Lorry gets stuck under low awning at Northampton General Hospital The claw of a loading lorry damaged an awning at Northampton General Hospital this morning.
A road closure was put in place from the Cheyne Walk entrance after the lorry got stuck under a canopy. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Thursday, 28 February 2019
Northampton hospital kept patients in seclusion cells for long periods, despite knowing they were low-risk
Northampton hospital kept patients in seclusion cells for long periods, despite knowing they were low-risk A hospital in Northampton has admitted not being able to meet the needs of three patients with complex needs - a watchdog report has found - one of whom was kept in regular seclusion for 18 months.
The Care Quality Commission (CQC) has released the findings of a focused inspection into St Andrew's Healthcare, carried out between October and January. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
The Care Quality Commission (CQC) has released the findings of a focused inspection into St Andrew's Healthcare, carried out between October and January. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
See also:
- St Andrew's Healthcare - Adolescents Service Care Quality Commission
Compassion: your greatest leadership contribution?
Compassion: your greatest leadership contribution? After months of waiting, we finally have the NHS long-term plan. So, was it worth the wait? Does it really matter to the day-to-day work of staff delivering care? And what changes will be required to deliver on its ambitions? The King's Fund
Diabulimia: NHS cash to treat type 1 diabetes eating disorder
Diabulimia: NHS cash to treat type 1 diabetes eating disorder At her worst point Zohra Allana was told she was "going to die".
The 25-year-old has diabulimia - when someone with type 1 diabetes deliberately doesn't take their insulin to control their weight.
"I look really awful, emaciated," she tells Radio 1 Newsbeat, while swiping through holiday photos from last year.
The condition isn't medically recognised, but now NHS England is putting just under £1m into two pilot projects to help people like Zohra. BBC News
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The 25-year-old has diabulimia - when someone with type 1 diabetes deliberately doesn't take their insulin to control their weight.
"I look really awful, emaciated," she tells Radio 1 Newsbeat, while swiping through holiday photos from last year.
The condition isn't medically recognised, but now NHS England is putting just under £1m into two pilot projects to help people like Zohra. BBC News
See also:
Generation Z teenagers have more mental health problems despite drops in smoking, drugs and antisocial behaviour
Generation Z teenagers have more mental health problems despite drops in smoking, drugs and antisocial behaviour Mental health problems and self-harm are on the rise among British teenagers despite significant decreases in antisocial behaviour and substance use, a long-running study has found.
Depressive symptoms among “Generation Z” – teenagers born at the turn of the millennium – are around two-thirds higher than the “millennial generation” born in the early nineties.
They are also more likely to self-harm, suffer from poor body image, skip sleep and be overweight, according to the research from University College London. The Independent
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Depressive symptoms among “Generation Z” – teenagers born at the turn of the millennium – are around two-thirds higher than the “millennial generation” born in the early nineties.
They are also more likely to self-harm, suffer from poor body image, skip sleep and be overweight, according to the research from University College London. The Independent
See also:
- Changes in millennial adolescent mental health and health-related behaviours over 10 years: a population cohort comparison study (abstract) International Journal of Epidemiology
- Adolescent health: Teens 'more depressed and sleeping less' BBC News
- Depression and self-harm is higher in young people than a decade ago The Daily Mail
Higher taxes on the rich could reduce UK health inequality, says expert
Higher taxes on the rich could reduce UK health inequality, says expert Gap in life expectancy in Britain has widened since onset of austerity, says Michael Marmot
Higher taxation for the rich may need to be considered if the UK is to tackle the decline in life expectancy in parts of the UK and the widening gap in health inequalities, according to Sir Michael Marmot, the country’s leading authority on the issues.
Ten years on from his seminal review for the Labour government of health inequality in England in 2010, Marmot will publish a review of what has been achieved and the current state of the nation with the Health Foundation. The evidence is expected to show that initial progress faltered and then stopped under the pressure of austerity, Marmot told the Guardian in an interview.
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Higher taxation for the rich may need to be considered if the UK is to tackle the decline in life expectancy in parts of the UK and the widening gap in health inequalities, according to Sir Michael Marmot, the country’s leading authority on the issues.
Ten years on from his seminal review for the Labour government of health inequality in England in 2010, Marmot will publish a review of what has been achieved and the current state of the nation with the Health Foundation. The evidence is expected to show that initial progress faltered and then stopped under the pressure of austerity, Marmot told the Guardian in an interview.
See also:
- The Marmot Review 10 Years On The Health Foundation
Vulnerable pensioners with dementia facing crippling care bills following NHS attempts to restrict funding
Vulnerable pensioners with dementia facing crippling care bills following NHS attempts to restrict funding Vulnerable pensioners with dementia and Parkinson’s are facing crippling care bills following attempts by health officials to restrict the numbers receiving NHS funding.
Under national rules, any patient with a significant health problem should have their care and nursing fees paid in full - if the condition is deemed to be the main reason they need such help.
But an investigation by The Daily Telegraph reveals that authorities are increasingly refusing to fund care, claiming that devastating diseases are not severe, or not the primary reason help is needed - leaving families facing bills of up to £100,000 a year.
Under national rules, any patient with a significant health problem should have their care and nursing fees paid in full - if the condition is deemed to be the main reason they need such help.
But an investigation by The Daily Telegraph reveals that authorities are increasingly refusing to fund care, claiming that devastating diseases are not severe, or not the primary reason help is needed - leaving families facing bills of up to £100,000 a year.
'Anti-vaxxers' must not be given credence, says Health Secretary Matt Hancock
'Anti-vaxxers' must not be given credence, says Health Secretary Matt Hancock Health secretary Matt Hancock has said that positive messages about the benefits of vaccinations must be promoted in a bid to stop the spread of misinformation.
Speaking at a parliamentary event about vaccinations and their role in fighting antimicrobial resistance Mr Hancock said that he did not want to give any “credence” to the “anti-vaxxers”, who spread junk science about the harms of immunisation. The Daily Telegraph
Speaking at a parliamentary event about vaccinations and their role in fighting antimicrobial resistance Mr Hancock said that he did not want to give any “credence” to the “anti-vaxxers”, who spread junk science about the harms of immunisation. The Daily Telegraph
More than 40% of GPs intend to leave the profession in the next five years
More than 40% of GPs intend to leave the profession in the next five years Four in ten family doctors plan on leaving the profession or retiring within the next five years.
GPs are blaming increasing workloads and declining morale with half admitting they have brought forward plans to walk away from the vocation.
Some 42 per cent of GPs polled said they intended to leave or retire within five years, up from less than a third (32 per cent) in 2014.
Meanwhile, almost a fifth (18 per cent) said they would leave or retire within the next two years.
The findings suggest the current GP crisis is set to worsen, making it even harder for patients to get appointments. The Daily Mail
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GPs are blaming increasing workloads and declining morale with half admitting they have brought forward plans to walk away from the vocation.
Some 42 per cent of GPs polled said they intended to leave or retire within five years, up from less than a third (32 per cent) in 2014.
Meanwhile, almost a fifth (18 per cent) said they would leave or retire within the next two years.
The findings suggest the current GP crisis is set to worsen, making it even harder for patients to get appointments. The Daily Mail
See also:
- GP retention in the UK: a worsening crisis. Findings from a cross-sectional survey (open access) BMJ Open
- Almost half of GPs plan to quit NHS within five years amid criticism of Skype consultations The Daily Telegraph
- Almost half of UK GPs plan to retire in next five years, study shows The Independent
Drug shortages are harming patients because GPs are being forced to dole out second-choice medicines
Drug shortages are harming patients because GPs are being forced to dole out second-choice medicines Patients are being harmed because drug shortages are forcing doctors to change their prescriptions, a survey has revealed.
One in seven GPs say their patients have experienced negative side effects after they had to switch to second-choice drugs.
Shortages of medicines have this year been described as 'worse than ever' and there are concerns Brexit is contributing by causing patients and companies to stockpile.
More than a third of doctors say they 'fairly often' have to switch to less desirable drugs because of availability, while 16 per cent say they have to do it 'very often'. The Daily Mail
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One in seven GPs say their patients have experienced negative side effects after they had to switch to second-choice drugs.
Shortages of medicines have this year been described as 'worse than ever' and there are concerns Brexit is contributing by causing patients and companies to stockpile.
More than a third of doctors say they 'fairly often' have to switch to less desirable drugs because of availability, while 16 per cent say they have to do it 'very often'. The Daily Mail
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Wednesday, 27 February 2019
Monitoring the Mental Health Act in 2017/18
Monitoring the Mental Health Act in 2017/18 The Care Quality Commission's (CQC) annual report on the use of the Mental Health Act (MHA) looks at how providers are caring for patients, and whether patient’s rights are being protected. The CQC has seen some improvement in the quality of care planning for patients who are subject to the MHA but continues to be concerned about the quality and safety of mental health wards.
Waiting times and attendance durations at English accident and emergency departments.
Waiting times and attendance durations at English accident and emergency departments This report presents a detailed review of the demand-side, supply-side, practice and emergent factors that lead to four-hour breaches in accident and emergency departments, with a particular focus on changes that have taken place since 2010. The Strategy Unit
GP staff taught self-defence amid patient violence fears
GP staff taught self-defence amid patient violence fears More than 3,000 violent patients in England were barred from seeing their GP in 2018, figures obtained by the BBC have revealed.
The individuals were subject to the Special Allocation Scheme, a register for violent or abusive patients.
A GP practice in West Yorkshire said employees had been given self-defence training, in response to rising levels of violence and abuse.
NHS England said staff should be able to carry out their work without fear. BBC News
The individuals were subject to the Special Allocation Scheme, a register for violent or abusive patients.
A GP practice in West Yorkshire said employees had been given self-defence training, in response to rising levels of violence and abuse.
NHS England said staff should be able to carry out their work without fear. BBC News
Autism-anorexia link 'must be acted on'
Autism-anorexia link 'must be acted on' The NHS must change the way it assesses eating disorders to take account of a link with autism, a research charity has said.
Autistica said findings suggested one in five women presenting to UK clinics with anorexia may also have autism and tailored therapy was vital.
One woman said her autism had made her "obsessed" with counting calories, even though she did not want to lose weight.
Health watchdog NICE said more research was required. BBC News
Autistica said findings suggested one in five women presenting to UK clinics with anorexia may also have autism and tailored therapy was vital.
One woman said her autism had made her "obsessed" with counting calories, even though she did not want to lose weight.
Health watchdog NICE said more research was required. BBC News
DWP plans to obtain people’s medical data will deter benefit claimants accessing healthcare, doctors warn
DWP plans to obtain people’s medical data will deter benefit claimants accessing healthcare, doctors warn Doctors have warned that benefit claimants could be deterred from accessing healthcare after it emerged that the government is to start accessing medical records as part of the welfare assessment process.
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is in the process of creating a system to more quickly access people’s health data to help them to determine how much welfare support they are entitled to, including automating “routine” requests for medical information.
GPs and charities said the plans resemble the controversial data-sharing scheme between the Home Office and the NHS, which prompted outrage after it emergedsome immigrants were subsequently afraid to access healthcare, ultimately forcing the government to end the policy. The Independent
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is in the process of creating a system to more quickly access people’s health data to help them to determine how much welfare support they are entitled to, including automating “routine” requests for medical information.
GPs and charities said the plans resemble the controversial data-sharing scheme between the Home Office and the NHS, which prompted outrage after it emergedsome immigrants were subsequently afraid to access healthcare, ultimately forcing the government to end the policy. The Independent
Trans patients in England face 'soul destroying' wait for treatment
Trans patients in England face 'soul destroying' wait for treatment Patients face unprepared GPs and long consultation waiting lists, the Guardian reveals
Trans men and women are being left humiliated and desperate after seeking care from their GP, according to a Guardian investigation that has shed light on serious flaws in how the NHS treats transgender patients.
Hundreds of transgender people responded to a request from the Guardian to describe their experience of navigating the NHS, with the most common complaints coming from patients who felt their GP did not understand gender dysphoria, were not adequately trained to deal with their needs, and erroneously referred patients to mental health services.
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Trans men and women are being left humiliated and desperate after seeking care from their GP, according to a Guardian investigation that has shed light on serious flaws in how the NHS treats transgender patients.
Hundreds of transgender people responded to a request from the Guardian to describe their experience of navigating the NHS, with the most common complaints coming from patients who felt their GP did not understand gender dysphoria, were not adequately trained to deal with their needs, and erroneously referred patients to mental health services.
See also:
- 'Are you a man or a woman?': trans people on GP care The Guardian
NHS England survey reveals 'alarming downturn' in staff wellbeing
NHS England survey reveals 'alarming downturn' in staff wellbeing Number of those sick due to work-related stress is highest in five years
Two in five NHS staff in England felt sick from the stress of their job at some point last year, according to a survey.The figure of 39.8% of staff feeling unwell as a result of work-related stress was the highest in five years. The NHS staff survey also found that increasing numbers of doctors, nurses and other personnel felt disillusioned, were working unpaid overtime and were thinking about quitting.
A majority (51%) are thinking about leaving their current role and 21% want to quit the NHS altogether.
More than three-quarters (78%) feel under unrealistic time pressures some or all of the time.
Nearly six in 10 (58%) say they do unpaid overtime every week, though that number is falling.
Nearly 28% have suffered back pain in the last year as a direct result of their work, up two percentage points since 2017.
Fewer than three in 10 (28.6%) feel their trust takes positive action to improve staff health and wellbeing. The Guardian
See also:
- 2018 Result NHS Staff Survey Coordination Centre
- NHS staff survey shows workforce under pressure The Health Foundation
- The King's Fund responds to the findings of the NHS Staff Survey The King's Fund
- Downturn in NHS staff wellbeing will have a knock on effect on patients Nuffield Trust
- Staff 'feeling unwelcome pressure', says NHS Employers in response to NHS Staff Survey results NHS Employers
- NHS publishes latest NHS staff survey results NHS England
- Number of black and minority NHS staff reporting abuse from patients and the public is rising The Daily Mail
- Bullying on the rise in NHS, with one in three staff falling victim to abuse The Daily Telegraph
- NHS staff bullying on the rise with one in four workers experiencing harassment or abuse National Health Executive
Nurse paid double her NHS wages for a year by mistake spared jail after admitting theft
Nurse paid double her NHS wages for a year by mistake spared jail after admitting theft A nurse who kept quiet about being paid double her wages by the NHS for nearly 18 months has escaped jail after admitting theft.
Sarah Merry, 35, pocketed more than £25,000 as she continued to receive her monthly wages for a hospital job she was no longer doing. The mother of one failed to tell her former bosses about the payments - and spent the money on family trips abroad and watching football and rugby. The Daily Telegraph
Sarah Merry, 35, pocketed more than £25,000 as she continued to receive her monthly wages for a hospital job she was no longer doing. The mother of one failed to tell her former bosses about the payments - and spent the money on family trips abroad and watching football and rugby. The Daily Telegraph
Tuesday, 26 February 2019
KGH re-opens new-look fracture clinic
KGH re-opens new-look fracture clinic Kettering General Hospital has today opened a significantly refurbished and improved fracture clinic service in a new location within the hospital.
The Frank Radcliffe Clinic has re-opened to all of its patients (after using temporary accommodation in two different places) today (Monday, February 25), following a £2.4m hospital refurbishment and relocation programme to improve patient care. Northamptonshire Telegraph
The Frank Radcliffe Clinic has re-opened to all of its patients (after using temporary accommodation in two different places) today (Monday, February 25), following a £2.4m hospital refurbishment and relocation programme to improve patient care. Northamptonshire Telegraph
Northampton General Hospital plunged into darkness during major power cut
Northampton General Hospital plunged into darkness during major power cut Patients had to be taken to Milton Keynes and Kettering hospitals after a generator failure at Northampton General Hospital on Friday night (February 22).
NGH said the power went off at around 11.30pm in parts of the site, while other areas were unaffected.
A spokeswoman for Northampton General Hospital (NGH) said this morning: "We had a generator fail in the early hours of the morning of Saturday, February 23 and whilst we were sorting out the issue we went on temporary divert to Milton Keynes and Kettering.
"The issue was resolved within a couple of hours and we came off divert about 5.30am on February 23. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
NGH said the power went off at around 11.30pm in parts of the site, while other areas were unaffected.
A spokeswoman for Northampton General Hospital (NGH) said this morning: "We had a generator fail in the early hours of the morning of Saturday, February 23 and whilst we were sorting out the issue we went on temporary divert to Milton Keynes and Kettering.
"The issue was resolved within a couple of hours and we came off divert about 5.30am on February 23. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Brexit: the implications for health and social care
Brexit: the implications for health and social care Brexit has major implications for health and social care in England. Here we look at some of the latest developments that could impact the health and care system in England. The King's Fund
How will Brexit affect health services in the UK? An updated evaluation
How will Brexit affect health services in the UK? An updated evaluation All forms of Brexit are bad for health, but some are worse than others. This paper builds on our 2017 analysis using the WHO health system building blocks framework to assess the likely effects of Brexit on the National Health Service (NHS) in the UK. The Lancet
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Early Years Revolution needed to improve support and services
Early Years Revolution needed to improve support and services The Government must kick-start an Early Years Revolution to improve support and services for children, parents and families, says the Health and Social Care Committee, in its report on the first 1000 days of life.
See also:
See also:
- First 1000 days of life Health and Social Care Committee
- Investment in preventative services is needed to ensure healthy development in childhood and beyond The Health Foundation
- Nuffield Trust response to First 1000 Days of Life Report Nuffield Trust
- Children 'failed in first 1,000 days', says MPs BBC News
Raising the bar on strength and balance: the importance of community-based provision
Raising the bar on strength and balance: the importance of community-based provision Despite common misconceptions, falls are not an inevitable part of ageing and can be prevented. Although there are some NHS rehabilitation services that provide strength and balance programmes, these are often of limited length, making it essential that there are effective community-based strength and balance programmes in their local areas to move on to. This report, co-authored with the University of Manchester’s Healthy Ageing Research Group, shows a need for sustained, targeted funding for community-based programmes, with affordable, accessible and proven options available for everyone. Centre for Ageing Better
The community paradigm: why public services need radical change and how it can be achieved
The community paradigm: why public services need radical change and how it can be achieved This report sets out the case for a deep shift in public services based on a completely new relationship between citizen and state. This relationship rejects the hierarchical and transactional mindsets of traditional service models which all too often bypass people’s assets and capabilities. Instead, it fosters collaboration between the public servant and the citizen, sharing power and resources more directly with people, to embed prevention and ensure future sustainability.New Local Government Network
Organ donor law named after Max and Keira set to pass in England
Organ donor law named after Max and Keira set to pass in England Plans to change the rules on organ donation consent in England are set to clear their final hurdle in Parliament.
The legislation will be known as Max and Keira's Law after a boy who received a heart transplant and the girl who donated it.
Under the new system, which comes into effect next year, consent will be presumed unless people have opted out.
Currently, there is a voluntary opt-in scheme. Presumed consent has been operating in Wales since December 2015.
Organ donation consent rates in Wales are now the highest in the UK at 75%. BBC News
The legislation will be known as Max and Keira's Law after a boy who received a heart transplant and the girl who donated it.
Under the new system, which comes into effect next year, consent will be presumed unless people have opted out.
Currently, there is a voluntary opt-in scheme. Presumed consent has been operating in Wales since December 2015.
Organ donation consent rates in Wales are now the highest in the UK at 75%. BBC News
NHS child gender reassignment 'too quick'
NHS child gender reassignment 'too quick' England's only NHS youth gender clinic is too quick to give children and young people gender reassignment treatment, a former governor has said.
Psychoanalyst Dr Marcus Evans, who resigned last week, told the BBC's Today programme he had been concerned about clinicians searching for "quick solutions."
"This is the opposite of what needs to be done," he said.
A director of the Tavistock Centre rejected his claims. BBC News
Psychoanalyst Dr Marcus Evans, who resigned last week, told the BBC's Today programme he had been concerned about clinicians searching for "quick solutions."
"This is the opposite of what needs to be done," he said.
A director of the Tavistock Centre rejected his claims. BBC News
Huge increase in ‘Victorian diseases’ including rickets, scurvy and scarlet fever, NHS data reveals
Huge increase in ‘Victorian diseases’ including rickets, scurvy and scarlet fever, NHS data reveals Rickets, scarlet fever and other diseases more commonly seen in the Victorian era are sending increasing numbers to hospital, NHS data for England has revealed.
In 2017-18 there were 284,901 admissions for scurvy, vitamin D deficiency, gout and other maladies familiar to the pages of a Dickens novel – up 24 per cent on the year before.
Many of the conditions on the rise go hand in hand with economic inequalities and child food poverty has been linked to the UK’s rising rates of malnutrition and obesity. The Independent
In 2017-18 there were 284,901 admissions for scurvy, vitamin D deficiency, gout and other maladies familiar to the pages of a Dickens novel – up 24 per cent on the year before.
Many of the conditions on the rise go hand in hand with economic inequalities and child food poverty has been linked to the UK’s rising rates of malnutrition and obesity. The Independent
Record numbers living with diabetes in UK with 4.7 million at risk of amputations and blindness, charity warns
Record numbers living with diabetes in UK with 4.7 million at risk of amputations and blindness, charity warns A record 4.7 million people in the UK are living with diabetes, and nearly a million are undiagnosed and unknowingly at risk of foot amputations and losing their vision, charities have warned.
The number of people diagnosed with some form of the condition rose by 6.8 per cent across the UK last year, to more than 3.8 million adults in total, the latest figures from Diabetes UK reveal. Another 900,000 are unaware they have the condition. The Independent
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The number of people diagnosed with some form of the condition rose by 6.8 per cent across the UK last year, to more than 3.8 million adults in total, the latest figures from Diabetes UK reveal. Another 900,000 are unaware they have the condition. The Independent
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More than 1m asthma sufferers in England skip doses due to cost
More than 1m asthma sufferers in England skip doses due to cost Patients are at risk of asthma attacks as they cannot afford prescriptions, study says
Asthma sufferers are rationing how much of their medication they take because they cannot afford to pay NHS prescription charges, a report has said.
An estimated 1.3 million people with asthma in England do not take their medication regularly because of the cost involved, according to a survey by the charity Asthma UK. The Guardian
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Asthma sufferers are rationing how much of their medication they take because they cannot afford to pay NHS prescription charges, a report has said.
An estimated 1.3 million people with asthma in England do not take their medication regularly because of the cost involved, according to a survey by the charity Asthma UK. The Guardian
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GP ‘bribes’ to diagnose dementia undermine patients’ trust in doctors
GP ‘bribes’ to diagnose dementia undermine patients’ trust in doctors Paying GPs to identify dementia undermines patients’ trust in doctors, a study suggests.
In recent years, health officials have introduced a series of schemes which typically pay family doctors £55 a head for every patient classed as having the condition.
The initiatives came despite concern from some GPs that they would be seen as “bribes” which could sway doctors towards misdiagnosis. The Daily Telegraph
In recent years, health officials have introduced a series of schemes which typically pay family doctors £55 a head for every patient classed as having the condition.
The initiatives came despite concern from some GPs that they would be seen as “bribes” which could sway doctors towards misdiagnosis. The Daily Telegraph
Free condoms will be offered to PENSIONERS in Derbyshire to combat STIs
Free condoms will be offered to PENSIONERS in Derbyshire to combat STIs Free condoms will be offered to sexually-active pensioners to combat rising rates of STIs among the over 60s.
In the first NHS campaign of its kind - named Jiggle, Wiggle - local services in Derbyshire will hand out the contraception at GP surgeries, as well as community venues and food banks.
Rising divorce rates and a boom in online dating are thought to be fueling the spread of sexually transmitted infections. The Daily Mail
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In the first NHS campaign of its kind - named Jiggle, Wiggle - local services in Derbyshire will hand out the contraception at GP surgeries, as well as community venues and food banks.
Rising divorce rates and a boom in online dating are thought to be fueling the spread of sexually transmitted infections. The Daily Mail
See also:
- Over 60s to be handed free condoms in attempt to battle rising STI rate The Daily Telegraph
Monday, 25 February 2019
Reach for Health: 'Unique' rehab centre gets funding
Reach for Health: 'Unique' rehab centre gets funding A £1.5m building for a rehabilitation health charity has been given the go ahead despite a warning it could lead to the council ending up in "a borrowing position".
Daventry District Council voted to pay for Reach for Health's new building in the grounds of the Daventry & District Sports Trust site in the town. BBC Northampton
Daventry District Council voted to pay for Reach for Health's new building in the grounds of the Daventry & District Sports Trust site in the town. BBC Northampton
Richard Coles: Mental health hospital 'saved my life'
Richard Coles: Mental health hospital 'saved my life' Pop star-turned-vicar the Reverend Richard Coles has credited a mental health hospital for saving his life when he was 17.
The former Communards keyboard player said he was an inpatient at St Andrew's Healthcare in Northampton when he had an episode of clinical depression.
Mr Coles said he was coming to terms with his sexuality and "as a gay man in Kettering in 1978" at the time.
The care he received "literally saved my life", he said. BBC Northampton
The former Communards keyboard player said he was an inpatient at St Andrew's Healthcare in Northampton when he had an episode of clinical depression.
Mr Coles said he was coming to terms with his sexuality and "as a gay man in Kettering in 1978" at the time.
The care he received "literally saved my life", he said. BBC Northampton
Hard facts about a soft Brexit and the NHS
Hard facts about a soft Brexit and the NHS With Brexit still dominating the news agenda and the UK yet to come to a final agreement with the European Union, Mark Dayan looks at what the so-called "Norway model" might mean for the NHS. Nuffield Trust
Expansion of budgets for personalised health and care support
Expansion of budgets for personalised health and care support Wheelchair users and people who access aftercare services under the Mental Health Act will soon have a right to a personal health budget, the government has announced.
- Personal health budgets allow people to choose their own health and care support, which could include:
- specially adapted wheelchairs designed to maximise independence
- a choice of personal assistants who can be specially trained to meet the individual’s needs
- technology, equipment or even an assistance dog to reduce the need for support from a carer
NHS told to ditch 'outdated' pagers
NHS told to ditch 'outdated' pagers The NHS has been told to stop using pagers for communications by 2021, in order to save money.
The health service still uses about 130,000 pagers, which is about 10% of the total left in use globally.
They cost the NHS about £6.6m a year, because only one service provider supports them.
Health Secretary Matt Hancock called them "outdated" and said he wanted to rid the NHS of "archaic technology like pagers and fax machines". BBC News
The health service still uses about 130,000 pagers, which is about 10% of the total left in use globally.
They cost the NHS about £6.6m a year, because only one service provider supports them.
Health Secretary Matt Hancock called them "outdated" and said he wanted to rid the NHS of "archaic technology like pagers and fax machines". BBC News
Armed forces veterans with mental health problems 'completely failed by system', MPs warn
Armed forces veterans with mental health problems 'completely failed by system', MPs warn Armed forces personnel and veterans in need of mental health care are being “completely failed by the system” in some cases, MPs have warned.
The House of Commons Defence Committee said it is a “scandal” that in an NHSbudget of over £150bn, less than £10m annually (0.007 per cent) has been allocated to veteran-specific mental health services.
The report said the NHS should urgently consult with the Ministry of Defence (MoD)and the Defence and National Rehabilitation Centre in order to establish a world-class centre for the treatment of mental injuries within the next year or 18 months. The Independent
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The House of Commons Defence Committee said it is a “scandal” that in an NHSbudget of over £150bn, less than £10m annually (0.007 per cent) has been allocated to veteran-specific mental health services.
The report said the NHS should urgently consult with the Ministry of Defence (MoD)and the Defence and National Rehabilitation Centre in order to establish a world-class centre for the treatment of mental injuries within the next year or 18 months. The Independent
See also:
- Mental Health and the Armed Forces, Part Two: The Provision of Care Defence Select Committee
- World-class mental health centre essential for Service personnel and Veterans Defence Select Committee
- NHS 'completely fails' veterans on mental healthcare – report The Guardian
Bullying and sexual harassment 'endemic' in NHS hospitals
Bullying and sexual harassment 'endemic' in NHS hospitals Findings show sheer scale of issue, with only a fraction of cases leading to disciplinary action
Hundreds of doctors have been accused of bullying and sexually harassing colleagues in the past five years, prompting concern that a culture of intimidation is thriving in the NHS.
Data shows that reports of bullying and harassment rose from 420 in 2013-14 to 585 in 2017-18. The figures, obtained by the Guardian using a freedom of information request, showed that only a fraction of these cases led to dismissal or disciplinary action.
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Hundreds of doctors have been accused of bullying and sexually harassing colleagues in the past five years, prompting concern that a culture of intimidation is thriving in the NHS.
Data shows that reports of bullying and harassment rose from 420 in 2013-14 to 585 in 2017-18. The figures, obtained by the Guardian using a freedom of information request, showed that only a fraction of these cases led to dismissal or disciplinary action.
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Breakthrough for NHS as hundreds more men study nursing
Breakthrough for NHS as hundreds more men study nursing Numbers of males – especially school-leavers – wanting to get on college courses are the highest in a decade
The NHS has seen a significant rise in the number of men applying to be nurses, following a recruitment drive aimed at changing attitudes towards a career long stereotyped as female-dominated.
Hundreds more men have applied to study nursing and midwifery since the start of last summer’s NHS England campaign, a 9% increase according to Ucas, the organisation that arranges university courses. The Guardian
The NHS has seen a significant rise in the number of men applying to be nurses, following a recruitment drive aimed at changing attitudes towards a career long stereotyped as female-dominated.
Hundreds more men have applied to study nursing and midwifery since the start of last summer’s NHS England campaign, a 9% increase according to Ucas, the organisation that arranges university courses. The Guardian
Governor of child gender service quits over damning report
Governor of child gender service quits over damning report Decision expected to intensify scrutiny of service accused of ‘fast-tracking’ young people
The trust running the country’s only NHS gender identity service for children is under fire for dismissing a damning internal report that branded it “not fit for purpose”.
Marcus Evans, one of the governors of The Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust has resigned, after accusing its management of having an “overvalued belief in” the expertise of its Gender Identity Development Service (GIDS) “which is used to dismiss challenge and examination”. The Guardian
The trust running the country’s only NHS gender identity service for children is under fire for dismissing a damning internal report that branded it “not fit for purpose”.
Marcus Evans, one of the governors of The Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust has resigned, after accusing its management of having an “overvalued belief in” the expertise of its Gender Identity Development Service (GIDS) “which is used to dismiss challenge and examination”. The Guardian
Police called in after medics attacked by anti abortion campaigners
Police called in after medics attacked by anti abortion campaigners Police have been called in by medics attacked by pro-life abortion campaigners, as experts warn that social media has made these activists more militant.
It comes ahead of a US-backed campaign that will see vigils held outside 10 UK clinics over the period of lent, for 12 hours a day.
Officers from the Greater Manchester Police met with Marie Stopes abortion clinic staff this month to offer them increased support around a centre in South Manchester and agree a plan with nurses ahead of the 40-day anti-abortion effort in March. The Daily Telegraph
It comes ahead of a US-backed campaign that will see vigils held outside 10 UK clinics over the period of lent, for 12 hours a day.
Officers from the Greater Manchester Police met with Marie Stopes abortion clinic staff this month to offer them increased support around a centre in South Manchester and agree a plan with nurses ahead of the 40-day anti-abortion effort in March. The Daily Telegraph
Shropshire doctor covers home visits for 500,000 patients in a crisis for out-of-hours NHS care
Shropshire doctor covers home visits for 500,000 patients in a crisis for out-of-hours NHS care A single GP is having to cover night-time home visits for a population of half a million.
In a stark illustration of the crisis in out-of-hours care, the doctor is solely responsible for an area of 1,346 square miles.
Ten years ago, eight GPs shared the workload in Shropshire. The situation is blamed on lack of cash and a shortage of GPs prepared to carry out unsocial hours. The Daily Mail
In a stark illustration of the crisis in out-of-hours care, the doctor is solely responsible for an area of 1,346 square miles.
Ten years ago, eight GPs shared the workload in Shropshire. The situation is blamed on lack of cash and a shortage of GPs prepared to carry out unsocial hours. The Daily Mail
Friday, 22 February 2019
UK flu levels according to PHE statistics: 2018 to 2019
UK flu levels according to PHE statistics: 2018 to 2019 The latest Public Health England (PHE) report published at 2pm today, Thursday 21 February 2019, shows that seasonal flu continues to circulate across the UK.
GP consultations with flu-like illness and hospital admission rates have both decreased slightly from 23.1 per 100,000 to 21.1 per 100,000 and 6.86 per 100,000 to 5.97 per 100,000 respectively. Intensive care admission rates have also slightly decreased compared last week (0.49 per 100,000 compared to 0.55 per 100,000).
GP consultations with flu-like illness and hospital admission rates have both decreased slightly from 23.1 per 100,000 to 21.1 per 100,000 and 6.86 per 100,000 to 5.97 per 100,000 respectively. Intensive care admission rates have also slightly decreased compared last week (0.49 per 100,000 compared to 0.55 per 100,000).
PTSD affects 'one in 13 by age of 18'
PTSD affects 'one in 13 by age of 18' One in 13 young people in England and Wales experiences post-traumatic stress disorder by the age of 18, the first research of its kind suggests.
A study of more than 2,000 18-year-olds found nearly a third had experienced trauma in childhood.
And a quarter of these then developed PTSD, which can cause insomnia, flashbacks and feelings of isolation.
Researchers say, with many young people not receiving the support they need, the study should be a "wake-up call". BBC News
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A study of more than 2,000 18-year-olds found nearly a third had experienced trauma in childhood.
And a quarter of these then developed PTSD, which can cause insomnia, flashbacks and feelings of isolation.
Researchers say, with many young people not receiving the support they need, the study should be a "wake-up call". BBC News
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‘Paradigm shift’ in type 1 diabetes shows new drugs which could delay disease’s emergence
‘Paradigm shift’ in type 1 diabetes shows new drugs which could delay disease’s emergence Scientists may have been looking in the wrong place for a cure to type 1 diabetes after a new study claims to have found “a paradigm shift” in treatment.
Researchers have found the disease could be kept at bay in animals by clearing out defective insulin-producing cells.
Drug development has previously been focused on preserving these “beta cells” by preventing the immune system wiping them out, but US researchers say their findings turn this on its head. The Indpendent
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Researchers have found the disease could be kept at bay in animals by clearing out defective insulin-producing cells.
Drug development has previously been focused on preserving these “beta cells” by preventing the immune system wiping them out, but US researchers say their findings turn this on its head. The Indpendent
See also:
- Targeted Elimination of Senescent Beta Cells Prevents Type 1 Diabetes (abstract) Cell Metabolism
I've seen countless deaths in my time nursing, but I'll never forget my first
I've seen countless deaths in my time nursing, but I'll never forget my first It’s a privilege to be with someone in their final moments, and how we treat those who are dying matters
Our teachers tried teaching us about death during nursing training, but it’s impossible to prepare for your first experience of it. You can learn about the theories, about the principles of pain and symptom control, but that’s only a small element of the real experience.
The first person I saw die was an elderly man who had no family able to visit him in hospital. I was a student nurse and knew I would see death in my career. I had no idea of the impact it would have on me, however. The Guardian
Our teachers tried teaching us about death during nursing training, but it’s impossible to prepare for your first experience of it. You can learn about the theories, about the principles of pain and symptom control, but that’s only a small element of the real experience.
The first person I saw die was an elderly man who had no family able to visit him in hospital. I was a student nurse and knew I would see death in my career. I had no idea of the impact it would have on me, however. The Guardian
NHS prescriptions price will rise 20p to £9 from April
NHS prescriptions price will rise 20p to £9 from April The cost of an NHS prescription will rise to £9 this year, the Government has announced.
Patients in England will, from April 1, have to pay an extra 20p to collect their medicines from a pharmacy.
Experts have scorned the price hike, which they say goes against the NHS's public plans and could lead to patients skimping on vital medications. The Daily Mail
Patients in England will, from April 1, have to pay an extra 20p to collect their medicines from a pharmacy.
Experts have scorned the price hike, which they say goes against the NHS's public plans and could lead to patients skimping on vital medications. The Daily Mail
Record number of operations aren't being rescheduled in time as one in 13 wait more than a MONTH
Record number of operations aren't being rescheduled in time as one in 13 wait more than a MONTH A record high number of patients are not having their operations rescheduled on time after they were cancelled at the last minute.
One in 13 patients in England did not have their operations rescheduled within the mandatory 28-day period after their surgery was cancelled on the day.
This figure, covering October, November and December, is an increase on the same period in the previous year and is the worst for 14 years.
Pressures on the NHS and a lack of beds have had a knock-on effect in hospitals across the country, experts warn. The Daily Mail
One in 13 patients in England did not have their operations rescheduled within the mandatory 28-day period after their surgery was cancelled on the day.
This figure, covering October, November and December, is an increase on the same period in the previous year and is the worst for 14 years.
Pressures on the NHS and a lack of beds have had a knock-on effect in hospitals across the country, experts warn. The Daily Mail
Thursday, 21 February 2019
Public acceptability of health and social care funding options Funding options for the NHS and social care in the UK
Public acceptability of health and social care funding options Funding options for the NHS and social care in the UK This working paper is part of a research project exploring funding options for the NHS and social care in the UK.
It explores the preferences of the general public with regard to the various ways of raising the additional funds that will be needed for health and social care in the UK. The researchers conducted focus groups with members of the public in all four UK countries and used the findings to design a discrete choice experiment (DCE). In the DCE, with a total of 2,756 respondents, researchers tested people’s preferences between different ways of funding health care and social care by asking them to make a series of choices between pairs of options.
The working paper presents the key findings, and draws out the policy implications. The Health Foundation
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It explores the preferences of the general public with regard to the various ways of raising the additional funds that will be needed for health and social care in the UK. The researchers conducted focus groups with members of the public in all four UK countries and used the findings to design a discrete choice experiment (DCE). In the DCE, with a total of 2,756 respondents, researchers tested people’s preferences between different ways of funding health care and social care by asking them to make a series of choices between pairs of options.
The working paper presents the key findings, and draws out the policy implications. The Health Foundation
See also:
- Health funding – finally something we can agree on The Health Foundation
Reframing the conversation on the social determinants of health
Reframing the conversation on the social determinants of health The Health Foundation is working with the FrameWorks Institute to develop a deeper appreciation of the ways in which people understand and think about health in order to develop more effective approaches to communicating evidence.
This briefing presents the main findings from research commissioned by the Health Foundation and carried out by the FrameWorks Institute, analysing public understanding, expert opinion and media narrative around health. It also presents findings from questions sponsored by the Health Foundation in the 2017 British Social Attitudes survey.
This briefing presents the main findings from research commissioned by the Health Foundation and carried out by the FrameWorks Institute, analysing public understanding, expert opinion and media narrative around health. It also presents findings from questions sponsored by the Health Foundation in the 2017 British Social Attitudes survey.
NHSX: new joint organisation for digital, data and technology
NHSX: new joint organisation for digital, data and technology A new joint unit, NHSX, will be created to bring the benefits of modern technology to every patient and clinician. It will combine the best talent from government, the NHS and industry.
NHSX will aim to create the most advanced health and care service in the world to diagnose diseases earlier, free up staff time and empower patients to take greater control of their own healthcare. Department of Health and Social Care
NHSX will aim to create the most advanced health and care service in the world to diagnose diseases earlier, free up staff time and empower patients to take greater control of their own healthcare. Department of Health and Social Care
GPs told to stop charging patients with a mental illness for debt support forms
GPs told to stop charging patients with a mental illness for debt support forms GPs in England have been told they can no longer charge a fee for paperwork to help people with mental health problems who are being pursued by creditors or debt collectors to access support.
The British Medical Association (BMA) has committed to ending charges for mental health debt forms, which can be requested as evidence by creditors when someone is in arrears and struggling to pay. The Independent
The British Medical Association (BMA) has committed to ending charges for mental health debt forms, which can be requested as evidence by creditors when someone is in arrears and struggling to pay. The Independent
Britons urged to get flu vaccine as critical cases rise above 2,000
Britons urged to get flu vaccine as critical cases rise above 2,000 Virus has killed 200 and left many more in intensive care units over winter period
Flu has left more than 2,000 Britons needing life-or-death treatment in an intensive care unit (ICU) this winter, even though the virus is circulating at unusually low levels.
Senior doctors said as many people were at risk of dying as during the pandemics of 2009-10 and 2010-11, despite the small numbers contracting the virus. The Guardian
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Flu has left more than 2,000 Britons needing life-or-death treatment in an intensive care unit (ICU) this winter, even though the virus is circulating at unusually low levels.
Senior doctors said as many people were at risk of dying as during the pandemics of 2009-10 and 2010-11, despite the small numbers contracting the virus. The Guardian
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Figures show soaring number of homeless hospital patients
Figures show soaring number of homeless hospital patients NHS Digital figures show admissions in England rose from 1,539 in 2008/9 to 10,259 in 2017/18
Thousands of homeless people in England are arriving at hospital with Victorian-era illnesses such as tuberculosis, as well as serious respiratory conditions, liver disease and cancer, with hospital admissions for such conditions surging over a decade, the Guardian can reveal.
Thousands of homeless people in England are arriving at hospital with Victorian-era illnesses such as tuberculosis, as well as serious respiratory conditions, liver disease and cancer, with hospital admissions for such conditions surging over a decade, the Guardian can reveal.
NHS chronic illness patients to get £3,000 a year to spend on their own care by 2024
NHS chronic illness patients to get £3,000 a year to spend on their own care by 2024 Up to 200,000 patients will be given their own NHS allowances to spend on care - including dogs.
Ministers want to massively expand the ‘personal health budgets’ scheme for patients with long-term illnesses.
They will be given allowances of approximately £3,000 a year to spend on care and equipment to manage their condition. The Daily Mail
Ministers want to massively expand the ‘personal health budgets’ scheme for patients with long-term illnesses.
They will be given allowances of approximately £3,000 a year to spend on care and equipment to manage their condition. The Daily Mail
GPs who dispense drugs from their own practice could be costing the NHS £7MILLION
GPs who dispense drugs from their own practice could be costing the NHS £7MILLION GPs who dispense drugs from their own practice could be costing the NHS more than £7million per year by choosing more expensive medications.
Experts say the NHS's reimbursement system has created a 'financial conflict of interest in treatment decisions'.
Specifically, it allows doctors to choose medicines which are costlier but are no more effective than their cheaper counterparts.
This, the researchers claim, allows some GPs to negotiate and buy drugs at lower prices but still be reimbursed the full cost by the NHS, increasing their profits. The Daily Mail
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Experts say the NHS's reimbursement system has created a 'financial conflict of interest in treatment decisions'.
Specifically, it allows doctors to choose medicines which are costlier but are no more effective than their cheaper counterparts.
This, the researchers claim, allows some GPs to negotiate and buy drugs at lower prices but still be reimbursed the full cost by the NHS, increasing their profits. The Daily Mail
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Wednesday, 20 February 2019
Northamptonshire awards ceremony puts carers in the spotlight
Northamptonshire awards ceremony puts carers in the spotlight More than 120 people attended the annual Northamptonshire Jane Roebuck Carers Awards which brought together carers from across Northamptonshire to acknowledge and celebrate the fantastic contribution that they make to the county.
The prestigious awards ceremony, which was held at Barton Hall, Kettering, not only recognises the commitment, hard work, and selflessness of carers, but it provides an opportunity for them to enjoy an occasion which is dedicated solely to them. Northamptonshire Telegraph
The prestigious awards ceremony, which was held at Barton Hall, Kettering, not only recognises the commitment, hard work, and selflessness of carers, but it provides an opportunity for them to enjoy an occasion which is dedicated solely to them. Northamptonshire Telegraph
Guidance: Kettering and Northamptonshire: bowel cancer screening
Guidance: Kettering and Northamptonshire: bowel cancer screening Executive summary of quality assurance (QA) visit to Kettering and Northamptonshire Bowel Cancer screening service held on 6 March 2018. Public Health England
Making the NHS a World Leader in improving the mental wellbeing of its staff and learners
Making the NHS a World Leader in improving the mental wellbeing of its staff and learners There are 1.4 million people in the NHS taking care of the health needs of patients up and down the country, their physical and emotional health is key to patient welfare.
Professor Simon Gregory, Health Education England Primary Care Lead and Clinical Director of the recently published NHS Staff and Learners’ Mental Wellbeing Commission today sets out how the NHS can rise to this challenge and be a world leader in improving the mental wellbeing of its staff and learners. Health Education England
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Professor Simon Gregory, Health Education England Primary Care Lead and Clinical Director of the recently published NHS Staff and Learners’ Mental Wellbeing Commission today sets out how the NHS can rise to this challenge and be a world leader in improving the mental wellbeing of its staff and learners. Health Education England
See also:
- Mental Wellbeing Commission report Health Education England
- NHS staff to get safe spaces and 24 hour helpline to avoid burnout The Daily Telegraph
- NHS staff should be able to jump the queue to access mental health support, health secretary proposes The Independent
International comparisons of health and wellbeing in adolescence and early adulthood
International comparisons of health and wellbeing in adolescence and early adulthood Young people aged 10–24 make up approximately a fifth of the population of most high-income countries and there are strong health and economic arguments for improving their health outcomes. This report summarises how 17 key indicators of the health and wellbeing of young people aged 10–24 vary in a selection of 19 similar high-income countries both within and outside of Europe. Nuffield Trust and Association for Young People's Health
See also:
See also:
- Sound the alarm: we must improve our young people’s health services Nuffield Trust
- Asthma: Young people in the UK 'more likely to die' BBC News
- British teenagers have the highest rate of obesity in Europe, major study finds The Daily Mail
- Revealed: asthma’s deadly toll on young people in the UK The Guardian
- UK government letting down young people by failing to tackle health inequalities, report warns The Independent
Reservoirs of antimicrobial resistance
Reservoirs of antimicrobial resistance The widespread use of antimicrobials, particularly antibiotics, has accelerated the spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in microbes. A recent report by the Health and Social Care Committee called for AMR to be a ‘top five policy priority’. This POSTnote evaluates the main reservoirs of AMR microbes arising from the use of antimicrobials in both humans and animals. Parliamentary Office of Science and Technology
A teachable moment: delivering perioperative medicine in integrated care systems
A teachable moment: delivering perioperative medicine in integrated care systems This report showcases a number of innovative and award-winning programmes in hospitals across England that are improving patient care before, during and after surgery. The time preparing for, undergoing and then recovering from an operation is known as the perioperative period and the College believes that tailored care throughout this time will improve long-term outcomes for patients after surgery. Royal College of Anaesthetists
With 38 Days To Go, The NHS Is Advertising 200+ Jobs To Prepare For No-Deal Brexit
With 38 Days To Go, The NHS Is Advertising 200+ Jobs To Prepare For No-Deal Brexit NHS England is internally advertising hundreds of roles in preparation for a no-deal Brexit, HuffPost UK can reveal.
With only 38 days until Britain leaves the EU and political negotiations seemingly deadlocked, the health service is hiring people to monitor the potential stockpiling of medicines, manage the supply of “critical” drugs, and ensure information can still be shared with the EU. Huffington Post UK
With only 38 days until Britain leaves the EU and political negotiations seemingly deadlocked, the health service is hiring people to monitor the potential stockpiling of medicines, manage the supply of “critical” drugs, and ensure information can still be shared with the EU. Huffington Post UK
Directors of cystic fibrosis drug firm in NHS standoff made £15m
Directors of cystic fibrosis drug firm in NHS standoff made £15m Patients can’t access vital drug Orkambi as Vertex Pharmaceuticals refuse to drop price
Two UK directors of Vertex Pharmaceuticals, the company in a stand-off with the NHS over the high price of its breakthrough cystic fibrosis drug, made more than £15m from share options in 2017, the Guardian can reveal.
Vertex refuses to drop the price of Orkambi, a drug that treats the underlying causes of the life-shortening disease, to a level that the NHS says it can afford. Negotiations have been going on for two years and in stalemate for six months, while children and young adults with cystic fibrosis who could be helped suffer infections and irretrievably lose some of their lung function. The Guardian
Two UK directors of Vertex Pharmaceuticals, the company in a stand-off with the NHS over the high price of its breakthrough cystic fibrosis drug, made more than £15m from share options in 2017, the Guardian can reveal.
Vertex refuses to drop the price of Orkambi, a drug that treats the underlying causes of the life-shortening disease, to a level that the NHS says it can afford. Negotiations have been going on for two years and in stalemate for six months, while children and young adults with cystic fibrosis who could be helped suffer infections and irretrievably lose some of their lung function. The Guardian
Bacteria develop tougher membranes to resist antibiotics, report into superbugs finds
Bacteria develop tougher membranes to resist antibiotics, report into superbugs finds Scientists have identified how deadly bacteria resist antibiotics at a molecular level for the first time, in a discovery that could have significant implications for the development of much-needed new drugs. The Daily Telegraph
See also:
See also:
- Membrane charge and lipid packing determinepolymyxin-induced membrane damage (open access) Nature Scientific Communications
Millions face menopause without hormone replacement therapy because of 'decades old scare stories'
Millions face menopause without hormone replacement therapy because of 'decades old scare stories' Millions of women are being forced to cope with the menopause without help, leading doctors have warned.
Prescriptions of hormone replacement therapy have plummeted by two thirds this century with experts claiming GPs are still influenced by scare stories about the side-effects of HRT published nearly two decades ago.
Despite more recent studies showing these scares were overblown, many doctors are still reluctant to prescribe the drugs. The Daily Mail
Prescriptions of hormone replacement therapy have plummeted by two thirds this century with experts claiming GPs are still influenced by scare stories about the side-effects of HRT published nearly two decades ago.
Despite more recent studies showing these scares were overblown, many doctors are still reluctant to prescribe the drugs. The Daily Mail
Tuesday, 19 February 2019
Northamptonshire County Council finances 'remain fragile' despite break-even optimism from commissioners
Northamptonshire County Council finances 'remain fragile' despite break-even optimism from commissioners The government appointed commissioners of Northamptonshire County Council says that the authority’s finances ‘remain fragile’, even as they predict it will break even against all odds this year.
Tony McArdle and Brian Roberts were drafted in by Westminster to oversee the failing county council after it effectively declared itself bankrupt last year by ordering a section 114 notice, which prohibits news spending.
But with the in-year overspend reducing from £64.1million to £1.4million, the commissioners are confident the council will balance its book by the end of the financial year in late March. Northamptonshire Telegraph
Tony McArdle and Brian Roberts were drafted in by Westminster to oversee the failing county council after it effectively declared itself bankrupt last year by ordering a section 114 notice, which prohibits news spending.
But with the in-year overspend reducing from £64.1million to £1.4million, the commissioners are confident the council will balance its book by the end of the financial year in late March. Northamptonshire Telegraph
Northampton doctor who gave drugs without a licence is free to work again
Northampton doctor who gave drugs without a licence is free to work again A doctor who was suspended while working for NHS Northamptonshire Healthcare has had his suspension revoked.
It comes after Dr Gabriel Okey worked without a licence for six weeks in 2016, including a period at HMP Bedford.
The Medical Practitioners Tribunal Services found he knowingly worked even though his licence had been revoked three months previously and so he had "abused his position of trust". The panel suspended him for a year in January 2018.
But a fresh tribunal has ruled that he can now return to work. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
It comes after Dr Gabriel Okey worked without a licence for six weeks in 2016, including a period at HMP Bedford.
The Medical Practitioners Tribunal Services found he knowingly worked even though his licence had been revoked three months previously and so he had "abused his position of trust". The panel suspended him for a year in January 2018.
But a fresh tribunal has ruled that he can now return to work. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Evaluating, fast and slow: reflections from the Rapid Evaluation Conference
Evaluating, fast and slow: reflections from the Rapid Evaluation Conference Rapid evaluation should not be mistaken for ‘quick and dirty’ research, so what does it mean? Nuffield Trust
Involving NHS staff in research
Involving NHS staff in research This report looks at the different ways NHS staff are getting involved in the research process including designing studies, collecting data, and disseminating and implementing research findings. It also looks at how staff involvement in research could be improved and describes some of the barriers to active involvement, from lack funding and support through to a tendency for research opportunities to be offered to certain healthcare professions and specialties. Healthcare Improvement Studies Institute
Vulnerable Children in a Digital World
Vulnerable Children in a Digital World This report provides insight into the online world of the UK’s most vulnerable children highlights the potential online risks that different groups of vulnerable children may face online, such as pressure to be sexting, cyberbullying, cyber scams, or seeing content promoting self-harm, anorexia and suicide.
It also offers guidance on ways to support vulnerable children emphasising the introduction of specialised training and tools across all sectors to draw on the ability to identify the most likely online issues facing the highest risk children and trigger early intervention. Internet Matters.Org
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It also offers guidance on ways to support vulnerable children emphasising the introduction of specialised training and tools across all sectors to draw on the ability to identify the most likely online issues facing the highest risk children and trigger early intervention. Internet Matters.Org
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The Daffodil standards
The Daffodil standards GP surgeries will now be able to display a 'daffodil mark' as a sign of commitment to improving end of life care, as part of a new partnership between the Royal College of GPs and the terminal illness charity Marie Curie. The mark, synonymous with the charity, is based on a new set of criteria called the Daffodil Standards – a set of eight quality improvement statements designed to support primary care teams in delivering care to patients living with an advanced, serious illness or at the end of their lives, and their loved ones. Royal College of General Practitioners
Developing people – improving care: guidance
Developing people – improving care: guidance In 2016, this framework was introduced to help NHS and social care staff to develop four critical capabilities: systems leadership; established quality improvement methods; inclusive and compassionate leadership; and talent management. The newly published guidance provides further information to those with a deeper interest on these capabilities. NHS Improvement
Sepsis: New rapid test 'could save thousands of lives'
Sepsis: New rapid test 'could save thousands of lives' A new rapid test for earlier diagnosis of sepsis has been developed by University of Strathclyde researchers, which they say could save thousands of lives.
A microelectrode device analyses the patient's blood, with results coming through in two-and-a-half minutes.
Current diagnosis tests for sepsis can take up to 72 hours.
The researchers hope the low-cost test could come into everyday use in three to five years. BBC News
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A microelectrode device analyses the patient's blood, with results coming through in two-and-a-half minutes.
Current diagnosis tests for sepsis can take up to 72 hours.
The researchers hope the low-cost test could come into everyday use in three to five years. BBC News
See also:
- Development of a needle shaped microelectrode for electrochemical detection of the sepsis biomarker interleukin-6 (IL-6) in real time (open access) Biosensors and Bioelectronics
Hospices are facing financial ruin – here’s how can we sustain end-of-life care
Hospices are facing financial ruin – here’s how can we sustain end-of-life care For the first time ever, one of Britain’s 200 independent hospices has closed its doors.
St Clare’s in Jarrow near Newcastle had been serving its community in the northeast of England for 30 years, raising most of its annual costs of £2.2m from local charitable giving. But after a trying period of medical understaffing, concerns from independent regulator the Care Quality Commission and mounting financial problems, it has had no choice but to shut down.
St Clare’s supporters are saddened and dismayed. The local MP has raised his concerns with the prime minister. Worryingly, the closure may be a sign of much bigger problems in the sector. Senior sources familiar with hospice finances tell me that up to 50 more hospices may be in difficulties. The Independent
St Clare’s in Jarrow near Newcastle had been serving its community in the northeast of England for 30 years, raising most of its annual costs of £2.2m from local charitable giving. But after a trying period of medical understaffing, concerns from independent regulator the Care Quality Commission and mounting financial problems, it has had no choice but to shut down.
St Clare’s supporters are saddened and dismayed. The local MP has raised his concerns with the prime minister. Worryingly, the closure may be a sign of much bigger problems in the sector. Senior sources familiar with hospice finances tell me that up to 50 more hospices may be in difficulties. The Independent
With councils and the NHS at loggerheads, vital services are at risk
With councils and the NHS at loggerheads, vital services are at risk Who should run local health and care services, especially public health services, is becoming an increasingly tense battleground between the NHS and local government, with serious potential consequences.
The NHS long-term plan, unveiled in January, aims to deliver the “triple integration” of primary and hospital care, physical and mental health services and health with social care. From councils’ point of view, this is a unique opportunity to fix one of the big flaws in the way the NHS was set up in 1948, with a centralised service telling local services what to do, rather than focusing on the needs of local communities. The Guardian
The NHS long-term plan, unveiled in January, aims to deliver the “triple integration” of primary and hospital care, physical and mental health services and health with social care. From councils’ point of view, this is a unique opportunity to fix one of the big flaws in the way the NHS was set up in 1948, with a centralised service telling local services what to do, rather than focusing on the needs of local communities. The Guardian
Health Secretary urged to stop privatisation of NHS as companies bid for £128million contracts
Health Secretary urged to stop privatisation of NHS as companies bid for £128million contracts Health and Social Care Secretary Matt Hancock has been urged to stop private companies from securing NHS contracts.
A total of 26 health service contracts worth more than £128 million are currently out to tender, according to research commissioned by the Labour Party.
One contract – for running the NHS 111 phones line in Kent, Medway and Sussex – is worth more than £90 million. The Daily Mail
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A total of 26 health service contracts worth more than £128 million are currently out to tender, according to research commissioned by the Labour Party.
One contract – for running the NHS 111 phones line in Kent, Medway and Sussex – is worth more than £90 million. The Daily Mail
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Doctors say they are 'too BUSY' to look after dying patients because of growing workloads
Doctors say they are 'too BUSY' to look after dying patients because of growing workloads The majority of doctors say they are too busy to provide the quality of end-of-life care they would like to.
That's the finding of a new survey done by the Royal College of General Practitioners, which quizzed 1,000 GPs across the UK.
Medical professionals blame growing workloads and funding cuts for the problem.
The research also found 62 per cent of doctors feel there's insufficient community support available to terminally ill patients and their families, because of a lack of funds. The Daily Mail
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That's the finding of a new survey done by the Royal College of General Practitioners, which quizzed 1,000 GPs across the UK.
Medical professionals blame growing workloads and funding cuts for the problem.
The research also found 62 per cent of doctors feel there's insufficient community support available to terminally ill patients and their families, because of a lack of funds. The Daily Mail
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Monday, 18 February 2019
New Corby Urgent Care operator is ‘here to build bridges’
New Corby Urgent Care operator is ‘here to build bridges’ It’s not been an easy few years for the Corby Urgent Care Centre.
The Cottingham Road 8-8 is the jewel in the crown of the town’s healthcare system that has been groaning under the weight of 10,000 new people that have made the borough the fastest growing outside of London during the past decade.
The envy of other towns, Corby UCC really works. Northamptonshire Telegraph
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The Cottingham Road 8-8 is the jewel in the crown of the town’s healthcare system that has been groaning under the weight of 10,000 new people that have made the borough the fastest growing outside of London during the past decade.
The envy of other towns, Corby UCC really works. Northamptonshire Telegraph
See also:
- Campaigners react to Corby Urgent Care Centre deal Northamptonshire Telegraph
Nurse at Northampton hospital gave Chinese burn to man with dementia
Nurse at Northampton hospital gave Chinese burn to man with dementia A nurse has been struck off after admitting she threatened to break the wrist of man with dementia after he lashed out at her.
Bank nurse Lenuta Botezatu was working a night shift on Benham Ward at Northampton General Hospital when an elderly patient she was taking to the toilet hit her in her chest. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Bank nurse Lenuta Botezatu was working a night shift on Benham Ward at Northampton General Hospital when an elderly patient she was taking to the toilet hit her in her chest. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Brexit: Will Brits living in the EU still get healthcare?
Brexit: Will Brits living in the EU still get healthcare? If the UK leaves the EU without a deal, reciprocal healthcare arrangements will not automatically survive. The UK is trying to reach agreements with EU governments to extend them.
For emergency treatment on holiday, UK nationals can use their EHIC card if they fall ill in another EU country, but if there is a no-deal Brexit it will no longer be valid and they will need travel insurance. BBC News
For emergency treatment on holiday, UK nationals can use their EHIC card if they fall ill in another EU country, but if there is a no-deal Brexit it will no longer be valid and they will need travel insurance. BBC News
Medicinal cannabis: Why has it taken so long to get to patients?
Medicinal cannabis: Why has it taken so long to get to patients? Medicinal cannabis was legalised last year but so far, virtually no-one in the UK has been able to access it.
Now, enough cannabis to treat 30 patients for a month has arrived in the UK from the Netherlands.
Four patients with prescriptions, all to treat chronic pain, will receive cannabis-derived medicines immediately.
Specialist doctors have been able to prescribe cannabis since 1 November - so what has taken so long? BBC News
Now, enough cannabis to treat 30 patients for a month has arrived in the UK from the Netherlands.
Four patients with prescriptions, all to treat chronic pain, will receive cannabis-derived medicines immediately.
Specialist doctors have been able to prescribe cannabis since 1 November - so what has taken so long? BBC News
Mental health patients at risk of suicide discharged from NHS without adequate support
Mental health patients at risk of suicide discharged from NHS without adequate support Patients coping with severe mental health conditions that mean they are afraid they could harm or kill themselves are being discharged from NHS care, unprepared and without support in the community.
The Independent has heard from patients who say their mental health has deteriorated because of the discharge process, which has left them feeling powerless and damaged their faith in services meant to keep them safe.
Others grappling with addiction issues have been ejected from inpatient care and told to get clean before the NHS is able to treat their psychological issues.
The Independent has heard from patients who say their mental health has deteriorated because of the discharge process, which has left them feeling powerless and damaged their faith in services meant to keep them safe.
Others grappling with addiction issues have been ejected from inpatient care and told to get clean before the NHS is able to treat their psychological issues.
NHS England losing staff in record numbers over long hours – study
NHS England losing staff in record numbers over long hours – study Research finds number of people leaving over work-life balance has almost trebled
Record numbers of burned-out NHS staff in England are quitting because they are fed up with spending too much time at work and not enough at home with their family, new research reveals.
The number of personnel leaving the NHS because of a poor work-life balance has almost trebled in the last seven years, an analysis by the Health Foundation thinktank shows. The Guardian
Record numbers of burned-out NHS staff in England are quitting because they are fed up with spending too much time at work and not enough at home with their family, new research reveals.
The number of personnel leaving the NHS because of a poor work-life balance has almost trebled in the last seven years, an analysis by the Health Foundation thinktank shows. The Guardian
Suicidal children forced to wait months for a mental health referral
Suicidal children forced to wait months for a mental health referral Suicidal children are being forced to wait months for a mental health referral, the Telegraph has learnt.
Thresholds for gaining access to Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS) have risen as budgets have been stretched to the point when children in desperate need of help are being turned away, campaigners say. The Daily Telegraph
Thresholds for gaining access to Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS) have risen as budgets have been stretched to the point when children in desperate need of help are being turned away, campaigners say. The Daily Telegraph
Facebook fake news 'war room' should target anti-vaxxers
Facebook fake news 'war room' should target anti-vaxxers Myth-busting operatives in Facebook’s misinformation “war room” should be monitoring harmful public health messages as well as fake news, a leading vaccine expert has said.
Large measles outbreaks in Europe and the United States have put the issue of vaccine hesitancy at the top of the agenda, with growing concern over the role that “anti-vaxxers” play on social media platforms such as Facebook and Twitter. Facebook has said that it is “exploring additional measures to best combat the problem”. The Daily Telegraph
Large measles outbreaks in Europe and the United States have put the issue of vaccine hesitancy at the top of the agenda, with growing concern over the role that “anti-vaxxers” play on social media platforms such as Facebook and Twitter. Facebook has said that it is “exploring additional measures to best combat the problem”. The Daily Telegraph
Almost 300,000 more NHS operations could be carried out every year if it was more organised
Almost 300,000 more NHS operations could be carried out every year if it was more organised Almost 300,000 more NHS operations could be carried out every year if schedules were better organised and staff planned leave earlier, a review has found.
Booking time off six weeks in advance and agreeing lists of operations a month ahead could lead to 5,600 extra procedures being carried out a week.
The analysis by watchdog NHS Improvement found that making schedules more efficient would reduce the backlog of patients waiting for elective operations such as hip and knee replacements. The Daily Mail
Booking time off six weeks in advance and agreeing lists of operations a month ahead could lead to 5,600 extra procedures being carried out a week.
The analysis by watchdog NHS Improvement found that making schedules more efficient would reduce the backlog of patients waiting for elective operations such as hip and knee replacements. The Daily Mail
Friday, 15 February 2019
CQC raps Lakeside surgery after patients struggle to make appointments
CQC raps Lakeside surgery after patients struggle to make appointments A GP super-practice that runs services across the Corby borough has been told that it must improve by inspectors.
Lakeside Healthcare’s Cottingham Road, Forest Gate and Brigstock surgeries have been given a ‘requires improvement’ rating by the government overseer the Care Quality Commission following an inspection that also found safety to be inadequate. Northamptonshire Telegraph
See also:
Lakeside Healthcare’s Cottingham Road, Forest Gate and Brigstock surgeries have been given a ‘requires improvement’ rating by the government overseer the Care Quality Commission following an inspection that also found safety to be inadequate. Northamptonshire Telegraph
See also:
- Lakeside Healthcare Partnership Inspection Report Care Quality Commission
Northampton General Hospital worker handed suspended sentence after inventing extra shifts
Northampton General Hospital worker handed suspended sentence after inventing extra shifts A healthcare assistant working at NGH has escaped a jail sentence after defrauding the NHS of £3,400.
Paul Wootton, aged 30, of West Street, Ecton, was charged with fraud and securing unauthorised access to computer material with intent.
The healthcare assistant had accessed a hospital computer and used it to claim wages for shifts that he never worked. Taken together, the non-existent shifts were the equivalent of him working for 15 months. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Paul Wootton, aged 30, of West Street, Ecton, was charged with fraud and securing unauthorised access to computer material with intent.
The healthcare assistant had accessed a hospital computer and used it to claim wages for shifts that he never worked. Taken together, the non-existent shifts were the equivalent of him working for 15 months. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Combined Performance Summary: December 2018 - January 2019
Combined Performance Summary: December 2018 - January 2019 Today, NHS England published its Combined Performance Summary, which provides data on key performance measures for December 2018 and January 2019. SitRep data for Week 6 of 2019 was also released, giving a more up-to-date analysis of how the NHS is coping this winter. Here we show some of these statistics and how they compare with previous years. Nuffield Trust
See also:
See also:
- Is the NHS working on thin ice this winter? The Health Foundation
- Performance against the 4 hour A&E target has fallen to its lowest level on record The Health Foundation
- The King's Fund responds to the latest NHS performance figures The King's Fund
- New figures show NHS is fighting a losing battle - John Appleby Nuffield Trust
- A&E wait times in England are at their worst EVER with the NHS 'fighting a losing battle' The Daily Mail
- NHS targets 'have had their day' says health service chief as he claims they encourage 'gaming' The Daily Telegraph
- Record numbers of patients wait more than four hours at A&E The Guardian
- A&E hospital waiting times hit worst level since NHS records began, figures show The Independent
- Are we being distracted by A&E waiting times? The Independent
EU exit actions for medical devices and clinical consumables
EU exit actions for medical devices and clinical consumables This guidance provides information for NHS providers about the extensive planning and contingency measures that have been put in place for the healthcare system nationally and the additional actions that we are asking providers to undertake as a priority as part of the wider preparations for a ‘no deal’ EU exit. NHS Improvement
Most hip and knee replacements 'last longer than thought'
Most hip and knee replacements 'last longer than thought' Eight out of 10 knee replacements and six out of 10 hip replacements last as long as 25 years, says a large study from the University of Bristol.
This is much longer than believed, the researchers said, and the findings will help patients and surgeons decide when to carry out surgery.
To date, there has been little data on the success of new hips and knees.
But this Lancet research looked at 25 years' worth of operations, involving more than 500,000 people. BBC News
This is much longer than believed, the researchers said, and the findings will help patients and surgeons decide when to carry out surgery.
To date, there has been little data on the success of new hips and knees.
But this Lancet research looked at 25 years' worth of operations, involving more than 500,000 people. BBC News
Mental health patients failed as ‘out of area’ placements rise again
Mental health patients failed as ‘out of area’ placements rise again The government has been accused of failing mental health patients as the number of people being sent far from home for treatment has risen again.
Some 710 people were being cared for “out of area”, according to latest NHS England figures for last November, with 440 of those being sent at least 100km (62 miles) away from their home and family. There are 45 people being treated at least 300km (186 miles) from home. iNews
Some 710 people were being cared for “out of area”, according to latest NHS England figures for last November, with 440 of those being sent at least 100km (62 miles) away from their home and family. There are 45 people being treated at least 300km (186 miles) from home. iNews
Number of GP practices in England falls below 7,000
Number of GP practices in England falls below 7,000 The sharp drop means that almost one in six of the 8,486 GP practices listed in 2004/5 no longer exist or have merged into other practices. The average practice list has risen from 5,891 patients in 2004 to 8,533 today - a 45% rise.
The fall in practice numbers has accelerated under NHS England, analysis by GPonline reveals. Three times as many closures or mergers have occurred in the nearly six years since NHS England became operational in April 2013 compared with the years between that point and the 2004 contract.
See also:
The fall in practice numbers has accelerated under NHS England, analysis by GPonline reveals. Three times as many closures or mergers have occurred in the nearly six years since NHS England became operational in April 2013 compared with the years between that point and the 2004 contract.
See also:
Governments urged to stockpile antibiotics for a future flu pandemic
Governments urged to stockpile antibiotics for a future flu pandemic Stockpiling antibiotics to use in the event of a pandemic influenza outbreak could save billions of pounds worldwide, according to a new analysis.
In the first study to model the financial value of holding antibiotics back to use in a global flu outbreak, researchers have found that an effective drug would save the world between $3 and $4 billion (£2.3 to £3.1 billion). The official report into the 2009 swine flu epidemic found that it cost the UK alone £1.24 billion. The Daily Telegraph
See also:
In the first study to model the financial value of holding antibiotics back to use in a global flu outbreak, researchers have found that an effective drug would save the world between $3 and $4 billion (£2.3 to £3.1 billion). The official report into the 2009 swine flu epidemic found that it cost the UK alone £1.24 billion. The Daily Telegraph
See also:
Government gives the Department of Health a £600 MILLION bailout
Government gives the Department of Health a £600 MILLION bailout The Government's Treasury department has given the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) a £600million bailout to cover 'unforeseen' costs.
Spending estimates published by the Treasury describe the money as 'reserve funding to cover one-off pressures'.
Analysts believe the DHSC was in danger of breaching its budget of almost £125bn, which could lead to a parliamentary vote on whether extra cash should be given.
The rising cost of generic drugs and preparations for Brexit are thought to have stretched the DHSC – which 'acts as guardians of the health and care framework' – more than normal. The Daily Mail
Spending estimates published by the Treasury describe the money as 'reserve funding to cover one-off pressures'.
Analysts believe the DHSC was in danger of breaching its budget of almost £125bn, which could lead to a parliamentary vote on whether extra cash should be given.
The rising cost of generic drugs and preparations for Brexit are thought to have stretched the DHSC – which 'acts as guardians of the health and care framework' – more than normal. The Daily Mail
More than half of British men treated for prostate cancer were abandoned without support
More than half of British men treated for prostate cancer were abandoned without support Thousands of men are being abandoned without support after surviving prostate cancer, a study has found.
More than half of men successfully treated for the disease in Britain are left without help for the most common side-effects.
Researchers interviewed 30,000 men in the largest ever study looking at life after prostate cancer. The Daily Mail
See also:
More than half of men successfully treated for the disease in Britain are left without help for the most common side-effects.
Researchers interviewed 30,000 men in the largest ever study looking at life after prostate cancer. The Daily Mail
See also:
Thursday, 14 February 2019
Volunteers put in extra hours at Northampton General Hospital to help staff cope with winter pressures
Volunteers put in extra hours at Northampton General Hospital to help staff cope with winter pressures Northampton's hospital volunteers have gone above and beyond to help healthcare staff for this year's busy winter season.
Hospital volunteers have stepped up and offered even more of their time to support staff in the face of growing pressure on the NHS in the winter months. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Hospital volunteers have stepped up and offered even more of their time to support staff in the face of growing pressure on the NHS in the winter months. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Is it possible to use the digitisation of the NHS to reach the furthest first?
Is it possible to use the digitisation of the NHS to reach the furthest first? The health and care system has historically been reliant on paper for sharing information about patients. Digitisation is inevitably changing that, but what impact does that have on those who are marginalised? The King's Fund
The environment needs to be higher up the NHS agenda
The environment needs to be higher up the NHS agenda “Sustainability” is at the heart of the NHS Long Term Plan. Yet although the health service is responsible for 6.3% of England’s total carbon emissions, environmental sustainability is scarcely mentioned. Nuffield Trust
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