Monday, 31 December 2018
Sexual health services and the importance of prevention
Sexual health services and the importance of prevention Rhetoric about prioritising prevention is not new. There is solid evidence that it delivers a good return on investment in the long-run. But moving beyond rhetoric is challenging for a system whose gravitational pull is towards treating people in hospital. Despite being one of the new Secretary of State’s three key priorities, if you follow the money then prevention still lags way behind cure. The King's Fund
Are parts of England 'left behind' by the NHS?
Are parts of England 'left behind' by the NHS? With a number of factors driving worse health outcomes in poorer areas of England, Mark Dayan looks at whether the NHS is also leaving certain areas behind. Nuffield Trust
Matt Hancock: shake-up of GP IT will remove outdated systems
Matt Hancock: shake-up of GP IT will remove outdated systems The GP IT Futures framework will create an open, competitive market to encourage the best technology companies to invest in the NHS. All systems will be required to meet minimum standards to ensure they can talk to each other across boundaries.
The current market is dominated by 2 main providers, which slows down innovation and traps GP practices in long-term contracts with systems that are not suited to the digital age.
The framework will look at how patient data will be moved to modern cloud services to allow clinicians and patients to securely access crucial, life-saving information in real time. Department of Health and Social care
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The current market is dominated by 2 main providers, which slows down innovation and traps GP practices in long-term contracts with systems that are not suited to the digital age.
The framework will look at how patient data will be moved to modern cloud services to allow clinicians and patients to securely access crucial, life-saving information in real time. Department of Health and Social care
See also:
- Every patient should be able to Skype their GP The Daily Mail
- Virtual GPs may not be available to all till 2024, under Government plan The Daily Telegraph
- Full patient records to be available online under NHS IT shake-up The Guardian
Tens of thousands of patients failing to turn up for surgery
Tens of thousands of patients failing to turn up for surgery Tens of thousands of patients every year are not bothering to attend surgery in hospital leaving NHS trusts counting the cost of no shows, an iNews investigation can reveal.
Freedom of Information (FoI) requests to all 135 acute non-specialist trusts in England, Scotland’s 14 NHS boards, the seven NHS boards in Wales and five health and social care trusts in Northern Ireland reveal more than 200,000 patients failed to turn up for elective day surgery over the last three years.
The appointments – typically for exploratory or minor procedures as well as biopsies and organ removal – can involve several members of staff, including consultants, and take up theatre time with a cost of between £1,400 and £1,500 an hour according to trusts.
Freedom of Information (FoI) requests to all 135 acute non-specialist trusts in England, Scotland’s 14 NHS boards, the seven NHS boards in Wales and five health and social care trusts in Northern Ireland reveal more than 200,000 patients failed to turn up for elective day surgery over the last three years.
The appointments – typically for exploratory or minor procedures as well as biopsies and organ removal – can involve several members of staff, including consultants, and take up theatre time with a cost of between £1,400 and £1,500 an hour according to trusts.
Minority take up 'live-saving' free health check
Minority take up 'live-saving' free health check Fewer than half of people eligible for a NHS health check in England have taken up the offer, despite it being free to everyone over 40.
The routine check can pick up heart problems early and help to prevent dementia, plus highlight the need to stop smoking, NHS England said.
The check-up takes 20 minutes and is carried out by a GP or nurse.
It involves tests on blood pressure, weight and height, and is offered every five years up to the age of 74.
Around 7.15 million people have had a free health check since 2013, yet 15 million are eligible, NHS stats show. BBC News
The routine check can pick up heart problems early and help to prevent dementia, plus highlight the need to stop smoking, NHS England said.
The check-up takes 20 minutes and is carried out by a GP or nurse.
It involves tests on blood pressure, weight and height, and is offered every five years up to the age of 74.
Around 7.15 million people have had a free health check since 2013, yet 15 million are eligible, NHS stats show. BBC News
‘Taxing the sick’: Hospitals making millions from parking charges as investigation reveals almost half of NHS trusts have increased prices
‘Taxing the sick’: Hospitals making millions from parking charges as investigation reveals almost half of NHS trusts have increased prices More than four in 10 NHS hospitals have increased their prices for car parking in the last year, an investigation has found.
Some NHS trusts have doubled the cost of a stay for patients and visitors.
Freedom of Information data analysed by the Press Association shows that hospitals in England are making more money than ever from charging visitors, staff and patients.
Some 124 NHS trusts responded to the request for data on parking charges.
Of these, 53 (43 per cent) said they had increased prices in the last year for visitors or staff, or both. The Independent
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Some NHS trusts have doubled the cost of a stay for patients and visitors.
Freedom of Information data analysed by the Press Association shows that hospitals in England are making more money than ever from charging visitors, staff and patients.
Some 124 NHS trusts responded to the request for data on parking charges.
Of these, 53 (43 per cent) said they had increased prices in the last year for visitors or staff, or both. The Independent
See also:
- Parking fees rise at many hospitals in 2017-18, analysis finds BBC News
- Parking firm urged to stop pursuing staff at Glasgow hospital BBC News
- Almost half of hospitals RAISE parking fees despite promises of a crackdown The Daily Mail
- Hospitals accused of putting a 'tax on the sick' as some double parking fees The Daily Telegraph
- Hospitals making hundreds of millions from parking charges The Guardian
- It is time to finally end the NHS parking stealth tax The Independent
More nurses, better care – Tories’ 10-year pledge on maternity services
More nurses, better care – Tories’ 10-year pledge on maternity services The health secretary says he wants Britain to be ‘the best place to give birth’ as he announces new plan
Ministers are to order an expansion of staff in maternity services and more recruitment of expert neonatal nurses and specialists in the hope of making the NHS “the best place in the world to give birth”, the health secretary Matt Hancock will say on Sunday.
The proposals will be contained in the government’s new 10-year plan for the NHS, expected to be published in the second week of January. Maternity services in England will undergo a digital revolution which will see every child’s health record – the so-called “red book” – made available on a parent’s phone.
We will ensure every expectant mother is supported: from pregnancy, to birth, to the critical first months of parenthood. The Guardian
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Ministers are to order an expansion of staff in maternity services and more recruitment of expert neonatal nurses and specialists in the hope of making the NHS “the best place in the world to give birth”, the health secretary Matt Hancock will say on Sunday.
The proposals will be contained in the government’s new 10-year plan for the NHS, expected to be published in the second week of January. Maternity services in England will undergo a digital revolution which will see every child’s health record – the so-called “red book” – made available on a parent’s phone.
We will ensure every expectant mother is supported: from pregnancy, to birth, to the critical first months of parenthood. The Guardian
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Lack of NHS mental health services puts under-18s at risk, say GPs
Lack of NHS mental health services puts under-18s at risk, say GPs Survey shows young people struggle to access treatment and face long delays
Nearly all GPs worry that young people with mental health problems will come to harm because of difficulties in accessing treatment on the NHS, according to a survey.
The poll of UK family doctors found that 99% said they feared that under-18s would come to harm as a direct result of facing long delays to see a specialist and vital care being rationed.
78% of GPs are worried that too few of their young patients can get treatment for mental ill-health.
86% have seen a rise in the last two years in the number of 11- to 18-year-olds with anxiety.
88% say it is impossible or very difficult for young people to get help with anxiety. The Guardian
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Nearly all GPs worry that young people with mental health problems will come to harm because of difficulties in accessing treatment on the NHS, according to a survey.
The poll of UK family doctors found that 99% said they feared that under-18s would come to harm as a direct result of facing long delays to see a specialist and vital care being rationed.
78% of GPs are worried that too few of their young patients can get treatment for mental ill-health.
86% have seen a rise in the last two years in the number of 11- to 18-year-olds with anxiety.
88% say it is impossible or very difficult for young people to get help with anxiety. The Guardian
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More than 240,000 NHS workers abandon 'gold-plated' pension plan
More than 240,000 NHS workers abandon 'gold-plated' pension plan NHS workers are abandoning their generous gold-plated pensions in droves, despite warnings they could face poverty in retirement.
Concerns have been raised over an "epidemic" of workers opting out of the NHS pension scheme after nearly 250,000 staff withdrew from the scheme in the past three years.
Workers who opt out could be giving up pensions worth around nine times what they save, Royal London hospital warned last night. The Daily Telegraph
Concerns have been raised over an "epidemic" of workers opting out of the NHS pension scheme after nearly 250,000 staff withdrew from the scheme in the past three years.
Workers who opt out could be giving up pensions worth around nine times what they save, Royal London hospital warned last night. The Daily Telegraph
Children's hospices to receive funding boost under NHS plans
Children's hospices to receive funding boost under NHS plans Health officials will increase funding for children’s hospices to up to £25 million a year, the head of the NHS has announced
Simon Stevens said care of terminally ill children was a top priority for the NHS, as he promised an expansion of services which mean help can be provided close to home.
Mr Stevens said: “Looking after a child at the end of their life is the hardest thing a parent or carer will ever do, and it is vital they have somewhere to turn for help if they need it.
“Providing help and support to families when they need it most is a top priority for the NHS which is why ensuring specialised, personalised care close to home will be part of the NHS long term plan.” The Daily Telegraph
Simon Stevens said care of terminally ill children was a top priority for the NHS, as he promised an expansion of services which mean help can be provided close to home.
Mr Stevens said: “Looking after a child at the end of their life is the hardest thing a parent or carer will ever do, and it is vital they have somewhere to turn for help if they need it.
“Providing help and support to families when they need it most is a top priority for the NHS which is why ensuring specialised, personalised care close to home will be part of the NHS long term plan.” The Daily Telegraph
Don't be so British, urges new suicide prevention minister, as she calls for more openness about mental health
Don't be so British, urges new suicide prevention minister, as she calls for more openness about mental health “Hindsight is a wonderful thing,” says Jackie Doyle-Price, as she recalls the reaction to her appointment as Britain’s first minister for suicide prevention, just over two months ago.
She was swiftly reminded of a joke made four years before, when she said she “would sooner jump off Beachy Head” than join UKIP.
Having been appointed by Theresa May to tackle the stigma surrounding mental health problems, the unearthing of comments about Britain’s best known suicide spot made for a bumpy start.
Reflecting back, she says: “As I’m suicide prevention minister it clearly wasn't the best turn of phrase to use, we do need to be sensitive to language - but equally we shouldn’t let suicide become taboo.” The Daily Telegraph
She was swiftly reminded of a joke made four years before, when she said she “would sooner jump off Beachy Head” than join UKIP.
Having been appointed by Theresa May to tackle the stigma surrounding mental health problems, the unearthing of comments about Britain’s best known suicide spot made for a bumpy start.
Reflecting back, she says: “As I’m suicide prevention minister it clearly wasn't the best turn of phrase to use, we do need to be sensitive to language - but equally we shouldn’t let suicide become taboo.” The Daily Telegraph
People are shying away from donating their eyes because of the 'yuck factor', NHS warns
People are shying away from donating their eyes because of the 'yuck factor', NHS warns People are shying away from donating their eyes because of the 'yuck factor', the NHS has warned amid a shortage.
One in 10 organ donors opts out of donating their eyes, data from NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT) revealed - despite them being willing to donate their hearts, livers and kidneys.
As well as being too squeamish, families often refuse to consent to their loved ones' eyes being taken. The Daily Mail
One in 10 organ donors opts out of donating their eyes, data from NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT) revealed - despite them being willing to donate their hearts, livers and kidneys.
As well as being too squeamish, families often refuse to consent to their loved ones' eyes being taken. The Daily Mail
Monday, 24 December 2018
Happy Christmas to all our readers
Wishing all of our readers a very happy Christmas and a peaceful and prosperous new year.
Northamptonshire pharmacies experiencing unprecedented medicine supply problems
Northamptonshire pharmacies experiencing unprecedented medicine supply problems Pharmacies are having to beg and borrow medicines to supply customers as stocks of lots of popular medicines are running low and patients are having to be turned away.
Pharmacists in Northamptonshire with decades of experience say this is the worst situation they have ever known as they are having to spend hours each day trying to track down medicines from wholesalers or direct from the manufacturers. Northamptonshire Telegraph
Pharmacists in Northamptonshire with decades of experience say this is the worst situation they have ever known as they are having to spend hours each day trying to track down medicines from wholesalers or direct from the manufacturers. Northamptonshire Telegraph
New data shows ovarian cancer often spotted too late for treatment
New data shows ovarian cancer often spotted too late for treatment Target Ovarian Cancer has found that as many as one in every five women (20 per cent) in England is too ill to treat by the time they receive their ovarian cancer diagnosis, according to data released this week.
Just weeks of living with the disease undiagnosed can make the difference in determining whether a woman is well enough to be able to undergo treatment. As a result, delays in diagnosis, which are common in ovarian cancer, can leave too many women reaching hospital cancer specialists when it’s too late.
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Just weeks of living with the disease undiagnosed can make the difference in determining whether a woman is well enough to be able to undergo treatment. As a result, delays in diagnosis, which are common in ovarian cancer, can leave too many women reaching hospital cancer specialists when it’s too late.
See also:
- Data briefing on ovarian cancer Target Ovarian Cancer
- One in five women diagnosed with ovarian cancer too late for treatment, new research shows The Daily Telegraph
Spinal surgery for unborn babies to be available on NHS
Spinal surgery for unborn babies to be available on NHS Spinal surgery for unborn babies with the birth defect spina bifida is to be made routinely available on the NHS in England, officials have announced.
The surgery involves repairing the spinal tissue of the baby while it is still in the womb.
It can improve their ability to walk and reduce health problems that result from spina bifida.
The procedure is among several treatments being made available on the NHS for the first time from April. BBC News
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The surgery involves repairing the spinal tissue of the baby while it is still in the womb.
It can improve their ability to walk and reduce health problems that result from spina bifida.
The procedure is among several treatments being made available on the NHS for the first time from April. BBC News
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- Spinal surgery for babies in the womb on the NHS NHS England
Killer diseases could be missed by overstressed doctors in busy winter months, senior GP warns
Killer diseases could be missed by overstressed doctors in busy winter months, senior GP warns Warning signs of potentially deadly illnesses could be missed during the winter rush as overstretched GPs deal with 100 patients a day, the chair of the Royal College of General Practitioners has warned.
Pressures from seasonal ailments and people trying to get appointments before the holidays mean many GPs are left fretting at the end of the day about whether they might have missed something.
“It’s incredibly stressful,” said the Royal College of General Practitioners (RCGP) chair Professor Helen Stokes-Lampard after warning that in recent weeks she had dealt with more than 100 patients in a day, including phone consultations and emails. The Independent
Pressures from seasonal ailments and people trying to get appointments before the holidays mean many GPs are left fretting at the end of the day about whether they might have missed something.
“It’s incredibly stressful,” said the Royal College of General Practitioners (RCGP) chair Professor Helen Stokes-Lampard after warning that in recent weeks she had dealt with more than 100 patients in a day, including phone consultations and emails. The Independent
UK to tackle loneliness crisis with £11.5m cash injection
UK to tackle loneliness crisis with £11.5m cash injection More than 120 projects will receive funding to help those affected and reduce stigma
A coffee caravan in rural Suffolk, furniture restoration projects for men and organised rambles for the recently bereaved are among more than a hundred initiatives being backed with a £11.5m fund to tackle Britain’s epidemic of loneliness.
One hundred and twenty-six projects have been chosen to receive up to £100,000 each in the first ever government-backed fund to tackle a problem that the prime minister, Theresa May, described as “incredibly damaging to our humanity” when she launched a national loneliness strategy in October. The Guardian
A coffee caravan in rural Suffolk, furniture restoration projects for men and organised rambles for the recently bereaved are among more than a hundred initiatives being backed with a £11.5m fund to tackle Britain’s epidemic of loneliness.
One hundred and twenty-six projects have been chosen to receive up to £100,000 each in the first ever government-backed fund to tackle a problem that the prime minister, Theresa May, described as “incredibly damaging to our humanity” when she launched a national loneliness strategy in October. The Guardian
NHS troubleshooting team set up for no-deal Brexit disruption
NHS troubleshooting team set up for no-deal Brexit disruption Staff of 10 started work this month and could be expanded to hundreds
The government has set up a team of troubleshooters to tackle problems in the NHS in the event of a no-deal Brexit, including drug shortages and the loss of key staff.
Ministers have admitted there will be disruption in the NHS if Britain leaves the EU on 29 March without a deal, and the team’s job will be to try to minimise that. The Guardian
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The government has set up a team of troubleshooters to tackle problems in the NHS in the event of a no-deal Brexit, including drug shortages and the loss of key staff.
Ministers have admitted there will be disruption in the NHS if Britain leaves the EU on 29 March without a deal, and the team’s job will be to try to minimise that. The Guardian
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Midwife claims she could lose job after NHS bosses warned her over her red hair
Midwife claims she could lose job after NHS bosses warned her over her red hair A midwife claims she could be dismissed over her red hair after NHS bosses warned her it breached the hospital's new uniform policy.
Donna Crichton, 53, from Sleaford, Lincs, said she was warned she faces possible disciplinary action by the United Lincolnshire Hospitals Trust (ULHT) as a result of changing her hair colouring despite using dye products since 2004.
Ms Crichton, who has been employed as a midwife for more than 30 years, has not worked at Lincoln County Hospital since June when she was allegedly sent home by senior staff. The Daily Telegraph
Donna Crichton, 53, from Sleaford, Lincs, said she was warned she faces possible disciplinary action by the United Lincolnshire Hospitals Trust (ULHT) as a result of changing her hair colouring despite using dye products since 2004.
Ms Crichton, who has been employed as a midwife for more than 30 years, has not worked at Lincoln County Hospital since June when she was allegedly sent home by senior staff. The Daily Telegraph
More than 4,000 people to spend festive period in hospital unnecessarily because of 'bed blocking'
More than 4,000 people to spend festive period in hospital unnecessarily because of 'bed blocking' Almost 5,000 NHS patients will spend the festive period in hospital unnecessarily because of delays in arranging out-patient treatment or social care for them, new projections show.
At a time when the health service is likely to come under pressure because of cold weather, more than three per cent of the total NHS beds in England will be unavailable because of bed-blocking.
It comes after the Government announced further delays to its social care plan because of the amount of parliamentary time needed for Brexit. The Daily Telegraph
At a time when the health service is likely to come under pressure because of cold weather, more than three per cent of the total NHS beds in England will be unavailable because of bed-blocking.
It comes after the Government announced further delays to its social care plan because of the amount of parliamentary time needed for Brexit. The Daily Telegraph
Breast cancer screening falls to a record low in England
Breast cancer screening falls to a record low in England The proportion of women undergoing routine breast screening is at a record low, damning figures revealed today.
Only 70.5 per cent of women invited for the NHS tests in England accepted the offer last year, with almost 800,000 turning it down.
This means fewer women are having the life-saving scans than at any point since the current screening programme for 50 to 70 year olds began in 2007.
The figure is also only just above the NHS's minimum standard of 70 per cent, with recent trends suggesting it could fall below standard for the first time next year. The Daily Mail
Only 70.5 per cent of women invited for the NHS tests in England accepted the offer last year, with almost 800,000 turning it down.
This means fewer women are having the life-saving scans than at any point since the current screening programme for 50 to 70 year olds began in 2007.
The figure is also only just above the NHS's minimum standard of 70 per cent, with recent trends suggesting it could fall below standard for the first time next year. The Daily Mail
Friday, 21 December 2018
Nurse at Northampton hospital sacked after giving double dose of medication to vulnerable patient
Nurse at Northampton hospital sacked after giving double dose of medication to vulnerable patient A mental health nurse gave twice the amount of a sleeping pill to a Northampton patient.
Gloria Spraggett was working at Meadow Ward of St Andrew's Hospital in September 2017 when she performed a night medicine round that included 'Patient B'.
Despite a doctor reducing her sleeping pill dose from 7.5mg to 3.75mg the day before, Mrs Spraggett gave her the previous amount. She did the same thing the following night, both times falsely recording in the patient's electronic medical notes that the proper amount had been administered.
After an investigation, she was sacked and referred to the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) for a tribunal hearing. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Gloria Spraggett was working at Meadow Ward of St Andrew's Hospital in September 2017 when she performed a night medicine round that included 'Patient B'.
Despite a doctor reducing her sleeping pill dose from 7.5mg to 3.75mg the day before, Mrs Spraggett gave her the previous amount. She did the same thing the following night, both times falsely recording in the patient's electronic medical notes that the proper amount had been administered.
After an investigation, she was sacked and referred to the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) for a tribunal hearing. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Mental health funding squeeze has lengthened waiting times, say NHS finance leads
Mental health funding squeeze has lengthened waiting times, say NHS finance leads Eight out of ten NHS trust finance directors say that funding pressures have led to longer waiting times for people who need mental health treatment, according to The King’s Fund’s latest quarterly monitoring report.
New analysis for the report also shows that despite NHS England meeting its commitment to increase its investment in mental health, nearly a quarter of mental health trusts recorded a reduction in income between 2016/17 and 2017/18. An analysis of mental health trusts’ financial accounts carried out for the report found that, while mental health trusts as a whole reported an overall increase in funding, 21 per cent recorded a reduction in income last year, up from 13 per cent the previous year. The King's Fund
New analysis for the report also shows that despite NHS England meeting its commitment to increase its investment in mental health, nearly a quarter of mental health trusts recorded a reduction in income between 2016/17 and 2017/18. An analysis of mental health trusts’ financial accounts carried out for the report found that, while mental health trusts as a whole reported an overall increase in funding, 21 per cent recorded a reduction in income last year, up from 13 per cent the previous year. The King's Fund
Chief Medical Officer annual report 2018: better health within reach
Chief Medical Officer annual report 2018: better health within reach Professor Dame Sally Davies's tenth report as Chief Medical Officer considers what the state of the public’s health in England in 2040 could look like.
The report concludes that there are reasons to be optimistic but that greater effort to improve the health environment is required – it should be easier to take the healthy option.Department of Health and Social Care
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The report concludes that there are reasons to be optimistic but that greater effort to improve the health environment is required – it should be easier to take the healthy option.Department of Health and Social Care
See also:
- Tax junk food high in sugar and salt, says top doctor BBC News
- Britain's top doctor calls for new taxes on salt and sugar The Daily Mail
- Call me chief nanny if you want, says top doctor as she calls for slew of taxes on chocolate, crisps and sweets The Daily Telegraph
- Chief medic calls for food taxes to cut salt and sugar intake The Guardian
- Crisps and chocolates should be taxed to pay for harm to NHS and public, says England's top doctor The Independent
Government 'Sneaks Out' £85m Cut To Public Health On Last Day Before Parliamentary Recess
Government 'Sneaks Out' £85m Cut To Public Health On Last Day Before Parliamentary Recess Funding for public health services like sexual health clinics and mother and baby support has been cut by £85m in an announcement “sneaked out” by ministers on the last day of the parliamentary term.
The slashing of grants for councils will affect community and prevention services also including ‘stop smoking’ clinics, schemes to tackle obesity, and drug and alcohol misuse services for children and young people.
The grants are being cut by nearly £2 per person to £3.134bn - a 3.3% fall - in just one year, health minister Steve Brine confirmed on Thursday. Huffington Post UK
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The slashing of grants for councils will affect community and prevention services also including ‘stop smoking’ clinics, schemes to tackle obesity, and drug and alcohol misuse services for children and young people.
The grants are being cut by nearly £2 per person to £3.134bn - a 3.3% fall - in just one year, health minister Steve Brine confirmed on Thursday. Huffington Post UK
See also:
- 2019-20 Ring-fenced Public Health Grant to Local Authorities :Written statement UK Parliament
- Public health grants to local authorities: 2019 to 2020 Department of Health and Social Care
- Cuts to public health are “unnecessary, undesirable and unacceptable” The Association of Directors of Public Health
- New reductions to the public health grant will heap more pressure on local authorities The Health Foundation
- Councils respond to cut in public health grants allocation Local Government Association
Have waits for GP appointments got longer?
Have waits for GP appointments got longer? Members of the BBC NHS Health Check Facebook group report waits of three weeks or more are common.
Lisa Johns said: "Ours book five weeks ahead. For the last three weeks, I've been trying to book a standard appointment and can't get one, as they go in seconds."
Another member posted: "I booked a non-urgent appointment with my GP last week.... for 22 January 2019."
Their experiences are backed up by statistics. BBC News
Lisa Johns said: "Ours book five weeks ahead. For the last three weeks, I've been trying to book a standard appointment and can't get one, as they go in seconds."
Another member posted: "I booked a non-urgent appointment with my GP last week.... for 22 January 2019."
Their experiences are backed up by statistics. BBC News
Pharmacy chain leaks personal details of 24,000 workers
Pharmacy chain leaks personal details of 24,000 workers A major pharmacy chain has apologised after admitting sensitive employee information was leaked.
The details of more than 24,000 staff and locum workers employed by the Manchester-based Well Pharmacy group were accidentally included in an email.
The leaked data included names, addresses, phone and payroll numbers and email addresses.
The company has stressed that no patient information formed part of the data. BBC News
The details of more than 24,000 staff and locum workers employed by the Manchester-based Well Pharmacy group were accidentally included in an email.
The leaked data included names, addresses, phone and payroll numbers and email addresses.
The company has stressed that no patient information formed part of the data. BBC News
'Extreme concern' for NHS staffing crisis over 'unrealistic' immigration white paper threshold
'Extreme concern' for NHS staffing crisis over 'unrealistic' immigration white paper threshold NHS leaders have spoken out against the new immigration laws over fears that the NHS’s staffing problems will descend into crisis following the announcement of a new white paper.
Home secretary Sajid Javid announced the new post-Brexit immigration rules which will see tens of thousands of low-skilled immigrants potentially come into the UK to work for up to a year.
But the announcement attracted criticism from NHS Providers and NHS Employers due to its minimum salary requirement of £30,000 for all migrants, including those from the EU, for new five-year working visas – which they argue will affect low-skilled migration. National Health Executive
Home secretary Sajid Javid announced the new post-Brexit immigration rules which will see tens of thousands of low-skilled immigrants potentially come into the UK to work for up to a year.
But the announcement attracted criticism from NHS Providers and NHS Employers due to its minimum salary requirement of £30,000 for all migrants, including those from the EU, for new five-year working visas – which they argue will affect low-skilled migration. National Health Executive
Nearly 600 homeless people died last year, figures show
Nearly 600 homeless people died last year, figures show Nearly 600 homeless people died last year in England and Wales, according to government figures published for the first time.
The figure marks a 24 per cent increase over the last five years, according to the data.
Only two days ago, a homeless man was found collapsed yards from parliament. He later died in hospital, prompting claims ministers were ignoring the growing problem of street homelessness on their doorstep.
Another homeless man died in the same place during a freezing cold night in February.
The latest figures, collated by the Office for National Statistics (ONS), show more than half of all deaths of homeless people in 2017 were due to drug poisoning, liver disease or suicide. The Independent
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The figure marks a 24 per cent increase over the last five years, according to the data.
Only two days ago, a homeless man was found collapsed yards from parliament. He later died in hospital, prompting claims ministers were ignoring the growing problem of street homelessness on their doorstep.
Another homeless man died in the same place during a freezing cold night in February.
The latest figures, collated by the Office for National Statistics (ONS), show more than half of all deaths of homeless people in 2017 were due to drug poisoning, liver disease or suicide. The Independent
See also:
- Deaths of homeless people in England and Wales: 2013 to 2017 Office for National Statistics
NHS England puts up £300,000 for Christmas 'drunk tanks'
NHS England puts up £300,000 for Christmas 'drunk tanks' Initiative aims to take pressure off A&E and will be run by local groups and the health service
The NHS is paying for a big expansion of “drunk tanks” to stop A&E units and ambulance crews being overwhelmed by intoxicated people over the festive season.
NHS England is putting up to £300,000 into creating units where those who have drunk too much can undergo medical checks without having to be taken to hospital. The Guardian
The NHS is paying for a big expansion of “drunk tanks” to stop A&E units and ambulance crews being overwhelmed by intoxicated people over the festive season.
NHS England is putting up to £300,000 into creating units where those who have drunk too much can undergo medical checks without having to be taken to hospital. The Guardian
Medical colleges criticise charging migrants upfront for NHS care
Medical colleges criticise charging migrants upfront for NHS care Representatives of more than 70,000 doctors have urged ministers to suspend regulations that force hospitals to charge overseas visitors upfront for NHS care.
Three royal medical colleges and one faculty say the charging regime is harming people’s health by deterring them from seeking NHS help when they fall ill. Payments in advance are “a concerning barrier to care”, they say.
They have voiced particular concern about pregnant women being denied care and children missing out on treatment for life or death illnesses. The Guardian
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Three royal medical colleges and one faculty say the charging regime is harming people’s health by deterring them from seeking NHS help when they fall ill. Payments in advance are “a concerning barrier to care”, they say.
They have voiced particular concern about pregnant women being denied care and children missing out on treatment for life or death illnesses. The Guardian
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- Royal colleges call for suspension of NHS overseas visitor charges pending review Royal College of Physicians
Nearly all hospitals are 'dangerously' busy, experts warn
Nearly all hospitals are 'dangerously' busy, experts warn The NHS is under crippling pressure heading into the Christmas period with nearly all hospitals 'dangerously' busy, experts have warned.
Despite improved performance from the first week of winter, there is still 'massive stress' on the NHS and the situation is expected to worsen.
The Labour Party, Royal College of Nursing and the Society for Acute Medicine all voiced concerns after seeing NHS statistics for last week.
All but three English hospitals have more beds full than is safe, and 20,032 people waited in an ambulance for more than half an hour in the past fortnight. The Daily Mail
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Despite improved performance from the first week of winter, there is still 'massive stress' on the NHS and the situation is expected to worsen.
The Labour Party, Royal College of Nursing and the Society for Acute Medicine all voiced concerns after seeing NHS statistics for last week.
All but three English hospitals have more beds full than is safe, and 20,032 people waited in an ambulance for more than half an hour in the past fortnight. The Daily Mail
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- NHS data shows “massive stress” on system Society for Acute Medicine
NHS needs an army of volunteers to cope with the burden of the UK's rising elderly population
NHS needs an army of volunteers to cope with the burden of the UK's rising elderly population The president of the Royal College of Physicians Professor Andrew Goddard said that it is an ‘inescapable truth’ that the NHS will increasingly require more help as the population ages. The Daily Mail
No country in Europe is hitting crucial flu vaccination targets among older people, report reveals
No country in Europe is hitting crucial flu vaccination targets among older people, report reveals Countries in Europe have been urged to ensure more older people receive their annual flu jabs.
Experts recommend at least 75 per cent of people in vulnerable groups, including over-65s, receive the seasonal jab.
But none of 22 countries included in a report by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) reached the recommended level last year. The Daily Mail
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Experts recommend at least 75 per cent of people in vulnerable groups, including over-65s, receive the seasonal jab.
But none of 22 countries included in a report by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) reached the recommended level last year. The Daily Mail
See also:
- Seasonal influenza vaccination and antiviral use in EU/EEA Member States European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control
Thursday, 20 December 2018
Emergency contract for new end-of-life carer service in Corby after provider hits trouble
Emergency contract for new end-of-life carer service in Corby after provider hits trouble A new end-of-life care provider has had to be brought in to deliver services in the Corby area after its contracted provider hit financial difficulties.
Long-established palliative care provider Marie Curie will now provide the service for the NHS Corby Clinical Commissioning Group after Allied Healthcare, which ran the service under its Primecare company, gave notice in November with the service ending on December 14.
The CCG said it had treated the problem as a ‘major incident’ and had to carry out an emergency tender. Northamptonshire Telegraph
Long-established palliative care provider Marie Curie will now provide the service for the NHS Corby Clinical Commissioning Group after Allied Healthcare, which ran the service under its Primecare company, gave notice in November with the service ending on December 14.
The CCG said it had treated the problem as a ‘major incident’ and had to carry out an emergency tender. Northamptonshire Telegraph
Northamptonshire maternity services raise concerns about response to safeguarding referrals
Northamptonshire maternity services raise concerns about response to safeguarding referrals Northamptonshire’s maternity services have raised concerns about how social services are dealing with safeguarding referrals for unborn children and newborn babies.
Health professionals say there are ‘real challenges’ in the county and the NHS clinical commissioning groups have now funded two new posts to monitor and support the multi-agency safeguarding hub (MASH) which is the first point of contact for anyone who has concerns about a child at risk.
Concerns have also been raised by maternity services in relation to how Northamptonshire County Council, which runs social services, is handling safeguarding issues. Northamptonshire Telegraph
Health professionals say there are ‘real challenges’ in the county and the NHS clinical commissioning groups have now funded two new posts to monitor and support the multi-agency safeguarding hub (MASH) which is the first point of contact for anyone who has concerns about a child at risk.
Concerns have also been raised by maternity services in relation to how Northamptonshire County Council, which runs social services, is handling safeguarding issues. Northamptonshire Telegraph
2018: So what did happen in health and social care?
2018: So what did happen in health and social care? With 2018 coming to a close, you may remember that last Christmas we’d made a list (after checking it twice) of what might happen in health and social care this year. So how did it go? Here the same 12 Nuffield Trust experts look back at the year just gone.
The immigration white paper is a mixed picture for health and social care
The immigration white paper is a mixed picture for health and social care Workforce experts note that despite avoiding some damaging proposals, there is little to cheer about in the long run. Nuffield Trust
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Double pressure of winter and paediatric workforce shortages highlighted in new report
Double pressure of winter and paediatric workforce shortages highlighted in new report The Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH) has launched a report in response to severe workforce pressures faced by paediatric units across the UK.
The Workforce briefing winter 2018 report has revealed that patient demand is strongly outstripping the supply of doctors as the usual seasonal increase combined with a rise in children’s emergency admissions is placing unprecedented demand on services.
The report reveals chronic understaffing in clinics with demand for paediatric consultants in the UK around 21% higher than 2017 levels with clinics falling 850 consultants short of being able to provide a safe and sustainable service. Meanwhile, with winter pressures hitting the service, paediatricians across the country are reporting that staff are being pulled from treating children to deliver care to adults.
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The Workforce briefing winter 2018 report has revealed that patient demand is strongly outstripping the supply of doctors as the usual seasonal increase combined with a rise in children’s emergency admissions is placing unprecedented demand on services.
The report reveals chronic understaffing in clinics with demand for paediatric consultants in the UK around 21% higher than 2017 levels with clinics falling 850 consultants short of being able to provide a safe and sustainable service. Meanwhile, with winter pressures hitting the service, paediatricians across the country are reporting that staff are being pulled from treating children to deliver care to adults.
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The Women’s Mental Health Taskforce: final report
The Women’s Mental Health Taskforce: final report The Women’s Mental Health Taskforce was formed in response to a rise in mental ill health among women. The taskforce’s final report sets out how women’s experience of mental ill health can differ to men’s. It covers: core themes in women’s mental health; the involvement of women with lived experience; principles for service design; and future strategic priorities. The report urges commissioners and providers across the health and care system to take note of the report’s findings and to embed these in their work. Department of Health and Social Care
Widow's A&E plea after husband dies in hospital corridor
Widow's A&E plea after husband dies in hospital corridor A widow has pleaded for people to "stay away from A&E unless it is life-threatening" after her husband died in a hospital corridor.
John Donnelly, 51, was admitted to Peterborough City Hospital on 2 March and died the next day.
Huntingdon Coroner's Court heard a doctor was treating between 60 and 70 people and "had to prioritise".
Sharon Donnelly said staff were "overwhelmed". The coroner ruled Mr Donnelly died of natural causes. BBC News
John Donnelly, 51, was admitted to Peterborough City Hospital on 2 March and died the next day.
Huntingdon Coroner's Court heard a doctor was treating between 60 and 70 people and "had to prioritise".
Sharon Donnelly said staff were "overwhelmed". The coroner ruled Mr Donnelly died of natural causes. BBC News
Rise in reports of polio-like illness being investigated
Rise in reports of polio-like illness being investigated An increase in reported cases of a rare polio-like illness that mostly affects children is being investigated by Public Health England.
Acute flaccid paralysis (AFP) affects the nervous system, causing one or more of the limbs to become weak or floppy.
PHE said 28 cases had been reported in England. Typically, a "handful" of cases are reported each year.
The disease remains very rare but anyone who develops weakness in any limb should seek medical help, it says. BBC News
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Acute flaccid paralysis (AFP) affects the nervous system, causing one or more of the limbs to become weak or floppy.
PHE said 28 cases had been reported in England. Typically, a "handful" of cases are reported each year.
The disease remains very rare but anyone who develops weakness in any limb should seek medical help, it says. BBC News
See also:
- PHE investigating rise in reports of rare illness Public Health England
- Guidance: Acute flaccid paralysis: clinical management guidance Public Health England
- Guidance: Acute flaccid paralysis: investigating and reporting a case Public Health England
- Form: Acute flaccid paralysis: reporting form Public Health England
- Guidance: Acute flaccid paralysis: information for patients Public Health England
- Warning issued over mystery rise of rare polio-like illness in England The Daily Mail
- Acute flaccid paralysis: Investigation into mystery rise of rare polio-like illness leaving children paralysed The Independent
NHS England launches seven-day GP advertising campaign
NHS England launches seven-day GP advertising campaign Seven-day access has now been fully rolled out across England, according to NHS England.
The body said that every patient in England should now able to see a GP in the evening or at weekends, with around nine million extra appointments set to be provided a year.
NHS England said it has launched a communications campaign in the run up to Christmas to raise public awareness of the extra appointments.
This comes after a Pulse investigation earlier this year revealed that the scheme failed to fill appointments in areas where it was rolled out and garnered little support from GP leaders. Pulse
The body said that every patient in England should now able to see a GP in the evening or at weekends, with around nine million extra appointments set to be provided a year.
NHS England said it has launched a communications campaign in the run up to Christmas to raise public awareness of the extra appointments.
This comes after a Pulse investigation earlier this year revealed that the scheme failed to fill appointments in areas where it was rolled out and garnered little support from GP leaders. Pulse
Man called 999 to report injured seagull in his house
Man called 999 to report injured seagull in his house A woman whose finger nail had come off, a man having bad dreams and a man who found an injured seagull in his house all dialled 999 for help, ambulance bosses have revealed.
Details and audio recordings of the 10 most ridiculous calls were released by the South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust in an effort to discourage time-wasters over Christmas
The list requests for help included a man who said he was sweating while using his computer. One woman dialled 999 to report her dog had died, while one man called to ask emergency workers for a lift home. The Independent
Details and audio recordings of the 10 most ridiculous calls were released by the South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust in an effort to discourage time-wasters over Christmas
The list requests for help included a man who said he was sweating while using his computer. One woman dialled 999 to report her dog had died, while one man called to ask emergency workers for a lift home. The Independent
Warning of rising drug prices as Britain prepares for no-deal Brexit
Warning of rising drug prices as Britain prepares for no-deal Brexit Drug firms are pushing up their prices amid preparations for a no-deal Brexit, as the health secretary charters a plane to airlift urgent medication to the UK.
Pharmacies warned that drugs prices are soaring, amid attempts to build up a stockpile ahead of Britain’s departure from the EU.
They highlighted spiralling prices for a number of drugs, some of which have seen prices hiked six-fold in a matter of months, as the industry prepares for the growing risk of a no-deal Brexit. The Daily Telegraph
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Pharmacies warned that drugs prices are soaring, amid attempts to build up a stockpile ahead of Britain’s departure from the EU.
They highlighted spiralling prices for a number of drugs, some of which have seen prices hiked six-fold in a matter of months, as the industry prepares for the growing risk of a no-deal Brexit. The Daily Telegraph
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Woman left infertile after NHS failed to detect cancer for four years awarded £580k to cover surrogacy costs
Woman left infertile after NHS failed to detect cancer for four years awarded £580k to cover surrogacy costs A young woman left infertile because her cervical cancer was not spotted for more than four years has been awarded the costs of having surrogate children in America by the Court of Appeal.
Whittington Hospital NHS Trust admitted negligence in failing to detect signs of cancer, leading to the woman, known only as XX, developing highly invasive cancer requiring chemo-radiotherapy treatment, which left her infertile at the age of 29.
The High Court awarded XX a total of £580,000 in damages last year, including the costs of fertility treatment, cryopreserving her eggs and having children by surrogacy in the UK. The Daily Telegraph
Whittington Hospital NHS Trust admitted negligence in failing to detect signs of cancer, leading to the woman, known only as XX, developing highly invasive cancer requiring chemo-radiotherapy treatment, which left her infertile at the age of 29.
The High Court awarded XX a total of £580,000 in damages last year, including the costs of fertility treatment, cryopreserving her eggs and having children by surrogacy in the UK. The Daily Telegraph
Wednesday, 19 December 2018
Brexit already impacting on medicine supply in Northamptonshire
Brexit already impacting on medicine supply in Northamptonshire Brexit is already having an impact on medicine availability in Northamptonshire and is causing problems for the unwell and medical practitioners, according to a leading Corby GP.
Dr Joanne Watt, who is a senior partner at Great Oakley Medical Centre in Corby, says that certain drugs are already becoming in short supply and prescriptions are regularly being returned to doctors to prescribe alternative medicines as pharmacists’ stocks are running out.
She said on a daily basis she is having to re-write prescriptions, which is causing huge inconvenience and is ultimately leading to suffering for unwell patients. Northamptonshire Telegraph
Dr Joanne Watt, who is a senior partner at Great Oakley Medical Centre in Corby, says that certain drugs are already becoming in short supply and prescriptions are regularly being returned to doctors to prescribe alternative medicines as pharmacists’ stocks are running out.
She said on a daily basis she is having to re-write prescriptions, which is causing huge inconvenience and is ultimately leading to suffering for unwell patients. Northamptonshire Telegraph
Opening the door to change: NHS safety culture and the need for transformation
Opening the door to change: NHS safety culture and the need for transformation This report looks at NHS safety culture and the need for transformation.
Never Events continue to happen despite the hard work and efforts of frontline staff.
Staff are struggling to cope with large volumes of safety guidance, they have little time and space to implement guidance effectively, and the systems and processes around them are not always supportive.
Where staff are trying to implement guidance, they are often doing this on top of a demanding and busy role that makes it difficult to give the work the time it requires.
In terms of the wider system, we have found that the different parts at national, regional and local level do not always work together in the most supportive way. There is a lot of confusion about the roles of different bodies and where trusts can go to get the most appropriate support. Care Quality Commission
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Never Events continue to happen despite the hard work and efforts of frontline staff.
Staff are struggling to cope with large volumes of safety guidance, they have little time and space to implement guidance effectively, and the systems and processes around them are not always supportive.
Where staff are trying to implement guidance, they are often doing this on top of a demanding and busy role that makes it difficult to give the work the time it requires.
In terms of the wider system, we have found that the different parts at national, regional and local level do not always work together in the most supportive way. There is a lot of confusion about the roles of different bodies and where trusts can go to get the most appropriate support. Care Quality Commission
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DHSC accounts mask reality of funding pressures, warns MPs
DHSC accounts mask reality of funding pressures, warns MPs The financial sustainability of health and social care is a serious and ongoing concern of the Committee.
The Department of Health and Social Care’s 2017-18 annual report and accounts suggests an improvement in fortunes when taken as a whole. But this masks the underlying deficits at a local level and the continued use of short term measures to reduce individual deficits, such as use of the sustainability and transformation fund and money to help with winter pressures.
This overall figure also fails to show the regional variations and balancing act between the different health bodies. Public Accounts Committee
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The Department of Health and Social Care’s 2017-18 annual report and accounts suggests an improvement in fortunes when taken as a whole. But this masks the underlying deficits at a local level and the continued use of short term measures to reduce individual deficits, such as use of the sustainability and transformation fund and money to help with winter pressures.
This overall figure also fails to show the regional variations and balancing act between the different health bodies. Public Accounts Committee
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A review of the role and costs of clinical commissioning groups
A review of the role and costs of clinical commissioning groups This review sets out: changes to the commissioning landscape before CCGs were established; the role, running costs and performance of CCGs; and the changing commissioning landscape and the future role of CCGs. National Audit Office
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Failure of Care Quality Commission to make sure NHS employs ‘fit and proper’ directors
Failure of Care Quality Commission to make sure NHS employs ‘fit and proper’ directors A Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman report reveals significant weaknesses in the way the Care Quality Commission (CQC) used the NHS ‘fit and proper’ person test.
The Ombudsman carried out an independent investigation into a whistle-blower’s complaint about the CQC’s oversight of the appointment of a Chief Executive to an NHS trust. Despite being criticised by an Employment Tribunal, the Chief Executive was employed by another NHS trust, while the whistle-blower, Clare Sardari, was unable to return to her job as a result of raising the alarm.
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The Ombudsman carried out an independent investigation into a whistle-blower’s complaint about the CQC’s oversight of the appointment of a Chief Executive to an NHS trust. Despite being criticised by an Employment Tribunal, the Chief Executive was employed by another NHS trust, while the whistle-blower, Clare Sardari, was unable to return to her job as a result of raising the alarm.
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Health matters: reducing health inequalities in mental illness
Health matters: reducing health inequalities in mental illness This guidance brings together data and evidence of what works in removing health inequalities experienced by people living with mental illness. It focuses on some of the actions that local areas can take to reduce these health inequalities, so that people with mental illness can achieve the same health outcomes and life expectancy as the rest of the population. Public Health England
Brexit: Is NHS already finding it hard to get medicines?
Brexit: Is NHS already finding it hard to get medicines? Supply shortages and rising prices for some medicines are being reported by pharmacists and GPs. The possibility of a no-deal Brexit is being blamed.
So what is going on in the pharmaceutical world and what might it mean for patients?
There is nothing new about occasional shortages of certain types of medicine.
But there are reports of more acute problems than usual and some are citing a market reaction to the risk of the UK leaving the European Union without a deal. BBC News
So what is going on in the pharmaceutical world and what might it mean for patients?
There is nothing new about occasional shortages of certain types of medicine.
But there are reports of more acute problems than usual and some are citing a market reaction to the risk of the UK leaving the European Union without a deal. BBC News
Prosecutors investigate spinal implant
Prosecutors investigate spinal implant Swiss prosecutors have launched an investigation into a failed spinal implant approved by UK regulators.
The total disc replacement implant made by Cambridge-based Ranier Technology left patients across Europe in agony and needing further surgery after breaking inside their backs.
Last month, BBC Panorama revealed how the Cadisc L implant was approved for use in humans despite evidence from studies in baboons that it could fail.
Ranier withdrew it from market in 2014. BBC News
The total disc replacement implant made by Cambridge-based Ranier Technology left patients across Europe in agony and needing further surgery after breaking inside their backs.
Last month, BBC Panorama revealed how the Cadisc L implant was approved for use in humans despite evidence from studies in baboons that it could fail.
Ranier withdrew it from market in 2014. BBC News
Richard Murray: ‘Relax migration rules to solve NHS workforce crisis’
Richard Murray: ‘Relax migration rules to solve NHS workforce crisis’ The health service’s long-term plan won’t work if brave staffing decisions aren’t made, says incoming head of the King’s Fund
Richard Murray, a former academic, management consultant and civil servant, is about to take on the most high-profile role among the health thinktanks: as the King’s Fund’s new chief executive. The Guardian
Richard Murray, a former academic, management consultant and civil servant, is about to take on the most high-profile role among the health thinktanks: as the King’s Fund’s new chief executive. The Guardian
Can the NHS be saved?
Can the NHS be saved? A long-term plan designed to secure the future of NHS England has been delayed once again by Brexit. But as Britain’s health service heads into its annual winter beds crisis, the Guardian’s Denis Campbell visits King’s College hospital in London to find out what staff and patients need for the future – and how much it will cost. Plus: Hadley Freeman on why Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, was right to distance herself from her father and his media onslaught
Britain’s National Health Service turned 70 this year but, as toasts were raised, there were growing concerns about the institution’s long-term sustainability. There are ongoing budget pressures, lifestyle diseases are on the rise, and a growing population has increased expectations of what a health service free at the point of use can provide. The Guardian
Britain’s National Health Service turned 70 this year but, as toasts were raised, there were growing concerns about the institution’s long-term sustainability. There are ongoing budget pressures, lifestyle diseases are on the rise, and a growing population has increased expectations of what a health service free at the point of use can provide. The Guardian
No more excuses: health chiefs vow to step up war on salt as targets to cut content missed
No more excuses: health chiefs vow to step up war on salt as targets to cut content missed Health chiefs have demanded “no more excuses” after new figures showed just half of targets to cut salt intake in common foods have been met.
A report by Public Health England (PHE) reveals zero progress reducing average salt content in some foods – including bacon and ham – since pledges were made four years ago.
Ministers have repeatedly vowed to wage war on salt, which increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
The new analysis found that just 52 per cent of the average sodium level targets were met for products consumed in the home, PHE said. The Daily Telegraph
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A report by Public Health England (PHE) reveals zero progress reducing average salt content in some foods – including bacon and ham – since pledges were made four years ago.
Ministers have repeatedly vowed to wage war on salt, which increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
The new analysis found that just 52 per cent of the average sodium level targets were met for products consumed in the home, PHE said. The Daily Telegraph
See also:
- Salt targets 2017: progress report Public Health England
- Processed meats and ready meals 'still too high in salt' BBC News
- Food industry's failure to hit salt targets has led to 4,000 deaths per year The Daily Mail
Security guard stole £200,000 from NHS car park pay machines
Security guard stole £200,000 from NHS car park pay machines A security guard and his wife masterminded a £200,000 theft racket at a hospital in which he and colleagues plundered enough NHS cash to pay the salaries of six full-time nurses for a year.
Peter O'Garro, 52, looted car parking pay stations he was assigned to guard. He and his wife Karen, a hospice nurse, then used the stolen fees to buy a quad bike, jewellery and high-value electrical goods.
Over a seven-month period, O'Garro and three workmates from a private security firm hired by bosses at Wythenshawe Hospital in Manchester stole up to £39,000 a month from the machines. Two of the gang also got their partners to look after the proceeds. The Daily Telegraph
Peter O'Garro, 52, looted car parking pay stations he was assigned to guard. He and his wife Karen, a hospice nurse, then used the stolen fees to buy a quad bike, jewellery and high-value electrical goods.
Over a seven-month period, O'Garro and three workmates from a private security firm hired by bosses at Wythenshawe Hospital in Manchester stole up to £39,000 a month from the machines. Two of the gang also got their partners to look after the proceeds. The Daily Telegraph
Shoppers buy 75 per cent fewer unhealthy items when they're removed from checkouts
Shoppers buy 75 per cent fewer unhealthy items when they're removed from checkouts Shoppers bought three quarters fewer unhealthy products at supermarkets which didn't have them on display at checkouts, a study has revealed.
Items to eat 'on the go' such as small packets of sweets, chocolate and crisps were bought a drastic 76 per cent less at tills without the treats on show.
Shoppers also bought 17 per cent fewer treat items to be taken home after supermarkets adopted policies.
The Government is planning to ban the 'guilt aisles' which see parents pestered for sweets by their children and shoppers persuaded to buy snacks as they queue. The Daily Mail
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Items to eat 'on the go' such as small packets of sweets, chocolate and crisps were bought a drastic 76 per cent less at tills without the treats on show.
Shoppers also bought 17 per cent fewer treat items to be taken home after supermarkets adopted policies.
The Government is planning to ban the 'guilt aisles' which see parents pestered for sweets by their children and shoppers persuaded to buy snacks as they queue. The Daily Mail
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Tuesday, 18 December 2018
Kettering shopping centre accredited as autism friendly
Kettering shopping centre accredited as autism friendly A Kettering shopping centre has been recognised for making its environment more autism friendly. The Newlands Shopping Centre has been given autism friendly accreditation from the National Autistic Society (NAS) in recognition of work to make shopping more accessible for people with autism spectrum conditions. Northamptonshire Telegraph
A review of the role and costs of clinical commissioning groups
A review of the role and costs of clinical commissioning groups Today’s report from the National Audit Office has found that while many clinical commissioning groups are performing well and within budget, others are failing to function effectively or hire and retain the high-quality staff they need.
CCGs were established as part of the Health and Social Care Act in 2012 to help health services be more responsive to patients’ needs and to align clinical and financial decision-making. Since being introduced, their scope has expanded to take greater responsibility for commissioning GP services and integrating health and social care systems. National Audit Office
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CCGs were established as part of the Health and Social Care Act in 2012 to help health services be more responsive to patients’ needs and to align clinical and financial decision-making. Since being introduced, their scope has expanded to take greater responsibility for commissioning GP services and integrating health and social care systems. National Audit Office
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NHS e-referral service passes 100m mark
NHS e-referral service passes 100m mark The NHS e-referral service has made 100 million bookings since it was launched in 2005 as the NHS choose and book service, according to NHS Digital. NHS Networks
Puppy therapy to help prisoners with mental health and addiction launched for the first time in the UK
Puppy therapy to help prisoners with mental health and addiction launched for the first time in the UK Puppy therapy to help prisoners with mental health and addiction is being offered in the first scheme of its kind in the UK.
Prison staff have recruited Jingles, a four-month-old black Labrador, who will undergo intensive training to become an “assistance dog” for the inmates.
The dogs have been found to promote positive changes in behaviour, reduce stress and reliance on medication and boost the development of social skills, self-esteem and self-confidence. The Telegraph
Prison staff have recruited Jingles, a four-month-old black Labrador, who will undergo intensive training to become an “assistance dog” for the inmates.
The dogs have been found to promote positive changes in behaviour, reduce stress and reliance on medication and boost the development of social skills, self-esteem and self-confidence. The Telegraph
Gently stroking babies 'provides pain relief'
Gently stroking babies 'provides pain relief' A study monitored the brain activity of babies when they had a blood test while being stroked. BBC News - Health
Mental Capacity (Amendment) Bill
Mental Capacity (Amendment) Bill House of Commons Library - This briefing provides an overview of the Mental Capacity (Amendment) Bill, and the debates and amendments made during the Bills Lords stages, ahead of its Second Reading in the Commons on 18 December 2018. The intention of the Bill is to reform the process for authorising arrangements which enable people who lack capacity to consent to be deprived of their liberty (for the purpose of providing them with care or treatment). King's Fund - Health Management and Policy Alert
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Health and social care targets only useful if people’s voices are heard
Health and social care targets only useful if people’s voices are heard In our annual report to parliament, we call on services to listen to what matters most to people when it comes to their care – and on the public to keep speaking up. Healthwatch heard from over 400,000 people during the last year about what they think of health and social care. In our annual report to Parliament - What matters most, our Chair, Sir Robert Francis, asks services to look beyond their performance statistics and explore people’s real day-to-day experiences, to help make care better. Healthwatch
RCGP publishes guidance for GPs on cannabis-based medicines and products
RCGP publishes guidance for GPs on cannabis-based medicines and products The publication of 'Cannabis-based medicines: an interim desktop guide' follows a change in the laws governing access to cannabis for medicinal use earlier this year.
Only doctors registered on the GMC's specialist register, and who have the relevant specialist knowledge and expertise can prescribe cannabis-based products to patients in situations where there is an unmet clinical need.
Whilst GPs are not able to prescribe cannabis, the new guidance recognises that the recent legal change may lead to 'increased demand on GPs for information and referrals for a range of conditions'. Royal College of General Practitioners (RCGP)
Only doctors registered on the GMC's specialist register, and who have the relevant specialist knowledge and expertise can prescribe cannabis-based products to patients in situations where there is an unmet clinical need.
Whilst GPs are not able to prescribe cannabis, the new guidance recognises that the recent legal change may lead to 'increased demand on GPs for information and referrals for a range of conditions'. Royal College of General Practitioners (RCGP)
Monday, 17 December 2018
Inspire, attract and recruit: an interactive toolkit to support your workforce supply
Inspire, attract and recruit: an interactive toolkit to support your workforce supply This toolkit provides guidance, good practice, checklists, top tips, questions and leading examples from across the NHS, to help employers take stock of what may need to be done to sustain a workforce pipeline. It aims to provide practical information on understanding audiences, how to attract the right people and ensuring employees have the best on-boarding experience. NHS Employers
Review into denial of NHS care to overseas patients kept secret by government
Review into denial of NHS care to overseas patients kept secret by government Ministers are keeping secret a review that appears to expose how overseas patients are being wrongly denied NHS treatment after being told to pay upfront charges, The Independent can reveal.
Care has not been “safely withheld” when payment is not provided in some cases, after the controversial rules were introduced last year, a brief statement on the report’s conclusions suggests.
The Department of Health and Social Care admitted some NHS trusts are failing to “ensure some groups of vulnerable overseas visitors understand their entitlements and treatment options”.
Care has not been “safely withheld” when payment is not provided in some cases, after the controversial rules were introduced last year, a brief statement on the report’s conclusions suggests.
The Department of Health and Social Care admitted some NHS trusts are failing to “ensure some groups of vulnerable overseas visitors understand their entitlements and treatment options”.
Long-term plan for NHS funding delayed amid Brexit chaos
Long-term plan for NHS funding delayed amid Brexit chaos Document setting out how £20.5bn budget increase will be spent has been postponed until January
The government’s chaos over Brexit has forced NHS leaders to delay publication of the health service’s long-term plan.
The document, which will set out how the NHS in England will spend the £20.5bn budget increase Theresa May has promised, was due to come out early next week, but that has been postponed until January. The Guardian
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The government’s chaos over Brexit has forced NHS leaders to delay publication of the health service’s long-term plan.
The document, which will set out how the NHS in England will spend the £20.5bn budget increase Theresa May has promised, was due to come out early next week, but that has been postponed until January. The Guardian
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Private consultants paid at least £26m in NHS shake-up
Private consultants paid at least £26m in NHS shake-up BMA calls it ‘unacceptable’ to see so much money ‘flowing away from patient care’
Private consultants have been paid at least £26m as part of the reorganisation of the NHS, in what the doctors’ union described as an “unacceptable” transfer of money away from patient care.
They include some of the world’s biggest consultancy companies, which have been tasked with projects looking at such things as “reviewing demand and capacity” and “supporting sustainability”. The Guardian
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Private consultants have been paid at least £26m as part of the reorganisation of the NHS, in what the doctors’ union described as an “unacceptable” transfer of money away from patient care.
They include some of the world’s biggest consultancy companies, which have been tasked with projects looking at such things as “reviewing demand and capacity” and “supporting sustainability”. The Guardian
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- Taking the biscuit British Medical Association
NHS to offer mature students £5k to become mental health nurses
NHS to offer mature students £5k to become mental health nurses Effort to tackle severe staff shortages criticised as a ‘drop in the ocean’
The NHS will offer mature students a £5,000 bonus to become mental health or learning disability nurses as part of its forthcoming long term plan, the Guardian can reveal.
The payments are designed to tackle severe nursing shortages in two areas that NHS bosses and ministers have agreed are key priorities in which care needs to be significantly improved. The Guardian
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The NHS will offer mature students a £5,000 bonus to become mental health or learning disability nurses as part of its forthcoming long term plan, the Guardian can reveal.
The payments are designed to tackle severe nursing shortages in two areas that NHS bosses and ministers have agreed are key priorities in which care needs to be significantly improved. The Guardian
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- NHS to offer mature students £5k to become mental health nurses The Daily Telegraph
Evening and weekend GP appointments rolled out across England, NHS announces
Evening and weekend GP appointments rolled out across England, NHS announces Evening and weekend GP appointments have now been rolled out across England, health bosses have announced.
NHS England said that an estimated nine million extra appointments per year are now available to patients outside of normal working hours.
The extended access available from today means people will be able to see a doctor, nurse or other member of a practice team during evenings and weekends.
NHS England said the service has arrived three months ahead of schedule and will help ease pressure on the health service during the winter period. The Daily Telegraph
NHS England said that an estimated nine million extra appointments per year are now available to patients outside of normal working hours.
The extended access available from today means people will be able to see a doctor, nurse or other member of a practice team during evenings and weekends.
NHS England said the service has arrived three months ahead of schedule and will help ease pressure on the health service during the winter period. The Daily Telegraph
Diabetes epidemic toll revealed as number of limbs cut off due to condition soars to record levels
Diabetes epidemic toll revealed as number of limbs cut off due to condition soars to record levels The number of foot and leg amputations linked to diabetes has risen almost 20 per cent in only four years, according to Public Health England. Robert Carew Hunt, 69, had his left foot amputated in 2015. The Daily Mail
'Deeply concerning' figures show a 50% rise in the number of Down's syndrome abortions
'Deeply concerning' figures show a 50% rise in the number of Down's syndrome abortions The campaign group Don't Screen Us Out fears the NHS use of 99 per cent accurate, low-risk prenatal testing for Down's syndrome will increase the number of babies aborted because of it. The Daily Mail
Friday, 14 December 2018
Snowed under? Understanding the effects of winter on the NHS
Snowed under? Understanding the effects of winter on the NHS As autumn draws to a close, this explainer unpacks what winter means for the NHS, in terms of its impact on health, demand for services, and how the NHS responds. Nuffield Trust
Independent Breast Screening Review report
Independent Breast Screening Review report This report sets out the findings and recommendations of the Independent Breast Screening Review, established to look into the failings in the breast screening programme in England.
The review makes 15 recommendations for the Department of Health and Social Care, Public Health England and NHS England. Department of Health and Social Care
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The review makes 15 recommendations for the Department of Health and Social Care, Public Health England and NHS England. Department of Health and Social Care
See also:
- Breast screening incident 2018: internal review Public Health England
- Breast screening invite scandal was caused by a 'misunderstanding', not a computer failure The Daily Mail
- Jeremy Hunt wrong in breast cancer screening statement, inquiry says The Guardian
New data reveals the UK fertility sector is performing well, and most patients are satisfied
New data reveals the UK fertility sector is performing well, and most patients are satisfied The second annual state of the fertility sector report and the first ever national fertility patient survey, both published today, provide an overview of the UK’s fertility sector and what patients think of the services they receive.
The report shows that the UK fertility sector performed well in 2017-18 with HFEA licensed clinics meeting the standards required. Very few incidents took place compared to the number of treatment cycles, which continue to rise year on year.
Inspections of 101 licensed clinics took place in 2017-18 with most awarded a four-year licence, the maximum length possible. This shows that the vast majority of clinics are meeting all the required standards. At inspections at the time of licence renewal, two thirds of clinics also met more standards than the last time they were inspected. Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority
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The report shows that the UK fertility sector performed well in 2017-18 with HFEA licensed clinics meeting the standards required. Very few incidents took place compared to the number of treatment cycles, which continue to rise year on year.
Inspections of 101 licensed clinics took place in 2017-18 with most awarded a four-year licence, the maximum length possible. This shows that the vast majority of clinics are meeting all the required standards. At inspections at the time of licence renewal, two thirds of clinics also met more standards than the last time they were inspected. Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority
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- Two in three IVF patients feel ripped off by clinics, watchdog warns The Daily Telegraph
Why did Rachel Johnston die after having all her teeth removed?
Why did Rachel Johnston die after having all her teeth removed? A disabled woman died after having all her teeth removed by a dentist at an NHS trust criticised for its "drastic" full extractions from other vulnerable patients.
Rachel Johnston underwent the operation after it was deemed necessary because of severe tooth decay.
But she collapsed hours after being discharged and spent days on a life-support machine in hospital, before her devastated family were told medics could not do any more to save her.
The procedure was carried out by the community dental service in Worcestershire. Two more families have told the BBC of their concerns with the service after their sons had the same "extreme" treatment without their knowledge. BBC News
Rachel Johnston underwent the operation after it was deemed necessary because of severe tooth decay.
But she collapsed hours after being discharged and spent days on a life-support machine in hospital, before her devastated family were told medics could not do any more to save her.
The procedure was carried out by the community dental service in Worcestershire. Two more families have told the BBC of their concerns with the service after their sons had the same "extreme" treatment without their knowledge. BBC News
NHS faces 'bleakest winter yet' as number waiting 12 hours in A&E for bed doubles
NHS faces 'bleakest winter yet' as number waiting 12 hours in A&E for bed doubles Twice as many patients spent 12 hours or more sitting in A&E trolleys waiting for a bed in November as in the same month last year, as experts warn of the ”the bleakest winter” in NHS history.
A&E performance figures show 54,000 people waited more than four hours for a bed after the hospital had decided they were sick enough to admit.
In this figure, 258 patients waited more than 12 hours for a bed, compared to just 107 waiting in November 2017.
The numbers released on Tuesday reveal the worst November A&E performance on record, with just 87.6 per cent of patients admitted, treated or sent home within four hours attending A&E. The Independent
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A&E performance figures show 54,000 people waited more than four hours for a bed after the hospital had decided they were sick enough to admit.
In this figure, 258 patients waited more than 12 hours for a bed, compared to just 107 waiting in November 2017.
The numbers released on Tuesday reveal the worst November A&E performance on record, with just 87.6 per cent of patients admitted, treated or sent home within four hours attending A&E. The Independent
See also:
- The King's Fund responds to NHS performance data The King's Fund
- NHS performance statistics 13th December 2018 NHS England
- Hospitals 'over-crowded' ahead of Christmas BBC News
- NHS crisis is ALREADY worse than last year's 'worst ever winter' The Daily Mail
- A&E departments suffer their worst November performance on record The Daily Telegraph
- Hospitals 'in red zone' with record numbers of A&E patients The Guardian
- NHS had worst November on record, shows first winter pressures report Pulse
- NHS hospitals close to capacity in first week of December Sky News
£20.5bn NHS funding boost not enough to improve care – study
£20.5bn NHS funding boost not enough to improve care – study Almost all the £20.5bn extra a year for the NHS risks being swallowed up by the ageing population, pay rises, the rising cost of drugs and hospitals’ deficits, a report has concluded.
As little as £1.3bn of the increase could be left to fund improvements in treatment unless the service dramatically overhauls how and where it cares for patients, the report by the IPPR thinktank and former senior NHS staff says.
The findings raise doubts about how far the £20.5bn that Theresa May gave the NHS in England to mark its 70th birthday this year will allow it to expand services, given the other demands it is facing. The Guardian
As little as £1.3bn of the increase could be left to fund improvements in treatment unless the service dramatically overhauls how and where it cares for patients, the report by the IPPR thinktank and former senior NHS staff says.
The findings raise doubts about how far the £20.5bn that Theresa May gave the NHS in England to mark its 70th birthday this year will allow it to expand services, given the other demands it is facing. The Guardian
Being detained under the Mental Health Act drove me to improve care
Being detained under the Mental Health Act drove me to improve care My friend tried to kill himself when we were in the same psychiatric unit. Now I support others in similar situations
I was awoken by the sound of gasps and bangs coming from the bedroom next door. It was 4am on a medium-secure psychiatric unit where it’s always noisy, but I instinctively knew this wasn’t good. I ran into my neighbour’s room and found him in the process of killing himself. I screamed for help.
The man trying to end his own life was a friend. We had both attended the same pupil referral unit I was sent to after being excluded from school and for different reasons we ended up on the same psychiatric ward years later. After the nursing team had managed the incident, I asked him why he had taken such a step. He said he’d had enough of life and believed that things would never get better for “people like us”, and that our destiny was “death or to be in places like this forever”. He was discharged shortly after, but within weeks I was told that he had died of an overdose. He had only just turned 30. The Guardian
I was awoken by the sound of gasps and bangs coming from the bedroom next door. It was 4am on a medium-secure psychiatric unit where it’s always noisy, but I instinctively knew this wasn’t good. I ran into my neighbour’s room and found him in the process of killing himself. I screamed for help.
The man trying to end his own life was a friend. We had both attended the same pupil referral unit I was sent to after being excluded from school and for different reasons we ended up on the same psychiatric ward years later. After the nursing team had managed the incident, I asked him why he had taken such a step. He said he’d had enough of life and believed that things would never get better for “people like us”, and that our destiny was “death or to be in places like this forever”. He was discharged shortly after, but within weeks I was told that he had died of an overdose. He had only just turned 30. The Guardian
Fireworks, knives and microwaves used to attack ambulances, investigation finds
Fireworks, knives and microwaves used to attack ambulances, investigation finds Regular attacks on ambulances are "consciously inhibiting" the ability of paramedics to do their jobs, it has been claimed.
More than 200 incidents of vandalism have been reported between 2015 and October this year, according to a freedom of information request by the BBC.
Over the past three years, fireworks, scooters, bricks, knives and metal poles have been used to cause thousands of pounds worth of damage to ambulances and rapid response vehicles. The Daily Telegraph
More than 200 incidents of vandalism have been reported between 2015 and October this year, according to a freedom of information request by the BBC.
Over the past three years, fireworks, scooters, bricks, knives and metal poles have been used to cause thousands of pounds worth of damage to ambulances and rapid response vehicles. The Daily Telegraph
Patients spend a record £1BILLION on private operations
Patients spend a record £1BILLION on private operations People in the UK spent a record £1.1billion on private healthcare last year in an attempts to avoid NHS waiting times.
Excluding cosmetic surgery, the amount spent on private treatments rose 75 per cent to £793milllion between 2012 and 2017.
Knee and hip operations, cataract surgery and cancer treatment are the three most commonly paid-for therapies.
Experts warn longer waits for free healthcare are 'without doubt' driving people to fork out, with some parts of the NHS keeping people waiting until their conditions become constantly painful or crippling. The Daily Mail
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Excluding cosmetic surgery, the amount spent on private treatments rose 75 per cent to £793milllion between 2012 and 2017.
Knee and hip operations, cataract surgery and cancer treatment are the three most commonly paid-for therapies.
Experts warn longer waits for free healthcare are 'without doubt' driving people to fork out, with some parts of the NHS keeping people waiting until their conditions become constantly painful or crippling. The Daily Mail
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GP crisis laid bare: Patient numbers are up nearly 50% since 2004
GP crisis laid bare: Patient numbers are up nearly 50% since 2004 Britain's GP crisis has been laid bare by new figures showing practice list sizes have risen by almost 50 per cent since 2004.
NHS data shows 59.6million patients were registered with a GP surgery in December 2018 - across 7,017 practices.
This made the average practice list size 8,490 in December 2018. By contrast, the average number was 5,891 in 2004, the figures showed.
The soaring rates are concerning, as GP practices in England are reaching 'breaking point' because of chronic staff shortages. The Daily Mail
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NHS data shows 59.6million patients were registered with a GP surgery in December 2018 - across 7,017 practices.
This made the average practice list size 8,490 in December 2018. By contrast, the average number was 5,891 in 2004, the figures showed.
The soaring rates are concerning, as GP practices in England are reaching 'breaking point' because of chronic staff shortages. The Daily Mail
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Thursday, 13 December 2018
Thousands of patients in Nene are waiting at least three weeks to see GP
Thousands of patients in Nene are waiting at least three weeks to see GP Nearly 40,000 patients in Nene are waiting at least three weeks to see a GP, new figures reveal.
Doctors say it is important to treat patients early to “avoid conditions getting worse”.
NHS Digital data shows that 37,140 people in the Nene Clinical Commissioning Group had to wait until at least 21 days to see a doctor after booking an appointment in October 2018.
That is 11% of all patients.
Of them, 18,800 waited more than a month. Daventry Express
Doctors say it is important to treat patients early to “avoid conditions getting worse”.
NHS Digital data shows that 37,140 people in the Nene Clinical Commissioning Group had to wait until at least 21 days to see a doctor after booking an appointment in October 2018.
That is 11% of all patients.
Of them, 18,800 waited more than a month. Daventry Express
Older people living alone are 50% more likely to visit A&E than those who live with others
Older people living alone are 50% more likely to visit A&E than those who live with others Research published today by the Health Foundation to look at the health care needs of older adults finds that people aged 65 and older who live alone are 50% more likely to go to A&E than those who live with someone else. They are also at increased risk of being admitted to hospital as an inpatient.
Older adults living alone are also more likely to visit their GP. Around one fifth (21%) of older people living alone visit their GP at least once a month, compared with 14% of older people living with someone else.
Older people living alone have more long-term conditions. Nearly half (49.8%) of patients aged 65 or older living alone have three or more long-term conditions, compared to 42.2% of older people living with others.
The findings also show that more than 1 in 4 older people living alone have a mental health condition, compared to 1 in 5 people living with others.
Older adults living alone are also more likely to visit their GP. Around one fifth (21%) of older people living alone visit their GP at least once a month, compared with 14% of older people living with someone else.
Older people living alone have more long-term conditions. Nearly half (49.8%) of patients aged 65 or older living alone have three or more long-term conditions, compared to 42.2% of older people living with others.
The findings also show that more than 1 in 4 older people living alone have a mental health condition, compared to 1 in 5 people living with others.
Health Education England pilot scheme ‘inspires children to work in the NHS’
Health Education England pilot scheme ‘inspires children to work in the NHS’ Children as young as six say they will now consider a career in the NHS when they are older thanks to a Health Education England (HEE) pilot scheme, which aims to promote the breadth of careers available within the health service.
Over 2,000 children from 43 primary schools from across England took part in the schemeearlier this year and were provided with a range of educational resources that highlighted the variety of roles the NHS has to offer, from nurses and surgeons, to IT professionals and scientists. Health Education England
Over 2,000 children from 43 primary schools from across England took part in the schemeearlier this year and were provided with a range of educational resources that highlighted the variety of roles the NHS has to offer, from nurses and surgeons, to IT professionals and scientists. Health Education England
Organ donors to be asked if they are religious
Organ donors to be asked if they are religious People who join the NHS's UK organ donation register are to be asked if they want their religious beliefs to be considered in the donation process.
The question aims to reassure people that donation can take place in line with their faith or beliefs.
It is hoped the measure can help to boost the low proportion of donors from black and Asian backgrounds.
Research has found religious and cultural beliefs are the main barrier to organ donation in these communities. BBC News
The question aims to reassure people that donation can take place in line with their faith or beliefs.
It is hoped the measure can help to boost the low proportion of donors from black and Asian backgrounds.
Research has found religious and cultural beliefs are the main barrier to organ donation in these communities. BBC News
Mother’s death at NHS mental health unit was third in 15 months, sparking calls for reform
Mother’s death at NHS mental health unit was third in 15 months, sparking calls for reform The death of a young mother at an NHS mental health unit where three patients died in a 15 month period has ignited calls for a national watchdog to ensure lessons are learned and future deaths prevented.
Mother of five Emma Butler, 33, died in March 2017 from fatal injuries sustained after self-harming on a period of unsupervised leave from the Whiteleaf Centre, run by Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust. The Independent
Mother of five Emma Butler, 33, died in March 2017 from fatal injuries sustained after self-harming on a period of unsupervised leave from the Whiteleaf Centre, run by Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust. The Independent
NHS waiting lists for lung and bowel treatments double since Conservative-led government came to power, analysis shows
NHS waiting lists for lung and bowel treatments double since Conservative-led government came to power, analysis shows NHS waiting lists for patients in “excruciating pain” or with life-threatening conditions including lung cancers and bowel disease have doubled since the Tories came to power in 2010, analysis shows.
As the health service faces unprecedented budget squeezes and more than 100,000 jobs are unfilled, the overall waiting list has ballooned from 2.6 million in 2011 to 4 million this year.
Specialist treatment has been worst affected, with patients awaiting treatment for lung diseases – the UK’s third biggest killer – up by 128 per cent since September 2011 to almost 100,000. The Independent
As the health service faces unprecedented budget squeezes and more than 100,000 jobs are unfilled, the overall waiting list has ballooned from 2.6 million in 2011 to 4 million this year.
Specialist treatment has been worst affected, with patients awaiting treatment for lung diseases – the UK’s third biggest killer – up by 128 per cent since September 2011 to almost 100,000. The Independent
Capita failure over cervical screening letters more extensive than thought
Capita failure over cervical screening letters more extensive than thought Doctors call for firm to lose contract as number of women affected exceeds 50,000
Another 3,591 women were not sent information on cervical screening as a result of errors by Capita, NHS England has said.
Last month, it emerged that 47,708 women did not receive a smear test invitation, reminder or results between January and June because of Capita’s failure to send out letters. The Guardian
Another 3,591 women were not sent information on cervical screening as a result of errors by Capita, NHS England has said.
Last month, it emerged that 47,708 women did not receive a smear test invitation, reminder or results between January and June because of Capita’s failure to send out letters. The Guardian
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