Books to be given to struggling new parents at Northampton hospital to encourage reading to baby Books will be provided to new parents struggling with the financial or practical demands of having a baby at Northampton General Hospital to encourage them to read to their child.
Northamptonshire-based online book store Igloo is working with the hospital and Baby Basics Northampton, which provides bespoke baskets to new mums and dads, to form the Baby Book Club. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Monday, 30 September 2019
Bias and Biology: How being a woman can put you at a disadvantage if you have a heart attack
Bias and Biology: How being a woman can put you at a disadvantage if you have a heart attack Women are dying needlessly from heart attacks in the UK, or not making as good a recovery as they could, because they don't receive the same care and treatment as men.
We have brought together evidence in a new briefing, 'Bias and Biology', which reveals the scale of the inequality. British Heart Foundation
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We have brought together evidence in a new briefing, 'Bias and Biology', which reveals the scale of the inequality. British Heart Foundation
See also:
- Inequalities in heart attack care 'costing women's lives' BBC News
- Two women die a day of heart attack because doctors think its man's disease British Heart Foundation The Daily Mail
- Two women are dying needlessly every day because of a 'heart attack gender gap' where they do not receive equal treatment to men, report warns The Daily Telegraph
A new approach to complex needs: Primary Care Psychological Medicine - first year evaluation
A new approach to complex needs: Primary Care Psychological Medicine - first year evaluation The Primary Care Psychological Medicine service offers psychological interventions to people who have high levels of unexplained or persistent physical symptoms of illness. This report finds that the service has reduced the use of GP, outpatient and emergency department services in one year by more than its own staff costs. The report concludes that Primary Care Networks could benefit from setting up similar services in local areas across the country so that fewer people miss out on the support they need close to home. Centre for Mental Health
Government plans billions for hospital projects
Government plans billions for hospital projects The government has pledged billions for hospital projects across England, at the start of the Conservative party conference.
The plans include a £2.7bn investment for six hospitals over five years.
A new approach to NHS mental health treatment will also be trialled in 12 areas of England - with housing and job support alongside psychological help.
NHS Providers welcomed the funding but said more was needed to make up for "a decade of capital squeeze". BBC News
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The plans include a £2.7bn investment for six hospitals over five years.
A new approach to NHS mental health treatment will also be trialled in 12 areas of England - with housing and job support alongside psychological help.
NHS Providers welcomed the funding but said more was needed to make up for "a decade of capital squeeze". BBC News
See also:
- New hospital building programme announced Department of Health and Social Care
- New funding welcome but long-term NHS capital settlement and action on workforce needed to secure the health service's future The Health Foundation
- The King's Fund responds to the government's announcement of additional capital funding for NHS hospitals The King's Fund
- From 40 hospitals to six: how the Tories' NHS numbers don't add up The Guardian
- Boris Johnson makes £13bn hospital pledge as Tory party conference looms The Guardian
- Government promises £3bn hospital building programme Health Service Journal
- Tory pledge to build 40 new hospitals under fire as minister admits funding in place for just six The Independent
- Boris Johnson promises 40 new hospitals as he boosts spending on the NHS ITV News
Vaccinations could be made compulsory for schoolchildren, says health secretary
Vaccinations could be made compulsory for schoolchildren, says health secretary Vaccinations could be made compulsory for schoolchildren under new plans being considered by the health secretary.
Matt Hancock said there was a “very strong argument” for mandatory immunisation following a rise in measles cases, which could see thousands of children prevented from going to school if they have not had their jabs.
As Tory activists descended on Manchester for the party’s annual conference, Mr Hancock told a fringe event that he had recently commissioned legal advice on the matter. The Independent
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Matt Hancock said there was a “very strong argument” for mandatory immunisation following a rise in measles cases, which could see thousands of children prevented from going to school if they have not had their jabs.
As Tory activists descended on Manchester for the party’s annual conference, Mr Hancock told a fringe event that he had recently commissioned legal advice on the matter. The Independent
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Government announces £70 million for community mental health services
Government announces £70 million for community mental health services Mental heath providers in 12 areas of England are being given the green light to recruit 1,000 additional staff, as the government announces £70 million of spending on pilots of new specialist services.
The cash, announced on the first day of the Conservative party’s annual conference in Manchester, is the first tranche of a £975 million investment promised for community mental health services. The Independent
The cash, announced on the first day of the Conservative party’s annual conference in Manchester, is the first tranche of a £975 million investment promised for community mental health services. The Independent
Pressure on NHS is breaking doctors’ morale, says psychiatrist
Pressure on NHS is breaking doctors’ morale, says psychiatrist Dr Julia Patterson of campaign group EveryDoctor tells why she quit health service ‘cut back to its very bones’
Julia Patterson recalls clearly the moment she decided she had to quit two things she treasured – practising medicine and working in the NHS – in order to safeguard her own mental health. “I loved my job,” she said. “I love psychiatry, but I could no longer go to work every day without tackling what was happening.”
She broke down to her husband: “I told him I just couldn’t send another homeless mentally ill patient out on to the streets after they’d arrived in A&E at 3am, suicidal and alone.” The Guardian
Julia Patterson recalls clearly the moment she decided she had to quit two things she treasured – practising medicine and working in the NHS – in order to safeguard her own mental health. “I loved my job,” she said. “I love psychiatry, but I could no longer go to work every day without tackling what was happening.”
She broke down to her husband: “I told him I just couldn’t send another homeless mentally ill patient out on to the streets after they’d arrived in A&E at 3am, suicidal and alone.” The Guardian
Will genome sequencing bring precision medicine for all?
Will genome sequencing bring precision medicine for all? The health secretary wants to introduce genetic screening to the NHS – but many firms are already selling cheap testing kits
The buzz phrase among a small army of biotech companies looking to get a foothold in the ever-expanding health market is “personalised medicine” or, as it’s also known, “precision medicine”. At the core of this concept is the understanding that we are all different, with different biological make-ups and different environments. Therefore a one-size-fits-all approach to diagnostics and treatment is long out of date. The Guardian
The buzz phrase among a small army of biotech companies looking to get a foothold in the ever-expanding health market is “personalised medicine” or, as it’s also known, “precision medicine”. At the core of this concept is the understanding that we are all different, with different biological make-ups and different environments. Therefore a one-size-fits-all approach to diagnostics and treatment is long out of date. The Guardian
Psychiatry is at risk of 'imploding' because junior doctors see the profession as 'soft', Royal College warns
Psychiatry is at risk of 'imploding' because junior doctors see the profession as 'soft', Royal College warns Trainee doctors are being put off becoming psychiatrists because medical school teachers tell them the field is “not prestigious”, health leaders have said.
The Royal College of Psychiatrists (RCP) is calling for the number of medical school places to be doubled to prevent the profession “imploding”, due in part to stigma among students.
The body says the move would create an extra 4,497 consultant psychiatrists within ten years. The Daily Telegraph
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The Royal College of Psychiatrists (RCP) is calling for the number of medical school places to be doubled to prevent the profession “imploding”, due in part to stigma among students.
The body says the move would create an extra 4,497 consultant psychiatrists within ten years. The Daily Telegraph
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- Double the number of medical school places to stop mental health services imploding Royal College of Psychiatrists
Half of patients surviving 'untreatable' skin cancer following treatment breakthrough, study finds
Half of patients surviving 'untreatable' skin cancer following treatment breakthrough, study finds More than half of skin cancer patients can now survive the condition that was considered untreatable just a decade ago, a study by the Royal Marsden has found.
Only around one-in-20 patients with advanced melanoma survived ten years ago, with many dying within six to nine months of diagnosis. The Daily Telegraph
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Only around one-in-20 patients with advanced melanoma survived ten years ago, with many dying within six to nine months of diagnosis. The Daily Telegraph
See also:
- Five-Year Survival with Combined Nivolumab and Ipilimumab in Advanced Melanoma (abstract) New England Journal of Medicine
- Skin cancer: Half of people surviving advanced melanoma BBC News
Confusion and delays at heart of NHS screening programmes costing lives
Confusion and delays at heart of NHS screening programmes costing lives Confusion and delays by those in charge of the country’s screening programmes are costing lives, an independent review will warn, calling for Public Health England to be stripped of responsibility.
Former cancer tsar Prof Sir Mike Richards was asked to examine the system following a series of scandals and a sharp decline in uptake of checks for breast, bowel and cervical disease. The Daily Telegraph
Former cancer tsar Prof Sir Mike Richards was asked to examine the system following a series of scandals and a sharp decline in uptake of checks for breast, bowel and cervical disease. The Daily Telegraph
Women are being driven to the brink by Britain's social care crisis
Women are being driven to the brink by Britain's social care crisis The appalling toll of the social care crisis on women can be revealed today.
Official figures show that looking after loved ones is having devastating effects on their health and quality of life.
Women are twice as likely as men to be left caring for a relative and are at much higher risk of depression, loneliness and other illnesses.
The figures come from a major NHS survey of 50,800 unpaid carers which found that 68 per cent of them are female. The Daily Mail
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Official figures show that looking after loved ones is having devastating effects on their health and quality of life.
Women are twice as likely as men to be left caring for a relative and are at much higher risk of depression, loneliness and other illnesses.
The figures come from a major NHS survey of 50,800 unpaid carers which found that 68 per cent of them are female. The Daily Mail
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Thousands of patients may have to wait an extra TWO WEEKS for their winter flu jab
Thousands of patients may have to wait an extra TWO WEEKS for their winter flu jab Thousands of vulnerable patients could have to wait up to two weeks to receive their flu jab because of a manufacturing delay.
Pregnant women and people aged between 16 to 65 who hoped to be immunised next month face being turned away.
Stock is being held up due to manufacturing problems at Sanofi Pasteur, one of the top NHS suppliers of flu jabs each winter. The Daily Mail
Pregnant women and people aged between 16 to 65 who hoped to be immunised next month face being turned away.
Stock is being held up due to manufacturing problems at Sanofi Pasteur, one of the top NHS suppliers of flu jabs each winter. The Daily Mail
Friday, 27 September 2019
Going Dutch in West Suffolk: learning from the Buurtzorg model of care
Going Dutch in West Suffolk: learning from the Buurtzorg model of care Writing about Why the Dutch are different, Ben Coates describes how distinctive cultural practices of directness, tolerance and co-operation in the Netherlands are (at least partly) rooted in a history that required different communities to work together to establish and maintain drainage systems to rescue these lowlands from the sea. So perhaps it is not surprising that this is the nation that has cultivated a model of health and social care provision in which professionals work collaboratively in non-hierarchical teams to provide holistic care. The King's Fund
Crunch time for local system plans
Crunch time for local system plans I tend to agree with the view that ‘Plans are worthless, but planning is everything.’ Written plans, particularly those covering a long period, are rarely followed to the letter. The sustainability and transformation plans produced in 2016 are a prime example – many of their proposals have since been adapted, delayed or (for better or worse) abandoned altogether. The King's Fund
Exiting the EU: supplying the health and social care sectors
Exiting the EU: supplying the health and social care sectors There is a risk of delays to supplies for health and social care if the UK leaves the EU without a deal. Government has done an enormous amount to manage this risk, but the National Audit Office (NAO) highlights that there is still significant work to be done. This includes improving government’s understanding of preparedness across the supplier base, putting in place sufficient freight capacity to carry priority goods, and improving the readiness of the social care sector, including nursing homes.
In its report, published today, the NAO has reviewed the Department for Health & Social Care’s (DHSC’s) preparations to make sure the UK has a steady flow of supplies for the health and social care sector when it leaves the EU. Of the 12,300 medicines used in the UK, DHSC estimates that around 7,000 come from or via the EU.
The NAO recognises that this is a significant challenge and it is is not possible for anyone to know exactly what will happen at the border if the UK leaves without a deal.
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In its report, published today, the NAO has reviewed the Department for Health & Social Care’s (DHSC’s) preparations to make sure the UK has a steady flow of supplies for the health and social care sector when it leaves the EU. Of the 12,300 medicines used in the UK, DHSC estimates that around 7,000 come from or via the EU.
The NAO recognises that this is a significant challenge and it is is not possible for anyone to know exactly what will happen at the border if the UK leaves without a deal.
See also:
- Report shows that getting NHS ready for no deal is an impossible task: Nuffield Trust response to NAO report Nuffield Trust
- No-deal Brexit 'still risk to NHS and care sector' BBC News
- Ministers still do not know if NHS can cope with no deal, says watchdog The Guardian
- No-deal Brexit poses risk to medical supplies, warns government watchdog The Independent
Prime Minister pledges funding for cancer screening overhaul
Prime Minister pledges funding for cancer screening overhaul The new NHS funding will replace MRI machines, CT scanners and breast screening equipment. Department of Health
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- New funding for diagnostic equipment falls considerably below what is needed The Health Foundation
- Government pledges £200million NHS funding boost for cancer scanners The Daily Mail
Delivering same-sex accommodation
Delivering same-sex accommodation This guidance has been updated to reflect current patient pathways, including further definition of what is and is not a mixed-sex accommodation breach and circumstances in which mixing may be justified and therefore not constitute a breach. NHS England
U-turn as ministers reconsider financial aid for student nurses
U-turn as ministers reconsider financial aid for student nurses Ministers may reintroduce grants to attract people into nursing amid staff shortage
Ministers may reintroduce financial incentives to attract people into nursing to help the NHS tackle its serious and worsening lack of nurses.
The health service in England’s shortage has spiralled to 40,000 vacancies since George Osborne abolished bursaries for would-be nurses and replaced them with student loans in 2015. The Guardian
Ministers may reintroduce financial incentives to attract people into nursing to help the NHS tackle its serious and worsening lack of nurses.
The health service in England’s shortage has spiralled to 40,000 vacancies since George Osborne abolished bursaries for would-be nurses and replaced them with student loans in 2015. The Guardian
Drop in vaccination rates in England alarming, experts warn
Drop in vaccination rates in England alarming, experts warn Childhood vaccinations for 13 diseases falling year on year, prompting experts to warn of potentially devastating impact
Experts have expressed alarm at the drop in take-up of all routine childhood vaccinations across England, with a marked decline in rates against 13 different diseases, which leaves many thousands of children under-protected.
The UK recently lost its measles-free status because of the fall in rates of MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) immunisation. But the latest figures from NHS Digital for England in the year to the end of March 2019 show a loss of confidence for vaccinations more generally. The Guardian
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Experts have expressed alarm at the drop in take-up of all routine childhood vaccinations across England, with a marked decline in rates against 13 different diseases, which leaves many thousands of children under-protected.
The UK recently lost its measles-free status because of the fall in rates of MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) immunisation. But the latest figures from NHS Digital for England in the year to the end of March 2019 show a loss of confidence for vaccinations more generally. The Guardian
See also:
- Parents need to be aware of the clear-cut evidence on vaccination safety in response to latest figures showing a small drop in take-up Royal College of General Practitioners
- Conspiracy Files: Vaccine Wars BBC iPlayer (until 25/10/19)
- Uptake of all 13 child vaccinations drops BBC News
- BBC documentary reveals the UK exports anti-vaxx myths to the rest of the world The Daily Mail
- Youngsters who haven't had jabs could face a school BAN: Health Secretary Matt Hancock says 'bold' action is needed to tackle plunging vaccination rates The Daily Mail
- Childhood vaccinations fall across every major illness amid rise of anti-vaxx movement The Daily Telegraph
- Bold action on vaccines could be taken as figures show children receiving all 13 jabs drops ITV News
- Number of children being vaccinated drops, NHS says Sky News
Breakthrough in fight against antimicroboial resistance as scientists discover how bacteria is 'hiding' from drugs
Breakthrough in fight against antimicroboial resistance as scientists discover how bacteria is 'hiding' from drugs The fight against antibiotic resistance has taken a step forward after scientists discovered how bacteria hide from drugs in the body.
Public health experts are deeply concerned that the rise in resistance to medication could make even the simplest operations impossible in the future and the Chief Medical Officer has said it is one of the biggest threats to the world today.
But although scientists have known that bugs adapt to evade antibiotics they did not know how they were doing it. The Daily Telegraph
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Public health experts are deeply concerned that the rise in resistance to medication could make even the simplest operations impossible in the future and the Chief Medical Officer has said it is one of the biggest threats to the world today.
But although scientists have known that bugs adapt to evade antibiotics they did not know how they were doing it. The Daily Telegraph
See also:
- Possible role of L-form switching in recurrent urinary tract infection (open access) Nature Communications
- Bacterial 'striptease' evades antibiotics BBC News
- Bacteria make themselves invisible to antibiotics by hiding their own cell walls, scientists find The Independent
Children living in most polluted parts of country have 50 per cent chance of dying early
Children living in most polluted parts of country have 50 per cent chance of dying early Air pollution may significantly increase the risk of babies dying in their first year of life, a major study has found.
Researchers tracked nearly eight million infants born in England and Wales between 2001 and 2012.
They found babies in the most polluted areas had a 30 to 50 per cent greater risk of dying by any cause by the age of one. The Daily Mail
Researchers tracked nearly eight million infants born in England and Wales between 2001 and 2012.
They found babies in the most polluted areas had a 30 to 50 per cent greater risk of dying by any cause by the age of one. The Daily Mail
NHS doctors warned to limit prescriptions of Prozac because of stock shortages
NHS doctors warned to limit prescriptions of Prozac because of stock shortages Doctors have been told to restrict prescriptions of Prozac amid a nationwide shortage of the antidepressant.
The drug fluoxetine – commonly known by its brand name Prozac – is in short supply due to manufacturing problems.
The Department of Health wrote to all GPs last week telling them to contact their patients who take the drug to ask how many supplies they have at home.
The letter stated that any patient with enough pills to last until November should not be issued with a repeat prescription, the magazine Pulse reported. The Daily Mail
The drug fluoxetine – commonly known by its brand name Prozac – is in short supply due to manufacturing problems.
The Department of Health wrote to all GPs last week telling them to contact their patients who take the drug to ask how many supplies they have at home.
The letter stated that any patient with enough pills to last until November should not be issued with a repeat prescription, the magazine Pulse reported. The Daily Mail
Thursday, 26 September 2019
Criticism over plans to axe door-to-door services for disabled school children
Criticism over plans to axe door-to-door services for disabled school children Disabled children could be expected to walk a mile alone to be taken to school as part of a new Northamptonshire County Council (NCC) idea.
The 'initiative' will mean children with special educational needs and disability (SEND) - who currently get picked up by a minibus or taxi from their homes - might instead have to walk one mile to be picked up from a bus stop instead.
The county council has called the scheme, it is set to introduce to parents and children on November 4, 'Pick Up and Set Down Points'. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
The 'initiative' will mean children with special educational needs and disability (SEND) - who currently get picked up by a minibus or taxi from their homes - might instead have to walk one mile to be picked up from a bus stop instead.
The county council has called the scheme, it is set to introduce to parents and children on November 4, 'Pick Up and Set Down Points'. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Children's commissioner at 'failing' Northamptonshire council quits
Children's commissioner at 'failing' Northamptonshire council quits A government-appointed commissioner of a cash-strapped council's children's services department has resigned.
The Department for Education (DfE) said Malcolm Newsam would be leaving his role at Northamptonshire County Council.
Mr Newsam took up the role in 2018 after an Ofsted report found people in its care were at "potential risk". BBC Northampton
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The Department for Education (DfE) said Malcolm Newsam would be leaving his role at Northamptonshire County Council.
Mr Newsam took up the role in 2018 after an Ofsted report found people in its care were at "potential risk". BBC Northampton
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- Northamptonshire's Children's Commissioner resigns Northamptonshire Telegraph
Hospital trials pocket-sized ultrasound device that plugs into iPhone
Hospital trials pocket-sized ultrasound device that plugs into iPhone An ultrasound device that fits inside a pocket and plugs into a smartphone has is being put through its paces at a UK hospital.
It is being tested at Northampton General Hospital by Dr Jonny Wilkinson, who believes the innovative technology represents the future of medical examinations. Sky News
It is being tested at Northampton General Hospital by Dr Jonny Wilkinson, who believes the innovative technology represents the future of medical examinations. Sky News
How town planning teams can help create healthier places
How town planning teams can help create healthier places The origins of town planning are closely aligned with those of public health: both disciplines sprang out of an understanding that the conditions in which people live have a profound impact on whether or not they are healthy. Access to fresh air, good homes, good food, green spaces, employment and a strong community are the foundations of public health and can be created, or supported, by good town planning. So what can town planners learn from NHS England’s Healthy New Towns programme? The King's Fund
NHS hospitals wind back the clock for dementia care
NHS hospitals wind back the clock for dementia care NHS hospitals are going back to the future to help patients with dementia by decorating their wards, rooms and corridors in 1940s and 1950s style – creating a calming, familiar environment which can help jog memories, reduce anxiety and distress.
With ageing well and caring for people with dementia both key priorities in the NHS Long Term Plan; hospitals across the country have revamped their dementia ward decor, with innovations ranging from a ‘memories pub’ to 1950s style ‘reminiscence rooms’ and even a cinema booth where patients can watch old films. NHS England
With ageing well and caring for people with dementia both key priorities in the NHS Long Term Plan; hospitals across the country have revamped their dementia ward decor, with innovations ranging from a ‘memories pub’ to 1950s style ‘reminiscence rooms’ and even a cinema booth where patients can watch old films. NHS England
NHS will not pay for 'life-changing' migraine drug
NHS will not pay for 'life-changing' migraine drug A migraine drug that has been described as "life changing" by some patients will not be made available on the NHS outside of Scotland.
Erenumab - also known by the name Aimovig - is one of the first bespoke migraine drugs in decades and has been described by doctors as a "huge deal".
But the body that approves new drugs said there were doubts whether it was good enough or worth the money. BBC News
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Erenumab - also known by the name Aimovig - is one of the first bespoke migraine drugs in decades and has been described by doctors as a "huge deal".
But the body that approves new drugs said there were doubts whether it was good enough or worth the money. BBC News
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Improve fetal heart monitoring, NHS report says
Improve fetal heart monitoring, NHS report says Research into the best way to monitor the heart rates of unborn babies is urgently needed, says an NHS report that records babies born with avoidable brain injuries in England.
It says all affected families should be offered an apology and an open conversation about their care. BBC News
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It says all affected families should be offered an apology and an open conversation about their care. BBC News
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- The Early Notification scheme: progress report: collaboration and improved experience for families NHS Resolution
- More than one thousand neonatal admissions could be avoided per year by following NICE guidance NICE
- Midwives failing to check babies heart rates is biggest cause of birth blunders in the NHS The Daily Telegraph
NHS concerns about no-deal Brexit
NHS concerns about no-deal Brexit With the prospect of a no-deal Brexit still very much on the table, the minister in charge of planning for one, Michael Gove, has been insisting that “many businesses” are “well prepared”.
Labour’s Keir Starmer rejected that idea, saying to leave the country unprepared was “unforgivable”.
We’ve seen documents given to one Manchester hospital – and no doubt replicated across England – revealing the concerns many in the NHS have about the future. Channel 4 News
Labour’s Keir Starmer rejected that idea, saying to leave the country unprepared was “unforgivable”.
We’ve seen documents given to one Manchester hospital – and no doubt replicated across England – revealing the concerns many in the NHS have about the future. Channel 4 News
NHS privatisation to be reined in under secret plan to reform care
NHS privatisation to be reined in under secret plan to reform care Proposal expected to feature in Queen’s speech after spending on private firms passes £9bn
Privatisation of NHS care will be significantly curbed under confidential plans that health service bosses expect Downing Street to include in the Queen’s speech next month.
Local NHS bodies in England would no longer have to put out to tender any contract worth at least £615,278. That requirement has contributed to a big increase in outsourcing of services and a record £9.2bn of the NHS’s budget now being handed to private firms. The Guardian
Privatisation of NHS care will be significantly curbed under confidential plans that health service bosses expect Downing Street to include in the Queen’s speech next month.
Local NHS bodies in England would no longer have to put out to tender any contract worth at least £615,278. That requirement has contributed to a big increase in outsourcing of services and a record £9.2bn of the NHS’s budget now being handed to private firms. The Guardian
Soaring suicide rates among young people is slowing down national life expectancy, ONS figures reveal
Soaring suicide rates among young people is slowing down national life expectancy, ONS figures reveal Soaring suicide rates among young people is slowing down the national life expectancy, government data reveals.
Earlier this month the Office for National Statistics published data which revealed that the rate of suicides in Britain has risen sharply to its highest level since 2002, with men accounting for three-quarters of the number of people who took their own lives last year. The Daily Telegraph
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Earlier this month the Office for National Statistics published data which revealed that the rate of suicides in Britain has risen sharply to its highest level since 2002, with men accounting for three-quarters of the number of people who took their own lives last year. The Daily Telegraph
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UK health officials approve 'life-changing' spina bifida surgery which is done in the WOMB
UK health officials approve 'life-changing' spina bifida surgery which is done in the WOMB NHS doctors will be able to perform open spine surgery on unborn babies with spina bifida 'within weeks', the health service has announced.
The surgery involves taking the foetus out of the womb temporarily for an operation to repair its spinal cord to prevent nerve damage.
It has already been used experimentally and is performed elsewhere in the world but has now been approved for routine use by NHS doctors. The Daily Mail
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The surgery involves taking the foetus out of the womb temporarily for an operation to repair its spinal cord to prevent nerve damage.
It has already been used experimentally and is performed elsewhere in the world but has now been approved for routine use by NHS doctors. The Daily Mail
See also:
- Fetoscopic prenatal repair for open neural tube defects in the foetus (consultation) NICE
- Open prenatal repair for open neural tube defects in the fetus (consultation) NICE
- NICE supports procedure to treat spine bifida on unborn babies OnMedica
Minimum unit pricing in Scotland has worked and slashed the amount of alcohol purchased by almost 8%
Minimum unit pricing in Scotland has worked and slashed the amount of alcohol purchased by almost 8% A controversial price hike on alcohol in Scotland has slashed the amount of purchases by eight per cent since it was introduced last May, research suggests.
Scottish adults bought one unit less of alcohol - the equivalent of half a pint of beer, half a glass of wine, or a single measure of spirit - each week than they did before the drastic policy was introduced on average, according to an analysis. The Daily Mail
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Scottish adults bought one unit less of alcohol - the equivalent of half a pint of beer, half a glass of wine, or a single measure of spirit - each week than they did before the drastic policy was introduced on average, according to an analysis. The Daily Mail
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Wednesday, 25 September 2019
UK to invest in new research against evolving global health threats
UK to invest in new research against evolving global health threats The Chief Medical Officer has announced funding for projects to help beat antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and achieve global universal health coverage. Department of Health
Half of student midwives consider leaving training over financial concerns reveals RCM
Half of student midwives consider leaving training over financial concerns reveals RCM ‘Almost half of student midwives have considered leaving their midwifery courses due to financial pressures and debt’ that’s according to the Royal College of Midwives (RCM) who today have published the results of a new student midwife survey.
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Psychological perspectives on obesity: Addressing policy, practice and research priorities
Psychological perspectives on obesity: Addressing policy, practice and research priorities Policymakers must do more than tell people to show greater willpower if government is to crack the obesity problem, says a new report from the British Psychological Society.
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Individual and local area factors associated with self-reported wellbeing, perceived social cohesion and sense of attachment to one’s community: analysis of the Understanding Society Survey
Individual and local area factors associated with self-reported wellbeing, perceived social cohesion and sense of attachment to one’s community: analysis of the Understanding Society Survey The findings reported here are from an analysis of data from the Understanding Society Survey (USS) which follows a large sample of people from across Britain over time. This study was undertaken to examine questions likely to be especially relevant for those working in the field of public health intelligence, using small area statistics to identify localities where interventions may particularly need to be targeted in order to reduce inequalities in wellbeing across England. What Works Centre for Wellbeing
HTA and payment mechanisms for new drugs to tackle AMR
HTA and payment mechanisms for new drugs to tackle AMR This paper provides an overview of the current state of health technology assessment and contracting for antibiotics in five European countries (France, Germany, Italy, Sweden and the UK), and of the recent proposals in the literature for revising them. It also includes the recommendations developed following a stakeholder forum on ‘Value Assessment and Contracting for Antibiotics’ held in February 2019. Office of Health Economics
Inspectors discover poor standards at 28 mental health units
Inspectors discover poor standards at 28 mental health units Psychiatrists call for inquiry after report on private units, many occupied by NHS patients
Inspectors have found 28 privately run mental health units to be “inadequate” in the past three years, prompting fears that vulnerable patients are receiving poor and unsafe care.
The disclosure of such widespread substandard care in mental health facilities run by non-NHS providers has prompted psychiatrists to call for a public inquiry to investigate. The Guardian
Inspectors have found 28 privately run mental health units to be “inadequate” in the past three years, prompting fears that vulnerable patients are receiving poor and unsafe care.
The disclosure of such widespread substandard care in mental health facilities run by non-NHS providers has prompted psychiatrists to call for a public inquiry to investigate. The Guardian
Labour pledges to break patents and offer latest drugs on NHS
Labour pledges to break patents and offer latest drugs on NHS Jeremy Corbyn says party will create company to make cheap versions of drugs like Orkambi
Labour has pledged to create a publicly-owned company to make cheap versions of medicines the NHS needs but cannot afford, such as Orkambi, which is denied to thousands of children and young people with life-shortening cystic fibrosis.
Jeremy Corbyn told the Labour party conference that he had met nine-year-old Luis Walker, who suffers from the disease which clogs his lungs and makes breathing a struggle. “Every day he needs four hours of treatment and is often in hospital, which keeps him from school and his friends,” said Corbyn. The Guardian
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Labour has pledged to create a publicly-owned company to make cheap versions of medicines the NHS needs but cannot afford, such as Orkambi, which is denied to thousands of children and young people with life-shortening cystic fibrosis.
Jeremy Corbyn told the Labour party conference that he had met nine-year-old Luis Walker, who suffers from the disease which clogs his lungs and makes breathing a struggle. “Every day he needs four hours of treatment and is often in hospital, which keeps him from school and his friends,” said Corbyn. The Guardian
See also:
- Labour proposals highlight urgent need for reform of social care The Health Foundation
- Scrapping prescription charges The King's Fund
- Nuffield Trust response to Labour’s social care announcement Nuffield Trust
- Labour would found state drug company to make medicines cheaper The Independent
Artificial intelligence can diagnose illnesses with as much accuracy as trained doctors, study finds
Artificial intelligence can diagnose illnesses with as much accuracy as trained doctors, study finds Artificial intelligence can identify illnesses as accurately as trained doctors, a major review has claimed.
Research shows AI can spot a host of conditions - ranging from cancer to rare eye diseases - with the same precision as medical professionals.
The computer programs uses 'deep learning' to train itself to spot diseases by analysing thousands of medical images. The Daily Mail
See also:
Research shows AI can spot a host of conditions - ranging from cancer to rare eye diseases - with the same precision as medical professionals.
The computer programs uses 'deep learning' to train itself to spot diseases by analysing thousands of medical images. The Daily Mail
See also:
- Automated deep learning design for medical image classification by health-care professionals with no coding experience: a feasibility study (open access) Lancet Digital Health
- AI can now diagnose heart disease in just four seconds, as study shows machines now 'as good' as doctors The Daily Telegraph
- AI equal with human experts in medical diagnosis, study finds The Guardian
- AI similar to humans in disease diagnostic accuracy OnMedica
Spikes in air pollution can disrupt children's mental health, study finds
Spikes in air pollution can disrupt children's mental health, study finds Air pollution could disrupt children's mental health and worsen symptoms of conditions such as depression and anxiety, a study has found.
Even being exposed for a short time to levels of pollution too low to officially be considered dangerous could have an effect.
The risk of a child being taken to hospital because they had suicidal thoughts was found to increase by 44 per cent after a spike in air pollution. The Daily Mail
See also:
Even being exposed for a short time to levels of pollution too low to officially be considered dangerous could have an effect.
The risk of a child being taken to hospital because they had suicidal thoughts was found to increase by 44 per cent after a spike in air pollution. The Daily Mail
See also:
- Short-Term Air Pollution Exposure, Residential Greenspace, Community Deprivation, and Psychiatric Emergency Visits in Children (abstract) Environmental Health Perspectives
Tuesday, 24 September 2019
Corby Urgent Care Centre to launch new wellness hub
Corby Urgent Care Centre to launch new wellness hub A new hub providing lifestyle support will open at Corby's Urgent Care Centre on Wednesday (September 25).
The health complex, run by OnePrimaryCare, has invited the public to visit between 10am and 3pm to learn more about the available services at the launch of its 'wellness hub'. Northamptonshire Telegraph
The health complex, run by OnePrimaryCare, has invited the public to visit between 10am and 3pm to learn more about the available services at the launch of its 'wellness hub'. Northamptonshire Telegraph
Contained or contagious? The future of infectious disease in ageing societies
Contained or contagious? The future of infectious disease in ageing societies This report urges policymakers across the world to do more to adequately prepare for the growing risk of future pandemics. A number of global developments are currently increasing the likelihood of future outbreaks, including complacency around vaccination uptake, lack of awareness of the risks of infectious disease, anti-microbial resistance, climate change and global population migration. Moreover, in an ageing society, more of us are likely to be susceptible to infectious disease and experience complications resulting from disease. International Longevity Centre UK
Penalty charge notices in healthcare
Penalty charge notices in healthcare Penalty charge notices (PCNs) are supposed to discourage people from claiming free prescriptions or dental treatment when they are not entitled to do so. This report finds that the current PCN process penalises those who fail to navigate the complex exemption criteria and neglects clear evidence of abuse by repeat offenders. It concludes that the system requires a fundamental overhaul is not fit for purpose. House of Commons Public Accounts Committee
'Half as many Britons' vape as smoke
'Half as many Britons' vape as smoke The number of people vaping in the UK has reached 3.6 million - about half the number of smokers - figures from Action on Smoking and Health suggest.
The data indicates most vapers are former smokers, with the main reason for using e-cigarettes being to give up tobacco.
The findings come as the US continues to investigate a spate of serious lung injuries linked to vaping. BBC News
The data indicates most vapers are former smokers, with the main reason for using e-cigarettes being to give up tobacco.
The findings come as the US continues to investigate a spate of serious lung injuries linked to vaping. BBC News
'Revolutionary' new class of cancer drugs approved
'Revolutionary' new class of cancer drugs approved A "revolutionary" new class of cancer drug that can treat a wide range of tumours has been approved for use in Europe for the first time.
Tumour-agnostic drugs do not care where the cancer is growing in the body as long as it has a specific genetic abnormality inside.
UK doctors testing the drugs said they were "a really exciting thing". BBC News
Tumour-agnostic drugs do not care where the cancer is growing in the body as long as it has a specific genetic abnormality inside.
UK doctors testing the drugs said they were "a really exciting thing". BBC News
‘They looked at my face and put me on a male ward’: LGBT+ women tell of NHS discrimination
‘They looked at my face and put me on a male ward’: LGBT+ women tell of NHS discrimination Gay, bisexual, transgender and other LGBT+ women living in Britain are subjected to discrimination and prejudice when accessing healthcare services, a new study has found.
The report, published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, found LGBT+ women face obstacles when discussing issues or logging complaints. The Independent
See also:
The report, published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, found LGBT+ women face obstacles when discussing issues or logging complaints. The Independent
See also:
- A Systematic Review of Sexual Minority Women’s Experiences of Health Care in the UK (open access) International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health
GP surgeries deny care to vulnerable people without ID documents
GP surgeries deny care to vulnerable people without ID documents Many practices are refusing to take new patients without checks that breach NHS rules
GPs are wrongly denying care to homeless people, travellers and recent arrivals into the UK by telling them to produce photographic identification or proof of address before they can register or get urgent treatment.
Sex workers and drug users are also being prevented from accessing GP surgeries for the same reason, according to findings published in the British Journal of General Practice. The Guardian#
See also:
GPs are wrongly denying care to homeless people, travellers and recent arrivals into the UK by telling them to produce photographic identification or proof of address before they can register or get urgent treatment.
Sex workers and drug users are also being prevented from accessing GP surgeries for the same reason, according to findings published in the British Journal of General Practice. The Guardian#
See also:
- Provision and accessibility of primary healthcare services for people who are homeless: a qualitative study of patient perspectives in the UK (abstract) British Journal of General Practice
Cannabis-based drug for childhood epilepsy approved for use in UK
Cannabis-based drug for childhood epilepsy approved for use in UK Plant-derived Epidyolex is first medicine of its kind to be given green light by regulators
The first cannabis-based medicine for childhood epilepsy is expected to be available soon in the UK and the rest of Europe after its UK manufacturer, GW Pharmaceuticals, received the green light from European authorities.
Cambridge-based GW said the European Medicines Agency (EMA) and the European commission had approved Epidyolex for seizures associated with two rare and severe forms of epilepsy, Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS) and Dravet syndrome for patients aged two years and older. The Guardian
The first cannabis-based medicine for childhood epilepsy is expected to be available soon in the UK and the rest of Europe after its UK manufacturer, GW Pharmaceuticals, received the green light from European authorities.
Cambridge-based GW said the European Medicines Agency (EMA) and the European commission had approved Epidyolex for seizures associated with two rare and severe forms of epilepsy, Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS) and Dravet syndrome for patients aged two years and older. The Guardian
Trial opens in France over weight loss drug that 'killed hundreds'
Trial opens in France over weight loss drug that 'killed hundreds' A major trial into a weight loss drug linked to the deaths of hundreds has opened in France in a case exposing the allegedly unhealthy ties between members of the country’s medicines watchdog and the pharmaceutical industry.
Servier, the drugs company, stands accused of aggravated deception, fraud and illegal taking of interest for failing to act to shelve Mediator, a diabetes pill for weight loss, despite persistent safety concerns. The Daily Telegraph
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Servier, the drugs company, stands accused of aggravated deception, fraud and illegal taking of interest for failing to act to shelve Mediator, a diabetes pill for weight loss, despite persistent safety concerns. The Daily Telegraph
See also:
Waiting list for heart transplants has more than DOUBLED in a decade
Waiting list for heart transplants has more than DOUBLED in a decade The waiting list for heart transplants has more than doubled in a decade, official figures have revealed.
NHS Blood and Transplant today said 313 are waiting for an organ to become free – a 130 per cent jump from a decade ago, thought to have been caused by an ageing population. The Daily Mail
See also:
NHS Blood and Transplant today said 313 are waiting for an organ to become free – a 130 per cent jump from a decade ago, thought to have been caused by an ageing population. The Daily Mail
See also:
Monday, 23 September 2019
Inside England’s first accident and emergency department for older people
Inside England’s first accident and emergency department for older people Like most places, Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital’s A&E department is under pressure from rising demand. And performance against the four-hour A&E waiting time standard remains far below the national target.
Some of this pressure – particularly at Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital – can be explained by older patients accounting for a growing share of A&E attendances. These patients often require more complex and specialist care to avoid admission to hospital, which can take time to arrange, meaning older patients wait longer in A&E or end up being admitted to hospital unnecessarily.
But this is where Norfolk and Norwich’s journey diverges from most other trusts, because instead of trying to constantly pull geriatric specialists down to A&E, they built an older person’s emergency
department (OPED). King's Fund
department (OPED). King's Fund
Detailed guide: How healthcare providers can prepare for Brexit
Detailed guide: How healthcare providers can prepare for Brexit This guidance sets out the actions that healthcare providers should take before and after Brexit. Doing this will help to plan for and
manage potential service disruption to healthcare in case the UK leaves the EU without a deal.
This guidance is for commissioners and healthcare providers, including hospitals, care homes, GP practices and community pharmacies. It is based on the advice contained in the Brexit operational
readiness guidance issued for healthcare providers in December 2018. Department of Health
manage potential service disruption to healthcare in case the UK leaves the EU without a deal.
This guidance is for commissioners and healthcare providers, including hospitals, care homes, GP practices and community pharmacies. It is based on the advice contained in the Brexit operational
readiness guidance issued for healthcare providers in December 2018. Department of Health
Homing in on free personal care
Homing in on free personal care This report from Independent Age outlines the various reasons why free personal care can
help provide the systemic change that social care is in need of. The
report shows the scale of how many older people have had to sell their
homes to pay for care as well as how the current deferred payments
system is not working. King's Fund
help provide the systemic change that social care is in need of. The
report shows the scale of how many older people have had to sell their
homes to pay for care as well as how the current deferred payments
system is not working. King's Fund
Course Corrections: How Health Care Innovators Learn from Setbacks to Achieve Success
Course Corrections: How Health Care Innovators Learn from Setbacks to Achieve Success Setbacks and outright failures are inherent to innovation and provide an
opportunity for health care leaders to learn as they design new care
models that improve health outcomes while reducing costs and unnecessary
service use.
When designing new care models, leaders should strive to understand
which patients fail to benefit and consider changing staff to better
meet patients’ needs. They should seek to identify which elements of
their models are most essential and find common ground with health care
payers on how to measure and reward success. The Commonwealth Fund
opportunity for health care leaders to learn as they design new care
models that improve health outcomes while reducing costs and unnecessary
service use.
When designing new care models, leaders should strive to understand
which patients fail to benefit and consider changing staff to better
meet patients’ needs. They should seek to identify which elements of
their models are most essential and find common ground with health care
payers on how to measure and reward success. The Commonwealth Fund
New Report on Health Care Affordability in Europe
New Report on Health Care Affordability in Europe A recent World Health Organization (WHO) Europe report examining
financial hardship and unmet need for health services in 24 high- and
middle-income European countries found that catastrophic health care
spending is heavily concentrated among the poorest populations, with the
majority of spending on outpatient drugs. Those countries with strong
financial protections in place and low levels of unmet need were found
to have the following features in common: universal coverage based on
population entitlement; minimized out-of-pocket payments, particularly
for poor people and regular users of health services; caps on
out-of-pocket spending set at no more than 15 percent of total health
spending; and adequate public health spending to ensure timely access to
care. The Commonwealth Fund
financial hardship and unmet need for health services in 24 high- and
middle-income European countries found that catastrophic health care
spending is heavily concentrated among the poorest populations, with the
majority of spending on outpatient drugs. Those countries with strong
financial protections in place and low levels of unmet need were found
to have the following features in common: universal coverage based on
population entitlement; minimized out-of-pocket payments, particularly
for poor people and regular users of health services; caps on
out-of-pocket spending set at no more than 15 percent of total health
spending; and adequate public health spending to ensure timely access to
care. The Commonwealth Fund
Government sugar crackdown branded a 'shambles' as it emerges sweets got sweeter during campaign
Government sugar crackdown branded a 'shambles' as it emerges sweets got sweeter during campaign Puddings and confectionary became sweeter during a government sugar crackdown, a new report has shown, as obesity campaigners branded the outcome a ‘shambles.’ Britons are collectively eating 2.6 per cent more sugar than they did before 2015, when Public Health England (PHE) told food manufacturers to voluntarily cut the amount in products by 20 per cent by 2020. The Telegraph
See also:
See also:
- Efforts to cut sugar out of food way off target BBC News
Labour pledges free personal care for over-65s in England
Labour pledges free personal care for over-65s in England Labour is promising free personal
care in England for over-65s most in need of it, so they will not have to pay for help with dressing, washing and meals. At the moment, those with savings of more than £14,250 have to contribute to the cost of home or residential help.
Labour says the pledge, costing an estimated £6bn a year, will double the number of those not having to pay. It would bring England into line with Scotland, where personal care is free for those with the most severe needs. BBC News
care in England for over-65s most in need of it, so they will not have to pay for help with dressing, washing and meals. At the moment, those with savings of more than £14,250 have to contribute to the cost of home or residential help.
Labour says the pledge, costing an estimated £6bn a year, will double the number of those not having to pay. It would bring England into line with Scotland, where personal care is free for those with the most severe needs. BBC News
Health cover for retired Britons in EU to last six months in no-deal Brexit
Health cover for retired Britons in EU to last six months in no-deal Brexit The government has pledged £150m to temporarily cover the healthcare
costs of 180,000 British nationals living in the EU in the event of a
no-deal Brexit. The health secretary, Matt Hancock, said workers posted to the bloc,
plus pensioners and students, who can currently have their healthcare
funded by the UK under existing reciprocal arrangements, would continue
to be covered for six months after a crash out. The Guardian
costs of 180,000 British nationals living in the EU in the event of a
no-deal Brexit. The health secretary, Matt Hancock, said workers posted to the bloc,
plus pensioners and students, who can currently have their healthcare
funded by the UK under existing reciprocal arrangements, would continue
to be covered for six months after a crash out. The Guardian
NHS bed shortages cause late cancellation of cancer surgeries
NHS bed shortages cause late cancellation of cancer surgeries One of the NHS’s biggest hospital trusts has apologised to a
78-year-old man after it had to cancel his cancer surgery twice in a
month because of a lack of beds. On both occasions the patient, who has
liver cancer, waited in the hospital for six hours and was ready to go
into the operating theatre to have his tumour removed when he was sent
home. Staff at Leicester general hospital explained to him that there was
no high-dependency bed for him if he experienced complications during
the surgery. The Guardian
78-year-old man after it had to cancel his cancer surgery twice in a
month because of a lack of beds. On both occasions the patient, who has
liver cancer, waited in the hospital for six hours and was ready to go
into the operating theatre to have his tumour removed when he was sent
home. Staff at Leicester general hospital explained to him that there was
no high-dependency bed for him if he experienced complications during
the surgery. The Guardian
Alexa's robotic voice leaving dementia patients 'deeply distressed', social care report finds
Alexa's robotic voice leaving dementia patients 'deeply distressed', social care report finds Amazon Alexa's robotic voice is causing "deep distress" for dementia patients by telling them to take their medicine, a new report has warned. The technology think tank, Doteveryone, said older social care patients were often left confused by new gadgets and fearful they would replace contact with human carers.
It also found that disabled people feared that incoming advances with smart homes, which have features such as self-opening doors and windows, could malfunction and leave them trapped. The report, Better Care in the Age of Automation, argued that technology had a vital role in improving the care system but should not lead to “naive enthusiasm” that gadgets can replace human carers. The Telegraph
It also found that disabled people feared that incoming advances with smart homes, which have features such as self-opening doors and windows, could malfunction and leave them trapped. The report, Better Care in the Age of Automation, argued that technology had a vital role in improving the care system but should not lead to “naive enthusiasm” that gadgets can replace human carers. The Telegraph
Friday, 20 September 2019
What can England learn from the long-term care system in Germany?
What can England learn from the long-term care system in Germany? This report seeks to assess the German long-term care system through the lens of the policy challenges that face England. Using a literature review and a series of interviews with experts on the German system both within and outside Germany, it seeks to draw out elements of the German system that could either be incorporated into the current system or that offer cautionary tales. Nuffield Trust
Social media sites act on NHS call for greater online protection
Social media sites act on NHS call for greater online protection The chief executive of the NHS in England has called on all social media firm to crack down on potentially harmful material after two of the biggest sites confirm they plan to act on health service demands for action. NHS England
Caring, supportive, collaborative: doctors’ vision for change in the NHS
Caring, supportive, collaborative: doctors’ vision for change in the NHS This report draws on the experience and expertise of BMA members across all branches of medical practice in the UK. It outlines where the BMA believe changes are needed to ensure patient care is safe, makes the NHS a great place to work and transforms services for the better. British Medical Association
Hospitals relying on 'emergency' loans to cover costs
Hospitals relying on 'emergency' loans to cover costs Hospitals in England are "lurching" from month to month on "emergency" government loans to cover costs, a think tank has said.
The Nuffield Trust said some NHS hospitals had to cut spending on patients to pay the interest.
Trusts owed £10bn to the government in 2018-19 for "interim revenue support" and paid £185m in interest last year. BBC News
The Nuffield Trust said some NHS hospitals had to cut spending on patients to pay the interest.
Trusts owed £10bn to the government in 2018-19 for "interim revenue support" and paid £185m in interest last year. BBC News
Children being denied new cancer drugs
Children being denied new cancer drugs Children with cancer are being denied new, highly precise drugs that are available to adults, doctors warn.
Medics at the Royal Marsden Hospital and the Institute of Cancer Research said the rules were "too cautious".
Their study, in the European Journal of Cancer, found just 7% of suitable children were getting drugs that target genetic weak spots in their cancer.
The researchers said children may benefit from precision medicines even more than adults. BBC News
See also:
Medics at the Royal Marsden Hospital and the Institute of Cancer Research said the rules were "too cautious".
Their study, in the European Journal of Cancer, found just 7% of suitable children were getting drugs that target genetic weak spots in their cancer.
The researchers said children may benefit from precision medicines even more than adults. BBC News
See also:
- A tailored molecular profiling programme for children with cancer to identify clinically actionable genetic alterations (open access) European Journal of Cancer
- Children with aggressive cancer could be treated with adult drugs The Daily Mail
Diabetes drug also treats heart failure, researchers say
Diabetes drug also treats heart failure, researchers say A drug used successfully to treat type 2 diabetes can also be effective to treat heart failure, researchers at Glasgow University have said.
They described the clinical implications of their findings as "potentially huge."
The drug Dapagliflozin controls blood sugar levels, helps promote weight loss and reduces blood pressure. BBC News
See also:
They described the clinical implications of their findings as "potentially huge."
The drug Dapagliflozin controls blood sugar levels, helps promote weight loss and reduces blood pressure. BBC News
See also:
- Dapagliflozin in Patients with Heart Failure and Reduced Ejection Fraction (abstract) New England Journal of Medicine
NHS trusts give Google green light to process confidential patient data
NHS trusts give Google green light to process confidential patient data Sensitive NHS patient records will be shared with Google after an unprecedented deal signed by five healthcare trusts.
Confidential data now to fall under the US tech giant’s watch, covering thousands of NHS patients, could include medical history, diagnoses, treatment dates and ethnic origin.
It is the first agreement of its kind in the medical sector, coming after DeepMind, a London-based artificial intelligence firm, handed control of its healthcare contracts to its Californian parent company Google Health UK. iNews
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Confidential data now to fall under the US tech giant’s watch, covering thousands of NHS patients, could include medical history, diagnoses, treatment dates and ethnic origin.
It is the first agreement of its kind in the medical sector, coming after DeepMind, a London-based artificial intelligence firm, handed control of its healthcare contracts to its Californian parent company Google Health UK. iNews
See also:
Most common antidepressant does little to relieve depression symptoms, researchers say
Most common antidepressant does little to relieve depression symptoms, researchers say The most common antidepressant does little to relieve symptoms of depression, researchers say.
The largest study of its kind found that most people taking sertraline saw little or no effect on depressive symptoms, such as low mood, in the first six to 12 weeks of taking the drug.
Experts said they were “surprised” by the findings relating to depression, but that it was clear the drugs helped cut anxiety and should continue to be prescribed by GPs. The Independent
See also:
The largest study of its kind found that most people taking sertraline saw little or no effect on depressive symptoms, such as low mood, in the first six to 12 weeks of taking the drug.
Experts said they were “surprised” by the findings relating to depression, but that it was clear the drugs helped cut anxiety and should continue to be prescribed by GPs. The Independent
See also:
- The clinical effectiveness of sertraline in primary care and the role of depression severity and duration (PANDA): a pragmatic, double-blind, placebo-controlled randomised trial (open access) Lancet Psychiatry
- College welcomes continued research into widely used anti-depressants Royal College of General Practitioners
- Antidepressant works 'by reducing anxiety symptoms first' BBC News
- Commonly-prescribed antidepressant takes up to 12 weeks to ease low mood The Daily Mail
Asylum seeker denied cancer treatment by Home Office dies
Asylum seeker denied cancer treatment by Home Office dies Kelemua Mulat had advanced breast cancer but was refused NHS care for six weeks.
An Ethiopian woman who was denied potentially life-saving cancer treatment for six weeks amid confusion about whether she should be charged by the NHS has died aged 39.
Kelemua Mulat, who had advanced breast cancer, was refused chemotherapy last year after Home Office and NHS officials decided that she was not eligible for free care. The Guardian
An Ethiopian woman who was denied potentially life-saving cancer treatment for six weeks amid confusion about whether she should be charged by the NHS has died aged 39.
Kelemua Mulat, who had advanced breast cancer, was refused chemotherapy last year after Home Office and NHS officials decided that she was not eligible for free care. The Guardian
Class A drug use hits record high as milennial ecstasy and cocaine habits blamed
Class A drug use hits record high as milennial ecstasy and cocaine habits blamed Record numbers of people are taking Class A drugs, figures have shown as experts blamed the cocaine and ecstasy habits of millennials for the rise.
The Home Office said 3.7% of 16 to 59-year-olds admitted taking the most dangerous substances in 2018/19 - the highest rate since records began in 1996. The Daily Telegraph
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The Home Office said 3.7% of 16 to 59-year-olds admitted taking the most dangerous substances in 2018/19 - the highest rate since records began in 1996. The Daily Telegraph
See also:
- Drug misuse: findings from the 2018 to 2019 CSEW Home Office
Twice as many primary school children are hospitalised for rotten teeth as for tonsillitis
Twice as many primary school children are hospitalised for rotten teeth as for tonsillitis Tooth decay now lands children in hospital more than twice as often as tonsillitis.
NHS figures revealed today there were 25,702 hospital admissions for tooth decay among five to nine-year-olds in England in 2018-19.
In comparison, only 11,811 admissions were needed to treat tonsillitis – the second most common problem on the list. The Daily Mail
See also:
NHS figures revealed today there were 25,702 hospital admissions for tooth decay among five to nine-year-olds in England in 2018-19.
In comparison, only 11,811 admissions were needed to treat tonsillitis – the second most common problem on the list. The Daily Mail
See also:
- Hospital admissions for 5-9 year olds with tooth decay more than double those for tonsillitis Royal College of Surgeons
Thursday, 19 September 2019
Northamptonshire elderly and homeless charities lose funding worth more than £1.5m
Northamptonshire elderly and homeless charities lose funding worth more than £1.5m More than £1.5m is being taken away from a dozen Northamptonshire charities which provide vital services to the over-65s, the vulnerable and the homeless.
Established organisations such as the Autumn Centre in Corby, Marlow House in Desborough and the Dostiyo Asian Women’s and Girls Association in Northampton have all been told that the funding given to them by Northamptonshire County Council as part of its £1.6m social wellbeing contract will come to an end in March. Northamptonshire Telegraph
Established organisations such as the Autumn Centre in Corby, Marlow House in Desborough and the Dostiyo Asian Women’s and Girls Association in Northampton have all been told that the funding given to them by Northamptonshire County Council as part of its £1.6m social wellbeing contract will come to an end in March. Northamptonshire Telegraph
Rats found at Northampton General Hospital four times, FOI reveals
Rats found at Northampton General Hospital four times, FOI reveals Over five years pest control experts have been called to Northampton General Hospital 127 times - and four of those times were for incidents involving rats.
An freedom of information request submitted to Northampton General Hospital (NGH) has revealed that the hospital has faced 127 incidents of pests on their premises in the past five years. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
An freedom of information request submitted to Northampton General Hospital (NGH) has revealed that the hospital has faced 127 incidents of pests on their premises in the past five years. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
The strange politics of social care funding reform
The strange politics of social care funding reform When the current Prime Minister first stood on the steps of Downing Street, he promised to fix social care once and for all. Only a few weeks later, these plans have been relegated to being published ‘in due course’. At a recent breakfast event we hosted here at The King’s Fund, the phrase ‘in due course’ was greeted with laughter in the room. For those of us interested in social care funding reform, we have been waiting since 2017 for ‘in due course’ to have its moment by way of a promised Green Paper. Many of us have waited for 20 years for meaningful reform and are still waiting.
Fastest drop in smoking rates in over a decade as Stoptober launches
Fastest drop in smoking rates in over a decade as Stoptober launches The latest data from a national smoking study indicates adult smoking rates fell 2.2% from January to July 2019 - equivalent to 200 fewer smokers every hour. Public Health England
Policy briefing: social care funding and mental health
Policy briefing: social care funding and mental health This briefing explores what a fair and sustainable funding settlement for social care needs to look like in order to deliver parity of esteem for mental health and sufficient funding to support people of working age as well as those in later life. It reviews the current funding and provision of mental health social work for people of working age in England. It finds that mental health social work has a vital role in helping people to live independently and to secure their rights and dignity. Centre for Mental Health
Health care's climate footprint: how the health sector contributes to the global climate crisis and opportunities for action
Health care's climate footprint: how the health sector contributes to the global climate crisis and opportunities for action According to this report, if the global health care sector were a country it would be the fifth-largest greenhouse gas emitter on the planet. The report finds health care’s footprint is equivalent to 4.4 per cent of global net emissions and that fossil fuel combustion makes up well over half of health care’s global climate footprint. The report makes the case for a transformation of the health care sector that aligns it with the Paris Agreement goal of limiting climate change to 1.5 degrees celsius. Health Care Without Harm
Finding good care home 'impossible' in some areas
Finding good care home 'impossible' in some areas High concentrations of substandard care homes in some areas leave families with no choice but to accept an under-performing home for older and disabled relatives, an analysis suggests.
Over a third of beds were in settings rated as not good enough in a sixth of areas, the think tank IPPR found. BBC News
Over a third of beds were in settings rated as not good enough in a sixth of areas, the think tank IPPR found. BBC News
Boris Johnson confronted on east London hospital visit
Boris Johnson confronted on east London hospital visit The prime minister was visiting a children's ward at Whipps Cross Hospital when he was approached by a father.
The man, who is also a Labour activist, told Boris Johnson that the ward was understaffed and the NHS was being destroyed.
A spokesman for the prime minister later said Mr Johnson was visiting public services to see for himself the reality of the situation. BBC News
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The man, who is also a Labour activist, told Boris Johnson that the ward was understaffed and the NHS was being destroyed.
A spokesman for the prime minister later said Mr Johnson was visiting public services to see for himself the reality of the situation. BBC News
See also:
- Boris Johnson 'glad' about new father's NHS confrontation BBC News
- Boris Johnson is confronted by angry parent on hospital visit The Daily Mail
- The harsh reality of underfunding at my hospital? Swept away for Johnson visit The Guardian
- 'The NHS has been destroyed': Boris Johnson confronted by father of sick child The Guardian
- Boris Johnson Confronted By Angry Parent In Hospital For 'Destroying' NHS Huffington Post UK
- Boris Johnson supporters launch barrage of abuse at father who confronted PM over sick child The Independent
- Boris Johnson confronted by angry father on hospital visit: ‘The NHS has been destroyed’ The Independent
- Angry father tells Boris Johnson: 'The NHS has been destroyed' Sky News
84% of care home beds in England owned by private firms
84% of care home beds in England owned by private firms For-profit companies own 381,524 of England’s care home beds, thinktank finds
More than eight out of 10 care home beds are provided by profit-driven companies, including more than 50,000 by large operators owned by private equity firms, research reveals.
Private companies now own and run 84% of beds in care homes in England used by older people, as local councils have almost totally withdrawn from a key area of social care they used to dominate. The Guardian
More than eight out of 10 care home beds are provided by profit-driven companies, including more than 50,000 by large operators owned by private equity firms, research reveals.
Private companies now own and run 84% of beds in care homes in England used by older people, as local councils have almost totally withdrawn from a key area of social care they used to dominate. The Guardian
Rogue online pharmacies face bans for selling powerful painkillers without meeting patients
Rogue online pharmacies face bans for selling powerful painkillers without meeting patients Online pharmacies face losing their licences if they don't stop selling dangerous drugs without carrying out patient background checks, a regulator has warned.
The General Pharmaceutical Council (GPC) today said it was taking 'robust action' against rogue pharmacies liberally selling prescription drugs online.
Some have been accused of selling addictive drugs such as opioid painkillers like tramadol and morphine after only asking patients to fill out online questionnaires. The Daily Mail
The General Pharmaceutical Council (GPC) today said it was taking 'robust action' against rogue pharmacies liberally selling prescription drugs online.
Some have been accused of selling addictive drugs such as opioid painkillers like tramadol and morphine after only asking patients to fill out online questionnaires. The Daily Mail
A quarter of NHS beds 'could be taken up by diabetic patients by 2030'
A quarter of NHS beds 'could be taken up by diabetic patients by 2030' More than a quarter of NHS hospital beds could be taken up by diabetic patients by 2030, according to forecasts.
A report by Diabetes UK last year estimated that one in four inpatients would have type 1 or type 2 diabetes as well as their main illness.
But there are concerns the figure is too conservative as the number of people developing the condition because they're obese continues to rise. The Daily Mail
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A report by Diabetes UK last year estimated that one in four inpatients would have type 1 or type 2 diabetes as well as their main illness.
But there are concerns the figure is too conservative as the number of people developing the condition because they're obese continues to rise. The Daily Mail
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Wednesday, 18 September 2019
Mental Healthcare in Young People and Young Adults
Mental Healthcare in Young People and Young Adults This review looks in detail at the mental healthcare provided to young people from the unique perspective of the overlap between physical and mental healthcare, the quality of physical and mental healthcare provided and how patients with mental health conditions use healthcare services. The overarching aim of this study was to identify areas of care that can be improved for all patients aged between 11 and 25 years.Healthcare Quality Improvement Partnership
Regulation survey 2019
Regulation survey 2019 Less than half of NHS trusts (39%) think NHS England, NHS Improvement and the Care Quality Commission are doing a good job of regulation, according to a survey by NHS Providers.
The survey highlights the growing tension between the current system of regulation, which focuses on organisations, and the ambition to move towards an approach that takes system working into account.
The survey highlights the growing tension between the current system of regulation, which focuses on organisations, and the ambition to move towards an approach that takes system working into account.
The good life: measuring inclusive growth across communities
The good life: measuring inclusive growth across communities This report produced jointly with the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Inclusive Growth, introduces the new CPP Inclusive Growth Community Index. This combines data on five key outcomes – consumption, healthy life expectancy, leisure, inequality and unemployment – to create an inclusive growth score (IG score) applicable to local and combined authorities up and down the UK. Centre for Progressive Policy
Can you turn around the health of an entire town?
Can you turn around the health of an entire town? How do you improve the health of an entire town? That was the question facing the former fishing port of Fleetwood, in Lancashire.
It's a place where lives have been blighted by illness and people were dying younger.
So, in 2016, a local GP began to lead efforts to turn things around, helping people take control of their health.
Since then, there have been ups and downs with the progress of what's known as the Healthier Fleetwood initiative. BBC News
It's a place where lives have been blighted by illness and people were dying younger.
So, in 2016, a local GP began to lead efforts to turn things around, helping people take control of their health.
Since then, there have been ups and downs with the progress of what's known as the Healthier Fleetwood initiative. BBC News
Inquiry into safety and wellbeing concerns at two hospitals
Inquiry into safety and wellbeing concerns at two hospitals A public inquiry will be held to examine safety and wellbeing issues at the new children's hospital in Edinburgh and the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital in Glasgow.
The inquiry will determine how vital issues relating to ventilation and other key building systems occurred.
It will also look at how to avoid mistakes in future projects. BBC News
The inquiry will determine how vital issues relating to ventilation and other key building systems occurred.
It will also look at how to avoid mistakes in future projects. BBC News
Conflicts, climate change and mental illness among ‘biggest emerging threats to children', United Nations warns
Conflicts, climate change and mental illness among ‘biggest emerging threats to children', United Nations warns Conflicts, the worsening climate crisis, a decline in mental health and online misinformation are among the biggest emerging global threats to children, the United Nations Children's Fund (Unicef) has warned.
Global leaders must step up their efforts to address growing challenges facing the younger generation, the charity said. The Independent
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Global leaders must step up their efforts to address growing challenges facing the younger generation, the charity said. The Independent
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How hospitals can help nurse the planet back to health
How hospitals can help nurse the planet back to health | Anna Bawden Switching anaesthetic gases, using electric ambulances and ’greening’ dialysis are reducing the NHS’s carbon footprint
On Friday, thousands of adults across the world will take part in the global climate strike to show solidarity with Greta Thunberg and the young students who have been walking out of school for months to raise awareness of the climate emergency. Among them will be many public sector workers, including some NHS staff. The Guardian
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On Friday, thousands of adults across the world will take part in the global climate strike to show solidarity with Greta Thunberg and the young students who have been walking out of school for months to raise awareness of the climate emergency. Among them will be many public sector workers, including some NHS staff. The Guardian
See also:
- How GPs can reduce their carbon emissions The Guardian
NHS fraud costs more than £1.2 billion a year, report reveals
NHS fraud costs more than £1.2 billion a year, report reveals The NHS is losing more than £1.2 billion to fraud each year, according to a new report which found that GPs are inventing patients in order to make extra money.
“List inflation”, where practices claim they are treating more patients than they are, fraud through self-prescribing and the filing of duplicate timesheets by agency staff are among a range of “sharp practices” investigators have uncovered. The Daily Telegraph
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“List inflation”, where practices claim they are treating more patients than they are, fraud through self-prescribing and the filing of duplicate timesheets by agency staff are among a range of “sharp practices” investigators have uncovered. The Daily Telegraph
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Outbreak of a flu-like illness 'could circulate the world in 36 hours and kill 80 million people'
Outbreak of a flu-like illness 'could circulate the world in 36 hours and kill 80 million people' A century ago the Spanish flu pandemic infected a third of the world's population and killed 50 million people.
If a similar outbreak were to happen with today's constantly-travelling population, the effects could be even worse, a report has suggested.
The Global Preparedness Monitoring Board (GPMB), a team of health experts led by a former chief of the World Health Organization, has produced the report to try and spur world leaders into action. The Daily Mail
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If a similar outbreak were to happen with today's constantly-travelling population, the effects could be even worse, a report has suggested.
The Global Preparedness Monitoring Board (GPMB), a team of health experts led by a former chief of the World Health Organization, has produced the report to try and spur world leaders into action. The Daily Mail
See also:
- A Word at Risk: Annual report on global preparedness for health emergencies Global Preparedness Monitoring Board
Number of young adults with type 2 diabetes is on the rise
Number of young adults with type 2 diabetes is on the rise Record numbers of young adults are being diagnosed with diabetes because of the obesity epidemic.
One in eight new cases is now in the 18-40 age group, a major study revealed last night.
It found that these patients were significantly more likely to be overweight than those who only develop type 2 diabetes in later life. The Daily Mail
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One in eight new cases is now in the 18-40 age group, a major study revealed last night.
It found that these patients were significantly more likely to be overweight than those who only develop type 2 diabetes in later life. The Daily Mail
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Tuesday, 17 September 2019
Kettering hospital's baby screening service given 22 recommendations for improvement
Kettering hospital's baby screening service given 22 recommendations for improvement Assessors have given Kettering General Hospital's antenatal and newborn screening department a list of key recommendations to help improve services.
Public Health England quality assurance inspectors assessed the Rothwell Road hospital for the first time in five years to check to standard of screening programmes that forewarn parents if there could be something wrong with their baby.
The hospital was found to be meeting targets but was told to improve in several areas. Northamptonshire Telegraph
Public Health England quality assurance inspectors assessed the Rothwell Road hospital for the first time in five years to check to standard of screening programmes that forewarn parents if there could be something wrong with their baby.
The hospital was found to be meeting targets but was told to improve in several areas. Northamptonshire Telegraph
New targets mustn’t distract from the fact that NHS performance this year has seen a sharp decline
New targets mustn’t distract from the fact that NHS performance this year has seen a sharp decline Responding to the latest NHS performance figures, Professor John Appleby, Chief Economist at the Nuffield Trust said:
"These figures confirm that this year has seen an alarming slump in NHS performance against important targets. This summer was no exception, showing little sign of reprieve for staff and patients, with 6% more people turning up at A&E in August compared to last year. Over the last 6 months there has been on average over 60,000 more people waiting more than 4 hours in A&E per month compared to last year."
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"These figures confirm that this year has seen an alarming slump in NHS performance against important targets. This summer was no exception, showing little sign of reprieve for staff and patients, with 6% more people turning up at A&E in August compared to last year. Over the last 6 months there has been on average over 60,000 more people waiting more than 4 hours in A&E per month compared to last year."
See also:
- Combined Performance Summary: July–August 2019 Nuffield Trust
- Health and care services face a perfect storm of pressures in the coming months The Health Foundation
A&E attendances twice as high for people in the most deprived areas
A&E attendances twice as high for people in the most deprived areas There were more than twice as many attendances to Accident and Emergency departments in England for the 10% of the population living in the most deprived areas (3.1 million), compared with the least deprived 10% (1.5 million) in 2018-19, according to official figures released today.
NHS Digital’s Hospital Accident and Emergency Activity 2018/19, created in partnership with NHS England and NHS Improvement, also shows that attendances for the 20% of the population living in the most deprived areas accounted for 27% of all A&E attendances (5.9 million attendances).
NHS Digital’s Hospital Accident and Emergency Activity 2018/19, created in partnership with NHS England and NHS Improvement, also shows that attendances for the 20% of the population living in the most deprived areas accounted for 27% of all A&E attendances (5.9 million attendances).
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