe Guardian all 136 news articles » |
RCN seeks members’ views on NMC council
RCN seeks members’ views on NMC council: The Royal College of Nursing is seeking feedback from members before responding to a Department of Health consultation on reducing the size of the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) ruling council.
Wednesday, 20 June 2012
Northampton General Hospital cancels ‘small number’ of operations ahead of strikes
Northampton General Hospital cancels ‘small number’ of operations ahead of strikes:
A ‘small number’ of operations scheduled for Thursday have been rearranged and an outpatient clinic cancelled at Northampton General Hospital as a result of strikes by doctors. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
A ‘small number’ of operations scheduled for Thursday have been rearranged and an outpatient clinic cancelled at Northampton General Hospital as a result of strikes by doctors. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Ambulance service covering Northamptonshire fails to hit response target
Ambulance service covering Northamptonshire fails to hit response target:
The ambulance service covering Northamptonshire was among only two in the country to not hit its non-life threatening call-out targets last year, an NHS report shows. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
The ambulance service covering Northamptonshire was among only two in the country to not hit its non-life threatening call-out targets last year, an NHS report shows. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Guidance on the health visiting career
Guidance on the health visiting career:
The guidance, A Health Visiting Career, promotes understanding of the current picture, identifies
areas of good practice, and suggests ways that these can be shared and
enhanced. It gives an overview of the novice to expert journey and the pathway
for newly qualified health visitors in their first two years.NHS Networks
The guidance, A Health Visiting Career, promotes understanding of the current picture, identifies
areas of good practice, and suggests ways that these can be shared and
enhanced. It gives an overview of the novice to expert journey and the pathway
for newly qualified health visitors in their first two years.NHS Networks
NHS CB to build My Health portal
NHS CB to build My Health portal: The NHS Commissioning Board is looking to create a new website called My Health where patients will be able to access their GP records, book appointments and order prescriptions. EHI News
RPS publishes report on transfer of medicines information between care providers
RPS publishes report on transfer of medicines information between care providers: Source: Royal Pharmaceutical Society (RPS)
Area: News
The Royal Pharmaceutical Society (RPS) has issued a report titled "Keeping patients safe when they transfer between care providers: Getting the medicines right", which outlines the results of a six-month project involving over 30 healthcare organisations which volunteered to implement RPS guidance on transfer of medicines information. The report calls for improvements to the transfer of information about medicines, and the following recommendations have been made (taken directly from source):
. All suppliers of IT systems to hospitals and general practice should ensure their systems can effectively transfer recommended core content of medicines records . All community pharmacies should have an NHS.net website address to enable secure communications between secondary and primary care . All clinical records should be structured in a recognised and nationally agreed format to assist interoperability and the transfer of information . National sharing ...
Area: News
The Royal Pharmaceutical Society (RPS) has issued a report titled "Keeping patients safe when they transfer between care providers: Getting the medicines right", which outlines the results of a six-month project involving over 30 healthcare organisations which volunteered to implement RPS guidance on transfer of medicines information. The report calls for improvements to the transfer of information about medicines, and the following recommendations have been made (taken directly from source):
. All suppliers of IT systems to hospitals and general practice should ensure their systems can effectively transfer recommended core content of medicines records . All community pharmacies should have an NHS.net website address to enable secure communications between secondary and primary care . All clinical records should be structured in a recognised and nationally agreed format to assist interoperability and the transfer of information . National sharing ...
Doctors' strike: three quarters of surgeries to stay open as usual
Doctors' strike: three quarters of surgeries to stay open as usual: Just one in four doctors' surgeries are expected to take part in tomorrow's industrial action over pensions as the number of GPs prepared to defy the stike increases, figures from 20 primary care organisations suggest.
Telegraph Health News
Telegraph Health News
Health leader warns NHS is heading for disaster
Health leader warns NHS is heading for disaster:
The leader of England's hospital and primary care trusts has
warned that the NHS is heading for disaster and must change course
if it is to survive. Independent
The leader of England's hospital and primary care trusts has
warned that the NHS is heading for disaster and must change course
if it is to survive. Independent
Ambulance response times: all trusts meet eight minute national standard for first time
Ambulance response times: all trusts meet eight minute national standard for first time: *Regional data available from this publication Every single ambulance trust in England for the first time has met the national standard for responding...NHS Information Centre
Tuesday, 19 June 2012
Legionnaires' outbreak 'has peaked', says health secretary
Legionnaires' outbreak 'has peaked', says health secretary: There have been no new cases of Legionnaires’ disease in the outbreak which has claimed two lives, health chiefs in Scotland have said. HSJ
Personal health budget pilots: fifth interim evaluation report
Personal health budget pilots: fifth interim evaluation report:
The fifth interim independent evaluation report about the personal health budget pilot programme has been published by the personal health budgets evaluation (PHBE) team. The report, Personal health budgets evaluation: Experiences and outcomes for budget holders at nine months (PDF, 402K), is based on interviews with 52 budget holders and 13 carers in the pilot.
These interviews suggest there is widespread potential for personal health budgets to lead to improvements in health and wellbeing. The majority of people with a personal health budget benefited through both improved health outcomes and increased satisfaction levels. Increased self-confidence, reduced use of GP services and prescriptions and better relationships with health professionals were among the other reported benefits.
As budget holders’ health improved they reported:
As with the fourth interim report on the pilot published in October 2011, this report highlights that the role of information, advice and support is vitally important. The report identifies some challenges, and work continues to explore these in more detail, to develop methods to overcome them and help the NHS to deliver personal health budgets in the longer term. Department of Health
The fifth interim independent evaluation report about the personal health budget pilot programme has been published by the personal health budgets evaluation (PHBE) team. The report, Personal health budgets evaluation: Experiences and outcomes for budget holders at nine months (PDF, 402K), is based on interviews with 52 budget holders and 13 carers in the pilot.
These interviews suggest there is widespread potential for personal health budgets to lead to improvements in health and wellbeing. The majority of people with a personal health budget benefited through both improved health outcomes and increased satisfaction levels. Increased self-confidence, reduced use of GP services and prescriptions and better relationships with health professionals were among the other reported benefits.
As budget holders’ health improved they reported:
- needing to rely less on family carers
- less anxiety and stress on the part of relatives
- increased ability to take part in family activities
As with the fourth interim report on the pilot published in October 2011, this report highlights that the role of information, advice and support is vitally important. The report identifies some challenges, and work continues to explore these in more detail, to develop methods to overcome them and help the NHS to deliver personal health budgets in the longer term. Department of Health
Choose and Book use drops further
Choose and Book use drops further: National Choose and Book usage has dropped below 50% and is just 25% in some areas. EHI News
Bulletin for proposed CCGs June 2012
Bulletin for proposed CCGs June 2012: Source: NHS Commissioning Board
The June edition of the Bulletin for proposed Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs) covers the following topics:
. New web tool signposts learning and development opportunities
. Initiative to help CCGs with commissioning support decisions
. CCG remuneration guidance
. Running costs allowances update
. Authorisation 'surgeries' for waves two and three
. Key elements of authorisation process put in place
. The Functions of Clinical Commissioning Groups published
. Next steps for communications and engagement services
The June edition of the Bulletin for proposed Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs) covers the following topics:
. New web tool signposts learning and development opportunities
. Initiative to help CCGs with commissioning support decisions
. CCG remuneration guidance
. Running costs allowances update
. Authorisation 'surgeries' for waves two and three
. Key elements of authorisation process put in place
. The Functions of Clinical Commissioning Groups published
. Next steps for communications and engagement services
Updated factsheet on Health and Social Care Act
Updated factsheet on Health and Social Care Act: Source: Department of Health (DH)
The Department of Health has published a series of factsheets on the Health and Social Care Act 2012, updated to reflect the changes made during the Act's Parliamentary passage. They explain particular topics contained in the Act, including its key themes and include case studies of the policy in action, or answer frequently asked questions about the topic.
The topics covered are as follows:
. Overview
. Case for change
. Overview of health and care structures
. Scrutiny and improvements
. Clinically-led commissioning
. Provider regulation to support innovative and efficient services
. Greater voice for patients
. New focus for public health
. Greater accountabilty locally and nationally
. Streamlined arm's length bodies
. Support worker regulation
. Improving quality of care
. Tackling inequalities in healthcare
. Promoting better ...
The Department of Health has published a series of factsheets on the Health and Social Care Act 2012, updated to reflect the changes made during the Act's Parliamentary passage. They explain particular topics contained in the Act, including its key themes and include case studies of the policy in action, or answer frequently asked questions about the topic.
The topics covered are as follows:
. Overview
. Case for change
. Overview of health and care structures
. Scrutiny and improvements
. Clinically-led commissioning
. Provider regulation to support innovative and efficient services
. Greater voice for patients
. New focus for public health
. Greater accountabilty locally and nationally
. Streamlined arm's length bodies
. Support worker regulation
. Improving quality of care
. Tackling inequalities in healthcare
. Promoting better ...
New CCG learning and support tool
New CCG learning and support tool: Source: NHS Commissioning Board
A new Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) learning and support web tool has been published to support CCGs as they prepare for authorisation, the clinical leadership of commissioning and their development beyond authorisation. It provides access to the development resources that meet current learning needs and which every proposed CCG can expect to be able to access during 2012-13.
A new Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) learning and support web tool has been published to support CCGs as they prepare for authorisation, the clinical leadership of commissioning and their development beyond authorisation. It provides access to the development resources that meet current learning needs and which every proposed CCG can expect to be able to access during 2012-13.
Continuing professional development: guidance for all doctors
Continuing professional development: guidance for all doctors:
This guidance was published to help doctors across the UK keep their knowledge and skills up to date throughout their working life. It is aimed at helping doctors as they reflect on their practice, prepare for their annual appraisal, and ultimately for their revalidation. It was developed in co-operation with doctors, medical Royal Colleges, employers, patients and the public, following widespread public consultation earlier this year and emphasises that doctors must take account of the needs of their patients and their healthcare teams when considering the learning they may need to undertake.
Kings Fund
Poly implant Prothese (PiP) breast implants: final report of the Expert Group
Poly implant Prothese (PiP) breast implants: final report of the Expert Group:
The NHS Medical Director’s Expert Group has been collecting and reviewing all available data including estimated rupture rates, data on clinical findings when implants are removed, and further examination of the chemical make up of PiP silicone gel. The expert group has studied information on 240,000 implants of different makes used throughout England which have been given to 130,000 women, along with detailed findings from 5,600 removal operations.
Kings Fund
The NHS Medical Director’s Expert Group has been collecting and reviewing all available data including estimated rupture rates, data on clinical findings when implants are removed, and further examination of the chemical make up of PiP silicone gel. The expert group has studied information on 240,000 implants of different makes used throughout England which have been given to 130,000 women, along with detailed findings from 5,600 removal operations.
Kings Fund
Warning issued over fake thermometers
Warning issued over fake thermometers:
The Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency have warned parents that fake digital thermometers are being sold on the internet.The MHRA said people should be aware that the fake thermometers, which are on sale for very low prices, could give incorrect temperature readings and be dangerous.The agency said it had seized over 400 digital thermometers - some of which were being sold for 99p... Healthcare Today
The Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency have warned parents that fake digital thermometers are being sold on the internet.The MHRA said people should be aware that the fake thermometers, which are on sale for very low prices, could give incorrect temperature readings and be dangerous.The agency said it had seized over 400 digital thermometers - some of which were being sold for 99p... Healthcare Today
Monitor publishes new report on costing
Monitor publishes new report on costing: Monitor has today published an independent report, Strategic Options for Costing, which it commissioned from PwC. The focus of this report is on the costing information that underpins the current Payment by Results (PbR) system.
Monday, 18 June 2012
Diabetes Week 2012: New diabetes risk check service launched in ... - AboutMyArea
 AboutMyArea | Diabetes Week 2012: New diabetes risk check service launched in ... AboutMyArea The service, which is provided by Northamptonshire Healthcare NHS Foundation ... health services for the county from NHS Northamptonshire from 1 April 2013. Northampton Chronicle and Echo |
Ten Northampton General Hospital staff left with £790k pay-off - Northampton Chronicle & Echo
 Northampton Chronicle & Echo | Ten Northampton General Hospital staff left with £790k pay-off Northampton Chronicle & Echo Ten members of staff have been given average pay-offs of £79000 each after they were made redundant by Northampton General Hospital. Northampton Chronicle and Echo |
New recommendations on public health funding published
New recommendations on public health funding published:
For the first time, from 2013, public health funding will be ring fenced and protected with local authorities taking the lead for improving health. This will help to drive up local efforts to maintain and improve the public’s health and wellbeing.
The Department of Health has committed to ensure that no local authority will lose out under the new grants for 2013/14. So local areas will either receive equivalent funding or be better off under the new funding arrangements. NHS Networks
For the first time, from 2013, public health funding will be ring fenced and protected with local authorities taking the lead for improving health. This will help to drive up local efforts to maintain and improve the public’s health and wellbeing.
The Department of Health has committed to ensure that no local authority will lose out under the new grants for 2013/14. So local areas will either receive equivalent funding or be better off under the new funding arrangements. NHS Networks
Consultation deadline extended on proposals to secure shared decision-making
Consultation deadline extended on proposals to secure shared decision-making:
The consultation on detailed proposals to secure shared decision-making and choice for patients has been extended to Friday 31 Aug.
Some organisations have expressed real interest in the consultation while stating their need for additional time to undertake discussion meetings with their members before submitting a formal response. By extending the deadline for this secondary consultation, the aim is to ensure that everyone who wishes to respond will have sufficient time to do so.
The consultation proposes a model of shared decision-making all along the patient pathway, which should be relevant irrespective of patients’ conditions, their clinical pathway or progress along it. The model indicates where patients would be expected to have more say in decisions about their care in primary care; before a diagnosis; at referral to secondary care; and after a diagnosis had been made.
It asks a small number of focussed questions to seek views on:
Read Liberating the NHS: No decision about me, without me – Further consultation on proposals to secure shared decision-making
Department of Health
The consultation on detailed proposals to secure shared decision-making and choice for patients has been extended to Friday 31 Aug.
Some organisations have expressed real interest in the consultation while stating their need for additional time to undertake discussion meetings with their members before submitting a formal response. By extending the deadline for this secondary consultation, the aim is to ensure that everyone who wishes to respond will have sufficient time to do so.
The consultation proposes a model of shared decision-making all along the patient pathway, which should be relevant irrespective of patients’ conditions, their clinical pathway or progress along it. The model indicates where patients would be expected to have more say in decisions about their care in primary care; before a diagnosis; at referral to secondary care; and after a diagnosis had been made.
It asks a small number of focussed questions to seek views on:
- whether we have identified the right areas as well as the right levers for making sure our proposals will give patients more opportunities to make shared decisions about their care and treatment, all along the pathway
- whether our proposals are realistic and achievable
- whether we have missed any key issues
- whether we have identified the right means of delivering our proposals.
Read Liberating the NHS: No decision about me, without me – Further consultation on proposals to secure shared decision-making
Department of Health
Department of Health extends NHS 111 roll out deadline
Department of Health extends NHS 111 roll out deadline: Government extends date for implementation of 111 non-emergency service by 'up to six months'The government has extended the deadline for the roll out of NHS 111 to make sure areas have enough time to plan for the service.The announcement follows criticism of 111 by the British Medical Association and other unions, as well as pressure from clinical commissioning groups (CCGs) and private firms.In a letter to CCGs Jim Easton, national director for improvement and efficiency at the Department of Health ...Kings Fund Health News
Independent report calls for "major cultural shift" to improve dignity in care
Independent report calls for "major cultural shift" to improve dignity in care: Commission presents final report as joint work gets underway to turn recommendations into action. NHS Confederation Press Release
Nine to five culture in NHS has devastating impact
Nine to five culture in NHS has devastating impact: The full extent of the "nine to five" culture in the NHS is disclosed today in research which shows startling differences in levels of emergency treatment at weekends.
Telegraph health News
Telegraph health NewsBritish population is getting too fat for the planet
British population is getting too fat for the planet: UK responsible for 3 per cent of flab despite representing 1 per cent of world's people, research shows.
Telegraph Health News
Telegraph Health NewsNHS is 'failing' mental health patients
NHS is 'failing' mental health patients:
Three-quarters of people suffering from mental illness do not have access to treatments which would improve their lives and save billions of pounds every year, experts warn today. Independent Health News
Three-quarters of people suffering from mental illness do not have access to treatments which would improve their lives and save billions of pounds every year, experts warn today. Independent Health News
RCN says NHS 111 is pause needed
RCN says NHS 111 is pause needed: The Royal College of Nursing has reiterated its call for a pause before the move from NHS Direct to NHS 111 services in England.
Advice for RCN members during BMA industrial action
Advice for RCN members during BMA industrial action: The RCN has published guidance for nursing staff (Word 4KB) who may be affected when members of the British Medical Association (BMA) take industrial action on Thursday 21 June.
Friday, 15 June 2012
Councils invest £167m in tobacco
Councils invest £167m in tobacco: East of England councils that are due to take on anti-smoking health campaigns, are investing more than £167m in tobacco firms. BBC Northamptonshire
Payout for woman after Northampton General Hospital error - BBC News
Payout for woman after Northampton General Hospital error - BBC News:
 BBC News | Payout for woman after Northampton General Hospital error BBC News A woman has been paid £50000 in damages by Northampton General Hospital after she was given an operation she did not need. Claire Millward, 37, from ... Northampton mum claims Jade Goody's death saved her lifeNorthampton Chronicle & Echo all 2 news articles » |
Are independent commissioning support services the right way to go? | Chris Naylor
Are independent commissioning support services the right way to go? | Chris Naylor: Chris Naylor looks at what the future shape of support arrangements for clinical commissioning groups (CCGs) will look like. (Blog, 14 Jun 2012) Kings Fund
New Healthcare Associated Infection Surveillance system
New Healthcare Associated Infection Surveillance system:
Clara Swinson, Director, Health Protection, has written to all NHS chief executives to highlight the development of a new web based Healthcare Associated Infection (HCAI) surveillance computer system. It will replace the existing system used to collect the mandatory HCAI surveillance data for reporting MRSA, MSSA, and E. coli bacteraemias, and C. difficile Infection (CDI). It is expected to go live in April 2013.
Further information about the new system will be available via a webcast on Thursday 28 June 2012.
NHS chief executives are asked to nominate a local Implementation lead from their organisation and encourage users of the new system to register by 27 June 2012 to take part in the webcast.
Read letter: Mandatory Health Care Associated Infection Surveillance: redevelopment of the HCAI data capture system (MESS) Department of Health
Clara Swinson, Director, Health Protection, has written to all NHS chief executives to highlight the development of a new web based Healthcare Associated Infection (HCAI) surveillance computer system. It will replace the existing system used to collect the mandatory HCAI surveillance data for reporting MRSA, MSSA, and E. coli bacteraemias, and C. difficile Infection (CDI). It is expected to go live in April 2013.
Further information about the new system will be available via a webcast on Thursday 28 June 2012.
NHS chief executives are asked to nominate a local Implementation lead from their organisation and encourage users of the new system to register by 27 June 2012 to take part in the webcast.
Read letter: Mandatory Health Care Associated Infection Surveillance: redevelopment of the HCAI data capture system (MESS) Department of Health
Mental health quality profiles
Mental health quality profiles:
These quality profiles show how individual trusts compare across a range of quality indicators encompassing the domains of the Outcomes Framework.
These quality profiles show how individual trusts compare across a range of quality indicators encompassing the domains of the Outcomes Framework.
NHS atlas of variation in healthcare: diabetes atlas
NHS atlas of variation in healthcare: diabetes atlas:
Following the publication of the NHS atlas of variation in healthcare work has been undertaken to produced themed versions of the atlas. It is intended to support local decision making to increase the value which a population receives from the resources to spent on their healthcare. It supports the search for unexplained variations, the identification and attention to unwarranted variation, helping clinicians to understand what is going on in their area and where to focus attention to improve the care they provide.
Following the publication of the NHS atlas of variation in healthcare work has been undertaken to produced themed versions of the atlas. It is intended to support local decision making to increase the value which a population receives from the resources to spent on their healthcare. It supports the search for unexplained variations, the identification and attention to unwarranted variation, helping clinicians to understand what is going on in their area and where to focus attention to improve the care they provide.
CBI Public Services The right care the right place: delivering care closer to home
CBI Public Services The right care the right place: delivering care closer to home:
This report argues that delivering care closer to the home could provide better, healthier outcomes for patients and help ease NHS budgetary pressures by saving £3.4 billion a year. It sets out recommendations to remove barriers in order to make the delivery of care close to the home more widespread.
This report argues that delivering care closer to the home could provide better, healthier outcomes for patients and help ease NHS budgetary pressures by saving £3.4 billion a year. It sets out recommendations to remove barriers in order to make the delivery of care close to the home more widespread.
Most GPs not participating in strike
Most GPs not participating in strike:
Surveys have suggested that most GPs are not intending to participate in the BMA’s industrial action over pensions on June 21.
A survey undertaken by NHS Gloucestershire found that just 26% of the 51 practices and 261 GPs who responded to the PCT were planning to take action, while a survey by the GP newspaper Pulse found that just 29% of GPs expect their practice to take part fully in the day of action and a f... Healthcare Today
Surveys have suggested that most GPs are not intending to participate in the BMA’s industrial action over pensions on June 21.
A survey undertaken by NHS Gloucestershire found that just 26% of the 51 practices and 261 GPs who responded to the PCT were planning to take action, while a survey by the GP newspaper Pulse found that just 29% of GPs expect their practice to take part fully in the day of action and a f... Healthcare Today
Series of MPs admit to suffering mental illness for the first time ... - Daily Mail
Series of MPs admit to suffering mental illness for the first time ... - Daily Mail:
 The Guardian | Series of MPs admit to suffering mental illness for the first time ... Daily Mail 'We have got to talk about mental health in this House. ... His Mental Health (Discrimination) Bill will remove the blanket ban that forbids 'mentally disordered ... MPs discuss mental health problems in emotional Commons debateThe Independent Mental health problems no longer a bar to becoming an MPThe Guardian MPs reveal mental illness battlesThe Press Association Telegraph.co.uk -BBC News -The Northern Echo all 14 news articles » |
Department of Health extends NHS 111 roll out deadline
Department of Health extends NHS 111 roll out deadline:
Government extends date for implementation of 111 non-emergency service by 'up to six months'
The government has extended the deadline for the roll out of NHS 111 to make sure areas have enough time to plan for the service.
The announcement follows criticism of 111 by the British Medical Association and other unions, as well as pressure from clinical commissioning groups (CCGs) and private firms.
In a letter to CCGs Jim Easton, national director for improvement and efficiency at the Department of Health (DH), says that after careful consideration and having sought the views of senior CCG representatives, an extension of up to six months of the original April 2013 deadline may be necessary in some cases.
"That extension will be by application to an expert clinical panel, and should not delay roll out in those areas that are ready to move ahead," says the letter. "It will however, help ensure that in those areas that need it, time can be taken fully to engage local clinicians and build delivery models for NHS 111 that have the support and endorsement of all local stakeholders."
It goes on to say that the clinical panel will publish the criteria on which it will judge applications shortly. CCGs that want their areas to be considered for an extension should submit an application in writing to their strategic health authority.
At the end of last month, Capita expressed concerns about the 111 tender process and said it was not constructed "to result in cost-effective services that can flex to dynamic needs of the public". Around the same time, Serco and Care UK confirmed that they had taken the decision not to bid in the multimillion pound replacement programme to provide a new 24 hour urgent care service.
Despite these concerns, a number of areas are moving ahead with their 111 plans, including Wandsworth and Suffolk primary care trusts, which recently awarded care services specialist Harmoni a contract to operate its services.
With the help of NHS Direct and NHS Choices, the DH is currently trialling an NHS 111 online service as part of a plan to provide a service to complement locally-driven telephone services.
Commenting on the government's announcement to extend the deadline, Nick Chapman, chief executive of NHS Direct, said that the period of transition from the 0845 number to the new NHS 111 service is now likely to take longer.
He said: "NHS Direct believes that the DH's decision to allow further time to plan and implement these national changes to the urgent and emergency care service is the right one. It will allow for greater clinical engagement and ensure that the service is the best it can be for patients.
"As we understand it, the next step is for local commissioners who want an extension to make an application to the DH. We won't know until these applications have been made how many areas will request an extension, and what implications that may have for the 0845 service and for NHS Direct staff." Guardian Professional.
The government has extended the deadline for the roll out of NHS 111 to make sure areas have enough time to plan for the service.
The announcement follows criticism of 111 by the British Medical Association and other unions, as well as pressure from clinical commissioning groups (CCGs) and private firms.
In a letter to CCGs Jim Easton, national director for improvement and efficiency at the Department of Health (DH), says that after careful consideration and having sought the views of senior CCG representatives, an extension of up to six months of the original April 2013 deadline may be necessary in some cases.
"That extension will be by application to an expert clinical panel, and should not delay roll out in those areas that are ready to move ahead," says the letter. "It will however, help ensure that in those areas that need it, time can be taken fully to engage local clinicians and build delivery models for NHS 111 that have the support and endorsement of all local stakeholders."
It goes on to say that the clinical panel will publish the criteria on which it will judge applications shortly. CCGs that want their areas to be considered for an extension should submit an application in writing to their strategic health authority.
At the end of last month, Capita expressed concerns about the 111 tender process and said it was not constructed "to result in cost-effective services that can flex to dynamic needs of the public". Around the same time, Serco and Care UK confirmed that they had taken the decision not to bid in the multimillion pound replacement programme to provide a new 24 hour urgent care service.
Despite these concerns, a number of areas are moving ahead with their 111 plans, including Wandsworth and Suffolk primary care trusts, which recently awarded care services specialist Harmoni a contract to operate its services.
With the help of NHS Direct and NHS Choices, the DH is currently trialling an NHS 111 online service as part of a plan to provide a service to complement locally-driven telephone services.
Commenting on the government's announcement to extend the deadline, Nick Chapman, chief executive of NHS Direct, said that the period of transition from the 0845 number to the new NHS 111 service is now likely to take longer.
He said: "NHS Direct believes that the DH's decision to allow further time to plan and implement these national changes to the urgent and emergency care service is the right one. It will allow for greater clinical engagement and ensure that the service is the best it can be for patients.
"As we understand it, the next step is for local commissioners who want an extension to make an application to the DH. We won't know until these applications have been made how many areas will request an extension, and what implications that may have for the 0845 service and for NHS Direct staff." Guardian Professional.
Patients do not know how to contact GP outside normal hours: survey
Patients do not know how to contact GP outside normal hours: survey: Four in ten patients do not know how to contact their GP out-of-hours services, a government survey has found.
The Daily Telegraph
The Daily Telegraph
MPs discuss mental health problems in emotional Commons debate
MPs discuss mental health problems in emotional Commons debate:
A Tory MP disclosed she suffered suicidal feelings after having a baby as a series of MPs spoke today of their personal battles with mental illness in an emotional Commons debate. The Independent
A Tory MP disclosed she suffered suicidal feelings after having a baby as a series of MPs spoke today of their personal battles with mental illness in an emotional Commons debate. The Independent
Doctor warned over preaching religious beliefs in practice
Doctor warned over preaching religious beliefs in practice:
A doctor who preached to a patient that only Jesus could cure him of his problems has received an official warning from the General Medical Council (GMC) that his career could be at risk if he continues to proselytise. The Independent
A doctor who preached to a patient that only Jesus could cure him of his problems has received an official warning from the General Medical Council (GMC) that his career could be at risk if he continues to proselytise. The Independent
New eHealth position statement launched
New eHealth position statement launched: The RCN has published new eHealth guidance which reviews what eHealth is.
Thursday, 14 June 2012
Money management charge criticised
Money management charge criticised:
The county council has come under fire following the announcement that it will charge people without the mental capacity to run their finances nearly £400 a year to manage their money. Evening Telegraph
The county council has come under fire following the announcement that it will charge people without the mental capacity to run their finances nearly £400 a year to manage their money. Evening Telegraph
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