Friday, 31 March 2017
Corby Urgent Care Centre will not close on Friday
Corby Urgent Care Centre will not close on Friday Health bosses have confirmed that Corby Urgent Care Centre will not be closing on Friday. It comes after a row over funding led to Lakeside+ Plus Limited, which runs the busy centre, saying it may have to close if they couldn’t reach an agreement over the prices they are paid for services provided there. The threat of closure led to concern for patients, staff and all involved with the running of the centre. Northamptonshire Telegraph
SPECIAL REPORT: 'Alternative' day care offered in Northampton cannot cater for our parents
SPECIAL REPORT: 'Alternative' day care offered in Northampton cannot cater for our parents Relatives of dementia patients whose day care funding plug has been pulled say they will scrimp to pay for the activity sessions themselves – rather than send their loved ones to the alternative being offered. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Major reform of social care funding and provision needed
Major reform of social care funding and provision needed The Communities and Local Government Committee report says that the Government needs to urgently review how social care is funded in the long term and address serious threats to social care provision.
See also:
See also:
- Social care still needs a sustainable funding settlement The King's Fund
- How care homes hit middle classes by charging them more The Daily Mail
National Statistics Statistics on Obesity, Physical Activity and Diet - England, 2017
National Statistics Statistics on Obesity, Physical Activity and Diet - England, 2017 This statistical report presents information on obesity, physical activity and diet, drawn together from a variety of sources. NHS Digital
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- Just one in four adults eating their five a day, NHS reveals The Daily Telegraph
- Quarter of adults in England 'exercise for less than half hour a week' The Guardian
Simon Stevens' delivery plan for the NHS explained
Simon Stevens' delivery plan for the NHS explained With the health service under unprecedented pressures of both finance and demand, the NHS England chief has outlined proposals to safeguard its future
The chief of NHS England, Simon Stevens, has pledged to make an array of changes to benefit patients in his proposals for the future of the health service.
In the delivery plan for his Five-Year Forward View, he sets out the way in which providers of NHS care must overhaul their working practices, despite the unprecedented pressures they are facing and the service having less money than he believes it needs to do its job properly. Continue reading... The Guardian
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The chief of NHS England, Simon Stevens, has pledged to make an array of changes to benefit patients in his proposals for the future of the health service.
In the delivery plan for his Five-Year Forward View, he sets out the way in which providers of NHS care must overhaul their working practices, despite the unprecedented pressures they are facing and the service having less money than he believes it needs to do its job properly. Continue reading... The Guardian
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- Next steps on the NHS Five Year Forward View NHS England
- Welcoming NHS England’s Next steps on the Five Year Forward View The King's Fund
- NHS operations: Waiting times to rise in 'trade-off', boss says BBC News
- NHS boss warns longer waits for hip operations The Daily Mail
- Hip and knee surgery waiting lists to lengthen as NHS focus on A&E and cancer care The Daily Telegraph
- The Guardian view on changes to the NHS: transformative but not sustainable | Editorial The Guardian
- NHS accused of waving white flag as it axes 18-week operation target The Guardian
- NHS 18 week wait target "jettisoned in all but name" The Independent
Record number of EU citizens quit working in NHS last year
Record number of EU citizens quit working in NHS last year Surge in number of doctors and nurses from other EU states leaving renews fears that Brexit could exacerbate staffing crisis
A record number of EU nationals left the NHS last year, renewing fears that Brexit could exacerbate a staffing crisis. Continue reading... The Guardian
A record number of EU nationals left the NHS last year, renewing fears that Brexit could exacerbate a staffing crisis. Continue reading... The Guardian
Toddler died after urgent operation was repeatedly delayed
Toddler died after urgent operation was repeatedly delayed The family of Kayden Bancroft claim he was ‘put in a room and left’ at Royal Manchester Children's Hospital despite suffering intense pain as a car crash victim had taken priority. The Daily Mail
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Weekend NHS GPs for everyone within two years
Weekend NHS GPs for everyone within two years At least 50 per cent of NHS patients in England and Wales would have access to out-of-hours’ appointments by 2018, rising to 100 per cent by 2019 under the new blueprint unveiled today. The Daily Mail
Man terminally ill with motor neurone disease loses court bid to change law on assisted dying
Man terminally ill with motor neurone disease loses court bid to change law on assisted dying A man with terminal motor neurone disease says he will appeal against a High Court decision not to allow him to challenge the law on assisted dying.
Three judges rejected Neil Conway's bid to change the law, which currently means it is illegal to help someone take their own life.
But they praised Mr Conway's "selfless" actions in bringing the case and said they felt "deep sympathy" for him and his family.
Passing judgment Lord Justice Burnett said that it would be "institutionally inappropriate" for the court to challenge the decision of Parliament. The Daily Telegraph
Three judges rejected Neil Conway's bid to change the law, which currently means it is illegal to help someone take their own life.
But they praised Mr Conway's "selfless" actions in bringing the case and said they felt "deep sympathy" for him and his family.
Passing judgment Lord Justice Burnett said that it would be "institutionally inappropriate" for the court to challenge the decision of Parliament. The Daily Telegraph
Thursday, 30 March 2017
Survey shows public satisfaction with NHS remaining steady
Survey shows public satisfaction with NHS remaining steady The British public’s satisfaction with the NHS remained steady in 2016, according to data published today by The King’s Fund.
The findings from the British Social Attitudes (BSA) survey, carried out by the National Centre for Social Research between July and October 2016, show 63 per cent of people were satisfied with the NHS. The change in satisfaction since 2015 (when it was 60 per cent) is not statistically significant. Satisfaction remains high by historic standards, but is seven percentage points below its peak of 70 per cent in 2010.
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The findings from the British Social Attitudes (BSA) survey, carried out by the National Centre for Social Research between July and October 2016, show 63 per cent of people were satisfied with the NHS. The change in satisfaction since 2015 (when it was 60 per cent) is not statistically significant. Satisfaction remains high by historic standards, but is seven percentage points below its peak of 70 per cent in 2010.
See also:
- If the NHS is in crisis, why is public satisfaction so high? The King’s Fund
Women on NHS Boards: 5050 by 2020
Women on NHS Boards: 5050 by 2020 A new report states that more senior roles need to be held by women if the NHS is to reach its target of equal gender representation on boards by 2020.
In Women on NHS Boards: 5050 by 2020, author Professor Ruth Sealy of the University of Exeter Business School argues that while gender balance of boards is improving, there is still a shortage of women in key roles such as medical directors and chief financial officers. NHS Employers
In Women on NHS Boards: 5050 by 2020, author Professor Ruth Sealy of the University of Exeter Business School argues that while gender balance of boards is improving, there is still a shortage of women in key roles such as medical directors and chief financial officers. NHS Employers
Integration and the development of the workforce
Integration and the development of the workforce This working paper reveals how integration of the fields of health and social care will require organisations to break down traditional barriers in how care is provided. It details how workforce development plays a crucial role in successful integration. Skills for Health Please note that free registration is required in order to download this publication.
Report shows change in NHS workforce over time
Report shows change in NHS workforce over time The number of Full Time Equivalent (FTE) staff working for the NHS in England has increased by 2.2 per cent (26,000) since 2015, NHS Digital figures show.
Mental health and our changing climate: Impacts, implications and guidance
Mental health and our changing climate: Impacts, implications and guidance The goal of this updated report is to increase awareness of the psychological impacts of climate change on human mental health and well-being. The report provides climate communicators, planners, policymakers, public health professionals, and other leaders the tools and tips needed to respond to these impacts and bolster public engagement on climate solutions. American Psychological Association
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See also:
- Climate change takes a toll on mental health The Daily Mail
NHS confusing public by using 'gobbledygook'
NHS confusing public by using 'gobbledygook' Imagine the scene. Up and down the country, local NHS leaders are crowded into meeting rooms discussing information transfers and ambulatory care, when someone jumps up and shouts "I've had enough of sticky toffee puddings".
Confused? You're not the only one. The language being used by the health service is simply gobbledygook, says the Plain English Campaign (PEC).
Steve Jenner, the campaign's spokesman, said the health service was riddled with "jargon" when it comes to explaining anything from the closure of hospital services to major incidents.
And he even believes the NHS may be doing this on purpose. BBC News
Confused? You're not the only one. The language being used by the health service is simply gobbledygook, says the Plain English Campaign (PEC).
Steve Jenner, the campaign's spokesman, said the health service was riddled with "jargon" when it comes to explaining anything from the closure of hospital services to major incidents.
And he even believes the NHS may be doing this on purpose. BBC News
The 999 call-out that changed a paramedic's life
The 999 call-out that changed a paramedic's life Nearly half of people in the UK have spoken about mental health over the last three months, a new survey suggests. But for some, addressing their problems can be much harder.
"We didn't really know what we were being sent to," Dan Farnworth, a paramedic in the north-west, says. "The next thing I knew, a child was just placed into my arms."
It was 2015, and Dan had just been sent to a 999 call that would change his life. BBC News
"We didn't really know what we were being sent to," Dan Farnworth, a paramedic in the north-west, says. "The next thing I knew, a child was just placed into my arms."
It was 2015, and Dan had just been sent to a 999 call that would change his life. BBC News
Cut sugar in cakes, biscuits by 20%, industry told
Cut sugar in cakes, biscuits by 20%, industry told Sugar limits for everyday foods such as biscuits, chocolate bars and cereals have been published by public health officials in a bid to make UK children more healthy.
Public Health England is challenging businesses to cut sugar by 20% by 2020, and by 5% this year.
It says the food industry should try lowering sugar levels, reducing product size or pushing healthier products.
But experts question how the targets can be enforced. BBC News
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Public Health England is challenging businesses to cut sugar by 20% by 2020, and by 5% this year.
It says the food industry should try lowering sugar levels, reducing product size or pushing healthier products.
But experts question how the targets can be enforced. BBC News
See also:
- Press release: Guidelines on reducing sugar in food published for industry Public Health England
- Sugar reduction: Achieving the 20% Public Health England
- Salt reduction: targets for 2017 Public Health England
Drop in GP numbers 'a huge blow' that shows crisis is deepening, say GP leaders
Drop in GP numbers 'a huge blow' that shows crisis is deepening, say GP leaders GP leaders have warned that the crisis facing general practice is deepening after 'incredibly disappointing' workforce data revealed a sharp drop in GP numbers in the final months of 2016. GPonline
See also:
See also:
- Workforce figures are a huge blow, but 5,000 target still worth fighting for, says RCGP Royal College of General Practitioners
- One GP vacancy for every two practices in England, official data suggest GPonline
‘Communities provide the best solutions to their own problems’
‘Communities provide the best solutions to their own problems’ A year ago, Greater Manchester took control of its own health budget. It’s been tough, but progress is tangible, says health chief Jon Rouse
A year since Greater Manchester became the first region in England to take control of its £6bn health and social care budget, Jon Rouse is pleased at the progress already made, pointing to figures showing that 62-day cancer waits for Greater Manchester were among the best in the country, referrals to treatment targets are better than the England average and access to mental health services exceeds that of the north and of England as a whole. “I am proud,” he says. “In our first year, we have set up more than 20 programmes – and we are performing better overall in these areas than other parts of the country. It is quite an achievement. The key is to make sure the programmes deliver what we intend.” Continue reading... The Guardian
A year since Greater Manchester became the first region in England to take control of its £6bn health and social care budget, Jon Rouse is pleased at the progress already made, pointing to figures showing that 62-day cancer waits for Greater Manchester were among the best in the country, referrals to treatment targets are better than the England average and access to mental health services exceeds that of the north and of England as a whole. “I am proud,” he says. “In our first year, we have set up more than 20 programmes – and we are performing better overall in these areas than other parts of the country. It is quite an achievement. The key is to make sure the programmes deliver what we intend.” Continue reading... The Guardian
Wraparound care: is it the future of the NHS?
Wraparound care: is it the future of the NHS? As NHS chiefs push ahead with plans to transform local services, in Dorset controversial reforms mean more integration of health and social care – but also fewer hospital beds
“This is a way of working that’s so obviously beneficial that I’m not sure why we didn’t do it before. We’ve gone from uncoordinated, fragmented care that was very unsatisfactory for patients, to wraparound care that takes into account the holistic needs of the patient.” Dr Karen Kirkham, a GP in Weymouth, is describing how Dorset has been quietly implementing a different way of providing healthcare which, if it works out, might just help save the NHS.
Sitting in a side room at Weymouth’s Westhaven community hospital, Kirkham outlines an approach that is simultaneously radical and commonsensical, and also controversial, despite being backed by all those whose job is to improve the health of Dorset’s 750,000 residents. “In Dorset, necessity has been the mother of invention. We’ve taken the issue of relentlessly rising demand and proposed bold action to adapt what we do for our patients,” she adds. While all this sounds novel, it is also one of the oldest tunes in the jukebox of NHS great policy ideas. Continue reading... The Guardian
“This is a way of working that’s so obviously beneficial that I’m not sure why we didn’t do it before. We’ve gone from uncoordinated, fragmented care that was very unsatisfactory for patients, to wraparound care that takes into account the holistic needs of the patient.” Dr Karen Kirkham, a GP in Weymouth, is describing how Dorset has been quietly implementing a different way of providing healthcare which, if it works out, might just help save the NHS.
Sitting in a side room at Weymouth’s Westhaven community hospital, Kirkham outlines an approach that is simultaneously radical and commonsensical, and also controversial, despite being backed by all those whose job is to improve the health of Dorset’s 750,000 residents. “In Dorset, necessity has been the mother of invention. We’ve taken the issue of relentlessly rising demand and proposed bold action to adapt what we do for our patients,” she adds. While all this sounds novel, it is also one of the oldest tunes in the jukebox of NHS great policy ideas. Continue reading... The Guardian
Type 2 diabetes not real illness says top doctor Muir Gray
Type 2 diabetes not real illness says top doctor Muir Gray Sir Muir Gray claims that type 2 diabetes, which is largely preventable but costs the NHS billions of pounds a year to treat, should be renamed because it is caused by the 'modern environment'. The Daily Mail
Places in England where HALF the GPs are failing revealed
Places in England where HALF the GPs are failing revealed The analysis by the Health Service Journal (HSJ) looked at the inspection reports of 6,476 GP surgeries - the majority of the 7,700 in England. The Daily Mail
NHS rolls out plans for cancer verdicts in just four weeks
NHS rolls out plans for cancer verdicts in just four weeks Patients will be told that they have cancer or given the all-clear four weeks after seeing their GP, under NHS plans.
Simon Stevens, the head of the health service in England, will roll out a 28-day target next year to speed up diagnosis times.
Many patients currently wait several months between first going to their GP with symptoms and finding out whether they have the illness. The Daily Mail
Simon Stevens, the head of the health service in England, will roll out a 28-day target next year to speed up diagnosis times.
Many patients currently wait several months between first going to their GP with symptoms and finding out whether they have the illness. The Daily Mail
Wednesday, 29 March 2017
Admissions to Northampton care home 'suspended' after its GP services are halted
Admissions to Northampton care home 'suspended' after its GP services are halted A Northampton care home is among four to stop taking new admissions after concerns about "wider health support" being provided at the centres. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Don't talk about the money?
Don't talk about the money? At Healthwatch Essex, I’d like to think we’re pretty clear on what we do. We are ‘an independent voice for the people of Essex… helping to shape and improve health and social care’. We do this by capturing people’s lived experience and then using this insight to make a positive case for change.
One of our unwritten rules has always been: ‘Don’t talk about the money.’ This hasn’t been easy, and there are plenty of people in the media and from interest groups who would have us lobby for more cash for the NHS and/or social care. But I’ve always resisted this. Funding is, after all, a matter for government. Getting involved in political arguments could compromise our independence, and doesn’t hold much sway with the people we’re trying to influence either – local NHS trusts or commissioners, for example, who don’t determine their own budgets anyway. The King's Fund
One of our unwritten rules has always been: ‘Don’t talk about the money.’ This hasn’t been easy, and there are plenty of people in the media and from interest groups who would have us lobby for more cash for the NHS and/or social care. But I’ve always resisted this. Funding is, after all, a matter for government. Getting involved in political arguments could compromise our independence, and doesn’t hold much sway with the people we’re trying to influence either – local NHS trusts or commissioners, for example, who don’t determine their own budgets anyway. The King's Fund
Measles outbreak across Europe
Measles outbreak across Europe Measles is spreading across Europe wherever immunisation coverage has dropped, the World Health Organization is warning.
The largest outbreaks are being seen in Italy and Romania.
In the first month of this year, Italy reported more than 200 cases. Romania has reported more than 3,400 cases and 17 deaths since January 2016.
Measles is highly contagious. Travel patterns mean no person or country is beyond its reach, says the WHO.
For good protection, it's recommended that at least 95% of the population is vaccinated against the disease.
But many countries are struggling to achieve that. BBC News
The largest outbreaks are being seen in Italy and Romania.
In the first month of this year, Italy reported more than 200 cases. Romania has reported more than 3,400 cases and 17 deaths since January 2016.
Measles is highly contagious. Travel patterns mean no person or country is beyond its reach, says the WHO.
For good protection, it's recommended that at least 95% of the population is vaccinated against the disease.
But many countries are struggling to achieve that. BBC News
'Unclear' how GP services can be maintained in face of workforce crisis, warns DDRB
'Unclear' how GP services can be maintained in face of workforce crisis, warns DDRB It is unclear how general practice services can be delivered five to 10 years from now given the growing workforce crisis facing the profession, the independent doctors and dentists review body (DDRB) has warned. GP Online
Health unions and MPs condemn 'derisory' 1% pay rise for NHS staff
Health unions and MPs condemn 'derisory' 1% pay rise for NHS staff Cap on salary increases will see some staff earn just £5 extra a week while facing soaring costs and greater workload
About 1.3 million NHS staff are to receive a 1% pay rise that will see nurses, midwives and radiographers earn barely £5 a week more next year, in a move that prompted a furious reaction from health unions.
The government’s decision to limit NHS wage increases to 1% a year or freeze them for the seventh successive year led its own advisors to warn that the policy must end. Salary caps could exacerbate already serious understaffing in the NHS by making it less attractive to work for, especially as workloads are growing, the NHS pay review body (PRB) concluded. Continue reading... The Guardian
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About 1.3 million NHS staff are to receive a 1% pay rise that will see nurses, midwives and radiographers earn barely £5 a week more next year, in a move that prompted a furious reaction from health unions.
The government’s decision to limit NHS wage increases to 1% a year or freeze them for the seventh successive year led its own advisors to warn that the policy must end. Salary caps could exacerbate already serious understaffing in the NHS by making it less attractive to work for, especially as workloads are growing, the NHS pay review body (PRB) concluded. Continue reading... The Guardian
See also:
- Independent report: National Health Service Pay Review Body 30th report: 2017 Department of Health
- Independent report: Review Body on Doctors’ and Dentists’ Remuneration 45th Report: 2017 Department of Health
- Government accepts 1 per cent uplift for NHS staff NHS Employers
'An unrealistic pressure': mothers on what it's like to breastfeed
'An unrealistic pressure': mothers on what it's like to breastfeed The majority of women stop breastfeeding after two months, despite health experts’ advice to continue to at least six. We speak to mothers about their experiences
Almost three-quarters of women in England start breastfeeding after giving birth, but less than half are still doing so two months later according to NHS and Public Health England data.
PHE recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, as does the World Health Organization, because it boosts a baby’s ability to fight illness and infection. But a survey of 500 mothers commissioned by PHE found that fears about breastfeeding among women included that it could be painful (74%), prevent them from taking medication (71%) and be embarrassing in front of strangers (63%). Continue reading... The Guardian
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Almost three-quarters of women in England start breastfeeding after giving birth, but less than half are still doing so two months later according to NHS and Public Health England data.
PHE recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, as does the World Health Organization, because it boosts a baby’s ability to fight illness and infection. But a survey of 500 mothers commissioned by PHE found that fears about breastfeeding among women included that it could be painful (74%), prevent them from taking medication (71%) and be embarrassing in front of strangers (63%). Continue reading... The Guardian
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The NHS is terminally ill – cracking down on sunscreen and cough syrup won't cure it
The NHS is terminally ill – cracking down on sunscreen and cough syrup won't cure it Never mind that sunscreen and gluten free foods have been considered prescription-worthy on the NHS up until now – this is a fairly benign embarrassment as far as public service blunders go.
The £100 million that could be saved per year by cutting back on 10 products currently prescribed on the NHS – including ointments, Omega 3 fish oil, and painkillers – is chump change in the grand scheme of the £15 billion spent on medicine overall.
Nevertheless, it is right for NHS England to review its prescription services and find savings, even comparatively small ones, wherever they can. The Daily Telegraph
The £100 million that could be saved per year by cutting back on 10 products currently prescribed on the NHS – including ointments, Omega 3 fish oil, and painkillers – is chump change in the grand scheme of the £15 billion spent on medicine overall.
Nevertheless, it is right for NHS England to review its prescription services and find savings, even comparatively small ones, wherever they can. The Daily Telegraph
Analysis: The NHS spends millions prescribing common painkillers, sunscreen and gluten-free food
Analysis: The NHS spends millions prescribing common painkillers, sunscreen and gluten-free food The NHS spent more than £100m prescribing common painkillers last year as well as £14m on gluten-free bread and nearly £4m on sunscreen.
The analysis by The Telegraph comes on the same day that NHS chief, Simon Stevens, has announced the NHS will no longer pay for patients to have common over-the-counter medicines and free-from food.
Under the plans outlined by Simon Stevens, chief executive of NHS England, patients will have to cough-up for things like painkillers, sunscreen and gluten-free food.
It forms part of an effort reduce health service spending by £1bn. The Daily Telegraph
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The analysis by The Telegraph comes on the same day that NHS chief, Simon Stevens, has announced the NHS will no longer pay for patients to have common over-the-counter medicines and free-from food.
Under the plans outlined by Simon Stevens, chief executive of NHS England, patients will have to cough-up for things like painkillers, sunscreen and gluten-free food.
It forms part of an effort reduce health service spending by £1bn. The Daily Telegraph
See also:
- Prescription clampdown must not disadvantage vulnerable patients, says RCGP Royal College of General Practitioners
- Prescription cuts are a 'creeping retreat' for NHS The Daily Mail
- NHS prescribing overhaul must not create postcode lottery to cut costs, GPs warn GPonline
- All the medicines under review in NHS consultation on 'low value' treatments The Independent
Tuesday, 28 March 2017
Northamptonshire NHS Foundation Trust gets improved CQC rating
Northamptonshire NHS Foundation Trust gets improved CQC rating One of the largest providers of NHS services in Northamptonshire has been rated as Good by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) and Outstanding regarding whether services were caring. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
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See also:
- Northamptonshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust Care Quality Commission
- Caring NHS staff rated 'outstanding' - but Northamptonshire's mental health trust scores 'requires improvement' for safety Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Northampton surgery has been trying to fill the same doctor vacancy for THREE YEARS
Northampton surgery has been trying to fill the same doctor vacancy for THREE YEARS Not one GP has applied for a doctor's vacancy at a Northampton surgery in three years, a practice leader has revealed, after the health secretary agreed to hold crisis talks over its waiting times. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Receptionists chased with scissors during terrifying ordeal at Northampton surgery
Receptionists chased with scissors during terrifying ordeal at Northampton surgery A schizophrenic who threatened doctor's surgery receptionists with a pair of scissors when they refused his prescription has been sectioned. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Northampton hospital reminds families who block patient discharge that they have 'a role to play'
Northampton hospital reminds families who block patient discharge that they have 'a role to play' Northampton General Hospital say medically-fit patients are blocking beds because families are arguing over transfer of care, failing to turn up to meetings and even going on holiday rather than helping their loved ones leave hospital. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
What does it take to lead in the NHS?
What does it take to lead in the NHS? Nish Manek is a GP trainee and clinical fellow who took part in a leadership 'open space’ event earlier this month. The event brought together previous participants of The Kings Fund’s clinical leadership programmes. Here Nish reflects on what she learned from the day about the challenges and opportunities of taking on leadership roles in the NHS. The King's Fund
A year of plenty? An analysis of NHS finances and consultant productivity
A year of plenty? An analysis of NHS finances and consultant productivity This report finds that the NHS used almost half of the £2bn real terms increase in funding it received in 2015-16 to commission care form non-NHS organisations and to support the social care system. The report also highlights that the focus on meeting rising demands for emergency care means that NHS hospitals are receiving lower financial returns which is making it increasingly difficult for NHS trusts to break even. The Health Foundation
Self-inflicted deaths among female prisoners
Self-inflicted deaths among female prisoners This bulletin was prompted by the recent dramatic and depressing rise in self-inflicted deaths of women in prison. It looks at 19 investigations between 2013 and 2016 of instances where women took their own lives.
This small sample cannot explain this apparently rising toll of despair, but the bulletin does identify a number of important areas of learning. This learning focuses on improving suicide and self-harm prevention procedures, better assessment and management of risk, addressing mental health issues, combating bullying and ensuring timely emergency responses. Prisons and Probation Ombudsman
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This small sample cannot explain this apparently rising toll of despair, but the bulletin does identify a number of important areas of learning. This learning focuses on improving suicide and self-harm prevention procedures, better assessment and management of risk, addressing mental health issues, combating bullying and ensuring timely emergency responses. Prisons and Probation Ombudsman
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Cancer diagnosis: 'Looking for needle in a haystack'
Cancer diagnosis: 'Looking for needle in a haystack' New measures to improve diagnosis of cancer are expected to be published this week as part of NHS England’s delivery plan for the next two years.
Presenter Nick Robinson, who has been treated for cancer himself in recent years, visited University College London Hospital to see how it is trying to pioneer new ways to improve survival rates.
The hospital’s chief medical officer, Kathy Pritchard-Jones, explained to the Today programme how services had been put in one place to help make diagnosis quicker. BBC News
Presenter Nick Robinson, who has been treated for cancer himself in recent years, visited University College London Hospital to see how it is trying to pioneer new ways to improve survival rates.
The hospital’s chief medical officer, Kathy Pritchard-Jones, explained to the Today programme how services had been put in one place to help make diagnosis quicker. BBC News
MPs slam government strategy to cut child obesity
MPs slam government strategy to cut child obesity A new report by the influential House of Commons Health Select Committee says the Government must do more to reduce the number of cut-price and multi-buy offers on unhealthy food to help combat childhood obesity.
It also calls for rules on junk food advertisements to be made tougher and says that government plans to tackle childhood obesity contain "vague statements" that are "inadequate" and that ministers had consistently rejected the committee's advice. The committee also recommends that the levy on sugary drinks should be extended to milk-based drinks that have added sugar.
The report calls for the government to set clear goals. Health Committee chair, Dr Sarah Wollaston, who is also a GP, said: "We are extremely disappointed that the government has rejected a number of our recommendations. These omissions mean that the current plan misses important opportunities to tackle childhood obesity. OnMedica
It also calls for rules on junk food advertisements to be made tougher and says that government plans to tackle childhood obesity contain "vague statements" that are "inadequate" and that ministers had consistently rejected the committee's advice. The committee also recommends that the levy on sugary drinks should be extended to milk-based drinks that have added sugar.
The report calls for the government to set clear goals. Health Committee chair, Dr Sarah Wollaston, who is also a GP, said: "We are extremely disappointed that the government has rejected a number of our recommendations. These omissions mean that the current plan misses important opportunities to tackle childhood obesity. OnMedica
EU nurses no longer want to work in Britain. Brexit is poisoning the NHS
EU nurses no longer want to work in Britain. Brexit is poisoning the NHS The number of nurses signing up to work in the UK has dropped dramatically. Is it any wonder when Theresa May’s government is so hostile to EU nationals?
How will Brexit impact the NHS? It already has. Nurses from the EU are much less keen to come and work here. Today the Times reported that in the last four months of 2015, an average of 797 EU nurses per month signed up to work in the UK; over the same period last year, that number fell to 194 a month. We currently have a huge shortage of nurses, with 24,000 jobs unfilled in England alone. Continue reading... The Guardian
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How will Brexit impact the NHS? It already has. Nurses from the EU are much less keen to come and work here. Today the Times reported that in the last four months of 2015, an average of 797 EU nurses per month signed up to work in the UK; over the same period last year, that number fell to 194 a month. We currently have a huge shortage of nurses, with 24,000 jobs unfilled in England alone. Continue reading... The Guardian
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The NHS sets leaders up to fail – and then recruits more in the same mould
The NHS sets leaders up to fail – and then recruits more in the same mould People being hired in management positions don’t have the skills to tackle the health service’s current problems
It’s my job to support and develop senior NHS managers. And I’m deeply worried that we’re setting them up to fail – then recruiting more in the same mould.
I’m a former primary care trust director; I now work as an executive coach, helping NHS executives to improve their skills. Many of my clients lead trusts whose leadership has been deemed “inadequate” or “requires improvement” by the Care Quality Commission – but few of them are genuinely bad leaders. The problem is that they were hired to do one job, and the requirement is now for something quite different. Yet they’re not being helped to change their approach, and when their trusts run into trouble they are being replaced with people likely to encounter exactly the same set of problems.
The characteristics once seen as assets have become liabilities Continue reading... The Guardian
It’s my job to support and develop senior NHS managers. And I’m deeply worried that we’re setting them up to fail – then recruiting more in the same mould.
I’m a former primary care trust director; I now work as an executive coach, helping NHS executives to improve their skills. Many of my clients lead trusts whose leadership has been deemed “inadequate” or “requires improvement” by the Care Quality Commission – but few of them are genuinely bad leaders. The problem is that they were hired to do one job, and the requirement is now for something quite different. Yet they’re not being helped to change their approach, and when their trusts run into trouble they are being replaced with people likely to encounter exactly the same set of problems.
The characteristics once seen as assets have become liabilities Continue reading... The Guardian
A million patients take anti-depressants 'they don't need'
A million patients take anti-depressants 'they don't need' Patients are left on the drugs for months or years at a time, fuelling a growing epidemic of addiction to prescription medicines. The Daily Mail
No more painkillers and gluten-free food on the NHS as health service head launches cost-cutting drive
No more painkillers and gluten-free food on the NHS as health service head launches cost-cutting drive The NHS will no longer pay for everyday medicines, including painkillers and cough mixture, the head of the health service has said.
Simon Stevens has outlined plans for patients to have to pay for basic items, like hay fever drugs, indigestion pills and gluten-free food, in a money-saving drive.
The cuts are part of new measures to reduce £1 billion of costs in the health service, which is struggling to cope with a surge in demand caused by an expanding population. The Daily Telegraph
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Simon Stevens has outlined plans for patients to have to pay for basic items, like hay fever drugs, indigestion pills and gluten-free food, in a money-saving drive.
The cuts are part of new measures to reduce £1 billion of costs in the health service, which is struggling to cope with a surge in demand caused by an expanding population. The Daily Telegraph
See also:
- NHS funding review for gluten-free food BBC News
- Dramatic drive to cut NHS costs unveiled The Daily Mail
- NHS draws up list of items to be banned from prescriptions The Guardian
- Travel jabs and gluten-free food may no longer be available on NHS under ‘low-value’ prescription crackdown The Independent
- NHS funding review: What medicines could be affected? ITV News
Monday, 27 March 2017
Government's health chief called in to discuss waiting woes at under-pressure Northampton GP surgery
Government's health chief called in to discuss waiting woes at under-pressure Northampton GP surgery The health secretary has agreed to hold discussions about lengthy waiting times at a Duston surgery - after a number of complaints from those unable to get an appointment. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Teen pregnancy rates in Northants are half of that in 2005 stats show - but more terminate pregnancy
Teen pregnancy rates in Northants are half of that in 2005 stats show - but more terminate pregnancy Teenage pregnancies in Northamptonshire have halved over the past 10 years, latest figures have revealed, though almost half of those led to an abortion. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Compromise offered in funding row over future of Corby Urgent Care Centre
Compromise offered in funding row over future of Corby Urgent Care Centre A compromise has been put forward in the funding row over the future of Corby Urgent Care Centre.
In response to concerns raised by patients, Lakeside+ has offered a ‘major concession’ to keep the centre open with the existing staff after April 1.
The offer suggests that both parties back away from the March 31 deadline and keep the centre open while the legal process carries on to fix how much the centre will be paid for treating NHS patients.
It comes as Lakeside+ has been inundated with both local and national messages of support since news of the situation broke. Northamptonshire Telegraph
In response to concerns raised by patients, Lakeside+ has offered a ‘major concession’ to keep the centre open with the existing staff after April 1.
The offer suggests that both parties back away from the March 31 deadline and keep the centre open while the legal process carries on to fix how much the centre will be paid for treating NHS patients.
It comes as Lakeside+ has been inundated with both local and national messages of support since news of the situation broke. Northamptonshire Telegraph
Sending shockwaves through the NHS?
Sending shockwaves through the NHS? Taken at face value, Simon Stevens’ recent remarks to the Public Accounts Committee should be sending shockwaves through the NHS. Six to ten sustainability and transformation plan (STP) areas, to be announced in the forthcoming Forward View delivery plan, are set to become ‘accountable care organisations or systems, which will for the first time since 1990 effectively end the purchaser–provider split, bringing about integrated funding and delivery for a given geographical population’.
It would be hard to overstate the magnitude of such a shift in policy, if that is what we are witnessing. Since the early 1990s, governments have pinned their hopes on purchaser–provider separation as the basis for health care improvement. Simon Stevens’ comments reflect, in large part, a growing perception that the costs of the purchaser–provider split outweigh the benefits of the market it was supposed to create. Transaction costs are high. Meanwhile, the market has delivered, at best, only modest efficiencies. Demographic and epidemiological changes are driving integration, which makes arm’s-length contracting even harder. The King's Fund
It would be hard to overstate the magnitude of such a shift in policy, if that is what we are witnessing. Since the early 1990s, governments have pinned their hopes on purchaser–provider separation as the basis for health care improvement. Simon Stevens’ comments reflect, in large part, a growing perception that the costs of the purchaser–provider split outweigh the benefits of the market it was supposed to create. Transaction costs are high. Meanwhile, the market has delivered, at best, only modest efficiencies. Demographic and epidemiological changes are driving integration, which makes arm’s-length contracting even harder. The King's Fund
New measures to target inequality in health and social care
New measures to target inequality in health and social care The Care Quality Commission has published ambitious new equality objectives for 2017 to 19. Despite progress on equality, people from some equality groups are still less likely to receive good quality health and social care.
The new objectives for the next two years focus on CQC regulatory role in improving equality. Through its inspections, CQC will check that providers make person-centred care work for everyone, from all equality groups – for example for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people using adult social care or mental health inpatient services.
CQC has set an objective to look at reducing barriers and improving access to primary care for migrants, asylum seekers, Gypsies and Travellers, to help address their poor health outcomes.
The new objectives for the next two years focus on CQC regulatory role in improving equality. Through its inspections, CQC will check that providers make person-centred care work for everyone, from all equality groups – for example for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people using adult social care or mental health inpatient services.
CQC has set an objective to look at reducing barriers and improving access to primary care for migrants, asylum seekers, Gypsies and Travellers, to help address their poor health outcomes.
Meeting us where we're at: learning from INTEGRATE's work with excluded young people
Meeting us where we're at: learning from INTEGRATE's work with excluded young people This report discusses the approach taken by London-based charity MAC-UK in offering mental health support to young people involved in gangs or at risk of offending. The INTEGRATE approach is characterised by engaging young people through activities that they set up themselves and getting referrals through peers and friends. The evaluation of the INTEGRATE approach found that it brought notable improvements in many of the participants and helped to support young people in finding work. Centre for Mental Health
Jeremy Hunt 'sorry' NHS 111 call did not spot boy's sepsis
Jeremy Hunt 'sorry' NHS 111 call did not spot boy's sepsis A boy who died aged one after NHS staff failed to identify he had septicaemia was "let down", Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt admitted.
Mr Hunt spoke at a memorial service for William Mead, from Cornwall.
William, from Penryn, died in 2014, after an NHS 111 call did not lead to him being admitted to hospital.
Speaking at the private service in Truro, Mr Hunt said: "I as health secretary, the government, and the NHS let down William." BBC News
Mr Hunt spoke at a memorial service for William Mead, from Cornwall.
William, from Penryn, died in 2014, after an NHS 111 call did not lead to him being admitted to hospital.
Speaking at the private service in Truro, Mr Hunt said: "I as health secretary, the government, and the NHS let down William." BBC News
Exclusive: Urgent cancer scans blocked for two in five GPs
Exclusive: Urgent cancer scans blocked for two in five GPs Two in five GPs have had referrals on the two-week cancer pathway bounced back or downgraded as less urgent within the last year - with one in four affected patients later found to have cancer - a GPonline survey suggests.
Experts warn new TB drugs’ effectiveness could be lost
Experts warn new TB drugs’ effectiveness could be lost Experts are warning today that the effectiveness of new drugs in treating tuberculosis (TB) could be lost without real efforts to support their introduction.
A report* published today in The Lancet Respiratory Medicine journal to coincide with World TB day today, says that the rise of multidrug-resistant (MDR) and extensively drug-resistant (XDR) TB threatens to derail decades of progress in controlling the disease. OnMedica
A report* published today in The Lancet Respiratory Medicine journal to coincide with World TB day today, says that the rise of multidrug-resistant (MDR) and extensively drug-resistant (XDR) TB threatens to derail decades of progress in controlling the disease. OnMedica
Half of £2bn boost for NHS 'spent outside health service'
Half of £2bn boost for NHS 'spent outside health service' Extra £100m spent on external providers in 2015/16 shows NHS cannot cope with rising demand, FT research suggests
Health chiefs spent about half of the £2bn of extra cash allocated in George Osborne’s pre-2015 election autumn statement on buying care from private and other non-NHS providers, an analysis has shown.
The Health Foundation research for the Financial Times showed £901m was spent on buying services from outside the health service in 2015/16 for care provided free at the point of use for NHS patients. It compared with £800m spent on purchasing the same kind of care from NHS trusts. Continue reading... The Guardian
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Health chiefs spent about half of the £2bn of extra cash allocated in George Osborne’s pre-2015 election autumn statement on buying care from private and other non-NHS providers, an analysis has shown.
The Health Foundation research for the Financial Times showed £901m was spent on buying services from outside the health service in 2015/16 for care provided free at the point of use for NHS patients. It compared with £800m spent on purchasing the same kind of care from NHS trusts. Continue reading... The Guardian
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GPs 'dismissing womb illness as period pain', report says
GPs 'dismissing womb illness as period pain', report says Hundreds of thousands of women with a painful womb condition are left to cope without specialised care and are often dismissed as imagining their symptoms, a report says.
Some 40 per cent of those with endometriosis – a chronic condition suffered by two million in Britain – have to visit their GP ten times before they are referred to a specialist, it reveals.
For 10 per cent of women it takes 15 years of seeking help to receive a diagnosis, according to the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Women’s Health. The Daily Mail
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Some 40 per cent of those with endometriosis – a chronic condition suffered by two million in Britain – have to visit their GP ten times before they are referred to a specialist, it reveals.
For 10 per cent of women it takes 15 years of seeking help to receive a diagnosis, according to the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Women’s Health. The Daily Mail
See also:
- GPs will always take womens health conditions seriously, says RCGP Royal College of General Practitioners
- Treatment for endometriosis 'unacceptable' BBC News
Cabinet ministers warned social care crisis could exacerbate if UK pensioners return from abroad over Brexit
Cabinet ministers warned social care crisis could exacerbate if UK pensioners return from abroad over Brexit Britain’s social care crisis will escalate after Brexit as tens of thousands of pensioners living in the EU return home, cabinet ministers have been warned.
Failure to secure continued access to healthcare for elderly Britons based on the Continent could trigger many to move back to the UK, ministers were told.
Such a change would pile pressure on the NHS and increase demand on care homes that are already under strain from an aging population. The Daily Telegraph
Failure to secure continued access to healthcare for elderly Britons based on the Continent could trigger many to move back to the UK, ministers were told.
Such a change would pile pressure on the NHS and increase demand on care homes that are already under strain from an aging population. The Daily Telegraph
Friday, 24 March 2017
Council in talks with both parties involved in funding row over Corby Urgent Care Centre
Council in talks with both parties involved in funding row over Corby Urgent Care Centre Corby Council is in talks with both parties about the funding row which has led to fears over the future of Corby’s Urgent Care Centre.
Bosses at the centre issued a warning yesterday (Wednesday) that it will close its doors to patients at 8pm on March 31 as a result of Corby and Nene Clinical Commissioning Groups’ refusing to organise the extension of a contract in line with minimum fees due under the NHS national tariff.
NHS Corby Clinical Commissioning Group issued a statement in response to this, saying the centre is not closing and even if they have to find another provider, the service will continue. Northamptonshire Telegraph
Bosses at the centre issued a warning yesterday (Wednesday) that it will close its doors to patients at 8pm on March 31 as a result of Corby and Nene Clinical Commissioning Groups’ refusing to organise the extension of a contract in line with minimum fees due under the NHS national tariff.
NHS Corby Clinical Commissioning Group issued a statement in response to this, saying the centre is not closing and even if they have to find another provider, the service will continue. Northamptonshire Telegraph
A mixed bag of results from the NHS Staff Survey
A mixed bag of results from the NHS Staff Survey The 2016 NHS Staff Survey results are a mixed bag. Close to a million staff were invited to take part in the survey, more than 400,000 responded, and overall staff engagement has increased incrementally over the past four years.
The survey highlights that there are many organisations with well-motivated and engaged staff who are delivering high-quality care day-after-day. This performance is a testament to the dedication of people in the NHS against a backdrop of many organisations working at the edge of their capacity. We should give these dedicated people our collective thanks because they keep the system going despite being under huge pressure. The King's Fund
The survey highlights that there are many organisations with well-motivated and engaged staff who are delivering high-quality care day-after-day. This performance is a testament to the dedication of people in the NHS against a backdrop of many organisations working at the edge of their capacity. We should give these dedicated people our collective thanks because they keep the system going despite being under huge pressure. The King's Fund
NHS commissioning groups restricting weight loss surgery, surgeons warn – at a cost to patients and the public healthcare bill
NHS commissioning groups restricting weight loss surgery, surgeons warn – at a cost to patients and the public healthcare bill A freedom of information (FOI) request made to all NHS commissioning groups (CCGs) shows that several have adopted policies which attempt to ration weight loss surgery to the super-obese, and ignore official advice on who should be eligible for surgery.
This has made it more difficult for overweight and obese people to get effective treatment to help them lose weight despite evidence that it is safe, effective and saves healthcare costs, according to the findings of a joint report from The British Obesity and Metabolic Surgery Society and the Royal College of Surgeons.
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This has made it more difficult for overweight and obese people to get effective treatment to help them lose weight despite evidence that it is safe, effective and saves healthcare costs, according to the findings of a joint report from The British Obesity and Metabolic Surgery Society and the Royal College of Surgeons.
See also:
- Fat people encouraged to become super obese for surgery The Daily Mail
Providing physical activity interventions for people with musculoskeletal conditions report
Providing physical activity interventions for people with musculoskeletal conditions report Physical activity is a key part of a public health approach to musculoskeletal conditions and it has a range of benefits for people with musculoskeletal conditions in terms of improving quality of life and supporting people to be independent. It can reduce joint and back pain by 25% while also improving sleep, managing stress and reducing depression, anxiety and dementia and is therefore beneficial for people who have a musculoskeletal conditions and one or more other long-term health conditions. Arthritis Research UK
The effect of hospital ownership on quality of care: evidence from England
The effect of hospital ownership on quality of care: evidence from England This research investigates whether quality of care differs between public and private hospitals in England with data on 3.8 million publicly-funded patients receiving 133 planned (non-emergency) treatments in 393 public and 190 private hospital sites. The authors found no quality differences between hospitals specialising in planned treatments and other hospitals, nor between for-profit and not-for-profit private hospitals. Centre for Health Economics
Paying for it: the human cost of cut-price care
Paying for it: the human cost of cut-price care Care is being purchased across England at prices that are simply not economically sustainable. In Paying for It, we look at the human side of a care market on the brink of failure with stories from across the care system. And we look at why care is priced so low and how people in the system end up paying for cut-price care. Local Government Information Unit
British scientists in world-first TB breakthrough
British scientists in world-first TB breakthrough British scientists have made a world-first breakthrough in the diagnosis of tuberculosis.
Researchers in Oxford and Birmingham say they can isolate different strains of the disease using a process called genome sequencing.
It means patients who may have waited months to get the right drugs can now be diagnosed in just a few days - so they have a greater chance of recovery.
Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt said the breakthrough "will save lives".
Cases of TB in the UK have begun falling recently, but England still has one of the highest rates in Europe. BBC News
Researchers in Oxford and Birmingham say they can isolate different strains of the disease using a process called genome sequencing.
It means patients who may have waited months to get the right drugs can now be diagnosed in just a few days - so they have a greater chance of recovery.
Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt said the breakthrough "will save lives".
Cases of TB in the UK have begun falling recently, but England still has one of the highest rates in Europe. BBC News
Discovery enables 'mass produced blood'
Discovery enables 'mass produced blood' Scientists say they have made a significant leap towards mass-producing red blood cells suitable for donation.
Red blood cells can already be made in the lab, but the problem is scale.
A team at the University of Bristol and NHS Blood and Transplant have developed a method to produce an unlimited supply.
The artificial blood will be far more expensive than conventional donation. So it is likely to be used for people with very rare blood types. BBC News
Red blood cells can already be made in the lab, but the problem is scale.
A team at the University of Bristol and NHS Blood and Transplant have developed a method to produce an unlimited supply.
The artificial blood will be far more expensive than conventional donation. So it is likely to be used for people with very rare blood types. BBC News
Exclusive: GPs reject DH vision of switch to 1,500 superhubs
Exclusive: GPs reject DH vision of switch to 1,500 superhubs Four out of five GPs believe the government's vision of primary care migrating from the current system to 1,500 'superhubs' would undermine general practice, a GPonline poll shows.
New child care standards could cut hospital admissions
New child care standards could cut hospital admissions Experts have published care standards to help deal with growing numbers of children and young adults attending emergency departments and to ensure they are treated appropriately.
The Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health’s new Standards for Short Stay Paediatric Assessment Units (SSPAUs) were published today.
The college said the number of children and young people (15 years and under) being seen in hospital emergency departments in England rose by 7.6% between 2014-15 and 2015-16 – the equivalent of 4.4 million attendances.
There were now two and a half times more under 15-year-olds at emergency departments than over 80-year-olds in England. OnMedica
The Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health’s new Standards for Short Stay Paediatric Assessment Units (SSPAUs) were published today.
The college said the number of children and young people (15 years and under) being seen in hospital emergency departments in England rose by 7.6% between 2014-15 and 2015-16 – the equivalent of 4.4 million attendances.
There were now two and a half times more under 15-year-olds at emergency departments than over 80-year-olds in England. OnMedica
Westminster attack medics: 'It was a day London has trained for'
Westminster attack medics: 'It was a day London has trained for' As news of the terror attack broke, the capital’s NHS workers rushed into action
It was a typically busy day in the emergency department at King’s College hospital when Dr Emer Sutherland started receiving text messages from relatives and friends.
They were the first indication of the scale of the horror unfolding just two miles down the road in Westminster. Within minutes, she and her colleagues were on major alert and preparing to receive the first of many critically injured casualties. Continue reading... The Guardian
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It was a typically busy day in the emergency department at King’s College hospital when Dr Emer Sutherland started receiving text messages from relatives and friends.
They were the first indication of the scale of the horror unfolding just two miles down the road in Westminster. Within minutes, she and her colleagues were on major alert and preparing to receive the first of many critically injured casualties. Continue reading... The Guardian
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The most common cause of cancer? Simple bad luck
The most common cause of cancer? Simple bad luck Despite the belief cancer is usually inherited or triggered by lifestyles, two thirds of cases can be put down to DNA errors, experts from Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center claim. The Daily Mail
Bake Off's Prue Leith backs hospital food campaign
Bake Off's Prue Leith backs hospital food campaign The new judge on the Great British Bake Off is demanding legally enforceable minimum nutrition standards for hospital food. The DailyMail
Thursday, 23 March 2017
Funding row leads to fears over future of Corby Urgent Care Centre
Funding row leads to fears over future of Corby Urgent Care Centre Patients are being reassured that an urgent care centre is not closing despite a row over funding.
Bosses at Corby Urgent Care Centre (UCC) have warned that it will close its doors to patients at 8pm on Friday, March 31, as a result of Corby and Nene Clinical Commissioning Groups’ refusing to organise the extension of a contract in line with minimum fees due under the NHS national tariff.
However, the NHS Corby Clinical Commissioning Group has said it is not closing. Northamptonshire Telegraph
Bosses at Corby Urgent Care Centre (UCC) have warned that it will close its doors to patients at 8pm on Friday, March 31, as a result of Corby and Nene Clinical Commissioning Groups’ refusing to organise the extension of a contract in line with minimum fees due under the NHS national tariff.
However, the NHS Corby Clinical Commissioning Group has said it is not closing. Northamptonshire Telegraph
Health care funding: is the grass greener on the other side?
Health care funding: is the grass greener on the other side? The financial difficulties facing the NHS have given rise to the suggestion from some quarters that the UK would be better off with a different model for funding health care.
Why, it is argued, aren’t we more like the Germans who use social insurance as the main way of paying for care, or the French who take out private insurance to cover part of the costs of their care. Or why don’t we adopt the system used in Australia where almost half the population receives tax breaks to help pay for private insurance, as well as paying taxes to fund the Medicare system that covers the entire population. The assumption behind these questions is that other methods of paying for care would be preferable to our tax-funded model.
Our briefing describes the three principal methods used to fund health care, drawing on international experience. The Kings Fund
Why, it is argued, aren’t we more like the Germans who use social insurance as the main way of paying for care, or the French who take out private insurance to cover part of the costs of their care. Or why don’t we adopt the system used in Australia where almost half the population receives tax breaks to help pay for private insurance, as well as paying taxes to fund the Medicare system that covers the entire population. The assumption behind these questions is that other methods of paying for care would be preferable to our tax-funded model.
Our briefing describes the three principal methods used to fund health care, drawing on international experience. The Kings Fund
The performance of the NHS in England in transforming children’s mental health services
The performance of the NHS in England in transforming children’s mental health services A new report which examines the progress made by the Government in improving children and young people’s mental health services (CAMHS).
The report analyses NHS England’s new ‘Mental Health Five Year Forward View Dashboard’, which tracks the performance of local Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs). Education Policy Institute
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The report analyses NHS England’s new ‘Mental Health Five Year Forward View Dashboard’, which tracks the performance of local Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs). Education Policy Institute
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Self-care: everybody's talking about it
Self-care: everybody's talking about it This paper highlights the need to support patients to better manage their own health and the need for greater recognition of the potential for voluntary and community services contribution towards this. The discussion paper outlines the benefits of promoting self-care approaches and the briefing for the voluntary and community sector contains case studies. Regional Voices
Bed-blocking rates unacceptable, government says
Bed-blocking rates unacceptable, government says More than 2,500 hospital beds a day are taken up by patients whose release has been delayed due to problems in the social care system.
Analysis of official so-called "bed-blocking" statistics reveals the areas where the NHS is worst affected.
The Local Government Association said under-funded authorities had placed care providers under "huge pressure".
The government said the difference "of over 20 times between best and worst councils is unacceptable".
Although the NHS is responsible for most delayed transfers, the number attributable to social care has been increasing as well.
Out of 1.87 million delayed days between April 2016 and the end of January 2017, just over 1 million were down to the NHS. There were 635,000 where social care was responsible and 145,000 that were a mixture of both. BBC News
Analysis of official so-called "bed-blocking" statistics reveals the areas where the NHS is worst affected.
The Local Government Association said under-funded authorities had placed care providers under "huge pressure".
The government said the difference "of over 20 times between best and worst councils is unacceptable".
Although the NHS is responsible for most delayed transfers, the number attributable to social care has been increasing as well.
Out of 1.87 million delayed days between April 2016 and the end of January 2017, just over 1 million were down to the NHS. There were 635,000 where social care was responsible and 145,000 that were a mixture of both. BBC News
Locum and salaried GPs excluded from NHS planning because of huge data gaps
Locum and salaried GPs excluded from NHS planning because of huge data gaps The lack of data on the sessional GP workforce means they are being excluded from major decisions on future workload and new models of care, the BMA has warned. GP Online
Teenage pregnancy rates hit all-time low after nearly halving in last eight years
Teenage pregnancy rates hit all-time low after nearly halving in last eight years Teenage pregnancy rates in England and Wales have almost halved in the last eight years, plummeting to the lowest level since records began.
In 2015, there were 20,351 conceptions in girls under 18, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS) – down 10 per cent from the previous year.
There were 21 pregnancies among every 1,000 girls under 18 in 2015, just under half the 2007 rate of 41.6 per 1,000.
Reasons given for the drop include better sex education, improved access to contraception, a shift in aspirations towards education and increased stigma towards teenage mothers.
When comparable records began in 1969 there were 45,495 conceptions in girls under 18, a rate of 47.1 pregnancies per 1,000 girls under 18. The Independent
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In 2015, there were 20,351 conceptions in girls under 18, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS) – down 10 per cent from the previous year.
There were 21 pregnancies among every 1,000 girls under 18 in 2015, just under half the 2007 rate of 41.6 per 1,000.
Reasons given for the drop include better sex education, improved access to contraception, a shift in aspirations towards education and increased stigma towards teenage mothers.
When comparable records began in 1969 there were 45,495 conceptions in girls under 18, a rate of 47.1 pregnancies per 1,000 girls under 18. The Independent
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Less than half of women breastfeed after two months, survey finds
Less than half of women breastfeed after two months, survey finds Poll for Public Health England reveals many feel embarrassed to feed their babies in front of strangers and family members
Almost three-quarters of women in England start breastfeeding after giving birth but less than half are still doing so two months later, according to NHS and Public Health England data.
PHE recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, as does the World Health Organisation, because it boosts a baby’s ability to fight illness and infection. But a comparison of initial breastfeeding rates and those after six to eight weeks in the final quarter of 2015 found that they were 40% lower for the latter (44% compared with 73%). Continue reading... The Guardian
Almost three-quarters of women in England start breastfeeding after giving birth but less than half are still doing so two months later, according to NHS and Public Health England data.
PHE recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, as does the World Health Organisation, because it boosts a baby’s ability to fight illness and infection. But a comparison of initial breastfeeding rates and those after six to eight weeks in the final quarter of 2015 found that they were 40% lower for the latter (44% compared with 73%). Continue reading... The Guardian
Having weekend surgery DOESN’T make you more likely to die
Having weekend surgery DOESN’T make you more likely to die Researchers from Edinburgh University analysed more than 50,000 emergency operations over a three year period, starting in 2005. They were tracked until 2012. The Daily Mail
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See also:
- Effect of day of the week on short- and long-term mortality after emergency general surgery British Journal of Surgery
Wednesday, 22 March 2017
Access to health and social care services for Northamptonshire’s homeless and vulnerably housed population: The views of homeless people and professionals
Access to health and social care services for Northamptonshire’s homeless and vulnerably housed population: The views of homeless people and professionals In late 2016 Healthwatch Northamptonshire undertook a piece of work to find out more about the views and experiences of Northamptonshire’s homeless and vulnerably housed population, a seldom heard group. We were particularly interested in finding out about the barriers homeless people face when accessing and using local services. We spoke to five organisations working with homeless people across the county and 25 homeless people or people who had been recently homeless in Northampton, Rushden and Wellingborough.
We heard about some good support for homeless people in Northampton and other towns, particularly that provided by homeless charities, but the support available across the county appears to be variable. Access to GP practices was not a big problem although in some parts of the county people had to register at GP practices some distance away. We also learnt that homeless people often distrust GPs and health professionals, feeling they do not understand their lives and the issues they face, or that they do not need to register with these services if they are not ill or in pain. Rather than wanting better access to services such as GPs and dentists, the homeless people we spoke to prioritised their more immediate needs, such as having somewhere to sleep, dry feet and podiatry services, and access to good, hot food. We also learnt about alcohol use and how this can be a barrier to people accessing mental health services and other support. Many homeless people experience mental health issues and access to psychiatrists and Community Psychiatric Nurses was difficult for some, particularly outside of Northampton.
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We heard about some good support for homeless people in Northampton and other towns, particularly that provided by homeless charities, but the support available across the county appears to be variable. Access to GP practices was not a big problem although in some parts of the county people had to register at GP practices some distance away. We also learnt that homeless people often distrust GPs and health professionals, feeling they do not understand their lives and the issues they face, or that they do not need to register with these services if they are not ill or in pain. Rather than wanting better access to services such as GPs and dentists, the homeless people we spoke to prioritised their more immediate needs, such as having somewhere to sleep, dry feet and podiatry services, and access to good, hot food. We also learnt about alcohol use and how this can be a barrier to people accessing mental health services and other support. Many homeless people experience mental health issues and access to psychiatrists and Community Psychiatric Nurses was difficult for some, particularly outside of Northampton.
See also:
- The barriers between Northampton's homeless and the health care they need examined in new report Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Radio presenter tours Northamptonshire for annual healthcheck campaign
Radio presenter tours Northamptonshire for annual healthcheck campaign BBC Northampton's Helen Blaby is taking to the road next month urging listeners to get a health check. Northamptonshire Telegraph
Policy paper: NHS mandate 2017 to 2018
Policy paper: NHS mandate 2017 to 2018 NHS England is responsible for arranging the provision of health services in England. The government’s mandate to NHS England sets direction for the NHS, and helps to ensure that the NHS is accountable to Parliament and the public.
This mandate reaffirms the government’s commitment to an NHS that provides the best care and support to today’s patients, and also safeguards the service for future generations.
Building on the previous multi-year mandate, which came into effect on 1 April 2016 and set long term objectives and goals to 2020, this mandate focuses on the same 7 high-level objectives. It sets out the main aims in each area for the financial year 2017 to 2018 to achieve the 2020 goals.
The financial directions accompanying this mandate set out certain additional expenditure controls to which NHS England must adhere. These stem from budgetary controls that HM Treasury applies to the Department of Health.
This mandate reaffirms the government’s commitment to an NHS that provides the best care and support to today’s patients, and also safeguards the service for future generations.
Building on the previous multi-year mandate, which came into effect on 1 April 2016 and set long term objectives and goals to 2020, this mandate focuses on the same 7 high-level objectives. It sets out the main aims in each area for the financial year 2017 to 2018 to achieve the 2020 goals.
The financial directions accompanying this mandate set out certain additional expenditure controls to which NHS England must adhere. These stem from budgetary controls that HM Treasury applies to the Department of Health.
Mission impossible? the task for NHS providers in 2017/18
Mission impossible? the task for NHS providers in 2017/18 A detailed analysis by NHS Providers shows that what is currently being asked of NHS trusts in the coming financial year is well beyond reach. The report sets out how greater realism, flexibility and support are needed if trusts are to deliver in 2017/18.
The report, Mission impossible? The task for NHS providers in 2017/18, presents a detailed assessment of the demands that are being placed on NHS trusts through the NHS planning guidance. These are compared against next year’s significantly lower funding increases, revealing a currently unbridgeable gap.
The report, Mission impossible? The task for NHS providers in 2017/18, presents a detailed assessment of the demands that are being placed on NHS trusts through the NHS planning guidance. These are compared against next year’s significantly lower funding increases, revealing a currently unbridgeable gap.
Online care home bed booking system aims to cut hospital bed blocking
Online care home bed booking system aims to cut hospital bed blocking An online system is aiming to reduce hospital bed blocking by allowing real time bookings of care home beds.
Bed Finder is being used by Hertfordshire County Council and is thought to be the first system of its kind to streamline referral processes and make searching for and booking beds more efficient. BBC News
Bed Finder is being used by Hertfordshire County Council and is thought to be the first system of its kind to streamline referral processes and make searching for and booking beds more efficient. BBC News
Pressure increases on CCGs to meet GP access targets
Pressure increases on CCGs to meet GP access targets The Government has stepped up the pressure on clinical commissioning groups (CCGs) to meet its targets for GP access in England, particularly for patients aged 75 and over who need same-day appointments. It also said that, in 2017-18, a total of 40% of the population must have access to enhanced GP services, including evening and weekend access. And it has insisted that care home residents at risk of hospital admission should first be seen by a GP or ambulance ‘see and treat’ model. OnMedica
Why do clinicians and managers struggle to work together?
Why do clinicians and managers struggle to work together? We asked NHS staff to share their personal experiences of this fragile relationship. The results are surprising
With an army of more than 1.5 million staff, a £116bn budget and millions of patients to look after, it’s crucial that the NHS is well managed. But three years ago the landmark Francis report warned of serious problems. “Clinicians must be engaged to a far greater degree of engagement in leadership and management roles,” it said. “The gulf between clinicians and management needs to be closed.”
Has the relationship between clinical and managerial staff improved since then? Last year, research by the Nuffield Trust suggested financial pressure was compounding the problem, with many staff worried that “relationships are likely to deteriorate over the coming year”. The report concluded: “There is a long way to go.” We asked clinicians and managers to share their personal experiences of this fragile relationship. Continue reading... The Guardian
With an army of more than 1.5 million staff, a £116bn budget and millions of patients to look after, it’s crucial that the NHS is well managed. But three years ago the landmark Francis report warned of serious problems. “Clinicians must be engaged to a far greater degree of engagement in leadership and management roles,” it said. “The gulf between clinicians and management needs to be closed.”
Has the relationship between clinical and managerial staff improved since then? Last year, research by the Nuffield Trust suggested financial pressure was compounding the problem, with many staff worried that “relationships are likely to deteriorate over the coming year”. The report concluded: “There is a long way to go.” We asked clinicians and managers to share their personal experiences of this fragile relationship. Continue reading... The Guardian
To stop doctors ending their lives, we need to hear from those suffering
To stop doctors ending their lives, we need to hear from those suffering The revelation that four junior doctors have taken their own lives in recent months obliges us to look at why doctors with mental illnesses don’t speak up
The ceilings soar impressively high, the stained-glass windows are exquisite, and the satin-adorned pews stretch majestically to the dignified altar. Amid the silence punctuated by the barest of sobs, I spot doctors whom I have long lost track of. And row upon row of nurses, still tight years later. As we wait for the service to begin, we imagine we are all silently interrogating our memories about each other. Time parted us for decades before we have gathered in such dreadful circumstances.
“I wanted you to hear it from me,” a colleague had said, audibly upset on the phone. I nearly collided with the pavement when I heard. Continue reading... The Guardian
The ceilings soar impressively high, the stained-glass windows are exquisite, and the satin-adorned pews stretch majestically to the dignified altar. Amid the silence punctuated by the barest of sobs, I spot doctors whom I have long lost track of. And row upon row of nurses, still tight years later. As we wait for the service to begin, we imagine we are all silently interrogating our memories about each other. Time parted us for decades before we have gathered in such dreadful circumstances.
“I wanted you to hear it from me,” a colleague had said, audibly upset on the phone. I nearly collided with the pavement when I heard. Continue reading... The Guardian
NHS delays leave thousands facing long wait for wheelchairs
NHS delays leave thousands facing long wait for wheelchairs Campaigners call for equality of access for disabled people as first official figures point to ‘postcode lottery’ in provisions
Thousands of disabled people face long delays to receive an NHS wheelchair, the first official figures on the subject show. Continue reading... The Guardian
Thousands of disabled people face long delays to receive an NHS wheelchair, the first official figures on the subject show. Continue reading... The Guardian
The rotten truth about kids' teeth
The rotten truth about kids' teeth Hospital extractions among pre-school children have soared by 24 per cent in ten years as dentists blame sugar in fruit and a lack of time to supervise children's brushing for dental decay. The Daily Mail
See also:
See also:
- Shocking 24% increase in tooth extractions performed on children aged 0-4 in last decade Royal College of Surgeons
Security breach fears over 26 million NHS patients
Security breach fears over 26 million NHS patients The medical records of 26 million patients are embroiled in a major security breach amid warnings that the IT system used by thousands of GPs is not secure.
The Information Commissioner is investigating concerns that records held by 2,700 practices - one in three of those in England - can be accessed by hundreds of thousands of strangers.
Privacy campaigners last night said the breach was “truly devastating” with millions of patients having no idea if their records had been compromised.
GP leaders said the breach had “potentially huge implications” and could see family doctors flooded with complaints.
The investigation centres on one of the most popular computer systems used by GPs. The Daily Telegraph
The Information Commissioner is investigating concerns that records held by 2,700 practices - one in three of those in England - can be accessed by hundreds of thousands of strangers.
Privacy campaigners last night said the breach was “truly devastating” with millions of patients having no idea if their records had been compromised.
GP leaders said the breach had “potentially huge implications” and could see family doctors flooded with complaints.
The investigation centres on one of the most popular computer systems used by GPs. The Daily Telegraph
Hospitals break cap on locum doctors' pay hundreds of thousands of times in just three months
Hospitals break cap on locum doctors' pay hundreds of thousands of times in just three months Hospitals have flouted caps on temporary doctors' pay hundreds of thousands of times in a matter of months, new figures show.
A crackdown on the amount the health service can spend on agency staff wages was introduced in an effort to curb spiralling costs.
NHS Improvement said 241,195 pay cap breaches by hospitals in England took place between July and September last year.
A report from the watchdog recently said employers had to break the limit to win a "bidding war" with neighbouring trusts where there was a limited supply of agency staff in the area. The Daily Telegraph
A crackdown on the amount the health service can spend on agency staff wages was introduced in an effort to curb spiralling costs.
NHS Improvement said 241,195 pay cap breaches by hospitals in England took place between July and September last year.
A report from the watchdog recently said employers had to break the limit to win a "bidding war" with neighbouring trusts where there was a limited supply of agency staff in the area. The Daily Telegraph
Courts could challenge Parliament's decision not to legalise assisted dying
Courts could challenge Parliament's decision not to legalise assisted dying The courts could overrule a Parliamentary decision not to legalise assisted dying after a terminally ill man mounted a new bid to change the law.
Noel Conway, 67, from Shrewsbury, who has motor neurone disease, has applied for permission to mount a judicial review.
The basis of the case is that the Suicide Act 1961 interferes with Mr Conway's human right to private life, including the right to decide the manner of his death.
A previous case brought by Tony Nicklinson, who was paralysed following a stroke, failed in the High Court in August 2012. The Daily Telegraph
See also:
Noel Conway, 67, from Shrewsbury, who has motor neurone disease, has applied for permission to mount a judicial review.
The basis of the case is that the Suicide Act 1961 interferes with Mr Conway's human right to private life, including the right to decide the manner of his death.
A previous case brought by Tony Nicklinson, who was paralysed following a stroke, failed in the High Court in August 2012. The Daily Telegraph
See also:
Tuesday, 21 March 2017
We need to talk about tax and spending
We need to talk about tax and spending The Spring Budget brought good news and bad news for the NHS and social care. The good news is that around £2 billion of extra funding will be made available for social care in the next three years alongside additional capital for the NHS to accelerate implementation of the most advanced sustainability and transformation plans. The bad news is that the government’s U-turn on raising National Insurance contributions (NICs) to pay for public spending increases makes it much less likely that the NHS will receive additional funding needed to meet rising demand for care during this parliament. The King's Fund
NHS efficiency map
NHS efficiency map The HFMA and NHS Improvement have worked in partnership to update and revise the NHS efficiency map. The map is a tool that promotes best practice in identifying, delivering and monitoring cost improvement programmes (CIPs) in the NHS. The map contains links to a range of tools and guidance to help NHS bodies improve their efficiency.
The national focus on improving efficiency and productivity will mean taking local action to deliver savings remains a priority for all NHS organisations. Aimed at NHS finance directors and their teams and other NHS staff with an interest in the delivery of CIPs, the purpose of the NHS efficiency map is to highlight existing resources on eliminating waste, increasing efficiency and at the same time improving quality and safety. NHS Networks
The national focus on improving efficiency and productivity will mean taking local action to deliver savings remains a priority for all NHS organisations. Aimed at NHS finance directors and their teams and other NHS staff with an interest in the delivery of CIPs, the purpose of the NHS efficiency map is to highlight existing resources on eliminating waste, increasing efficiency and at the same time improving quality and safety. NHS Networks
NHS trust triples injury payout to £9.3m under controversial new rules
NHS trust triples injury payout to £9.3m under controversial new rules Compensation for 10-year-old girl left with cerebral palsy will cause shockwaves in health service and insurance companies. The first case settled under controversial new compensation rules for serious injuries has seen an NHS trust forced to nearly triple its payout to a 10-year-old girl left with cerebral palsy from £3.8m to £9.3m.
The case, involving East Lancashire Hospitals NHS trust, will send fresh shockwaves through the NHS and insurance companies, which have been braced for big increases in claims since the new “Ogden” formula was announced last month. The Guardian
The case, involving East Lancashire Hospitals NHS trust, will send fresh shockwaves through the NHS and insurance companies, which have been braced for big increases in claims since the new “Ogden” formula was announced last month. The Guardian
Tooth extractions rise among under-fours
Tooth extractions rise among under-fours Surge in dental surgery on young children triggers call for action on oral health education and sugar intake. The number of tooth extractions on children aged four and under in English hospitals has risen by almost a quarter over the past decade.
NHS data obtained by the faculty of dental surgery at the Royal College of Surgeons (RCS) shows there were 9,206 extractions within the age group in 2015-16 compared with 7,444 in 2006-07 – a 24% rise. The Guardian
NHS data obtained by the faculty of dental surgery at the Royal College of Surgeons (RCS) shows there were 9,206 extractions within the age group in 2015-16 compared with 7,444 in 2006-07 – a 24% rise. The Guardian
Patients missing waiting time targets for NHS operations to 'double next year'
Patients missing waiting time targets for NHS operations to 'double next year' The number of patients forced to wait longer than four months for routine operations will more than double next year, hospital leaders have said.
NHS Providers have warned that squeezed budgets combined with increasing patient demand means parts of the health service will no longer be capable of safe and timely treatment. Daily Telegraph
NHS Providers have warned that squeezed budgets combined with increasing patient demand means parts of the health service will no longer be capable of safe and timely treatment. Daily Telegraph
Health secretary backs 'easier' medicines access system
Health secretary backs 'easier' medicines access system The way decisions are made on prescribing medicines not deemed cost-effective will be simpler in future, according to the health secretary. BBC News
Monday, 20 March 2017
Special report: Children tucking into lunchboxes with double their daily sugar intake Children are tucking into lunchboxes containing more than double their daily sugar intake, a study has found. Northamptonshire Telegraph
Whistleblowers 'to be protected' if they apply for NHS job The health secretary says he wants to stop discrimination against those raising safety concerns. BBC News - Health
Hospital food: 'Intolerable' delays improving patient meals Delays in implementing measures to improve patient nutrition are dubbed "intolerable" by an assembly committee. BBC News - Health
Private care contracts for councils 'being cancelled' Private home care companies say councils are not paying enough to cover staff wages and other costs. BBC News - Health
Record numbers of EU nurses quit NHS Staffing crisis worsens as workers fear being unwelcome after Brexit. The number of EU nationals registering as nurses in England has dropped by 92% since the Brexit referendum in June, and a record number are quitting the NHS, it can be revealed.
The shock figures have prompted warnings that Theresa May’s failure to offer assurances to foreigners living in the UK is exacerbating a staffing crisis in the health service. The Guardian
The shock figures have prompted warnings that Theresa May’s failure to offer assurances to foreigners living in the UK is exacerbating a staffing crisis in the health service. The Guardian
Government accused of 'kicking NHS when it's down' with high interest loans
NHS trusts with the deepest levels of debt are being charged high interest rates on Government loans, an investigation has found.
Financial experts last night likened the Department of Health policy to “kicking someone when they’re down” and said it would make it even harder for cash-strapped trusts to recover. The Telegraph
NHS trusts with the deepest levels of debt are being charged high interest rates on Government loans, an investigation has found.
Financial experts last night likened the Department of Health policy to “kicking someone when they’re down” and said it would make it even harder for cash-strapped trusts to recover. The Telegraph
Few foods on track to meet salt reduction targets, survey reveals
Few foods on track to meet salt reduction targets, survey reveals Research by Consensus Action on Salt and Health finds bread and rolls are the only foodstuffs likely to meet 2017 targets
Bread rolls are the only manufactured foodstuff likely to meet stringent 2017 salt-reduction targets, research has revealed.
The food industry will miss almost every salt target set to lower the amount of the “hidden killer” in processed food. The Guardian
Bread rolls are the only manufactured foodstuff likely to meet stringent 2017 salt-reduction targets, research has revealed.
The food industry will miss almost every salt target set to lower the amount of the “hidden killer” in processed food. The Guardian
NHS facing 'mission impossible next year' - BBC News
NHS facing 'mission impossible next year' - BBC News NHS services in England are facing a "mission impossible" to meet the standards required by the government, health bosses say. The warning has been made by NHS Providers, which represents hospital, mental health and ambulance trusts. BBC News - Health
Friday, 17 March 2017
Tackling culture change to transform mental health services
Tackling culture change to transform mental health services I work as a consultant in the leadership and organisational development team at The King’s Fund, and for the past eight months have been on secondment at Forward Thinking Birmingham – an innovative mental health partnership seeking to transform mental health provision for young people. My role has involved supporting the organisation with team integration and culture change.
Traditionally, mental health services are delivered by Children and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) up until the age of 16 or 18 – or when a young person leaves school or college – at which point they’re expected to transition to adult mental health services. It’s long been recognised that this is a poor boundary for service transition, often having a further detrimental effect on mental health.
Traditionally, mental health services are delivered by Children and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) up until the age of 16 or 18 – or when a young person leaves school or college – at which point they’re expected to transition to adult mental health services. It’s long been recognised that this is a poor boundary for service transition, often having a further detrimental effect on mental health.
Enhancing junior doctors' lives
Enhancing junior doctors' lives A comprehensive report highlighting the progress made by Health Education England to enhance juniors doctors’ working lives. Health Education England
Information and digital technologies: clinical requirements 2020
Information and digital technologies: clinical requirements 2020 This report looks at the use of data and technology in healthcare and concludes that uptake has been slow. It finds that there is now an increasing focus on learning how to use technologies to improve delivery of care for patients. This document aims to ensure that clinical priorities are met and reflected at a national level. Academy of Medical Royal Colleges
NHS efficiency map
NHS efficiency map The HFMA and NHS Improvement have worked in partnership to update and revise the NHS efficiency map. The map is a tool that promotes best practice in identifying, delivering and monitoring cost improvement programmes in the NHS. The map contains links to a range of tools and guidance to help NHS bodies improve their efficiency. Healthcare Financial Management Association
Estimating the economic burden of respiratory illness in the UK
Estimating the economic burden of respiratory illness in the UK This report finds that lung disease costs the economy £11 billion every year. Of this, almost £10 billion is spent on direct costs to the NHS: GP appointments, time in hospital, treatments and medication. It calls for the government to support the first ever taskforce for lung health. British Lung Foundation
Should the NHS have its own tax?
Should the NHS have its own tax? The NHS in England is under financial pressure. There is an intensifying debate about whether more money is needed and if so how much.
Among the options being suggested is a dedicated tax for the health service - transparent, easily understandable and less prone to political interference, or so the theory goes. So how realistic might it be?
The ring-fencing of tax for a specific purpose is known as hypothecation. One example, though not technically a tax, is the television licence fee, which is a levy specifically to fund the BBC.
The idea of a hypothecated tax for health has been knocked back and forth between economists for many years. BBC News
Among the options being suggested is a dedicated tax for the health service - transparent, easily understandable and less prone to political interference, or so the theory goes. So how realistic might it be?
The ring-fencing of tax for a specific purpose is known as hypothecation. One example, though not technically a tax, is the television licence fee, which is a levy specifically to fund the BBC.
The idea of a hypothecated tax for health has been knocked back and forth between economists for many years. BBC News
Suicide rescue
Suicide rescue How are local communities helping to prevent suicides?
The eight miles of coastline in Brighton and Hove can be a treacherous place and Roger De Casanove and his seafront team are usually the first to identify someone in distress.
Equipped with quad bikes and a patrol vehicle, complete with basic medical kit, they can be anywhere on the seafront in less than eight minutes - much faster than an ambulance.
Roger has done the job for just a year but admits he has been "astounded" by how much of his time is spent preventing and dealing with suicides.
"Seeing someone in a state of hopelessness and despair is very hard.
"But, for me, it is being able to provide a service that can make a real difference to people in crisis," he says.
The seafront officers, who are responsible for everyone's safety along the coastline, have been trained specifically to respond quickly in these kinds of situations. BBC News
The eight miles of coastline in Brighton and Hove can be a treacherous place and Roger De Casanove and his seafront team are usually the first to identify someone in distress.
Equipped with quad bikes and a patrol vehicle, complete with basic medical kit, they can be anywhere on the seafront in less than eight minutes - much faster than an ambulance.
Roger has done the job for just a year but admits he has been "astounded" by how much of his time is spent preventing and dealing with suicides.
"Seeing someone in a state of hopelessness and despair is very hard.
"But, for me, it is being able to provide a service that can make a real difference to people in crisis," he says.
The seafront officers, who are responsible for everyone's safety along the coastline, have been trained specifically to respond quickly in these kinds of situations. BBC News
All Southern Health non-executive directors resign
All Southern Health non-executive directors resign All the non-executive directors of an NHS trust criticised for failing to properly investigate hundreds of deaths have resigned.
The four board members stood down ahead of a review of services at Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust, which is due to be published next week.
The trust came under fire after Connor Sparrowhawk drowned at its Slade House facility in Oxford.
Its boss Katrina Percy resigned in October amid public pressure.
Previous interim chairman Tim Smart also stood down after he was criticised for creating a new job for Ms Percy. BBC News
The four board members stood down ahead of a review of services at Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust, which is due to be published next week.
The trust came under fire after Connor Sparrowhawk drowned at its Slade House facility in Oxford.
Its boss Katrina Percy resigned in October amid public pressure.
Previous interim chairman Tim Smart also stood down after he was criticised for creating a new job for Ms Percy. BBC News
Prescriptions to rise by 20p in England
Prescriptions to rise by 20p in England The cost of an NHS prescription in England will increase by 20p to £8.60 from the start of April, the government has announced.
Health minister Philip Dunne said prescription charges were expected to rise "broadly in line with inflation".
In other parts of the UK, prescriptions are free.
The price of dental care will also increase, with the lowest-cost band one treatment rising by 90p and band three treatment increasing by £10.60. BBC News
See also:
Health minister Philip Dunne said prescription charges were expected to rise "broadly in line with inflation".
In other parts of the UK, prescriptions are free.
The price of dental care will also increase, with the lowest-cost band one treatment rising by 90p and band three treatment increasing by £10.60. BBC News
See also:
- Statement to Parliament: NHS prescription charges from April 2017 Department of Health
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