NHS 111 line 'dangerously understaffed' A woman who worked at an NHS non-emergency call centre serving Northamptonshire says it is "dangerously understaffed" with 75% of calls unanswered. BBC Derby
Wednesday, 30 September 2015
Should we be worried about CCG conflicts of interest?
Should we be worried about CCG conflicts of interest? Anxiety about conflicts of interest hangs over clinical commissioning groups (CCGs) now as it did GP fund-holders in the past. Worries about the propriety of giving GPs public money to purchase care – potentially from themselves – were raised several times as the Health and Social Care Bill worked its way through parliament four years ago. The King's Fund
New consensus on early treatment for relapsing Multiple Sclerosis
New consensus on early treatment for relapsing Multiple Sclerosis A new scientific consensus has been reached that changes the way relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS) should be treated.
The evidence now tells us that, rather than waiting to see whether more relapses occur, disease modifying therapies (DMTs) should be offered as close as possible to diagnosis. Multiple Sclerosis Society
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The evidence now tells us that, rather than waiting to see whether more relapses occur, disease modifying therapies (DMTs) should be offered as close as possible to diagnosis. Multiple Sclerosis Society
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- Time to Act – 2015 a consensus on early treatment Multiple Sclerosis Society
- Earlier MS treatment urged by charity BBC News
Prison smoking ban to begin in 2016
Prison smoking ban to begin in 2016 Smoking will be banned in all prisons in Wales and four in south-west England from next year, ahead of a wider roll-out, the government says. BBC News
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- Prisoners to be banned from smoking behind bars The Daily Telegraph
Medical devices attract hackers
Medical devices attract hackers Researchers have found evidence that thousands of critical medical machines, such as MRI scanners, are available to access online. BBC News
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Junior doctors contract row: an explainer
Junior doctors contract row: an explainer The health secretary and the British Medical Association are at loggerheads over contract changes and strike action is being threatened – how did it come to this?Continue reading... The Guardian
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Police will turn 'blind eye' to new smoking ban in cars
Police will turn 'blind eye' to new smoking ban in cars From 1st October it will be illegal for a motorist to smoke with someone under the age of 18 in their car, but few drivers are expected to be prosecuted. The Daily Telegraph
NHS drug shortages: why are we running out of some treatments in the UK?
NHS drug shortages: why are we running out of some treatments in the UK? The NHS is facing shortages of some important drugs used to relieve pain and treat cancer. The Daily Telegraph
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Healthcare workers hit out at executive's payoff as doctors face pay cut
Healthcare workers hit out at executive's payoff as doctors face pay cut David Flory received £410,000 alongside his £235,000 salary after stepping down as chief executive of the TDA. The Independent
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- NHS exec given 'disgraceful' £410,000 pay-off The Daily Telegraph
- Health unions condemn 'disgraceful' £410,000 payoff to NHS executive The Guardian
People with mental health issues should run their own services more, says NHS head
People with mental health issues should run their own services more, says NHS head Helen Birtwhistle said service users were best placed to tell health service bosses where improvements needed to be made. The Independent
Tuesday, 29 September 2015
Northamptonshire’s Hospital and Outreach team wins BMA award
Northamptonshire’s Hospital and Outreach team wins BMA award A member of Northamptonshire’s Hospital and Outreach Education team has won a national award for her work on an information pack about the impact of cancer on children’s learning. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Responsible, safe and sustainable general practice
Responsible, safe and sustainable general practice A new vision for sustainable, modern and flexible general practice has been published by the British Medical Association (BMA).
Too soon for 'aspirin doubles cancer survival' claim
Too soon for 'aspirin doubles cancer survival' claim "Aspirin could almost double your chance of surviving cancer," the Daily Mail reports, with most of the newspapers featuring similar claims.
According to the Mail: "Three quarters of people with bowel, stomach or throat cancer were still alive five years later, and aspirin is the 'magic bullet' that should be prescribed as soon as someone is diagnosed."
Unfortunately the claims appearing in the media are based solely on a press release and abstract of research being presented at a scientific conference. This means the results and conclusions won’t have been verified by independent experts and we don’t have all the information to appraise such research. For these reasons we need to be cautious about this finding. NHS Choices
According to the Mail: "Three quarters of people with bowel, stomach or throat cancer were still alive five years later, and aspirin is the 'magic bullet' that should be prescribed as soon as someone is diagnosed."
Unfortunately the claims appearing in the media are based solely on a press release and abstract of research being presented at a scientific conference. This means the results and conclusions won’t have been verified by independent experts and we don’t have all the information to appraise such research. For these reasons we need to be cautious about this finding. NHS Choices
Hunt to meet doctors in contract row
Hunt to meet doctors in contract row Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt has agreed to meet junior doctors' leaders after the decision to ballot medics on industrial action over a new contract. BBC News
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Public Health England defends NHS Health Checks
Public Health England defends NHS Health Checks Public Health England (PHE) is refuting claims made in a peer review journal, that NHS Health Checks are a waste of time and money. OnMedica
The tragic cost of NHS out-of-hours hotline's descent into meltdown: Two babies died after parents were given wrong advice - as investigation finds ONE nurse on duty for 2 million people
The tragic cost of NHS out-of-hours hotline's descent into meltdown: Two babies died after parents were given wrong advice - as investigation finds ONE nurse on duty for 2 million people The NHS out-of-hours hotline is in meltdown in parts of Britain with chronic staff shortages meaning staff with just three weeks' training are being overwhelmed. The Daily Mail
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More than 100 patients die after their surgery is cancelled as record number of NHS operations are postponed
More than 100 patients die after their surgery is cancelled as record number of NHS operations are postponed Heart surgery patients were among the 104 people who died, with some having had their NHS surgery cancelled twice. Hospital chiefs claim it's impossible to say if it contributed to their deaths. The Daily Mail
Almost half of seven-day trial surgeries have cut hours after lack of demand
Almost half of seven-day trial surgeries have cut hours after lack of demand Small number of patients at eight of the 18 pilot schemes raises doubts about viability of David Cameron’s 8am to 8pm GP services pledge
Almost half of the GP surgeries that began opening in evenings and at weekends to fulfil David Cameron’s pledge of 8am to 8pm seven-day access have cut their hours because so few patients came.
Pulse, the magazine for GPs, has learned that eight of the 18 pilot areas in England given money last year to roll out the scheme have scaled back the hours they operate or stopped offering appointments outside normal working hours altogether. Continue reading... The Guardian
Almost half of the GP surgeries that began opening in evenings and at weekends to fulfil David Cameron’s pledge of 8am to 8pm seven-day access have cut their hours because so few patients came.
Pulse, the magazine for GPs, has learned that eight of the 18 pilot areas in England given money last year to roll out the scheme have scaled back the hours they operate or stopped offering appointments outside normal working hours altogether. Continue reading... The Guardian
It's stupid to believe that the NHS is still 'the best in the world'
It's stupid to believe that the NHS is still 'the best in the world' Instead of treating the NHS as a sacred cow, and holding on to outdated notions about how good it is, we urgently need to fix it, says Alex Proud. The Daily Telegraph
Monday, 28 September 2015
Health watchdog wants your view on East Midlands 999 service ahead of inspection
Health watchdog wants your view on East Midlands 999 service ahead of inspection A health watchdog is calling on people living in Northamptonshire to give their views on East Midlands Ambulance Service. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
New framework developed to support the learning disabilities workforce
New framework developed to support the learning disabilities workforce A framework to aid development of the learning disabilities workforce in the health and care sectors is now available to download from the Health Education England (HEE) website.
The ‘Generic Service Interventions Pathway’ is a competency framework developed with people with learning disabilities, their family and carers, and in collaboration with Skills for Health and learning disabilities experts. It will support delivery of person-centred care and ensure services are delivered by caring, compassionate, knowledgeable, skilled and supported staff.
The framework will help learning disability managers, educators and commissioners to better understand the development needs of their workforce, allowing them to maximise the contribution of the of the existing workforce and implement new ways of working that focus on improving patient outcomes.
It will be a valuable resource tool that can be used to identify knowledge and skills gaps, and outline where support and information can be found. Health Education England
The ‘Generic Service Interventions Pathway’ is a competency framework developed with people with learning disabilities, their family and carers, and in collaboration with Skills for Health and learning disabilities experts. It will support delivery of person-centred care and ensure services are delivered by caring, compassionate, knowledgeable, skilled and supported staff.
The framework will help learning disability managers, educators and commissioners to better understand the development needs of their workforce, allowing them to maximise the contribution of the of the existing workforce and implement new ways of working that focus on improving patient outcomes.
It will be a valuable resource tool that can be used to identify knowledge and skills gaps, and outline where support and information can be found. Health Education England
Diversity and inclusion: the power of research in driving change - using research and data to promote inclusive workplaces
Diversity and inclusion: the power of research in driving change - using research and data to promote inclusive workplaces NHS Employers has partnered with Imperial College London, Employers Network for Equality and Inclusion and North West Coast Academic Health Science Network to produce this diversity and inclusion strategic report. Providing a workplace that celebrates and is inclusive of diversity is now essential for the NHS to operate effectively for both staff and patients. In order to monitor this, research has become an essential tool in allowing us to benchmark how effectively the NHS is performing within the standards set by equality legislation. This report is an analysis of past research into workplace diversity and inclusion across the NHS to determine how effective it has been in bringing about change with regard to the NHS becoming a more diverse and inclusive employer.
Psychological therapies: next steps towards parity of care
Psychological therapies: next steps towards parity of care This report looks at mental health generally, before focusing more particularly on access to psychological therapies for adults. It accepts that mental health problems need to be diagnosed and treated early to achieve the best outcomes but that unlike physical health, the continuing stigma attached to mental ill-health constitutes a barrier to access. In that context, the Improving Access to Psychological Therapies programme represents a success story which is helping to re-shape the landscape for mental health for the individual and the NHS as a whole. Research conducted for this report, however, finds that more remains to be done to improve access and to make the most of available resources. JMC Partners
World class research making a difference: Bridging the gap between research and the frontline NHS
World class research making a difference: Bridging the gap between research and the frontline NHS A review of the CLAHRC programme since 2008. National Institute of Health Research
Junior doctors balloted over contract
Junior doctors balloted over contract Junior doctors in England are to be balloted on industrial action over government plans to introduce a new contract from August 2016. BBC News
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- Junior doctors contract negotiations BMA
- VIDEO: Junior doctors: 'Enough is enough' BBC News
- Junior doctors vote to ballot over strike action The Daily Telegraph
- A fight over doctors' hours will help no one The Daily Telegraph
- Scotland opens doors to junior doctors angry at NHS contracts in England The Independent
- New NHS junior doctor contract would discriminate against women, senior medics warn The Independent
- Over 70,000 say junior doctors should strike over new contract OnMedica
Call to improve radiotherapy access
Call to improve radiotherapy access Millions of people globally have died unnecessarily from cancers that could have been treated by radiotherapy, according to doctors. BBC News
Poor care in some GP practices 'shocking' says CQC chief inspector
Poor care in some GP practices 'shocking' says CQC chief inspector The poor standard of care CQC inspectors have discovered at some GP practices in England has been 'a shock', according to the watchdog's chief inspector of general practice Professor Steve Field. GP Online
Half of all services now failing as UK care sector crisis deepends
Half of all services now failing as UK care sector crisis deepends Five years of funding cuts blamed for crisis threatening the welfare of elderly and disabled people
Nearly half of social care services visited by inspectors in the past year were found to be failing the frail and vulnerable, in what relatives and experts say is a symptom of the growing financial crisis in the sector.
An update given to the board of the Care Quality Commission last week showed that 41% of community-based adult social care services, hospice services and residential social care services inspected since last October were inadequate or required improvement. Of the 8,170 services examined, less than 1% (38) were outstanding and 58% (4,381) were good, according to the chief executive’s report, which was delivered last Wednesday. Continue reading... The Guardian
Nearly half of social care services visited by inspectors in the past year were found to be failing the frail and vulnerable, in what relatives and experts say is a symptom of the growing financial crisis in the sector.
An update given to the board of the Care Quality Commission last week showed that 41% of community-based adult social care services, hospice services and residential social care services inspected since last October were inadequate or required improvement. Of the 8,170 services examined, less than 1% (38) were outstanding and 58% (4,381) were good, according to the chief executive’s report, which was delivered last Wednesday. Continue reading... The Guardian
Addenbrooke's: why are internationally renowned hospitals struggling?
Addenbrooke's: why are internationally renowned hospitals struggling? A number of specialist hospitals are facing serious problems with their district general services
The Care Quality Commission’s decision to classify the renowned Cambridge University hospitals foundation trust, which runs Addenbrooke’s hospital, as inadequate is only the latest example of specialist hospitals running into serious problems with their district general hospital (DGH) services.
Imperial College healthcare NHS trust was designated “requires improvement” last December, with concerns over cleanliness, weaknesses in the safety culture and “markedly varied” leadership in its hospitals. The famous John Radcliffe hospital, part of Oxford University hospitals NHS trust, was similarly judged “requires improvement” in May 2014 in light of a failure to learn from “never” events and problems in surgery, while senior doctors were said to be alienated from the board. In January 2014 the CQC issued University College London hospitals foundation trust withfour compliance notices over the risk of unsafe surgery, serious problems in A&E and poor record-keeping on its wards. Continue reading... The Guardian
The Care Quality Commission’s decision to classify the renowned Cambridge University hospitals foundation trust, which runs Addenbrooke’s hospital, as inadequate is only the latest example of specialist hospitals running into serious problems with their district general hospital (DGH) services.
Imperial College healthcare NHS trust was designated “requires improvement” last December, with concerns over cleanliness, weaknesses in the safety culture and “markedly varied” leadership in its hospitals. The famous John Radcliffe hospital, part of Oxford University hospitals NHS trust, was similarly judged “requires improvement” in May 2014 in light of a failure to learn from “never” events and problems in surgery, while senior doctors were said to be alienated from the board. In January 2014 the CQC issued University College London hospitals foundation trust withfour compliance notices over the risk of unsafe surgery, serious problems in A&E and poor record-keeping on its wards. Continue reading... The Guardian
UK cancer survival worst in western Europe
UK cancer survival worst in western Europe Research published in the European Journal of Cancer shows the UK has the worst survival rates for cancer in western Europe, with rates one third lower than those of Sweden. The Daily Telegraph
Friday, 25 September 2015
Northampton General Hospital must cut agency nurses spend by almost £1m
Northampton General Hospital must cut agency nurses spend by almost £1m Northampton General Hospital bosses must slash current spending on agency nurses by almost £1m a year based on latest figures. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Blue light services bungle sees broken-armed rider left in a ditch near Northamptonshire for two hours and 40 minutes
Blue light services bungle sees broken-armed rider left in a ditch near Northamptonshire for two hours and 40 minutes A stricken motorcyclist was left in a ditch near the Northamptonshire border with a broken arm for close to three hours after a mix up between three neighbouring police forces. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
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- Ditch crash biker sent 'pillar-to-post' BBC Northampton
- Crash victim left in ditch by police BBC Northampton
Foundation trust and NHS trust mergers 2010 to 2015
Foundation trust and NHS trust mergers 2010 to 2015 Mergers of trusts in the NHS are often instigated by national bodies so that NHS trusts can gain foundation trust status or failing providers can be rescued from financial difficulties. This report looks at 20 mergers between 2010 and mid-2015 and finds that significant sums of money are being spent on such mergers (£2 billion on just 12 mergers over this period), often based on faulty reasoning and a lack of evidence that mergers offer lasting solutions. The King's Fund
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- NHS mergers: putting all our baskets into one egg? The King's Fund
Financial fraud costs the NHS more than £5 billion a year
Financial fraud costs the NHS more than £5 billion a year Most of this is occurs in the payroll, procurement and pharmaceutical services, claims analysis. OnMedica
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- The Financial Cost of Healthcare Fraud Report 2015 PKF Accountants
- Fraud 'costing NHS over £5bn a year' BBC News
- NHS losing billions to 'fraud by doctors and dentists' The Daily Telegraph
- NHS fraud could cost £1b because of government cuts The Independent
- Department of Health rejects 'highly speculative' estimate of general practice fraud Pulse
Transforming healthcare in England’s core cities
Transforming healthcare in England’s core cities This report shows how CCGs in England’s core cities are taking up the challenge set out in the Five Year Forward View and transforming the way in which healthcare is delivered to the benefit of their local population. The key themes of the report are: developing new partnerships, ensuring equity of care across diverse populations, improving wellbeing, and finding better ways to provide healthcare services. NHS Clinical Commissioners
Nothing general about general practice, NHS ad campaign tells students
Nothing general about general practice, NHS ad campaign tells students The NHS in England has launched a social media advertising campaign to attract more doctors into general practice. GP Online
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- New campaign launched to inspire young medics to choose general practice Health Education England
UK cancer patients being denied drugs due to inflated prices, say experts
UK cancer patients being denied drugs due to inflated prices, say experts Research reveals how drug firms are charging the NHS such high prices the health service no longer offers them to patients
Cancer patients are being denied drugs on the NHS that could lengthen their lives because of unnecessarily exorbitant prices, say experts.
The drugs are cheap to make, and are available to patients in some other countries at much lower prices, according to new research. Continue reading... The Guardian
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Cancer patients are being denied drugs on the NHS that could lengthen their lives because of unnecessarily exorbitant prices, say experts.
The drugs are cheap to make, and are available to patients in some other countries at much lower prices, according to new research. Continue reading... The Guardian
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New NHS contract will worsen shortage of junior doctors, Jeremy Hunt told
New NHS contract will worsen shortage of junior doctors, Jeremy Hunt told Trainee doctors group says changes to terms and conditions present ‘immediate risk to provision of healthcare’ and will weaken NHS for generations.
Imposing a punitive new contract on young doctors will exacerbate already serious staffing shortages in key areas of frontline NHS care, their leaders have warned Jeremy Hunt.
In a sharply worded letter they have told the health secretary that forcing junior doctors to work even more antisocial hours while ending overtime pay will weaken the NHS for generations Continue reading... The Guardian
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Imposing a punitive new contract on young doctors will exacerbate already serious staffing shortages in key areas of frontline NHS care, their leaders have warned Jeremy Hunt.
In a sharply worded letter they have told the health secretary that forcing junior doctors to work even more antisocial hours while ending overtime pay will weaken the NHS for generations Continue reading... The Guardian
See also:
- How much are junior doctors paid, and why are they threatening to strike? The Daily Telegraph
- Letter from medical Royal College presidents to Jeremy Hunt – in full The Guardian
- This is how we staunch the flow of junior doctors out of the NHS The Guardian
- Junior doctors’ new contract is a disaster | Letters The Guardian
- General practice is facing a perfect storm | Letters The Guardian
Alzheimer's scandal: Government adviser Dame Sally Davies backtracks over claims she tried to discredit study
Alzheimer's scandal: Government adviser Dame Sally Davies backtracks over claims she tried to discredit study It is alleged that Dame Sally received confidential information under the strict embargo terms of the journal Nature. The Daily Telegraph
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Health apps approved by NHS 'may put users at risk of identity theft'
Health apps approved by NHS 'may put users at risk of identity theft' Health apps accredited by the NHS may not be adequately protecting personal information from hackers, a university study has claimed. The Independent
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- NHS approved apps 'leaking' ID data BBC News
- The NHS health apps that leave your data vulnerable to hackers The Daily Mail
- NHS-backed apps 'putting privacy at risk' The Daily Telegraph
- NHS-accredited health apps putting users’ privacy at risk, study finds The Guardian
NHS unveils 'hospital chains' scheme in bid to secure the future of small, local clinics
NHS unveils 'hospital chains' scheme in bid to secure the future of small, local clinics The NHS will secure the future of small local hospitals by placing them in “hospital chains” led by some of the country’s leading medical institutions. The Independent
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Thursday, 24 September 2015
Patient safety incident reporting continues to improve
Patient safety incident reporting continues to improve A six-monthly data report on patient safety incidents reported to the National Reporting and Learning System (NRLS) between 1 October 2014 and 31 March 2015.
Acute hospitals, mental health services, community trusts, ambulance services and primary care organisations report incidents to the NRLS where any patient could have been harmed or has suffered any level of harm. The reporting of incidents to a national central system helps protect patients from avoidable harm by increasing opportunities to learn from mistakes and where things go wrong. NHS England
Acute hospitals, mental health services, community trusts, ambulance services and primary care organisations report incidents to the NRLS where any patient could have been harmed or has suffered any level of harm. The reporting of incidents to a national central system helps protect patients from avoidable harm by increasing opportunities to learn from mistakes and where things go wrong. NHS England
Childhood flu programme training slides for healthcare professionals
Childhood flu programme training slides for healthcare professionals This slide pack has been developed for trainers and leaders of the childhood flu programme. Public Health England
Common mental health disorders linked with increased risk of violent reoffending in ex-prisoners
Common mental health disorders linked with increased risk of violent reoffending in ex-prisoners Ian Cummins considers the implications of a new cohort study of convicted prisoners in Sweden, which links psychiatric disorders with violent reoffending. The Mental Elf
NHS uncovers 1000 FGM cases in England
NHS uncovers 1000 FGM cases in England There were more than 1,000 newly recorded cases of female genital mutilation in England between April and June, NHS data reveals. BBC News
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- Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) - April 2015 to June 2015, Experimental Statistics Health and Social Care Information Centre
MMR vaccination rate down for first time in eight years
MMR vaccination rate down for first time in eight years Data from Health and Social Care Information Centre shows 92.3 per cent of children vaccinated with first dose of MMR by their second birthday. The Daily Telegraph
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- NHS Immunisation Statistics, England - 2014-15 Health and Social Care Information Centre
- Childhood MMR vaccination rates fall BBC News
- Number of children given MMR jab FALLS for the first time in 7 years The Daily Mail
Mental health research 'needs boost'
Mental health research 'needs boost' More investment in mental health research would quickly save the health service money, a major European study says. BBC News
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- Mental health research priorities for Europe Lancet Psychiatry (free, but registration required)
Prepare for a catastrophic NHS winter meltdown
Prepare for a catastrophic NHS winter meltdown The 90% of trusts predicting a deficit are caught in a catch-22: to skimp on staffing and standards, or spend money they don’t have.
The NHS is on the brink of a major, messy failure. If nothing is done to address the underlying issues now, the failure will be deep with grave consequences and a long recovery. This winter things are set to go catastrophically wrong.
Pressure on health services normally reduces in summer, often producing undue optimism about how they will cope come winter and delaying necessary preparations. Last summer there was virtually no reduction in pressure. Oddly, this failed to dent the optimism. The revised story was that unrelenting pressure had become a year-round phenomenon, so increased numbers and longer waits were now normal and the coming winter wouldn’t be any worse. Continue reading... The Guardian
The NHS is on the brink of a major, messy failure. If nothing is done to address the underlying issues now, the failure will be deep with grave consequences and a long recovery. This winter things are set to go catastrophically wrong.
Pressure on health services normally reduces in summer, often producing undue optimism about how they will cope come winter and delaying necessary preparations. Last summer there was virtually no reduction in pressure. Oddly, this failed to dent the optimism. The revised story was that unrelenting pressure had become a year-round phenomenon, so increased numbers and longer waits were now normal and the coming winter wouldn’t be any worse. Continue reading... The Guardian
GPs need more support and training to spot childhood cancers
GPs need more support and training to spot childhood cancers Too many children are being diagnosed with cancer at A&E because family doctors don’t have adequate knowledge about the symptoms
Childhood cancers can be difficult to diagnose: symptoms are often similar to other illnesses and, because it is rare, a GP is only likely to see one or two cases in their whole career. But the impact of a cancer diagnosis is devastating and it’s vital that we find ways to reduce potential delays in diagnosis.
It’s Childhood Cancer Awareness Month and in the lead up to it, Clic Sargent polled parents who have children with cancer or have had cancer in the past. Six in 10 told us they felt the GPs they saw had insufficient knowledge of the key symptoms. A third said they felt their child had a delayed diagnosis and just under half saw their GP at least three times before their child was diagnosed. Continue reading... The Guardian
Childhood cancers can be difficult to diagnose: symptoms are often similar to other illnesses and, because it is rare, a GP is only likely to see one or two cases in their whole career. But the impact of a cancer diagnosis is devastating and it’s vital that we find ways to reduce potential delays in diagnosis.
It’s Childhood Cancer Awareness Month and in the lead up to it, Clic Sargent polled parents who have children with cancer or have had cancer in the past. Six in 10 told us they felt the GPs they saw had insufficient knowledge of the key symptoms. A third said they felt their child had a delayed diagnosis and just under half saw their GP at least three times before their child was diagnosed. Continue reading... The Guardian
Why the new NHS junior doctors' contract is pushing me to Malta
Why the new NHS junior doctors' contract is pushing me to Malta Pay cuts and unsafe working hours are pushing our young doctors' loyalty to the NHS, and Britain, to its breaking point. I know I'm not alone. The Daily Telegraph
Wednesday, 23 September 2015
Experts investigating alleged breach of IT security at Kettering General Hospital
Experts investigating alleged breach of IT security at Kettering General Hospital An investigation has been launched following reports of an alleged breach of IT security at Kettering General Hospital. Northamptonshire Telegraph
Healthwatch Northamptonshire investigate accident and emergency at county hospitals
Healthwatch Northamptonshire investigate accident and emergency at county hospitals Healthwatch Northamptonshire has been investigating accident and emergcy units at the county's hospital.
The independent consumer champion for people in Northamptonshire using health and social care, spent two weeks in May talking to people waiting in Accident & Emergency (A&E) departments at Northampton General Hospital (NGH), Kettering General Hospital (KGH) and Corby Urgent Care Centre. Northants Herald and Post
The independent consumer champion for people in Northamptonshire using health and social care, spent two weeks in May talking to people waiting in Accident & Emergency (A&E) departments at Northampton General Hospital (NGH), Kettering General Hospital (KGH) and Corby Urgent Care Centre. Northants Herald and Post
A culture of stewardship: The responsibility of NHS leaders to deliver better value healthcare
A culture of stewardship: The responsibility of NHS leaders to deliver better value healthcare Healthcare value expert Prof Sir Muir Gray shares how the NHS can change the way it uses public resources over the next five years. Healthcare value expert Prof Sir Muir Gray shares how the NHS can change the way it uses public resources over the next five years. NHS Confederation
Is the purchaser–provider split dying?
Is the purchaser–provider split dying? Is the ‘purchaser–provider split’ dead? No. Is it dying? Quite possibly.
These questions are prompted by what is going on in the NHS right now and by the second annual lecture for NHS Providers, given by Sir David Nicholson last week.
Having largely kept silent since leaving NHS England Sir David re-appeared to tell the government, point blank, that it simply has to find more money for the NHS. No doubt about that.
He opened by saying that he would not be making any major policy pronouncements: ‘So I won’t be saying that the Department of Health should be abolished or that the purchaser–provider split should be put in the dustbin of history where it belongs.’ In questions, however, he was tempted further. The King's Fund
These questions are prompted by what is going on in the NHS right now and by the second annual lecture for NHS Providers, given by Sir David Nicholson last week.
Having largely kept silent since leaving NHS England Sir David re-appeared to tell the government, point blank, that it simply has to find more money for the NHS. No doubt about that.
He opened by saying that he would not be making any major policy pronouncements: ‘So I won’t be saying that the Department of Health should be abolished or that the purchaser–provider split should be put in the dustbin of history where it belongs.’ In questions, however, he was tempted further. The King's Fund
RCP launches two major reports on payment and structures in the NHS
RCP launches two major reports on payment and structures in the NHS As the NHS faces some of the greatest financial pressures in its history and an ageing patient population with complex care needs, it is vital that policymakers and system leaders dismantle the barriers to a stronger, more sustainable and more patient-centred NHS. Royal College of Physicians
Could an arthritis drug also help treat Alzheimer's disease?
Could an arthritis drug also help treat Alzheimer's disease? "Arthritis drug could soon reverse Alzheimer's symptoms after successful tests on mice," The Independent reports. The drug – salsalate – may help regulate levels of the abnormal tau protein associated with Alzheimer's disease, which could improve memory skills.
Salsalate, which belongs to the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAIDs) class of medicines, has been used for many years. And as The Daily Telegraph points out, it was even mentioned by the 5th century BC physician Hippocrates.
This study was conducted in mice with clumps of tau in their brains. Salsalate was given to the mice and was found to block the process that can lead to a further protein build up. Treated mice also performed better in tests designed to assess memory skills.
While these findings show promise, the studies were conducted in mice and were only conducted for a couple of months.
Further human studies will be required to determine how effective the drug is and over what timescale. But because this drug has already been approved for use in humans, these tests may come sooner rather than later. NHS Choices
Salsalate, which belongs to the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAIDs) class of medicines, has been used for many years. And as The Daily Telegraph points out, it was even mentioned by the 5th century BC physician Hippocrates.
This study was conducted in mice with clumps of tau in their brains. Salsalate was given to the mice and was found to block the process that can lead to a further protein build up. Treated mice also performed better in tests designed to assess memory skills.
While these findings show promise, the studies were conducted in mice and were only conducted for a couple of months.
Further human studies will be required to determine how effective the drug is and over what timescale. But because this drug has already been approved for use in humans, these tests may come sooner rather than later. NHS Choices
Drug company to cut 5,000% price rise
Drug company to cut 5,000% price rise A US drug company facing an outcry after raising the price of a drug used by Aids patients by over 5,000% says it will lower the price. BBC News
See also:
See also:
- drug company defends huge price rise BBC News
- VIDEO: HIV drugs price hike defended BBC News
- VIDEO: How much does making a drug cost? BBC News
- American hedge funder Martin Shkreli increases price of Aids-related drug by 5,000pc The Daily Telegraph
- Hilary Clinton joins outrage at hedge fund investor Martin Shkreli's 5,000% HIV drug price hike The Independent
Home care visits 'must last 30 minutes'
Home care visits 'must last 30 minutes' Carers should spent at least 30 minutes on home visits to older people as part of a new gold standard for services, according to new guidance. BBC News
See also:
See also:
- Offer personalised care to support those who need help to live at home NICE
- Home care: delivering personal care and practical support to older people living in their own homes (guideline) NICE
- Five-minute care visits for elderly are banned: Slots must now be half an hour after 'deeply worried' officials say it is impossible to treat patients with dignity in such a short time The Daily Mail
What Addenbrooke's tells us about state of NHS
What Addenbrooke's tells us about state of NHS What the Addenbrooke's hospital failure tells us about the NHS. BBC News
See also:
See also:
- Press release: Monitor puts Cambridge University Hospitals into special measures and takes enforcement action Monitor
- Addenbrooke's and Rosie hospitals' patients 'put at risk' BBC News
- Ministers 'allowed' Addenbrooke's Hospital to fail thousands of patients The Daily Mail
- Addenbrooke's Hospital in special measures after Care Quality Commission inspection The Daily Telegraph
- Addenbrooke's hospital in special measures after 'serious staff shortages' The Guardian
- Addenbrooke's hospital Q&A: What are 'special measures' - and what happens? The Independent
Better data is vital to solve A&E problems
Better data is vital to solve A&E problems A&E attendance has reached record levels – but commissioners and providers don’t know enough about this surge in demand to properly plan and fund services
Digitisation of healthcare is moving apace but when our hospitals capture information about emergency care, they rely on a dataset developed in the early 1980s.
It seems odd in an age which aspires to delivering integrated care and digital interoperability that we’re making do with a functional but pretty basic dataset. Continue reading... The Guardian
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Digitisation of healthcare is moving apace but when our hospitals capture information about emergency care, they rely on a dataset developed in the early 1980s.
It seems odd in an age which aspires to delivering integrated care and digital interoperability that we’re making do with a functional but pretty basic dataset. Continue reading... The Guardian
See also:
- A&E is broken – but it can be fixed The Guardian
Life-expectancy for British women is the second lowest in western Europe
Life-expectancy for British women is the second lowest in western Europe The UK is ranked 14 out of 15 nations, warns the WHO report. The Daily Telegraph
NHS crisis worsens after new figures show three-quarters of hospitals warned about dangerous staff shortages
NHS crisis worsens after new figures show three-quarters of hospitals warned about dangerous staff shortages The severity of the staffing crisis engulfing the NHS has been revealed by new figures showing that three-quarters of hospitals have been warned about potentially dangerous staff shortages. The Independent
Numbers of NHS doctors registering to work overseas could reach unprecedented record
Numbers of NHS doctors registering to work overseas could reach unprecedented record The Government’s decision to impose a new contract on junior doctors may risk an exodus of young medics, after figures revealed an unprecedented spike in NHS doctors registering to work overseas. The Independent
See also:
See also:
- 1,600 doctors apply to work overseas in just three DAYS The Daily Mail
- A third of A&E doctors leaving NHS to work abroad The Daily Telegraph
- Numbers of NHS doctors registering to work abroad could reach unprecedented levels The Daily Telegraph
- Young doctors must repay debt to taxpayers before moving abroad The Daily Telegraph
- NHS warned of exodus of young doctors as registrations to work abroad soar The Guardian
Tuesday, 22 September 2015
New report sheds light on top hospital complaints investigated by the PHSO
New report sheds light on top hospital complaints investigated by the PHSO A new report has revealed that, similar to last year, the top three reasons for hospital complaints investigated by the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman in the last financial year (2014-15) were poor communication, errors in diagnosis and poor treatment.
Non-medical aspects of patient care are cited as a factor in almost half of all complaints investigated by the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman.
Poor communication, including quality and accuracy of information, was a factor in one third of all complaints.
Other reasons for complaints in this period included staff attitude and behaviour, which were factors in two out of 10 complaints.
See also:
Non-medical aspects of patient care are cited as a factor in almost half of all complaints investigated by the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman.
Poor communication, including quality and accuracy of information, was a factor in one third of all complaints.
Other reasons for complaints in this period included staff attitude and behaviour, which were factors in two out of 10 complaints.
See also:
- Complaints about acute trusts 2014-15 Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman
- 'No apology' tops patient complaints BBC News
Addenbrooke's put in special measures
Addenbrooke's put in special measures One of the biggest NHS trusts is put in special measures after inspectors found concerns over staffing, treatment delays and governance failings. BBC News
NHS maximum waiting times and patient choice policies
NHS maximum waiting times and patient choice policies A parliamentary briefing sets out policy on maximum waiting time standards and patient choice in the English NHS. House of Commons Library
Investigating the impact of out-of-hours GP services on A&E attendance rates: multilevel regression analysis
Investigating the impact of out-of-hours GP services on A&E attendance rates: multilevel regression analysis This paper uses multilevel regression modelling to investigate the factors affecting levels of attendance at accident and emergency (A&E) departments by patients registered at a GP practice. National Audit Office
See also:
See also:
Diabetes spending varies almost two-fold across CCG areas
Diabetes spending varies almost two-fold across CCG areas Spending on diabetes treatment varies almost two-fold across different CCG areas due to 'inefficient spending', according to an NHS report. GP Online
How 'midlife MOT' health checks waste £450m a year: Report finds tests are 'costly and ineffective', saving just 1,000 lives annually
How 'midlife MOT' health checks waste £450m a year: Report finds tests are 'costly and ineffective', saving just 1,000 lives annually Forcing health workers to promote health checks when they known to be 'ineffective' saps their morale, London School of Economics and the University of Liverpool experts said. The Daily Mail
New junior doctors' contract changes everything I signed up for
New junior doctors' contract changes everything I signed up for The NHS I knew when I started out as a medical student has been chipped away and patient safety is under threat
This August I moved from being a medical student to become a doctor. After five years of endless exams, coursework and presentations, medical school was finally over. I had often wondered what life would be like. I knew the hours would be long, the on calls arduous and the night shifts terrifying. What I never imagined was that within eight weeks of starting there would be calls to strike, friends from the years above quitting medicine, others leaving for New Zealand (and never coming back) and a new contract being imposed by the government that altered everything I had signed up for. I find myself a junior doctor at one of the most turbulent times the NHS has ever witnessed.
The lines were drawn between the British Medical Association (BMA) and the government last week. The BMA branded the government’s newest junior doctor contract as unsafe and unfair, while the government responded by saying it would enforce the contract from August 2016 anyway. Continue reading... The Guardian
See also:
This August I moved from being a medical student to become a doctor. After five years of endless exams, coursework and presentations, medical school was finally over. I had often wondered what life would be like. I knew the hours would be long, the on calls arduous and the night shifts terrifying. What I never imagined was that within eight weeks of starting there would be calls to strike, friends from the years above quitting medicine, others leaving for New Zealand (and never coming back) and a new contract being imposed by the government that altered everything I had signed up for. I find myself a junior doctor at one of the most turbulent times the NHS has ever witnessed.
The lines were drawn between the British Medical Association (BMA) and the government last week. The BMA branded the government’s newest junior doctor contract as unsafe and unfair, while the government responded by saying it would enforce the contract from August 2016 anyway. Continue reading... The Guardian
See also:
Step inside Britain's first men-only mental health centre
Step inside Britain's first men-only mental health centre Last week, The Eaton Foundation in Burton upon Trent opened its doors. The staff explain how a pioneering holistic approach is helping their all-male clientele get back on their feet. The Daily Telegraph
Monday, 21 September 2015
Corby health group up for prestigious award
Corby health group up for prestigious award A Corby organisation responsible for spending the majority of the local health budget on services in the area has been shortlisted for a prestigious award. Northamptonshire Telegraph
University that linked up with Northamptonshire healthcare trust celebrates top accolade in national guide
University that linked up with Northamptonshire healthcare trust celebrates top accolade in national guide The University of Buckingham, which this year joined forced with Northamptonshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust to launch the UK’s first independent Medical School, has been awarded the ultimate accolade - University of the Year for Teaching Quality - by the Times and Sunday Times University Guide. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
We need to talk about social care providers
We need to talk about social care providers Amid growing concern that most NHS providers are sliding into deficit, arguably we should be even more worried about social care providers.
This is a complex and sprawling sector – more than 12,000 independent organisations, ranging from big corporate chains to small family-run businesses, charities and social enterprises, which makes the NHS provider landscape look like a sea of organisational tranquillity. Less than 10 per cent of social care is actually provided by councils or the NHS – their retreat from long term care provision is virtually complete. But unlike the NHS, when a social care provider hits the financial rocks, bankruptcy not bail-out is the more likely scenario. The King's Fund
This is a complex and sprawling sector – more than 12,000 independent organisations, ranging from big corporate chains to small family-run businesses, charities and social enterprises, which makes the NHS provider landscape look like a sea of organisational tranquillity. Less than 10 per cent of social care is actually provided by councils or the NHS – their retreat from long term care provision is virtually complete. But unlike the NHS, when a social care provider hits the financial rocks, bankruptcy not bail-out is the more likely scenario. The King's Fund
Creating a sustainable 21st century healthcare system
Creating a sustainable 21st century healthcare system This report highlights how a ‘perfect storm’ of demographic and wider economic and social trends are converging to push up the cost of healthcare across the globe. It showcases examples of innovation from across the world which could save lives and money if introduced more widely. It suggests that a concerted focus on innovation and prevention - developing more empowered health consumers, whilst also maximising the potential of big data - would help to deliver significant savings in the long-term. International Longevity Centre
NHS whistleblowing procedure in England
NHS whistleblowing procedure in England This briefing sets out the current rights and procedures for NHS staff in England to raise concerns about safety, malpractice or wrongdoing at work. It also refers to guidance on where wider disclosure of concerns may be appropriate, including raising concerns with the Care Quality Commission. House of Commons Library
Smoking linked to raised diabetes risk – including passive smoking
Smoking linked to raised diabetes risk – including passive smoking "Passive smoking raises risk of type 2 diabetes," The Guardian reports. A major new analysis of previous studies found a significant association between exposure to tobacco smoke – includingsecondhand smoke – and type 2 diabetes.
People who had never smoked, but were exposed to secondhand smoke, were at a 22% higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes than people who had never smoked, but had been exposed to secondhand smoke. NHS Choices
People who had never smoked, but were exposed to secondhand smoke, were at a 22% higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes than people who had never smoked, but had been exposed to secondhand smoke. NHS Choices
Care of vulnerable people 'in danger'
Care of vulnerable people 'in danger' The dignity, heath and wellbeing of older people and those with disabilities in England are in danger, health and care groups warn. BBC News
Fewer than 50% attend bowel cancer test
Fewer than 50% attend bowel cancer test Fewer than half of a group of 21,000 people took the chance to attend a bowel cancer screening test, a Cancer Research UK report says. BBC News
Viewpoint: How the government will fund a seven-day NHS remains a mystery, says Dr Kailash Chand
Viewpoint: How the government will fund a seven-day NHS remains a mystery, says Dr Kailash Chand Chasing the politically-driven pipe dream of a seven-day NHS is impossible when existing services are under unbearable strain, warns BMA deputy chairman Dr Kailash Chand. The government needs to set out how it will pay for an expanded healthcare system. GP Online
Wide variations in health services across England
Wide variations in health services across England The wide variations in health services offered across England are exposed in the third NHS Atlas of Variation in Healthcare published by Public Health England (PHE), NHS England and NHS Right Care today. OnMedica
The unlikely saviour of the NHS: drug-resistant gonorrhoea | Zoe Williams
The unlikely saviour of the NHS: drug-resistant gonorrhoea | Zoe Williams The epic challenges of the post-antibiotic age will take the debate beyond the well-worn issues of obesity and old age. The Guardian
Third of people born in 2015 'will develop dementia'
Third of people born in 2015 'will develop dementia' Charity warns of a "looming national health crisis", as increasing life expectancy and an ageing population mean more will get dementia. The Daily Telegraph
The NHS could collapse within two years, former health minister Norman Lamb warns
The NHS could collapse within two years, former health minister Norman Lamb warns Former health minister Norman Lamb has warned the NHS could collapse within two years, unless the government pumps billions of pounds into services. The Independent
See also:
See also:
Junior doctors threaten strike action in revolt over new contract plans
Junior doctors threaten strike action in revolt over new contract plans Junior doctors are considering industrial action if the Government pursues plans to impose a new contract on the profession. The Independent
See also:
See also:
Friday, 18 September 2015
Leader of Northamptonshire's mental health service, which was rated 'requires ... - Northampton Chronicle & Echo
Leader of Northamptonshire's mental health service, which was rated 'requires ... - Northampton Chronicle & Echo
Leader of Northamptonshire's mental health service, which was rated 'requires ... Angela Hillery, from NHS Northamptonshire Healthcare, has been shortlisted for the title of Health Service Journal's CEO of the Year after staff feedback that inspectors received in February. The report, published three weeks ago, rated the the trust ... and more » |
Scientists apply to modify embryos
Scientists apply to modify embryos
UK researchers want to use a controversial new genetic technique to carry out research into infertility. BBC News
UK researchers want to use a controversial new genetic technique to carry out research into infertility. BBC News
Lives being put at risk - NHS report
Lives being put at risk - NHS report
Differences in access to key NHS services, including stroke and cancer care, is putting patients at risk, an official report suggests. BBC News
Differences in access to key NHS services, including stroke and cancer care, is putting patients at risk, an official report suggests. BBC News
Antidepressant paroxetine study 'under-reported data on harms'
Antidepressant paroxetine study 'under-reported data on harms'
"Seroxat [paroxetine] study under-reported harmful effects on young people, say scientists," The Guardian reports. Researchers have reanalysed data about the antidepressant paroxetine – no longer prescribed to young people – and claim important details were not made public.
Researchers who looked at data from the now infamous 1990s "study 329" trial of the antidepressant paroxetine, found reports of suicide attempts that were not included in the original research paper.
The makers of paroxetine, GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), marketed paroxetine as a safe and effective antidepressant for children, despite the evidence of harms. The US Department of Justice sued GSK for a record $3 billion for making false claims.
The new analysis of thousands of pages of data contradicted the original claims that paroxetine was "generally well-tolerated and effective" for treating adolescents with depression. By contrast, the new analysis found "no advantage" from paroxetine and an "increase in harms", compared to placebo.
This new analysis found that the original study paper over-reported the effectiveness of paroxetine and under-estimated potential harms. It raises questions about how much we can rely on the reported results of medical trials, without independent access to review the raw trial data.
"Seroxat [paroxetine] study under-reported harmful effects on young people, say scientists," The Guardian reports. Researchers have reanalysed data about the antidepressant paroxetine – no longer prescribed to young people – and claim important details were not made public.
Researchers who looked at data from the now infamous 1990s "study 329" trial of the antidepressant paroxetine, found reports of suicide attempts that were not included in the original research paper.
The makers of paroxetine, GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), marketed paroxetine as a safe and effective antidepressant for children, despite the evidence of harms. The US Department of Justice sued GSK for a record $3 billion for making false claims.
The new analysis of thousands of pages of data contradicted the original claims that paroxetine was "generally well-tolerated and effective" for treating adolescents with depression. By contrast, the new analysis found "no advantage" from paroxetine and an "increase in harms", compared to placebo.
This new analysis found that the original study paper over-reported the effectiveness of paroxetine and under-estimated potential harms. It raises questions about how much we can rely on the reported results of medical trials, without independent access to review the raw trial data.
Creating healthy workplaces: A toolkit for the NHS
Creating healthy workplaces: A toolkit for the NHS
This new toolkit aims to support NHS organisations to improve the staff health, wellbeing, effectiveness and productivity by providing practical, step-by-step information on how to implement the six pieces of workplace guidance from the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE). Latest Employer News
This new toolkit aims to support NHS organisations to improve the staff health, wellbeing, effectiveness and productivity by providing practical, step-by-step information on how to implement the six pieces of workplace guidance from the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE). Latest Employer News
Open consultation: The role of the National Data Guardian for health and social care
Open consultation: The role of the National Data Guardian for health and social care
This consultation seeks views on the responsibilities of the statutory National Data Guardian for health and social care. The responses will form a major part of the development for more detailed proposals to establish the National Data Guardian for health and social care on a statutory footing.
The National Data Guardian for health and social care will help to ensure that personal confidential data is held and used to support better outcomes from health and care services, at the same time providing confidence that there are thorough safeguards in place to protect personal confidential data. Department of Health
This consultation seeks views on the responsibilities of the statutory National Data Guardian for health and social care. The responses will form a major part of the development for more detailed proposals to establish the National Data Guardian for health and social care on a statutory footing.
The National Data Guardian for health and social care will help to ensure that personal confidential data is held and used to support better outcomes from health and care services, at the same time providing confidence that there are thorough safeguards in place to protect personal confidential data. Department of Health
Guidance: FGM enhanced dataset: guidance on NHS staff responsibilities
Guidance: FGM enhanced dataset: guidance on NHS staff responsibilities
This document provides support and guidance to NHS organisations to know how they can meet the requirements to collect and submit data about patients with FGM. This guidance relates to the Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) Enhanced Dataset by the Health and Social Care Information Centre and the forthcoming professional duty about FGM to be published October 2015.
This includes an explanation of the legal basis for the collection of the information. It describes what and how NHS organisations need to communicate with patients about this work. The document also explains additional work underway to support GP practices with this work. Department of Health
This document provides support and guidance to NHS organisations to know how they can meet the requirements to collect and submit data about patients with FGM. This guidance relates to the Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) Enhanced Dataset by the Health and Social Care Information Centre and the forthcoming professional duty about FGM to be published October 2015.
This includes an explanation of the legal basis for the collection of the information. It describes what and how NHS organisations need to communicate with patients about this work. The document also explains additional work underway to support GP practices with this work. Department of Health
Passive smokers have 20% higher risk of diabetes, new study finds
Passive smokers have 20% higher risk of diabetes, new study finds
Someone exposed to second-hand smoke has a 20 per cent higher chance of becoming a diabetic, according to a new study. Independent
Someone exposed to second-hand smoke has a 20 per cent higher chance of becoming a diabetic, according to a new study. Independent
GP funding per patient varies two-fold between CCGs, official data show
GP funding per patient varies two-fold between CCGs, official data show
GP practices in some CCGs receive twice as much per weighted patient as their counterparts in other areas, official data on payments to general practice reveal. GP Online
GP practices in some CCGs receive twice as much per weighted patient as their counterparts in other areas, official data on payments to general practice reveal. GP Online
'Super-gonorrhoea' outbreak across north of England sparks national alert
'Super-gonorrhoea' outbreak across north of England sparks national alert
Public Health England 'concerned' about drug-resistant strain first reported in Leeds but which has spread to Macclesfield, Oldham and Scunthorpe. Telegraph
Public Health England 'concerned' about drug-resistant strain first reported in Leeds but which has spread to Macclesfield, Oldham and Scunthorpe. Telegraph
Thursday, 17 September 2015
Guidance: Flu vaccination: easy read invitation letter template
Guidance: Flu vaccination: easy read invitation letter template
This letter is for health professionals to give to people with learning difficulties and their parents and carers/guardians, either by hand or by post, preferably with an accompanying information leaflet.
Staff can adapt the template format for GP surgeries and health professionals for patients to have their annual flu vaccination.
Download the file to add the name of the practice and other details as appropriate, or print as-is, add notes by hand and then photocopy to share. Public Health England
This letter is for health professionals to give to people with learning difficulties and their parents and carers/guardians, either by hand or by post, preferably with an accompanying information leaflet.
Staff can adapt the template format for GP surgeries and health professionals for patients to have their annual flu vaccination.
Download the file to add the name of the practice and other details as appropriate, or print as-is, add notes by hand and then photocopy to share. Public Health England
Outpatient appointment referrals survey
Outpatient appointment referrals survey
This survey indicates that too few NHS patients say that they are being offered a choice about where they receive care, indicating that more work needs to be done to promote patient choice across the NHS. 40 per cent of respondents to NHS England and Monitor’s annual survey into patient choice said they were offered a choice of hospital or clinic for their first outpatient appointment by their GPs. The survey indicated that, where patients are offered a choice, they are much more likely to be able to go to the hospital or clinic they want. Monitor - NHS Evidence
Survey results
Summary
Press release
This survey indicates that too few NHS patients say that they are being offered a choice about where they receive care, indicating that more work needs to be done to promote patient choice across the NHS. 40 per cent of respondents to NHS England and Monitor’s annual survey into patient choice said they were offered a choice of hospital or clinic for their first outpatient appointment by their GPs. The survey indicated that, where patients are offered a choice, they are much more likely to be able to go to the hospital or clinic they want. Monitor - NHS Evidence
Survey results
Summary
Press release
Investigation into the Cancer Drugs Fund
Investigation into the Cancer Drugs Fund
The National Audit Office has published the findings from its investigation into the Cancer Drugs Fund. The government set up the Fund in 2010 to improve access to cancer drugs that would not otherwise be routinely available on the NHS.
The Fund is unique in that no other condition has a dedicated fund to provide access to drugs not routinely available on the NHS. It was initially intended to run until March 2014, with a budget of £650 million, while a long-term pricing mechanism was worked out that would allow patients access to the drugs and treatments that their doctors thought would help them. In 2013, the government extended the Fund until March 2016. The Fund now has a total lifetime budget of £1.27 billion.
The National Audit Office has published the findings from its investigation into the Cancer Drugs Fund. The government set up the Fund in 2010 to improve access to cancer drugs that would not otherwise be routinely available on the NHS.
The Fund is unique in that no other condition has a dedicated fund to provide access to drugs not routinely available on the NHS. It was initially intended to run until March 2014, with a budget of £650 million, while a long-term pricing mechanism was worked out that would allow patients access to the drugs and treatments that their doctors thought would help them. In 2013, the government extended the Fund until March 2016. The Fund now has a total lifetime budget of £1.27 billion.
NHS maximum waiting times and patient choice policies
NHS maximum waiting times and patient choice policies
This briefing sets out policy on maximum waiting time standards and patient choice in the English NHS.
House of Commons Library
Briefing
Commons Library publications
This briefing sets out policy on maximum waiting time standards and patient choice in the English NHS.
House of Commons Library
Briefing
Commons Library publications
'Urgent' changes needed at Broadmoor
'Urgent' changes needed at Broadmoor
Broadmoor Hospital is told to make urgent changes after being rated inadequate in an inspection which highlighted the overuse of physical restraint on patients. BBC News
Broadmoor Hospital is told to make urgent changes after being rated inadequate in an inspection which highlighted the overuse of physical restraint on patients. BBC News
Anti-depressant was given to millions of young people 'after trials showed it was dangerous'
Anti-depressant was given to millions of young people 'after trials showed it was dangerous'
Millions of young people were prescribed a common anti-depressant on the basis of a notorious medical trial that actually showed the drug was neither safe nor effective in children and adolescents, a major review has confirmed. Independent
Millions of young people were prescribed a common anti-depressant on the basis of a notorious medical trial that actually showed the drug was neither safe nor effective in children and adolescents, a major review has confirmed. Independent
Improving communication about gender identity services – Will Huxter
Improving communication about gender identity services – Will Huxter
Welcome to the first of what I hope will be a regular series of on-line postings about NHS England’s work to improve gender identity services.
I have heard directly from individuals and organisations across the trans and non-binary community regarding concerns they have about limited communication from NHS England in relation to this service area. I want to use this blog to start to change that, by talking about the work both underway, and planned, in relation to gender identity services. I hope you find it useful.
Welcome to the first of what I hope will be a regular series of on-line postings about NHS England’s work to improve gender identity services.
I have heard directly from individuals and organisations across the trans and non-binary community regarding concerns they have about limited communication from NHS England in relation to this service area. I want to use this blog to start to change that, by talking about the work both underway, and planned, in relation to gender identity services. I hope you find it useful.
Health matters: a new resource to aid local public health professionals
Health matters: a new resource to aid local public health professionals
Health matters is a new resource for public health professionals. It is designed to support commissioning and delivering services across local areas. NHS Networks
Health matters is a new resource for public health professionals. It is designed to support commissioning and delivering services across local areas. NHS Networks
Nearly 200 children are treated for infection after a major outbreak of tuberculosis at a British school
Nearly 200 children are treated for infection after a major outbreak of tuberculosis at a British school
Health bosses revealed the results of a major TB screening programme when all pupils were tested at Teign School near Newton Abbot after two caught the infectious disease. Daily Mail
Health bosses revealed the results of a major TB screening programme when all pupils were tested at Teign School near Newton Abbot after two caught the infectious disease. Daily Mail
Wednesday, 16 September 2015
Press release: E-cigarettes: an emerging public health consensus
Press release: E-cigarettes: an emerging public health consensus
We all agree that e-cigarettes are significantly less harmful than smoking. One in 2 lifelong smokers dies from their addiction. All of the evidence suggests that the health risks posed by e-cigarettes are relatively small by comparison but we must continue to study the long term effects.
And yet, millions of smokers have the impression that e-cigarettes are at least as harmful as tobacco and we have a responsibility to provide clear information on the facts as we know them to be. It is our duty to provide reassurance for the 1.1 million e-cigarette users who have completely stopped smoking to prevent their relapse.
To be clear, the public health opportunity is in helping smokers to quit, so we may encourage smokers to try vaping but we certainly encourage vapers to stop smoking tobacco completely.
We know that e-cigarettes are the most popular quitting tool in the country with more than 10 times as many people using them than using local stop smoking services. But, we also know that using local stop smoking services is by far the most effective way to quit.
What we need to do is combine the most popular method with the most effective and that is why we are encouraging those who want to use e-cigarettes to quit smoking to seek the help of their local stop smoking service.
We all agree that e-cigarettes are significantly less harmful than smoking. One in 2 lifelong smokers dies from their addiction. All of the evidence suggests that the health risks posed by e-cigarettes are relatively small by comparison but we must continue to study the long term effects.
And yet, millions of smokers have the impression that e-cigarettes are at least as harmful as tobacco and we have a responsibility to provide clear information on the facts as we know them to be. It is our duty to provide reassurance for the 1.1 million e-cigarette users who have completely stopped smoking to prevent their relapse.
To be clear, the public health opportunity is in helping smokers to quit, so we may encourage smokers to try vaping but we certainly encourage vapers to stop smoking tobacco completely.
We know that e-cigarettes are the most popular quitting tool in the country with more than 10 times as many people using them than using local stop smoking services. But, we also know that using local stop smoking services is by far the most effective way to quit.
What we need to do is combine the most popular method with the most effective and that is why we are encouraging those who want to use e-cigarettes to quit smoking to seek the help of their local stop smoking service.
Scientists and health officials at war over safety of e-cigarettes
Scientists and health officials at war over safety of e-cigarettes
A report by Public Health England which advised smokers to begin vaping was flawed and not based on reliable evidence, health experts have warned. Telegraph
A report by Public Health England which advised smokers to begin vaping was flawed and not based on reliable evidence, health experts have warned. Telegraph
NHS is suffering its 'hardest decade ever', warn think-tanks
NHS is suffering its 'hardest decade ever', warn think-tanks
The NHS is suffering its hardest decade since its creation, three leading think-tanks have said, warning that current government spending pledges amount to the lowest 10-year growth rate the health service has ever seen. Nine in 10 hospitals in England are expected to overspend their budgets this year, potentially tipping the sector £2bn into the red. Independent
The NHS is suffering its hardest decade since its creation, three leading think-tanks have said, warning that current government spending pledges amount to the lowest 10-year growth rate the health service has ever seen. Nine in 10 hospitals in England are expected to overspend their budgets this year, potentially tipping the sector £2bn into the red. Independent
Rising number of employees reporting mental health issues - The Guardian
Rising number of employees reporting mental health issues - The Guardian
The number of employees speaking up about mental health problems is on the rise. More than two fifths of employers say they have seen an increase in cases reported by staff of conditions such as depression and anxiety, according to research from the ...
The number of employees speaking up about mental health problems is on the rise. More than two fifths of employers say they have seen an increase in cases reported by staff of conditions such as depression and anxiety, according to research from the ...
Health matters: smoking and quitting in England
Health matters: smoking and quitting in England
This is the first in a series of resources which aims to bring together a range of resources in an easily accessible package that aim to address public health priorities. This document provides information on the prevalence of smoking and evidence for what has been proven to work to promote cessation at local and national level. Public Health England (PHE)
Resource pack
Press release
This is the first in a series of resources which aims to bring together a range of resources in an easily accessible package that aim to address public health priorities. This document provides information on the prevalence of smoking and evidence for what has been proven to work to promote cessation at local and national level. Public Health England (PHE)
Resource pack
Press release
Changes in health in England, with analysis by English regions and areas of deprivation, 1990 to 2013: a systematic analysis for the Global...
Changes in health in England, with analysis by English regions and areas of deprivation, 1990 to 2013: a systematic analysis for the Global...
This paper estimates of the main causes of death and disability, attributable risk factors and the effect of deprivation, modelled for England and its regions. It finds that sickness and chronic disability are causing a much greater proportion of the burden of disease as people are living longer with several illnesses. The accompanying online tool allows users to see how the disease burden falls over time by English region and deprivation and the relative impact of different diseases and risk factors. Public Health England (PHE)
Report
Online tool
PHE blog
This paper estimates of the main causes of death and disability, attributable risk factors and the effect of deprivation, modelled for England and its regions. It finds that sickness and chronic disability are causing a much greater proportion of the burden of disease as people are living longer with several illnesses. The accompanying online tool allows users to see how the disease burden falls over time by English region and deprivation and the relative impact of different diseases and risk factors. Public Health England (PHE)
Report
Online tool
PHE blog
Accessing and sharing health records and patient confidentiality
Accessing and sharing health records and patient confidentiality
This briefing sets out current arrangements for accessing patient records and sharing confidential patient information. NHS Networks
This briefing sets out current arrangements for accessing patient records and sharing confidential patient information. NHS Networks
Briefing on legislation and mental health
Briefing on legislation and mental health
Mental health care and services are delivered within a complex legislative framework. There have been changes to this framework in the last 12 months with more revisions proposed. NHS Networks
Mental health care and services are delivered within a complex legislative framework. There have been changes to this framework in the last 12 months with more revisions proposed. NHS Networks
Banning trans fats could prevent 7,000 deaths from heart disease over next five years, claim experts
Banning trans fats could prevent 7,000 deaths from heart disease over next five years, claim experts
Banning trans fats from food could prevent 7,000 deaths from heart disease over the next five years, experts have claimed. Independent
Banning trans fats from food could prevent 7,000 deaths from heart disease over the next five years, experts have claimed. Independent
Biometric wristbands predict outbursts in people with autism
Biometric wristbands predict outbursts in people with autism
Wristbands that measure surface skin temperature and heart rate could transform the lives of people with autism by predicting big behavioural shifts. Telegraph
Wristbands that measure surface skin temperature and heart rate could transform the lives of people with autism by predicting big behavioural shifts. Telegraph
Tuesday, 15 September 2015
New glass walkway will connect Northampton General Hospital site to £1.8m radiotherapy machine
New glass walkway will connect Northampton General Hospital site to £1.8m radiotherapy machine
Patients having radiotherapy at Northampton General Hospital are to have more available therapies and reduced side effects after a £5.5m million investment in new technology. Northampton Chronicle
Patients having radiotherapy at Northampton General Hospital are to have more available therapies and reduced side effects after a £5.5m million investment in new technology. Northampton Chronicle
Reducing admissions and care planning
Reducing admissions and care planning
The National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) has published a round-up of local projects to reduce admissions to secondary care and improve care planning. NHS Networks
The National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) has published a round-up of local projects to reduce admissions to secondary care and improve care planning. NHS Networks
Jeremy Corbyn victory could boost BMA campaign against NHS marketisation
Jeremy Corbyn victory could boost BMA campaign against NHS marketisation
New Labour party leader Jeremy Corbyn's pledge to reverse the marketisation of the health service if elected prime minister has been backed by NHS campaigners and could bring the party closer in line with BMA policy.
GP Online
New Labour party leader Jeremy Corbyn's pledge to reverse the marketisation of the health service if elected prime minister has been backed by NHS campaigners and could bring the party closer in line with BMA policy.
GP Online
Press release: England has the potential to have the lowest disease burden in the world
Press release: England has the potential to have the lowest disease burden in the world
For the first time, a new PHE-led study published in The Lancet ranks the diseases and risk factors that cause death and disability in England compared with other high-income countries. It reveals the nation’s potential to have the lowest total disease burden (years of life lost to death and lived with disability) in the world.
Between 1990 and 2013, life expectancy in England increased by 5.4 years: one of the biggest increases compared with the other EU15+ countries (from 75.9 years in 1990 to 81.3 years in 2013).
This increase was mainly because of falls in the death rate from cardiovascular disease, stroke, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and some cancers (with progress partly offset by increased death rates from liver disease).
South East England has the lowest disease burden when compared to high-income countries, and England as a whole performs better than the EU15+ † average.
Known potentially preventable risk factors taken together explain 40% of ill health in England. If you examine the impact of specific risks on the overall disease burden, unhealthy diet and tobacco are the two largest contributors ‡ (diet accounts for 10.8% of total disease burden and tobacco 10.7%).
Improvements in life expectancy haven’t been matched by improvements in levels of ill-health. So, as a population we’re living longer but spending more years in ill-health, often with a combination of conditions, some of which would have previously been fatal. For example, with diabetes, the years of life lost to the disease have decreased by 56% but years living with disability have increased by over 75%.
Professor John Newton, Chief Knowledge Officer, Public Health England, said:
The findings show the huge opportunity for preventive public health. If levels of health in the worst performing regions in England matched the best performing ones, England would have one of the lowest burdens of disease of any developed country.
And even though there have been big falls in premature mortality, the top causes of early deaths in England and in each English region are still heart disease, stroke, lung cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, which to a greater or lesser extent, are attributable to preventable risk factors.
Dr Adam Briggs, co-author and Wellcome Trust Research Training Fellow, University of Oxford, said:
Life expectancy is increasing across the country but large inequalities still remain. Life expectancy in 2013 for those living in the most deprived areas was still lower than those in less deprived areas enjoyed in 1990. How deprived you are is the key driver of these differences rather than where you live and therefore deprivation and its causes need to be tackled wherever they occur.
Professor Kevin Fenton, Director of Health and Wellbeing, Public Health England, said:
People are living longer, but they are living longer with disability, which will require more integrated models of care spanning health and social services. The other important implication for health services is that it is likely that up to 40% of its workload is due to potentially preventable risk factors. This reaffirms the importance of people taking positive steps today, liking eating well and stopping smoking, to improve their health in the long term.
† The first 15 European Union members apart from the UK (Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, Sweden), plus Australia, Canada, Norway, and the United States of America [EU15+].
‡ For women in England, tobacco is now the number one risk factor and has overtaken unhealthy diets and high blood pressure since 1990.
Public Health England press office
For the first time, a new PHE-led study published in The Lancet ranks the diseases and risk factors that cause death and disability in England compared with other high-income countries. It reveals the nation’s potential to have the lowest total disease burden (years of life lost to death and lived with disability) in the world.
Between 1990 and 2013, life expectancy in England increased by 5.4 years: one of the biggest increases compared with the other EU15+ countries (from 75.9 years in 1990 to 81.3 years in 2013).
This increase was mainly because of falls in the death rate from cardiovascular disease, stroke, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and some cancers (with progress partly offset by increased death rates from liver disease).
South East England has the lowest disease burden when compared to high-income countries, and England as a whole performs better than the EU15+ † average.
Known potentially preventable risk factors taken together explain 40% of ill health in England. If you examine the impact of specific risks on the overall disease burden, unhealthy diet and tobacco are the two largest contributors ‡ (diet accounts for 10.8% of total disease burden and tobacco 10.7%).
Improvements in life expectancy haven’t been matched by improvements in levels of ill-health. So, as a population we’re living longer but spending more years in ill-health, often with a combination of conditions, some of which would have previously been fatal. For example, with diabetes, the years of life lost to the disease have decreased by 56% but years living with disability have increased by over 75%.
Professor John Newton, Chief Knowledge Officer, Public Health England, said:
The findings show the huge opportunity for preventive public health. If levels of health in the worst performing regions in England matched the best performing ones, England would have one of the lowest burdens of disease of any developed country.
And even though there have been big falls in premature mortality, the top causes of early deaths in England and in each English region are still heart disease, stroke, lung cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, which to a greater or lesser extent, are attributable to preventable risk factors.
Dr Adam Briggs, co-author and Wellcome Trust Research Training Fellow, University of Oxford, said:
Life expectancy is increasing across the country but large inequalities still remain. Life expectancy in 2013 for those living in the most deprived areas was still lower than those in less deprived areas enjoyed in 1990. How deprived you are is the key driver of these differences rather than where you live and therefore deprivation and its causes need to be tackled wherever they occur.
Professor Kevin Fenton, Director of Health and Wellbeing, Public Health England, said:
People are living longer, but they are living longer with disability, which will require more integrated models of care spanning health and social services. The other important implication for health services is that it is likely that up to 40% of its workload is due to potentially preventable risk factors. This reaffirms the importance of people taking positive steps today, liking eating well and stopping smoking, to improve their health in the long term.
† The first 15 European Union members apart from the UK (Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, Sweden), plus Australia, Canada, Norway, and the United States of America [EU15+].
‡ For women in England, tobacco is now the number one risk factor and has overtaken unhealthy diets and high blood pressure since 1990.
Public Health England press office
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