Hundreds of mums miss out on skin-to-skin contact with newborns at Northampton General Hospital Nearly a quarter of mums giving birth at Northampton General Hospital miss out on important skin-to-skin bonding with their newborn babies, according to NHS statistics.
Immediate skin-to-skin contact between mother and baby has “lasting benefits” for both, according to experts, including protecting babies from infection and encouraging them to breastfeed.
But 340 mothers who had their babies at the trust last year missed out on this important bonding time. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Wednesday, 31 October 2018
Stronger protection from violence for NHS staff
Stronger protection from violence for NHS staff Secretary of State for Health and Social Care Matt Hancock is announcing the first ever NHS violence reduction strategy.
The new, zero-tolerance approach aims to protect the NHS workforce against deliberate violence and aggression from patients, their families and the public, and to ensure offenders are punished quickly and effectively. Department of Health and Social Care
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The new, zero-tolerance approach aims to protect the NHS workforce against deliberate violence and aggression from patients, their families and the public, and to ensure offenders are punished quickly and effectively. Department of Health and Social Care
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Spotlight on specialised services
Spotlight on specialised services These infographics show how specialised services have improved outcomes for patients over the past 70 years of the NHS. NHS England
Surgical care practitioners: Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust
Surgical care practitioners: Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust was one of the first trusts to recruit surgical care practitioners (SCPs) within England. This case study explores how the trust has successfully integrated SCPs within its orthopaedics department and developed the role, providing SCPs with support and training to extend their scope of practice. NHS Employers
Chancellor’s budget boost to NHS frontline conceals £1bn cut
Chancellor’s budget boost to NHS frontline conceals £1bn cut Funding for training doctors and nurses, buying equipment and new hospitals due to fall
Public health services and the education and training of nurses and doctors will be cut by £1bn next year as part of the government’s plan to boost the NHS’s budget by £20bn by 2023, it has emerged.
A leading expert in NHS finances warned ministers that their strategy of “robbing Peter to pay Paul” is a false economy that risks worsening already serious understaffing in England’s health service. The Guardian
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Public health services and the education and training of nurses and doctors will be cut by £1bn next year as part of the government’s plan to boost the NHS’s budget by £20bn by 2023, it has emerged.
A leading expert in NHS finances warned ministers that their strategy of “robbing Peter to pay Paul” is a false economy that risks worsening already serious understaffing in England’s health service. The Guardian
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Pharmaceutical company charged after death and illnesses of babies at hospitals across UK
Pharmaceutical company charged after death and illnesses of babies at hospitals across UK A pharmaceutical company has been charged with a number of offences following an investigation into the deaths and illnesses of a number of babies at British hospitals, Scotland Yard has said.
ITH Pharma, which is based in North West London, has been charged with seven counts of supplying a medicinal product which was not of the nature or quality specified.
The firm has also been charged with breaches of the Health and Safety at Work Act in relation to allegedly contaminated products.
The charges follow a four year investigation by the Metropolitan Police's Homicide and Major Crime Command. The Daily Telegraph
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ITH Pharma, which is based in North West London, has been charged with seven counts of supplying a medicinal product which was not of the nature or quality specified.
The firm has also been charged with breaches of the Health and Safety at Work Act in relation to allegedly contaminated products.
The charges follow a four year investigation by the Metropolitan Police's Homicide and Major Crime Command. The Daily Telegraph
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Lethal drugs can be bought online in just five minutes, health watchdog warns
Lethal drugs can be bought online in just five minutes, health watchdog warns It takes just five minutes for anyone with a credit card to buy lethal drugs online, health watchdogs have warned, as they call for the public to take more care before buying prescription drugs from websites.
The Care Quality Commission (CQC) said it was “hugely concerned” that people were able to access deadly drugs by going to sites which they assumed were British and regulated, but were actually operated overseas.
Peter Wyman, chairman of the CQC, urged the public to be “very cautious” over websites that aren’t regulated by UK watchdogs. The Daily Telegraph
The Care Quality Commission (CQC) said it was “hugely concerned” that people were able to access deadly drugs by going to sites which they assumed were British and regulated, but were actually operated overseas.
Peter Wyman, chairman of the CQC, urged the public to be “very cautious” over websites that aren’t regulated by UK watchdogs. The Daily Telegraph
High BMIs linked to a greater risk of death from every major cause
High BMIs linked to a greater risk of death from every major cause People who are over or underweight may be at greater risk of death than previously expected, scientists say.
London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine researchers analysed data from around 3.6 million people to make the conclusion.
They found having a high BMI - over 25 - is linked to a higher risk of death from every major cause, except transport accidents.
While being underweight was also found to increase the risk of death for conditions such as cancer and heart disease, according to the study. The Daily Mail
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London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine researchers analysed data from around 3.6 million people to make the conclusion.
They found having a high BMI - over 25 - is linked to a higher risk of death from every major cause, except transport accidents.
While being underweight was also found to increase the risk of death for conditions such as cancer and heart disease, according to the study. The Daily Mail
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One in ten will opt OUT of Government's radical plan to make everyone an organ donor by 2020
One in ten will opt OUT of Government's radical plan to make everyone an organ donor by 2020 One in ten patients will opt out of Government's plan to make everyone an organ donor by 2020, research suggests.
Scientists at the University of Stirling quizzed hundreds of participants over their intentions on Theresa May's radical plan.
They found 9.4 per cent plan to opt-out - meaning their organs can't be donated after their death, or are unsure of what they will do.
Mrs May announced the plans - which presumes organ donation consent unless a person chooses to opt-out - this summer. The Daily Mail
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Scientists at the University of Stirling quizzed hundreds of participants over their intentions on Theresa May's radical plan.
They found 9.4 per cent plan to opt-out - meaning their organs can't be donated after their death, or are unsure of what they will do.
Mrs May announced the plans - which presumes organ donation consent unless a person chooses to opt-out - this summer. The Daily Mail
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- ‘What if I'm not dead?’ – Myth‐busting and organ donation (open access) British Journal of Health Psychology
Tuesday, 30 October 2018
Failing to publish data from clinical trials presents risk to human health
Failing to publish data from clinical trials presents risk to human health The Science and Technology Committee has expressed concern that nearly half of clinical trials fail to publish their results. The Committee is calling for increased transparency today, as it releases a new Report.
During its inquiry into research integrity earlier this year, the Committee agreed to follow-up on work on ‘clinical trials transparency’ by its predecessor Committee in 2013.
The Research integrity: clinical trials transparency report highlights the work previously done by campaigners, which shows that a shocking 50% of clinical trials do not publish any results, presenting risks to human health and increasing research wastage.
The Committee is concerned that selective non-publication—‘or publication bias'—of results distorts the published evidence base and is a threat to research integrity.
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During its inquiry into research integrity earlier this year, the Committee agreed to follow-up on work on ‘clinical trials transparency’ by its predecessor Committee in 2013.
The Research integrity: clinical trials transparency report highlights the work previously done by campaigners, which shows that a shocking 50% of clinical trials do not publish any results, presenting risks to human health and increasing research wastage.
The Committee is concerned that selective non-publication—‘or publication bias'—of results distorts the published evidence base and is a threat to research integrity.
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Better value and a better night's sleep
Better value and a better night's sleep At Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (BTHFT) we are supporting people to stay out of hospital wherever possible. And where patients do need an admission, we aim to reduce their length of stay. To support this, we have developed the concept of a ‘virtual hospital’ that adds value by both improving quality (using patient experience and outcomes as key indicators) and reducing costs. The King's Fund
Budget 2018
Budget 2018 A summary of the budget for the key points affecting the NHS and its workforce. NHS Employers
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- Budget 2018 UK Government
- The King's Fund responds to the 2018 Budget The King's Fund
- Commitments to mental health sends right message but more support for core services needed NHS Providers
- New money welcome but key services left hanging Nuffield Trust
- NHS funding boost: the need to manage expectations Nuffield Trust
- RCN responds to the Budget announcements Royal College of Nursing
- RCP calls Budget 2018 'one step forward, two steps back' for the NHS Royal College of Physicians
- Our response to the Chancellor's Autumn Budget 2018 Royal College of Psychiatrists
- Summary of Budget 2018: Key points at-a-glance BBC News
- Budget row over ending austerity BBC News
- Budget 2018: Wages, mental health support and universal credit BBC News
- The Budget's big picture emerges BBC News
- All schools to get a dedicated mental health team as part of £2bn-a-year funding boost The Daily Telegraph
- Budget pledges on health and social care dismissed as 'sticking plaster' The Guardian
- Budget 2018: Extra £650m for social care a sticking plaster that 'only just staves off collapse', experts warn The Independent
- Budget 2018: Austerity to continue for five more years if Britain leaves EU with no deal, Philip Hammond warns The Independent
- Budget 2018: Mental health ambulances promised in drive for more dedicated treatment Sky News
New guidance on safety culture.
New guidance on safety culture Read the Health, Safety and Wellbeing Partnership Group guidance on establishing a good safety culture, and how you can support staff to create a safer culture. NHS Employers
A data-driven approach to personalised cancer care
A data-driven approach to personalised cancer care Cancer survival could significantly improve if the NHS collects and uses its data more intelligently. This report advocates that NHS leaders collect much more data on cancer patients including survival, treatment, patient experience and medical history. With better analysis there could be improvements in the prevention of cancer, earlier diagnosis and effectiveness of treatment. Reform
More students seek mental health support, analysis shows
More students seek mental health support, analysis shows The number of students seeking mental health support while studying at university has increased by more than 50% in five years, analysis suggests.
The BBC asked universities across the UK for the numbers of students seeking some form of support.
The National Union of Students said young people were under increasing pressure to perform
The Department for Education said universities needed to provide pastoral care for students. BBC News
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The BBC asked universities across the UK for the numbers of students seeking some form of support.
The National Union of Students said young people were under increasing pressure to perform
The Department for Education said universities needed to provide pastoral care for students. BBC News
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Opt-out organ donation plan wins Commons backing
Opt-out organ donation plan wins Commons backing Hundreds of lives could be saved each year under a new opt-out system for organ donation approved by MPs.
Under the plans, passed by the Commons, adults in England will be presumed to be donors unless they have specifically recorded their decision not to be.
A high-profile media campaign to change the law was inspired by the case of 10-year-old Max Johnson, who was saved by a heart transplant.
If passed by the Lords, the measures would come into effect in spring 2020. BBC News
Under the plans, passed by the Commons, adults in England will be presumed to be donors unless they have specifically recorded their decision not to be.
A high-profile media campaign to change the law was inspired by the case of 10-year-old Max Johnson, who was saved by a heart transplant.
If passed by the Lords, the measures would come into effect in spring 2020. BBC News
Government pledge to end mental health treatment gap by 2020 will actually take a 'generation' to achieve, health secretary admits
Government pledge to end mental health treatment gap by 2020 will actually take a 'generation' to achieve, health secretary admits Bringing mental health services in line with physical health services will take "a generation", the health secretary has admitted, despite the government having promised to achieve it by 2020.
Amid widespread concerns over the state of Britain's mental health services, Matt Hancock said it would take years to fulfil ministers' pledge to achieve "parity of esteem". The Independent
Amid widespread concerns over the state of Britain's mental health services, Matt Hancock said it would take years to fulfil ministers' pledge to achieve "parity of esteem". The Independent
Build nurseries in NHS hospitals to allow elderly to mix with toddlers, health secretary Matt Hancock says
Build nurseries in NHS hospitals to allow elderly to mix with toddlers, health secretary Matt Hancock says Toddlers’ nurseries should be located at NHS hospitals caring for the older generation according to the health secretary, who says the schemes can benefit both groups.
Health and social care secretary Matt Hancock said campaigners looking to save their local hospitals should be lobbying to make them hubs where the young and old are cared for, alongside a range of other services.
Such intergenerational schemes have been pioneered with nursing homes hosting nurseries, such as Nightingale House in Wandsworth, London, which The Independent visited last year – but Mr Hancock is the first health secretary to suggest the NHS could host them. The Independent
Health and social care secretary Matt Hancock said campaigners looking to save their local hospitals should be lobbying to make them hubs where the young and old are cared for, alongside a range of other services.
Such intergenerational schemes have been pioneered with nursing homes hosting nurseries, such as Nightingale House in Wandsworth, London, which The Independent visited last year – but Mr Hancock is the first health secretary to suggest the NHS could host them. The Independent
Children's operations cancelled by NHS up 58 per cent since austerity began, new figures show
Children's operations cancelled by NHS up 58 per cent since austerity began, new figures show There has been a 58 per cent rise in the number of children’s operations cancelled by the NHS in the past seven years, according to figures which critics warn illustrate the “cruel toll” of pressures on the health service.
Last year, a record 18,647 under-18s had surgery cancelled or delayed, with cancer treatment, pregnancy terminations and broken bones among the procedures affected.
That compares with 11,821 cancellations since the Conservatives came to power in coalition with the Liberal democrats in 2011/2012, and the number has climbed steadily in a period where austerity policies have seen budgets fall behind rising demand. The Independent
Last year, a record 18,647 under-18s had surgery cancelled or delayed, with cancer treatment, pregnancy terminations and broken bones among the procedures affected.
That compares with 11,821 cancellations since the Conservatives came to power in coalition with the Liberal democrats in 2011/2012, and the number has climbed steadily in a period where austerity policies have seen budgets fall behind rising demand. The Independent
Surgery students 'can't sew or cut' because they spend too much time on screens, warns Imperial College professor
Surgery students 'can't sew or cut' because they spend too much time on screens, warns Imperial College professor Surgery students have lost the ability to perform simple tasks like stitching and sewing up patients because they spend so little time using their hands and so much time staring at screens, a professor has warned.
Roger Kneebone, professor of surgical education at Imperial College, London, believes the quest for academic knowledge has come at the expense of physical dexterity. The Daily Telegraph
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Roger Kneebone, professor of surgical education at Imperial College, London, believes the quest for academic knowledge has come at the expense of physical dexterity. The Daily Telegraph
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Over 90% of children breathe toxic air every day, putting health and development at serious risk
Over 90% of children breathe toxic air every day, putting health and development at serious risk The vast majority of the world’s children are breathing air so polluted that it puts their health and development at serious risk, a World Health Organization report has warned.
Over 90 per cent of all children - roughly 1.8 billion - live in places where pollution exceeds WHO guidelines. Ambient air pollution caused roughly 4.2 million premature deaths in 2016, while 600,000 children died from acute lower respiratory infections due to dirty air. The Daily Telegraph
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Over 90 per cent of all children - roughly 1.8 billion - live in places where pollution exceeds WHO guidelines. Ambient air pollution caused roughly 4.2 million premature deaths in 2016, while 600,000 children died from acute lower respiratory infections due to dirty air. The Daily Telegraph
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- How air pollution is destroying our health World Health Organization
- 93% of world's children breathing toxic air which 'stunts brains' and causes deadly disease, WHO warns The Independent
- Air pollution is destroying our health and we can't just hold our breath and hope for action The Independent
Monday, 29 October 2018
Northampton General Hospital improves A&E waiting times - but NHS braced for tough winter
Northampton General Hospital improves A&E waiting times - but NHS braced for tough winter Patients are being warned to expect longer hospital waiting times during the coming winter, a new report has warned. NHS Providers, the body that represents trusts, says several factors, including A&E waiting times and staff shortages, suggest problems for hospitals in the months ahead.
Despite the grim picture, Northampton General Hospital has slightly improved its A&E waiting times since last year.Between April and September, 51,759 people attended an emergency department, with 88% being admitted, transferred or discharged within four hours. The government target is 95%.That figure is higher than the same period in 2017, when 87% of patients were seen within four hours.
Across England, the percentage of people dealt with within the time limit dropped by 1% since last year, to 84% in 2018. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Despite the grim picture, Northampton General Hospital has slightly improved its A&E waiting times since last year.Between April and September, 51,759 people attended an emergency department, with 88% being admitted, transferred or discharged within four hours. The government target is 95%.That figure is higher than the same period in 2017, when 87% of patients were seen within four hours.
Across England, the percentage of people dealt with within the time limit dropped by 1% since last year, to 84% in 2018. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Mental health services to get £2bn funding boost in budget
Mental health services to get £2bn funding boost in budget Philip Hammond will announce a £2bn real-terms increase in mental health funding on Monday as he unveils his first budget since Theresa May told the Conservative party conference that voters needed to know austerity was over.
The commitment should lead to comprehensive mental health support being available in every large A&E department. It suggests that mental health, long seen as a neglected area within the NHS, will benefit disproportionately from the annual health funding increase of up to £6bn a year announced by the prime minister in June. Guardian
The commitment should lead to comprehensive mental health support being available in every large A&E department. It suggests that mental health, long seen as a neglected area within the NHS, will benefit disproportionately from the annual health funding increase of up to £6bn a year announced by the prime minister in June. Guardian
Poor healthcare in jails is killing inmates, says NHS watchdog
Poor healthcare in jails is killing inmates, says NHS watchdog Almost half England’s jails fail to provide adequate medical care to prisoners, says leaked briefing by Care Quality Commission. Almost half of England’s jails are providing inadequate medical care to inmates, whose health is being damaged by widespread failings, the NHS watchdog has told MPs in a scathing briefing leaked to the Observer.
Healthcare behind bars is so poor in some prisons that offenders die because staff do not respond properly to medical emergencies, the Care Quality Commission (CQC) says. Guardian
Healthcare behind bars is so poor in some prisons that offenders die because staff do not respond properly to medical emergencies, the Care Quality Commission (CQC) says. Guardian
Record number of children's operations cancelled last year
Record number of children's operations cancelled last year Paediatric professional bodies express ‘deep concern’ over new figures obtained by Labour. A record number of 18,647 emergency and non-emergency children’s operations were cancelled last year, according to new figures which Labour described as a “shameful” indictment of the government’s handling of healthcare.
Over the last eight years 117,936 children’s operations were cancelled, according to data obtained by the party from NHS trusts under the Freedom of Information Act. Guardian
Over the last eight years 117,936 children’s operations were cancelled, according to data obtained by the party from NHS trusts under the Freedom of Information Act. Guardian
Men seeking IVF on the NHS told to lose weight amid 'rationing' claims
Men seeking IVF on the NHS told to lose weight amid 'rationing' claims Men seeking IVF with their partners are being told to lose weight as part of the increasing backdoor rationing of fertility treatments by NHS bosses, campaigners have said.A report by Fertility Fairness reveals that local commissioners are imposing “arbitrary” criteria such as male body mass index (BMI), as well as age, as a means of restricting access to IVF. This is despite the criteria forming no part of the National Institute of Health and Clinical Excellence (Nice) rules, which determine who is entitled to IVF. Telegraph
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500 diabetics dying each week, many from 'avoidable' complications
500 diabetics dying each week, many from 'avoidable' complications Hundreds of diabetes sufferers are dying prematurely every week, NHS figures reveal as experts warn the health service is not doing enough to support patients with the condition.
Avoidable complications such as amputations, sight loss, kidney disease, stroke and heart disease are contributing to around 500 deaths a week, according to the charity Diabetes UK. The figure comes from analysis of the NHS National Diabetes Audit, which shows deaths have increased roughly 10 per cent over the past three years. Telegraph
Avoidable complications such as amputations, sight loss, kidney disease, stroke and heart disease are contributing to around 500 deaths a week, according to the charity Diabetes UK. The figure comes from analysis of the NHS National Diabetes Audit, which shows deaths have increased roughly 10 per cent over the past three years. Telegraph
Friday, 26 October 2018
Northampton mother told disabled daughter 'died' by council
Northampton mother told disabled daughter 'died' by council A woman was told her daughter had died, despite being "very much alive", in an email sent in error by a council.
Rosemary Mulcahy, from Northampton, was "devastated" to get the email from the county council offering "sincere condolences" for the loss of her daughter, who she was with at the time.
Daisy Mulcahy, 21, has severe learning difficulties and receives respite care from the council. BBC Northampton
Rosemary Mulcahy, from Northampton, was "devastated" to get the email from the county council offering "sincere condolences" for the loss of her daughter, who she was with at the time.
Daisy Mulcahy, 21, has severe learning difficulties and receives respite care from the council. BBC Northampton
Securing funds for the proposed NHS multi-year funding: the feasibility of using a hypothecated tax
Securing funds for the proposed NHS multi-year funding: the feasibility of using a hypothecated tax In June 2018 the UK Government announced an increase of 3.4 per cent per annum in spending on the NHS in England for each of three years. It indicated that taxes will rise to pay for this. Debate has increased as to whether a separate (hypothecated) tax should be introduced to fund the NHS. This briefing sets out the arguments in favour and against the use of hypothecated tax for funding the NHS. Office for Health Economics
Managing malnutrition to improve lives and save money
Managing malnutrition to improve lives and save money This report explains why malnutrition costs so much and highlights the importance of identifying and appropriately managing malnutrition and the cost savings that can be achieved by better management of malnutrition. British Association for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (BAPEN)
New 'Trojan horse' antibiotic promising
New 'Trojan horse' antibiotic promising Scientists say they have engineered a new antibiotic that appears promising in early clinical trials.
The drug, made by Shionogi Inc, acts like the Trojan horse in Greek legend to trick bacteria into allowing it to enter.
Trials on 448 people with a kidney or urinary tract infection suggested the drug was as effective as current treatments.
Experts said the findings were an encouraging development. BBC News
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The drug, made by Shionogi Inc, acts like the Trojan horse in Greek legend to trick bacteria into allowing it to enter.
Trials on 448 people with a kidney or urinary tract infection suggested the drug was as effective as current treatments.
Experts said the findings were an encouraging development. BBC News
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- Cefiderocol versus imipenem-cilastatin for the treatment of complicated urinary tract infections caused by Gram-negative uropathogens: a phase 2, randomised, double-blind, non-inferiority trial Lancet Infectious Diseases
- Antibiotic 'Trojan horse' could defeat superbugs causing global medical crisis, trial finds The Independent
Rise in women having induced labours, NHS figures show
Rise in women having induced labours, NHS figures show Nearly one in three pregnant women in England is having labour induced - an increase from one in five 10 years ago, according to figures from NHS Digital.
Rising numbers of older and overweight women giving birth is behind the trend, experts say.
Induced labours are usually started with pills or gels, often because babies are large or overdue.
Women should be encouraged to keep to a healthy weight before and during pregnancy, doctors advise. BBC News
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Rising numbers of older and overweight women giving birth is behind the trend, experts say.
Induced labours are usually started with pills or gels, often because babies are large or overdue.
Women should be encouraged to keep to a healthy weight before and during pregnancy, doctors advise. BBC News
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Black mums 'don't talk about depression'
Black mums 'don't talk about depression' Mums Sandra Igwe and Jen Henry both experienced anxiety after childbirth, but say they found it difficult to discuss these issues in the black community.
Sandra told BBC Minute: "There is a pressure for black mums to be superwomen, leaving little room to speak about their problems."
As a result she set up The Motherhood Group - a support network where black women can talk about the issues they are facing.
Around a fifth of new mums in the UK suffer from mental health problems. BBC News
Sandra told BBC Minute: "There is a pressure for black mums to be superwomen, leaving little room to speak about their problems."
As a result she set up The Motherhood Group - a support network where black women can talk about the issues they are facing.
Around a fifth of new mums in the UK suffer from mental health problems. BBC News
Number of EU applicants to UK medical schools falls to lowest point in decade, figures show
Number of EU applicants to UK medical schools falls to lowest point in decade, figures show The number of applicants to medical schools from the European Union (EU) has fallen to the lowest point in nearly a decade, prompting fears that Brexit has deterred prospective doctors from studying in the UK.
Figures from the university and colleges admissions body (Ucas) show that the number has dropped by 8 per cent – to a nine-year low of 1,660.
But the overall number of applicants for medicine in UK universities has risen to 22,340, a 12 per cent rise on last year. The Independent
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Figures from the university and colleges admissions body (Ucas) show that the number has dropped by 8 per cent – to a nine-year low of 1,660.
But the overall number of applicants for medicine in UK universities has risen to 22,340, a 12 per cent rise on last year. The Independent
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Leeds NHS trust has 345 fax machines. I want to get rid of them
Leeds NHS trust has 345 fax machines. I want to get rid of them As chief information officer, I can see how dangerous and inefficient fax machines are
In the past six months there have been two polarised obsessions with technology in health. Artificial intelligence: here to save the universe! And the more awkward conversation around why there are still more than 8,000 fax machines churning out paper throughout the health system.
The key question for those of us working in NHS IT is: which of these obsessions needs investing in today?
Can the Christmas No 1 be the last ring of a fax machine set to jingle bells? We think it can in Leeds. The Guardian
In the past six months there have been two polarised obsessions with technology in health. Artificial intelligence: here to save the universe! And the more awkward conversation around why there are still more than 8,000 fax machines churning out paper throughout the health system.
The key question for those of us working in NHS IT is: which of these obsessions needs investing in today?
Can the Christmas No 1 be the last ring of a fax machine set to jingle bells? We think it can in Leeds. The Guardian
Patients at thousands of hospitals and GP practices 'breathing toxic air'
Patients at thousands of hospitals and GP practices 'breathing toxic air' More than 2,000 GP surgeries and hospitals in UK are in areas that breach WHO air pollution guidelines, study says
Hundreds of thousands of patients who visit more than 2,000 hospitals and GP practices across the UK are breathing poisonous air that breaches World Health Organization guidelines, according to a new report.
The study found that a third of GP surgeries and a quarter of hospitals – including some of the biggest children’s centres – are in areas that breach limits for the most dangerous particulates: PM2.5. The Guardian
Hundreds of thousands of patients who visit more than 2,000 hospitals and GP practices across the UK are breathing poisonous air that breaches World Health Organization guidelines, according to a new report.
The study found that a third of GP surgeries and a quarter of hospitals – including some of the biggest children’s centres – are in areas that breach limits for the most dangerous particulates: PM2.5. The Guardian
A new law banning under 13s from social media has been proposed by health secretary Matt Hancock
A new law banning under 13s from social media has been proposed by health secretary Matt Hancock A new law banning under 13s from social media has been proposed by health secretary Matt Hancock.
He said Facebook, What's App and other social media giants should be legally required to stop under-aged children joining their sites.
He accused the companies of doing “absolutely nothing” to stop under 13s getting onto sites like Facebook or under 16s using What’s App.
Asked if there should be a minimum and enforced legal age requirement in an interview in Parliament’s House magazine, he said: “Yes, yes there should. Absolutely.” The Daily Telegraph
He said Facebook, What's App and other social media giants should be legally required to stop under-aged children joining their sites.
He accused the companies of doing “absolutely nothing” to stop under 13s getting onto sites like Facebook or under 16s using What’s App.
Asked if there should be a minimum and enforced legal age requirement in an interview in Parliament’s House magazine, he said: “Yes, yes there should. Absolutely.” The Daily Telegraph
Deadly hospital infections soar eight-fold in a decade
Deadly hospital infections soar eight-fold in a decade People are more than eight times as likely to catch an infection while in hospital as they were 10 years ago, figures show.
The number of in-hospital infections has risen from 5,972 in 2008 to a whopping 48,815 in 2017, according to NHS Digital data.
The current figure breaks down to more than 4,000 infections each month – more than 1,000 every week.
And the figure rose by 20 per cent – more than 8,000 extra infections – last year alone. The Daily Mail
The number of in-hospital infections has risen from 5,972 in 2008 to a whopping 48,815 in 2017, according to NHS Digital data.
The current figure breaks down to more than 4,000 infections each month – more than 1,000 every week.
And the figure rose by 20 per cent – more than 8,000 extra infections – last year alone. The Daily Mail
Thursday, 25 October 2018
What should the NHS long-term plan say about STPs and ICSs?
What should the NHS long-term plan say about STPs and ICSs? Sustainability and transformation partnerships (STPs) and integrated care systems (ICSs) are intended to be vehicles for helping to share and spread the adoption of new care models. Our research has reported variations in the progress being made by STPs and ICSs and has described the many challenges they face in working within the current statutory framework. In a long read published today, Nicholas Timmins sets out changes that may be needed to align the law with the work of STPs and ICSs, while noting the difficulties of securing support in parliament for these changes. The King's Fund
An STI is diagnosed in a young person every 4 minutes in England
An STI is diagnosed in a young person every 4 minutes in England Latest statistics from Public Health England (PHE) show that a case of chlamydia or gonorrhoea is diagnosed in a young person every 4 minutes in England. There were over 144,000 diagnoses of these sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in people aged 15 to 24 in 2017.
Official Statistics: Breastfeeding at 6 to 8 weeks after birth: annual data
Official Statistics: Breastfeeding at 6 to 8 weeks after birth: annual data The number and proportion of infants who have been fully, partially or not at all breastfed at 6 to 8 weeks after birth. Public Health England
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Experts call for health system change to tackle the challenge of multimorbidity in the NHS
Experts call for health system change to tackle the challenge of multimorbidity in the NHS The number of people with multiple long-term conditions, known as multimorbidity, is rising internationally, putting increased pressure on health care systems, including the NHS. University of Bristol
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- How should health policy respond to the growing challenge of multimorbidity? University of Bristol
Autumn budget 2018: background briefing
Autumn budget 2018: background briefing This briefing sets out the background to Autumn Budget 2018 which will take place on Monday 29 October. It includes a section on NHS financing. The Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) will publish revised forecasts for the economy and public finances on the same day. House of Commons Library
Councils buying care 'on the cheap'
Councils buying care 'on the cheap' Councils across the UK are buying vital home help for elderly people on the cheap, the firms providing care say.
Thousands of vulnerable older people rely on councils to organise support for them for daily tasks such as washing, dressing and feeding.
But research by the UK Homecare Association found only one in seven was paying a fair price for care.
It said this meant visits were being cut short, but councils said they had insufficient money to pay more. BBC News
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Thousands of vulnerable older people rely on councils to organise support for them for daily tasks such as washing, dressing and feeding.
But research by the UK Homecare Association found only one in seven was paying a fair price for care.
It said this meant visits were being cut short, but councils said they had insufficient money to pay more. BBC News
See also:
- The Homecare Deficit 2018 (press release) UK Homecare Association
- The Homecare Deficit 2018 (report) UK Homecare Association
A&E visits by young people with mental health problems have almost doubled in five years
A&E visits by young people with mental health problems have almost doubled in five years The number of young people going to A&E with mental health problems has almost doubled in five years, official figures show.
In response to a Parliamentary Question from Bambos Charalambous MP, the Department of Health and Social Care has revealed that, in 2017-18, there were 27,487 attendances in A&E by young people aged 18 or under with a recorded diagnosis of a psychiatric condition.
This figure has almost doubled since 2012-13, when there were 13,800 equivalent attendances, and almost tripled since 2010. The Independent
In response to a Parliamentary Question from Bambos Charalambous MP, the Department of Health and Social Care has revealed that, in 2017-18, there were 27,487 attendances in A&E by young people aged 18 or under with a recorded diagnosis of a psychiatric condition.
This figure has almost doubled since 2012-13, when there were 13,800 equivalent attendances, and almost tripled since 2010. The Independent
Early deaths twice as common in most deprived parts of England, study shows
Early deaths twice as common in most deprived parts of England, study shows People in the most deprived parts of England are twice as likely to die prematurely as those in the wealthiest areas, according to “alarming” research on UK inequality.
Life expectancy in Blackpool is markedly lower than leafy Surrey or West Berkshire because of much higher rates of obesity and smoking rates linked to poverty and education, the University of East Anglia researchers said.
Despite these “stark” inequalities, England had better average life expectancy than the rest of the UK, while Scottish citizens die youngest. The Independent
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Life expectancy in Blackpool is markedly lower than leafy Surrey or West Berkshire because of much higher rates of obesity and smoking rates linked to poverty and education, the University of East Anglia researchers said.
Despite these “stark” inequalities, England had better average life expectancy than the rest of the UK, while Scottish citizens die youngest. The Independent
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Diabetes: a 'ticking time bomb' for the NHS
Diabetes: a 'ticking time bomb' for the NHS Lack of specialist support and rising numbers of people living with the condition will create huge complications, say experts
Rising numbers of people with diabetes and a lack of specialist staff and adequate training are creating a ticking time bomb, experts and medical professionals have warned.
The combination of an increase of people with type 2 diabetes over the past 20 years, cuts to NHS spending on continuing professional development and insufficient specialist support and expertise for people with type 1 diabetes will result in “huge complications” over the next two decades, according to experts at a Guardian roundtable event . Clinicians, academics, policy advisers and people with personal experience of diabetes discussed how to improve care in the UK. The Guardian
Rising numbers of people with diabetes and a lack of specialist staff and adequate training are creating a ticking time bomb, experts and medical professionals have warned.
The combination of an increase of people with type 2 diabetes over the past 20 years, cuts to NHS spending on continuing professional development and insufficient specialist support and expertise for people with type 1 diabetes will result in “huge complications” over the next two decades, according to experts at a Guardian roundtable event . Clinicians, academics, policy advisers and people with personal experience of diabetes discussed how to improve care in the UK. The Guardian
Millennials are more sceptical of vaccines
Millennials are more sceptical of vaccines Millennials are more likely to be sceptical about the importance of vaccines than their parents or grandparents, research suggests.
Those aged between 18 and 24 are a quarter less likely than the over-65s to believe vaccines are safe, according to a report.
Scientists warned this could be because they have not been exposed to 'the reality of a number of diseases'. The Daily Mail
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Those aged between 18 and 24 are a quarter less likely than the over-65s to believe vaccines are safe, according to a report.
Scientists warned this could be because they have not been exposed to 'the reality of a number of diseases'. The Daily Mail
See also:
- Vaccine Confidence improving in some EU countries but decreasing in others London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine
Wednesday, 24 October 2018
Daughter fears her mother's health will 'spiral' after dementia care review is launched in Northamptonshire
Daughter fears her mother's health will 'spiral' after dementia care review is launched in Northamptonshire A decision to review the use of a specialist dementia carer team across Northamptonshire could have a drastic effect on those suffering from the condition, a worried daughter believes.
Barclaycard worker Lynn Johnson looks after her mother at her bungalow in Kingsthorpe every evening and relies on the support of an Olympus Care team for help.
The specialist dementia carers come in three times a day to get 85-year-old Sylvia out of bed, dressed, fed and supplied with medication throughout the day.
But Northamptonshire County Council is set to launch a review of the contracts it holds with its domiciliary dementia care providers. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Barclaycard worker Lynn Johnson looks after her mother at her bungalow in Kingsthorpe every evening and relies on the support of an Olympus Care team for help.
The specialist dementia carers come in three times a day to get 85-year-old Sylvia out of bed, dressed, fed and supplied with medication throughout the day.
But Northamptonshire County Council is set to launch a review of the contracts it holds with its domiciliary dementia care providers. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
£3.2bn a year needed to reverse impact of government cuts to public health services
£3.2bn a year needed to reverse impact of government cuts to public health services The Health Foundation has calculated that an additional £3.2bn a year is required to reverse the impact of government cuts to the public health grant and ensure that it is re-allocated according to need.
The grant enables local authorities to deliver vital public health services, such as obesity programmes, drug and alcohol services and sexual health services, but a new briefing paper by the independent charity shows that it has seen a £700m real terms reduction in funding between 2014/15 and 2019/20 – a fall of almost a quarter (23.5%) per person.
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The grant enables local authorities to deliver vital public health services, such as obesity programmes, drug and alcohol services and sexual health services, but a new briefing paper by the independent charity shows that it has seen a £700m real terms reduction in funding between 2014/15 and 2019/20 – a fall of almost a quarter (23.5%) per person.
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Local authorities receive 5,100 new requests for adult social care assistance a day
Local authorities receive 5,100 new requests for adult social care assistance a day New figures from NHS Digital show that local authorities received 1.8 million new requests for adult social care support in 2017-18, an increase of 1.6 per cent on 2016-17 and equivalent to 5,100 new requests per day.
These requests were received from 1.3 million people; those aged 65 and over accounted for 71.6 per cent of the requests. Similar to previous years, 77.1 per cent of the requests originated from the community and 20.1 per cent originated from a discharge from hospital.
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These requests were received from 1.3 million people; those aged 65 and over accounted for 71.6 per cent of the requests. Similar to previous years, 77.1 per cent of the requests originated from the community and 20.1 per cent originated from a discharge from hospital.
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Stopping fraud against the NHS: new plans announced
Stopping fraud against the NHS: new plans announced The government has announced how it will take tougher action on fraud and save hundreds of millions of pounds for the NHS over the next 5 years, increasing the money available for improving patient care. Department of Health and Social Care
Reducing Pre-registration Attrition and Improving Retention
Reducing Pre-registration Attrition and Improving Retention A report and set of resources aimed at supporting the NHS and higher education providers in reducing the level of student attrition has been launched by Health Education England.
The RePAIR (Reducing Pre-registration Attrition and Improving Retention) project covered four fields in nursing (adult, child, learning disabilities and Mental Health), plus midwifery and therapeutic radiotherapy) and looked at making effective interventions to improve retention across the student journey – from pre-enrolment to two-years post-qualification.
The RePAIR (Reducing Pre-registration Attrition and Improving Retention) project covered four fields in nursing (adult, child, learning disabilities and Mental Health), plus midwifery and therapeutic radiotherapy) and looked at making effective interventions to improve retention across the student journey – from pre-enrolment to two-years post-qualification.
Let down by 'agonising' end-of-life care
Let down by 'agonising' end-of-life care Staff shortages and inadequate training mean that end-of-life care for elderly people is often unacceptable, a leading expert has warned.
Andrea Sutcliffe, of the Care Quality Commission, told the BBC every nursing home needed to be capable of supporting people at the end of their lives.
Her call follows complaints from some relatives that their loved ones are dying distressing and painful deaths.
There is no legal requirement for end-of-life training for care home staff. BBC News
Andrea Sutcliffe, of the Care Quality Commission, told the BBC every nursing home needed to be capable of supporting people at the end of their lives.
Her call follows complaints from some relatives that their loved ones are dying distressing and painful deaths.
There is no legal requirement for end-of-life training for care home staff. BBC News
Public may have to stockpile drugs in no-deal Brexit
Public may have to stockpile drugs in no-deal Brexit The public may have to stockpile medicines if there is a no-deal Brexit, industry leaders say.
Martin Sawer, of the Healthcare Distributors Association, told MPs industry was "very concerned" about a no-deal as it could have "catastrophic" consequences for the supply of drugs.
The government has asked firms to start stockpiling a six-week supply of drugs.
Mr Sawer said there was no need for the public to do the same "yet", but the picture could change very quickly. BBC News
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Martin Sawer, of the Healthcare Distributors Association, told MPs industry was "very concerned" about a no-deal as it could have "catastrophic" consequences for the supply of drugs.
The government has asked firms to start stockpiling a six-week supply of drugs.
Mr Sawer said there was no need for the public to do the same "yet", but the picture could change very quickly. BBC News
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- ‘No-deal Brexit’ risks supply of medicines to patients Healthcare Distributors Association
'Hundreds more' vaginal mesh implants need removal due to complications within a decade
'Hundreds more' vaginal mesh implants need removal due to complications within a decade Hundreds more women in England who received vaginal mesh implants to treat incontinence will need the procedure reversed, a study suggests.
In a study of nearly 100,000 English women, 3,137 (3.3 per cent) required the implant to be removed within a decade. This is a third larger than the number of reversals reported in an NHS audit of the procedure.
NHS England estimated just 2.6 per cent had to be removed because of complications, but the rate may be even higher for younger women as 4.4 per cent of those aged 18 to 39 had a removal. The Independent
In a study of nearly 100,000 English women, 3,137 (3.3 per cent) required the implant to be removed within a decade. This is a third larger than the number of reversals reported in an NHS audit of the procedure.
NHS England estimated just 2.6 per cent had to be removed because of complications, but the rate may be even higher for younger women as 4.4 per cent of those aged 18 to 39 had a removal. The Independent
Bullying in the NHS costing the service more than £2 billion per year in England, research warns
Bullying in the NHS costing the service more than £2 billion per year in England, research warns Bullying and harassment in the NHS could be costing more than £2 billion per year in England alone, warns new research.
The figures come from the first comprehensive estimate of the financial costs of bullying and harassment in the NHS.
The study, published in the journal Public Money and Management, used data from NHS Digital to gauge the impact of bullying on sickness absence, employee turnover, productivity, sickness presenteeism, and employment relations. The Daily Telegraph
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The figures come from the first comprehensive estimate of the financial costs of bullying and harassment in the NHS.
The study, published in the journal Public Money and Management, used data from NHS Digital to gauge the impact of bullying on sickness absence, employee turnover, productivity, sickness presenteeism, and employment relations. The Daily Telegraph
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- The price of fear: estimating the financial cost of bullying and harassment to the NHS in England Public Money and Management
Suicide rates among British schoolgirls at highest ever level as modern pressures take toll
Suicide rates among British schoolgirls at highest ever level as modern pressures take toll Suicide rates among schoolgirls and young women have hit a record high, new figures show, as experts warned that the pressures of modern life were fuelling the rise. The Daily Telegraph
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- Avoidable mortality in the UK: 2016 Office for National Statistics
UK has the highest sepsis death rates for women
UK has the highest sepsis death rates for women Sepsis death rates in Britain are five times higher than the best performing country in Europe, a new study suggests.
A scientific analysis of 36 rich nations ranked the UK as being the worst for women and it placed near the bottom of the table for men.
There are 35.4 deaths from sepsis - a violent immune response to an infection - for every 100,000 women and 40.3 for every 100,000 men in the UK.
The US ranked seventh worst for women - but avoided being named as one of the ten biggest offenders in men. The Daily Mail
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A scientific analysis of 36 rich nations ranked the UK as being the worst for women and it placed near the bottom of the table for men.
There are 35.4 deaths from sepsis - a violent immune response to an infection - for every 100,000 women and 40.3 for every 100,000 men in the UK.
The US ranked seventh worst for women - but avoided being named as one of the ten biggest offenders in men. The Daily Mail
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- AI doctor could boost chance of survival for sepsis patients Imperial College London
- The Artificial Intelligence Clinician learns optimal treatment strategies for sepsis in intensive care (abstract) Nature Medicine
- UK sepsis death rate five times higher than Europe's best-performing country The Independent
Health inspectors take 'urgent action to protect people' at a maternity unit
Health inspectors take 'urgent action to protect people' at a maternity unit The Care Quality Commission (CQC) said it was taking action at Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust following inspections at its maternity and emergency departments. The Daily Mail
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Tuesday, 23 October 2018
Tens of millions of pounds of repairs needed at Northampton General Hospital
Tens of millions of pounds of repairs needed at Northampton General Hospital Tens of millions of pounds worth of repairs need to be carried out at the Northampton General Hospital NHS Trust in order to bring its facilities up to scratch.
Data released by NHS Digital has revealed the extent of the maintenance backlog across NHS property and facilities in England, with the British Medical Association warning it is having an impact on patient care.
The Northampton General Hospital NHS Trust is currently sitting on a backlog of £20.4 million worth of repairs or replacements which should have been carried out on its buildings and equipment. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Data released by NHS Digital has revealed the extent of the maintenance backlog across NHS property and facilities in England, with the British Medical Association warning it is having an impact on patient care.
The Northampton General Hospital NHS Trust is currently sitting on a backlog of £20.4 million worth of repairs or replacements which should have been carried out on its buildings and equipment. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
More than £1 million worth of repairs need to be carried out at Northamptonshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust
More than £1 million worth of repairs need to be carried out at Northamptonshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust More than £1 million worth of repairs need to be carried out at the Northamptonshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust in order to bring its facilities up to scratch.
Data released by NHS Digital has revealed the extent of the maintenance backlog across NHS property and facilities in England, with the British Medical Association warning it is having an impact on patient care. Daventry Express
Data released by NHS Digital has revealed the extent of the maintenance backlog across NHS property and facilities in England, with the British Medical Association warning it is having an impact on patient care. Daventry Express
Developing governance to support integrated care: a bumpy ride?
Developing governance to support integrated care: a bumpy ride? Having spent a year working at The King’s Fund with integrated care systems (ICSs), I have seen first-hand the potential of this new way of working for NHS patients and staff. A key aspect has been developing governance systems, which is both important and challenging. As the recent King’s Fund report on the first year of the pilot sites has shown, building an approach to governance has helped to start creating order and process in an environment where there is currently a distinct lack of a rule book.
End of life care: strengthening choice
End of life care: strengthening choice All-Party Parliamentary Group for Children Who Need Palliative Care has been examining the extent to which the government is meeting its end of life care choice commitment to babies, children and young-people with life-limiting conditions and their families.
Despite the commitment – which outlines six ways ministers believe that people approaching the end of their lives should be supported – the APPG has heard evidence from young people, families, services and professionals that the quality of palliative care children and families can access is patchy and depends on where in England they live.
Despite the commitment – which outlines six ways ministers believe that people approaching the end of their lives should be supported – the APPG has heard evidence from young people, families, services and professionals that the quality of palliative care children and families can access is patchy and depends on where in England they live.
Cervical screening: Millions missing smear tests
Cervical screening: Millions missing smear tests About three million women across England have not had a smear test for at least three-and-a-half years.
GPs are trying to improve take-up rates as figures show up to half of women under 50 in some areas have not had a cervical screening in the recommended time frame.
Screening rates are at their lowest for two decades.
Public Health England said it was "concerned" by the fall. BBC News
GPs are trying to improve take-up rates as figures show up to half of women under 50 in some areas have not had a cervical screening in the recommended time frame.
Screening rates are at their lowest for two decades.
Public Health England said it was "concerned" by the fall. BBC News
NHS pledges to eliminate ethnicity pay gap
NHS pledges to eliminate ethnicity pay gap The Department of Health and Social Care has pledged to eliminate the ethnicity pay gap in the NHS and set a goal to increase black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) representation in senior leadership to match that seen across the rest of the NHS by 2028.
Recent NHS ethnicity pay analyses show that senior white NHS managers are paid thousands more than managers from ethnic minority backgrounds, and that fewer BAME staff reach the most senior levels of management. OnMedica
Recent NHS ethnicity pay analyses show that senior white NHS managers are paid thousands more than managers from ethnic minority backgrounds, and that fewer BAME staff reach the most senior levels of management. OnMedica
Rise in antibiotic resistant infections in England could put millions at risk and push medicine 'back to dark ages'
Rise in antibiotic resistant infections in England could put millions at risk and push medicine 'back to dark ages' Millions of routine operations could become life threatening, experts have warned as a rise in drug-resistant bacterial infections risks pushing medicine “back to the dark ages”.
Too many people are putting themselves, their families and vulnerable members of the public at risk by taking antibiotics when they’re not needed, Public Health England (PHE) has said. The Independent
Too many people are putting themselves, their families and vulnerable members of the public at risk by taking antibiotics when they’re not needed, Public Health England (PHE) has said. The Independent
Children's services are at breaking point, experts say
Children's services are at breaking point, experts say Charities, teaching unions and medical colleges accuse UK government of ignoring young people
Children’s services from Sure Start to schools and NHS mental health are at breaking point, according to a coalition of 120 organisations that have called on the chancellor to invest in young people in the budget next week.
An open letter to Philip Hammond and Theresa May from a group of charities, teaching unions and medical colleges accuses the government of ignoring children and young people in its spending plans. The Guardian
Children’s services from Sure Start to schools and NHS mental health are at breaking point, according to a coalition of 120 organisations that have called on the chancellor to invest in young people in the budget next week.
An open letter to Philip Hammond and Theresa May from a group of charities, teaching unions and medical colleges accuses the government of ignoring children and young people in its spending plans. The Guardian
UK has 'hostile environment' to accessing the dentist as 380,000 people visit GP with dental problems every year, study finds
UK has 'hostile environment' to accessing the dentist as 380,000 people visit GP with dental problems every year, study finds GPs see 380,00 patients a year with dental problems, a study has found, as ministers are urged to end the 'hostile environment' to accessing a dentist in the UK.
The new study, published in the British Journal of General Practice, warned that GP appointments for dental problems are "often not an effective or efficient use of resources”, with the result being that pressure is “piled on overstretched GPs who are simply unequipped to help.” The Daily Telegraph
The new study, published in the British Journal of General Practice, warned that GP appointments for dental problems are "often not an effective or efficient use of resources”, with the result being that pressure is “piled on overstretched GPs who are simply unequipped to help.” The Daily Telegraph
NHS hospitals need repairs costing £1billion to prevent risk to patients health, figures show
NHS hospitals need repairs costing £1billion to prevent risk to patients health, figures show More than £1billion worth of urgent repairs need to be carried out across the NHS to prevent ‘catastrophic’ failures and risk to safety, figures show.
NHS trusts in England are sitting on a record-high backlog of almost £6 billion of repairs or replacements on their buildings and equipment.
A staggering £billion of these are classed as ‘high-risk’ repairs. The Daily Mail
NHS trusts in England are sitting on a record-high backlog of almost £6 billion of repairs or replacements on their buildings and equipment.
A staggering £billion of these are classed as ‘high-risk’ repairs. The Daily Mail
Monday, 22 October 2018
Seven Northamptonshire girls needlessly examined at centre for rape victims, 'due to lack of FGM training'
Seven Northamptonshire girls needlessly examined at centre for rape victims, 'due to lack of FGM training' Northamptonshire girls are being put through intimate examinations at sex assault referral centres when a simple conversation with their parents about genital mutilation would suffice.
That is the opinion of Spring Boroughs-based group Somali Women and Girls, along with race and gender equality charity Creating Equalz. They say local NHS staff and schools do not know the signs of FGM and refer girls far too easily based on cultural assumptions, causing distress to families. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
That is the opinion of Spring Boroughs-based group Somali Women and Girls, along with race and gender equality charity Creating Equalz. They say local NHS staff and schools do not know the signs of FGM and refer girls far too easily based on cultural assumptions, causing distress to families. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Ambulance choke man's death 'accidental', inquest rules
Ambulance choke man's death 'accidental', inquest rules The death of a mental health patient who choked on a McDonald's meal in an ambulance has been ruled accidental.
David Scales, 68, requested the food at Watford Gap services on the M1 in Northamptonshire, as he was taken from London to Leeds on 3 January 2017.
He fell unconscious and died on 11 January at Northampton General Hospital after a week in a coma.
An inquest jury said information about his current choking risk had not been made available to ambulance staff. BBC Northamptonshire
David Scales, 68, requested the food at Watford Gap services on the M1 in Northamptonshire, as he was taken from London to Leeds on 3 January 2017.
He fell unconscious and died on 11 January at Northampton General Hospital after a week in a coma.
An inquest jury said information about his current choking risk had not been made available to ambulance staff. BBC Northamptonshire
NHS trusts braced for a winter worse than last year
NHS trusts braced for a winter worse than last year The coming winter is likely to be even more difficult than the last for trusts, staff and patients, warns a new report from NHS Providers.
Steeling ourselves for winter 2018/19 explores how resilient the sector is to the pressures it will face this coming winter. It welcomes improvements that have been put in place by trusts and the national bodies, but also highlights areas where the challenges for the coming winter are even greater than this time last year. NHS Providers
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Steeling ourselves for winter 2018/19 explores how resilient the sector is to the pressures it will face this coming winter. It welcomes improvements that have been put in place by trusts and the national bodies, but also highlights areas where the challenges for the coming winter are even greater than this time last year. NHS Providers
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Antimicrobial Resistance needs to be a Top Five Policy priority
Antimicrobial Resistance needs to be a Top Five Policy priority Tackling Antimicrobial Resistance needs to be firmly established as a 'top five policy priority' for the Government in order to help prevent the virtual loss of worldwide modern medicine say the Health and Social Care Committee in its report.
No new classes of antibiotics have been developed for decades. Investment in basic scientific research is essential but so too is the investment by pharmaceutical companies in further development and bringing products to the market.
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No new classes of antibiotics have been developed for decades. Investment in basic scientific research is essential but so too is the investment by pharmaceutical companies in further development and bringing products to the market.
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What’s really going on with nursing outside hospital?
What’s really going on with nursing outside hospital? Mark Dayan and William Palmer argue that we should treat figures appearing to show a plummeting community nursing workforce with caution. While a real problem exists, the statistics only count a subset of the workforce, and we can’t fully see what is happening with some other staff. Nuffield Trust
NHS saves £288 million on everyday essentials
NHS saves £288 million on everyday essentials Trusts across England saved £288 million in the last financial year by securing the best deals for commonly bought items, such as syringes, disposable gloves, loo roll and shoe covers. The money freed up can be reinvested into other services and equipment. NHS Improvement
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- Procurement league table NHS Improvement
- Hospitals wasting £5.6 million a year on expensive rubber gloves, NHS leaders reveal The Daily Telegraph
Will population ageing spell the end of the welfare state?: a review of evidence and policy options
Will population ageing spell the end of the welfare state?: a review of evidence and policy options This brief reviews the main evidence on the health and long-term care costs associated with ageing populations to better understand the expected cost pressures due to changing demographics. At the same time, it explores how older populations can and do contribute meaningfully both in economic and societal terms, particularly if they are able to remain healthy and active into later life. World Health Organization
Age-friendly and inclusive volunteering: review of community contributions in later life
Age-friendly and inclusive volunteering: review of community contributions in later life This review calls on charities, voluntary organisations and the public sector to do more to support and sustain the good will and effort of older volunteers. Making a contribution to our communities has been shown to improve our social connections, enhance our sense of purpose and self-esteem – and as a result, to increase our life satisfaction, happiness and wellbeing. It finds that very few people in later life make no contribution of any kind. However, some people encounter barriers to getting involved in all the ways they might want to, especially as their circumstances change. Centre for Ageing Better
Depressed? The places not to live if you need help
Depressed? The places not to live if you need help A flagship NHS mental health service is failing patients in one in seven areas of England, research by the BBC shows.
People with conditions like depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder are entitled to psychological therapies, such as counselling.
The NHS is meant to successfully treat half of the people it sees.
But an analysis of official NHS data showed this was not the case in 28 of the 195 local areas of the country in the first six months of this year. BBC News
People with conditions like depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder are entitled to psychological therapies, such as counselling.
The NHS is meant to successfully treat half of the people it sees.
But an analysis of official NHS data showed this was not the case in 28 of the 195 local areas of the country in the first six months of this year. BBC News
Ministry of Defence to study armed forces suicide rates after more than 40 servicemen and women kill themselves in last year
Ministry of Defence to study armed forces suicide rates after more than 40 servicemen and women kill themselves in last year Suicide rates among veterans of the Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts are to be studied by the Ministry of Defence.
Cases where former servicemen and women have taken their own lives will be a focus for the research into the causes of death among those who leave the armed forces.
The study will take place amid concerns the rate of mental health problems among troops and veterans has surged in the last decade. The Independent
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Cases where former servicemen and women have taken their own lives will be a focus for the research into the causes of death among those who leave the armed forces.
The study will take place amid concerns the rate of mental health problems among troops and veterans has surged in the last decade. The Independent
See also:
- Widow of suicide veteran tells minister to "get a grip" on mental health crisis The Daily Telegraph
Trauma doctors reveal horror of knife crime 'epidemic'
Trauma doctors reveal horror of knife crime 'epidemic' Exclusive: number of stabbing victims with life-threatening injuries rises sharply in two years
The number of stabbing victims with life-threatening injuries treated by specialist trauma doctors has increased by 34% in two years, according to NHS figures obtained by the Guardian.
Doctors are also reporting an increase in the severity of attacks, with victims increasingly arriving in hospital with multiple puncture wounds. The Guardian
The number of stabbing victims with life-threatening injuries treated by specialist trauma doctors has increased by 34% in two years, according to NHS figures obtained by the Guardian.
Doctors are also reporting an increase in the severity of attacks, with victims increasingly arriving in hospital with multiple puncture wounds. The Guardian
NHS denies flu vaccine shortage amid complaints over delays
NHS denies flu vaccine shortage amid complaints over delays Patients outside of London say they have been unable to get jab due to short supplies
The NHS and healthcare bodies have sought to offer assurances that there are adequate supplies of the flu vaccine amid mounting unease among older people who have been unable to get the jab at surgeries and pharmacies outside of London.
Deliveries of this year’s adjuvanted trivalent vaccine (aTIV) – a new, more effective vaccine that has been recommended for patients aged over 65 – have been staggered because there is only one supplier. The Guardian
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The NHS and healthcare bodies have sought to offer assurances that there are adequate supplies of the flu vaccine amid mounting unease among older people who have been unable to get the jab at surgeries and pharmacies outside of London.
Deliveries of this year’s adjuvanted trivalent vaccine (aTIV) – a new, more effective vaccine that has been recommended for patients aged over 65 – have been staggered because there is only one supplier. The Guardian
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NHS £20bn boost risks being spent to pay off debts, experts warn
NHS £20bn boost risks being spent to pay off debts, experts warn PM urged to write off £12bn in hospital overspending or extra healthcare will be unaffordable
Theresa May is being urged to write off almost £12bn in overspending by hospitals or risk her £20bn NHS boost being spent on debt repayment rather than improving healthcare.
NHS experts are warning that promised expansions of cancer and mental healthcare will prove impossible because a large amount of the £20bn that the prime minister pledged this year will go to the NHS by 2023-24 will be used servicing historic debts. The Guardian
Theresa May is being urged to write off almost £12bn in overspending by hospitals or risk her £20bn NHS boost being spent on debt repayment rather than improving healthcare.
NHS experts are warning that promised expansions of cancer and mental healthcare will prove impossible because a large amount of the £20bn that the prime minister pledged this year will go to the NHS by 2023-24 will be used servicing historic debts. The Guardian
Record numbers of gambling addicts were hospitalised last year, new NHS figures reveal
Record numbers of gambling addicts were hospitalised last year, new NHS figures reveal Record numbers of gambling addicts were hospitalised in the NHS last year, figures reveal, amid calls for the £2 cap on stakes on fixed-odds betting terminals to be brought forward.
Data released for the first time reveals more than 100 people were admitted because their “pathological” gambling addiction was so severe they needed hospital treatment.
It represents a rise of 50 per cent in just a year, and is a dramatic increase from the handful treated in 2000 when the World Health Organisation (WHO) first recognised gambling disorder as a medical condition. The Daily Telegraph
Data released for the first time reveals more than 100 people were admitted because their “pathological” gambling addiction was so severe they needed hospital treatment.
It represents a rise of 50 per cent in just a year, and is a dramatic increase from the handful treated in 2000 when the World Health Organisation (WHO) first recognised gambling disorder as a medical condition. The Daily Telegraph
NHS IT blunder put 10,000 patients risk of wrong prescription
NHS IT blunder put 10,000 patients risk of wrong prescription More than 10,000 patients may have been given the wrong medication due to an IT blunder, an NHS investigation has warned.
Health chiefs have expressed “major” safety concerns after discovering the glitch, which has been disrupting prescriptions since 2010.
The failure, which was identified in August and affected up to 10,053 patients at 330 GP practices, meant repeat prescriptions that should have been cancelled continued to be provided. The Daily Telegraph
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Health chiefs have expressed “major” safety concerns after discovering the glitch, which has been disrupting prescriptions since 2010.
The failure, which was identified in August and affected up to 10,053 patients at 330 GP practices, meant repeat prescriptions that should have been cancelled continued to be provided. The Daily Telegraph
See also:
- IT defect results in thousands of prescription errors Health Service Journal
The eye-watering sums paid to interim NHS managers
The eye-watering sums paid to interim NHS managers NHS trusts regularly splurge six-figure sums on interim managers, according to figures.
The Health Service Journal found a number of cases where short and mid-term employees were rewarded with huge pay packets.
Annual report data from more than 200 NHS trusts were assessed - with shocking results.
Specifically, eleven highlighted cases alone totaled more than £1,500,000 for the 2017-18 period. The Daily Mail
The Health Service Journal found a number of cases where short and mid-term employees were rewarded with huge pay packets.
Annual report data from more than 200 NHS trusts were assessed - with shocking results.
Specifically, eleven highlighted cases alone totaled more than £1,500,000 for the 2017-18 period. The Daily Mail
Friday, 19 October 2018
Suicide prevention plan led by Northamptonshire County Council will 'hopefully save many lives'
Suicide prevention plan led by Northamptonshire County Council will 'hopefully save many lives' Northamptonshire County Council is heading up a group of countywide organisations to help prevent suicides in the area.
In 2016-17, there were 55 deaths recorded as suicide in Northamptonshire, with the rate in the county broadly mirroring the average in England, and around a third of people who die by suicide are known to mental health treatment services. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
In 2016-17, there were 55 deaths recorded as suicide in Northamptonshire, with the rate in the county broadly mirroring the average in England, and around a third of people who die by suicide are known to mental health treatment services. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Northampton General Hospital patients paid £1.2 million in parking charges last year
Northampton General Hospital patients paid £1.2 million in parking charges last year Northampton General Hospital raked in £1.2 million from parking charges paid by patients and visitors last year, it has been revealed.
The trust made a further £550,690 from charges and penalty fines incurred by NHS workers during the same period.
Patients’ rights campaigners the Patients Association has criticised the existence of parking charges for patients, describing them as “a charge on people who are unwell, levied on them because they are unwell.”
However, chief executive Rachel Power said they were a way for hospitals to generate revenue at a time when they are under “immense” financial pressure. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
The trust made a further £550,690 from charges and penalty fines incurred by NHS workers during the same period.
Patients’ rights campaigners the Patients Association has criticised the existence of parking charges for patients, describing them as “a charge on people who are unwell, levied on them because they are unwell.”
However, chief executive Rachel Power said they were a way for hospitals to generate revenue at a time when they are under “immense” financial pressure. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Council squeeze blocking progress on health and care integration
Council squeeze blocking progress on health and care integration There is widespread consensus that integration and joint working is the right way forward for the health and social care system to deliver the best and most effective outcomes for people and their families.
Government still lacks effective overall strategy or plan to achieve aim of integrating sectors. It should set out a costed 10-year plan for social care to go with its 10-year plan for the NHS. Public Accounts Committee
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Government still lacks effective overall strategy or plan to achieve aim of integrating sectors. It should set out a costed 10-year plan for social care to go with its 10-year plan for the NHS. Public Accounts Committee
See also:
- Interface between health and adult social care Public Accounts Committee
- Social care can’t wait for 2020 for government to reverse damaging healthcare cuts, MPs warn The Independent
The future of healthcare: our vision for digital, data and technology in health and care
The future of healthcare: our vision for digital, data and technology in health and care Outlines what is needed to enable the health and care system to make the best use of technology to support preventative, predictive and personalised care. Department of Health and Social Care
See also:
See also:
- Hancock sets out NHS tech vision Computer Weekly
- No new funding for Hancock’s NHS tech vision Computer Weekly
- Hancock’s new tech vision at odds with GDE playbook Digital Health
- NHS digitisation expected to cost up to £13bn – report Digital Health
- Hancock’s ‘tech revolution’ to include mandatory open standards Digital Health
- Brace yourself, Britain: Health minister shares 'vision' for NHS 'tech revolution' The Register
Care staffing in the NHS, the good, the bad and the promising
Care staffing in the NHS, the good, the bad and the promising The NHS is the biggest employer in England and the fifth biggest in the world. But it is struggling to recruit enough nurses and care staff.
In 2018, BPP approached 220 NHS trusts in England - of which 89% responded as part of this report. While it is clear that NHS trusts are having to deal with budgetary pressures and a skills shortage which may be exacerbated by Brexit, they are also facing significant changes to their traditional training models. This includes factors such as cuts to bursaries and the declining numbers of those applying for nursing degrees.
This report gives an insight into nursing and HCA numbers. This includes data on gender, regions and how staff numbers vary by type of trust. BPP University School of Nursing
See also:
In 2018, BPP approached 220 NHS trusts in England - of which 89% responded as part of this report. While it is clear that NHS trusts are having to deal with budgetary pressures and a skills shortage which may be exacerbated by Brexit, they are also facing significant changes to their traditional training models. This includes factors such as cuts to bursaries and the declining numbers of those applying for nursing degrees.
This report gives an insight into nursing and HCA numbers. This includes data on gender, regions and how staff numbers vary by type of trust. BPP University School of Nursing
See also:
- Hospitals 'plugging' shortages of nurses by using cheaper workers, experts fear The Daily Telegraph
Committee shocked by low uptake of flu vaccine
Committee shocked by low uptake of flu vaccine The Science and Technology Committee publishes its report on the flu vaccination programme in England.
The House of Commons Science and Technology Committee was shocked by survey results which showed that the flu vaccination uptake in social care settings was at best around 25%.
The Committee was prompted to undertake this inquiry as a result of the high disease burden of flu in 2017/18, high hospitalisation rates and discussions on the variable uptake of the flu vaccination.
In March 2018 the Committee held a one-off oral evidence session on the flu vaccination programme and heard from Public Health England, NHS England, the Deputy Chief Medical Officer for England and others.
See also:
The House of Commons Science and Technology Committee was shocked by survey results which showed that the flu vaccination uptake in social care settings was at best around 25%.
The Committee was prompted to undertake this inquiry as a result of the high disease burden of flu in 2017/18, high hospitalisation rates and discussions on the variable uptake of the flu vaccination.
In March 2018 the Committee held a one-off oral evidence session on the flu vaccination programme and heard from Public Health England, NHS England, the Deputy Chief Medical Officer for England and others.
See also:
NHS 'could have prevented' road rage death
NHS 'could have prevented' road rage death An NHS trust could have prevented the killing of a man who was stabbed to death by a mental health patient, a report has found.
Matthew Daley, 35, killed Donald Lock on the A24 in Findon, near Worthing, in 2015 after the 79-year-old ran into the back of Daley's vehicle.
In the report, NHS England said Daley did not receive proper treatment for his psychotic behaviour.
Sussex Partnership NHS Trust apologised and admitted it "got things wrong". BBC News
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Matthew Daley, 35, killed Donald Lock on the A24 in Findon, near Worthing, in 2015 after the 79-year-old ran into the back of Daley's vehicle.
In the report, NHS England said Daley did not receive proper treatment for his psychotic behaviour.
Sussex Partnership NHS Trust apologised and admitted it "got things wrong". BBC News
See also:
Doctors 'need to start early conversation with patients about dying'
Doctors 'need to start early conversation with patients about dying' Doctors need to get better at having difficult conversations with dying patients and not just in their final days, according to a report from the Royal College of Physicians.
It says doctors should talk to people who could die within 12 months, who may be frail or terminally ill, and give them choices over their future care.
But the report says that rarely happens and doctors should be more proactive. BBC News
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It says doctors should talk to people who could die within 12 months, who may be frail or terminally ill, and give them choices over their future care.
But the report says that rarely happens and doctors should be more proactive. BBC News
See also:
- New report asks why doctors find it so hard to talk to patients about dying Royal College of Physicians
- Doctors are told to 'talk to terminally ill patients about death' The Daily Mail
Wakefield's Pinderfields Hospital smokers shamed via loudspeaker
Wakefield's Pinderfields Hospital smokers shamed via loudspeaker People who ignore 'no smoking' signs by the doors of a Wakefield hospital are being shamed through a loudspeaker.
Staff, visitors and patients can activate the pre-recorded messages, which are then played through a speaker outside Pinderfields Hospital. BBC News
Staff, visitors and patients can activate the pre-recorded messages, which are then played through a speaker outside Pinderfields Hospital. BBC News
EpiPen shortage: Chemists told to quiz parents on children's need
EpiPen shortage: Chemists told to quiz parents on children's need Chemists have been told by the NHS to check whether young children are in urgent need of adrenaline pens before dispensing the devices.
Pharmacists must ask parents and carers how many auto-adrenaline injectors they have before deciding how many to give.
Only children who have no pens - including expired but usable devices - should get the standard prescription of two pens, the guidance says.
It follows a shortage of EpiPens, the adrenaline pen most often prescribed. BBC News
Pharmacists must ask parents and carers how many auto-adrenaline injectors they have before deciding how many to give.
Only children who have no pens - including expired but usable devices - should get the standard prescription of two pens, the guidance says.
It follows a shortage of EpiPens, the adrenaline pen most often prescribed. BBC News
NHS warned of 'crippling' PFI charges over the next decade
NHS warned of 'crippling' PFI charges over the next decade The NHS has been warned of “crippling” cost pressures from its PFI contracts over the next decade, when aggregate repayments on the deals will reach their peak.
The warning has been issued in new research which explores various policy changes to ease the pressures, while concerns have also been raised by a former chief executive of NHS Improvement.
Analysis by the Centre for Health and the Public Interest found the annual “unitary payments” on private finance initiative contracts held by all government departments peaked at around £10.5bn in 2017-18. Health Service Journal
The warning has been issued in new research which explores various policy changes to ease the pressures, while concerns have also been raised by a former chief executive of NHS Improvement.
Analysis by the Centre for Health and the Public Interest found the annual “unitary payments” on private finance initiative contracts held by all government departments peaked at around £10.5bn in 2017-18. Health Service Journal
Breakthrough cancer and depression treatments just months away from approval could be delayed by Brexit
Breakthrough cancer and depression treatments just months away from approval could be delayed by Brexit Scores of drugs just months away from approval for use by British patients – including breakthrough treatments for depression and cancer – could be delayed indefinitely by Brexit, The Independent can reveal.
Manufacturers who have pending European licences have been told they will have to reapply to the UK’s medicines watchdog if their products have not been approved at the time of Brexit unless a deal is struck on drugs regulation.
Manufacturers who have pending European licences have been told they will have to reapply to the UK’s medicines watchdog if their products have not been approved at the time of Brexit unless a deal is struck on drugs regulation.
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