Regulating quality and safety of health and social care: international experiences This report is concerned with standards of quality and safety within health and social care systems. Care standards are intended to support efforts in maintaining and improving the quality of care; they have been developed across countries, although the ways in which they are implemented and applied differs between nations. Taking a range of six countries, it reviews the regulatory mechanisms that have been implemented to ensure that essential standards of care are applied and are being adhered to, and consider the range of policy instruments used to encourage and ensure continuous quality improvement. It looks at on Australia, England, Finland, Germany, the Netherlands and the USA. It is intended to inform policy thinking for the Department of Health and others in developing the regulation of safety and quality of health and social care in England. It was prepared as part of the project 'An "On-call" Facility for International Healthcare Comparisons' funded by the Department of Health in England through its Policy Research Programme. Rand Corporation
Tuesday, 11 February 2014
State of the sector 2013
State of the sector 2013 This report contains the findings from a survey of nearly 170 drug and alcohol services, from across England’s four PHE regions. Amongst its findings, it reports that the picture on engagement with health and wellbeing boards (HWBs) and Police and Crime Commissioners (PCCs) is mixed, with positive examples, but other services reporting a lack of engagement; 35 per cent of drug and alcohol services surveyed reported a decrease in funding, against 20 per cent reporting an increase and 33 per cent no change; and almost half reported that they were employing fewer frontline staff and 6 out of 10 services reported an increase in the use of volunteers. Drugscope
3.2 million Britons have diabetes
3.2 million Britons have diabetes Charity calls on NHS to fully implement Health Checks to help identify people at risk of Type 2 diabetes. OnMedica
See also:
See also:
- Rise in new diabetes cases BBC News
Mental health issues 'cost UK £70bn a year', claims thinktank
Mental health issues 'cost UK £70bn a year', claims thinktank Mental health issues are costing Britain £70bn a year, the west's leading economic thinktank said on Monday, as it urged the government to help those with depression, stress and anxiety into work. The Guardian
What can clinical commissioning groups learn from Oxfordshire?
What can clinical commissioning groups learn from Oxfordshire? Oxfordshire CCG's experience demonstrates that although commissioners control the finances, providers are still in charge.
The unravelling of the plans by Oxfordshire clinical commissioning group to introduce outcomes-based service contracts shows that while commissioners have the money, providers are still running the system. What will it take to break their power?
The unravelling of the plans by Oxfordshire clinical commissioning group to introduce outcomes-based service contracts shows that while commissioners have the money, providers are still running the system. What will it take to break their power?
Revealed: Big Pharma's hidden links to NHS policy, with senior MPs saying medical industry uses ‘wealth to influence government’
Revealed: Big Pharma's hidden links to NHS policy, with senior MPs saying medical industry uses ‘wealth to influence government’
NHS bosses allowed a lobbying company working for some of the world’s biggest drugs and medical equipment firms to write a draft report which could help shape future health policy.
NHS bosses allowed a lobbying company working for some of the world’s biggest drugs and medical equipment firms to write a draft report which could help shape future health policy.
NHS England commissioned a group called the Specialised Healthcare Alliance (SHCA) to consult with patients’ groups, charities and health organisations and produce a report feeding into its future five-year strategy for commissioning £12bn of services. The Independent
See also:
See also:
- NHS hires drugmaker lobbyists The Guardian
NHS bosses accused of 'climate of fear' over care.data
NHS bosses accused of 'climate of fear' over care.data Rebel GPs wont be told punishment for opting out data-sharing until it is too late. The Daily Telegraph
What are Crisis Pregnancy Centres and where are they in the UK?
What are Crisis Pregnancy Centres and where are they in the UK? Telegraph abortion investigation: There are more than 100 Crisis Pregnancy Centres (CPCs) across the UK. But what are they and where are they located? Here is an overview.
See also:
See also:
- Abortion scandal: women told 'terminations increase chance of child abuse' The Daily Telegraph
- Abortion scandal: 'abortions increase breast cancer risk', claims counsellor The Daily Telegraph
- Abortion scandal: 'abortions increase chance of infertility', claims counsellor The Daily Telegraph
Monday, 10 February 2014
More than 350 ambulance handover delays at KGH A&E
More than 350 ambulance handover delays at KGH A&E An ambulance had to wait more than half an hour to hand over a patient at Kettering General Hospital on more than 350 occasions in January. Northamptonshire Telegraph
Sick paramedics face 28-day overtime ban
Sick paramedics face 28-day overtime ban Some ambulance shifts in Northamptonshire are not being fully covered because some medics who have been off sick are stopped from doing overtime, a paramedic has claimed. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
MPs set to vote on car smoking ban
MPs set to vote on car smoking ban MPs are set to vote later on whether smoking in cars with children present should be banned. BBC News
See also:
See also:
Women 'fare worse after strokes'
Women 'fare worse after strokes' Women have a poorer quality of life after a stroke than men, especially if they are older, a study has found. BBC News
Offenders with learning disabilities not getting help they need, say inspectors
Offenders with learning disabilities not getting help they need, say inspectors The report makes recommendations for greater partnership working between the justice and health system in order to support the assessment and treatment of offenders with learning disabilities. HMIC
Inaccurate reporting of cat bite dangers
Inaccurate reporting of cat bite dangers “Why even a tiny cat bite could leave you in hospital: Cats’ teeth ‘inject bacteria deep into the joints and tissue’, doctors warn”. The Daily Mail inaccurately claims that one in three people bitten by cats need to go into hospital, and that two-thirds of those people need surgery.
Planned registration fee hike angers nurses
Planned registration fee hike angers nurses Nurses asked to ‘bail out’ NMC, say nurse leaders. OnMedica
STI infection rates among gay men reach 'crisis' levels
STI infection rates among gay men reach 'crisis' levels
A growing epidemic of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) linked to a rise in unprotected sex and club drug use represents “a crisis for gay men”, a leading expert has said. The Independent
A growing epidemic of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) linked to a rise in unprotected sex and club drug use represents “a crisis for gay men”, a leading expert has said. The Independent
Workers off sick for a month to receive health assessments
Workers off sick for a month to receive health assessments The Department for Work and Pensions says employees off work for more than a month will be offered health assessments to cut Britain's annual £9bn sick pay bill. The Daily Telegraph
Friday, 7 February 2014
NHS will be dependent on EHRs - Hunt
NHS will be dependent on EHRs - Hunt
The health service will become "totally dependent" on electronic health records over the next five years, health secretary Jeremy Hunt has said. EHI News
The health service will become "totally dependent" on electronic health records over the next five years, health secretary Jeremy Hunt has said. EHI News
Wellbeing - why it matters to health policy
Wellbeing - why it matters to health policy
These documents contain evidence on why wellbeing matters to health throughout someone’s life, and what policy makers can do about it. Department of Health
Guidance
These documents contain evidence on why wellbeing matters to health throughout someone’s life, and what policy makers can do about it. Department of Health
Guidance
England eating disorders up by 8%
England eating disorders up by 8%
Hospital admissions for eating disorders rose by 8% in England from 2012/13, official figures show. The data, from the Health and Social information Centre (HSCIC), showed that there were 2,560 admissions, compared to 2,370 in 2011/12.Key statistics released by HSCIC:9 times as many females diagnosed Most common age for females: 15Most common age for males: 1320% of tho... Healthcare Today
Hospital admissions for eating disorders rose by 8% in England from 2012/13, official figures show. The data, from the Health and Social information Centre (HSCIC), showed that there were 2,560 admissions, compared to 2,370 in 2011/12.Key statistics released by HSCIC:9 times as many females diagnosed Most common age for females: 15Most common age for males: 1320% of tho... Healthcare Today
“What matters most to you?” How decision aids help patients make better choices
“What matters most to you?” How decision aids help patients make better choices
You might never have heard of a decision aid, but there’s good evidence from a newly updated Cochrane review that they can help people facing decisions about treatment or screening feel better informed about the options and clearer about what … Continue reading → Evidently Cochrane
You might never have heard of a decision aid, but there’s good evidence from a newly updated Cochrane review that they can help people facing decisions about treatment or screening feel better informed about the options and clearer about what … Continue reading → Evidently Cochrane
Patient confidentiality ‘to be breached by police’: NHS database to be made available to investigators, claims former shadow Home Secretary...
Patient confidentiality ‘to be breached by police’: NHS database to be made available to investigators, claims former shadow Home Secretary...
A central NHS database of the patient’s medical records will be available to police without a warrant in breach of the idea of doctor-patient confidentiality, according to the former shadow Home Secretary, David Davis MP. Independent
A central NHS database of the patient’s medical records will be available to police without a warrant in breach of the idea of doctor-patient confidentiality, according to the former shadow Home Secretary, David Davis MP. Independent
Diabetes claim for low-fat yoghurt not proven - NHS Choices
Diabetes claim for low-fat yoghurt not proven - NHS Choices
“Yoghurt is key to beating diabetes,” is the front page headline from the Daily Express. The news is based on a study looking at the association between dairy intake and the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. It found that the risk of the disease was ... NHS Choices
“Yoghurt is key to beating diabetes,” is the front page headline from the Daily Express. The news is based on a study looking at the association between dairy intake and the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. It found that the risk of the disease was ... NHS Choices
Health experts back car smoking ban
Health experts back car smoking ban
More than 700 doctors and other health experts put their names to a letter urging MPs to back a ban in England on smoking in cars with children. BBC News
More than 700 doctors and other health experts put their names to a letter urging MPs to back a ban in England on smoking in cars with children. BBC News
Can the Care Quality Commission live up to expectations?
Can the Care Quality Commission live up to expectations?
This week marks one year since Robert Francis published his second report into failures of care at Mid-Staffordshire Foundation Trust.
Mid-Staffs Director of Quality and Patient Experience Julie Hendry gave a moving presentation at a conference at the Fund in November summarising the journey that the trust have been on since 2009 and the progress they have made and continue to make.But what developments have there been more broadly across the system?
One year is barely long enough to achieve culture change. But locally, both in response to the first Francis report and more recently, there are countless examples of improvements in how boards monitor and manage quality, how care for frail older people is organised in hospitals, and how leaders listen to and involve patients. There are also organisations continuing to struggle to focus on quality – the picture is inevitably mixed. Nationally, the final full government response to Francisbalanced commitments to strengthen how quality is monitored with initiatives to help teams and organisations improve safety and support staff wellbeing.
This week marks one year since Robert Francis published his second report into failures of care at Mid-Staffordshire Foundation Trust.
Mid-Staffs Director of Quality and Patient Experience Julie Hendry gave a moving presentation at a conference at the Fund in November summarising the journey that the trust have been on since 2009 and the progress they have made and continue to make.But what developments have there been more broadly across the system?
One year is barely long enough to achieve culture change. But locally, both in response to the first Francis report and more recently, there are countless examples of improvements in how boards monitor and manage quality, how care for frail older people is organised in hospitals, and how leaders listen to and involve patients. There are also organisations continuing to struggle to focus on quality – the picture is inevitably mixed. Nationally, the final full government response to Francisbalanced commitments to strengthen how quality is monitored with initiatives to help teams and organisations improve safety and support staff wellbeing.
Thursday, 6 February 2014
Fewer overweight and obese people living in Northampton than the rest of the county
Fewer overweight and obese people living in Northampton than the rest of the county
Northampton has fewer overweight or obese people than the rest of the county and is statistically just below the national fattest average, according to new figures released by Public Health England. Chronicle & Echo
Northampton has fewer overweight or obese people than the rest of the county and is statistically just below the national fattest average, according to new figures released by Public Health England. Chronicle & Echo
NICE publishes draft guidance on self-monitoring tests for people on long-term anticoagulation therapy
NICE publishes draft guidance on self-monitoring tests for people on long-term anticoagulation therapy
Draft guidance from NICE?s Diagnostics Assessment Programme on 2 technologies for self-monitoring the clotting of blood in people on long-term anticoagulation therapy has been issued for public consultation.
Draft guidance from NICE?s Diagnostics Assessment Programme on 2 technologies for self-monitoring the clotting of blood in people on long-term anticoagulation therapy has been issued for public consultation.
Hospital discharge: the patient, carer and doctor perspective
Hospital discharge: the patient, carer and doctor perspective
This document contains a checklist to help support patients with the hospital discharge process. The list of questions that aims to be suitable for the majority of patients. It also includes stories from patients about their experiences and the perspectives of doctors on their care journey. British Medical Association (BMA)
Resource
This document contains a checklist to help support patients with the hospital discharge process. The list of questions that aims to be suitable for the majority of patients. It also includes stories from patients about their experiences and the perspectives of doctors on their care journey. British Medical Association (BMA)
Resource
Low fat yoghurt, fromage frais and cottage cheese could be the secret to beating type 2 diabetes
Low fat yoghurt, fromage frais and cottage cheese could be the secret to beating type 2 diabetes
Four or five pots of yoghurt per week may reduce our risk of developing type 2 diabetes, scientists have said. Independent
Four or five pots of yoghurt per week may reduce our risk of developing type 2 diabetes, scientists have said. Independent
Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt under pressure to introduce new meningitis B vaccine on NHS
Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt under pressure to introduce new meningitis B vaccine on NHS
Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt is under increasing pressure from leading medical researchers and clinicians to back the UK-wide introduction of a newly licensed life-saving vaccine for children. Independent
Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt is under increasing pressure from leading medical researchers and clinicians to back the UK-wide introduction of a newly licensed life-saving vaccine for children. Independent
NHS cancer blunders: MPs demand investigation after patients wrongly discharged
NHS cancer blunders: MPs demand investigation after patients wrongly discharged
Call for urgent investigation into whether patients are being denied care due to glitches in appointment systems. Telegraph
Call for urgent investigation into whether patients are being denied care due to glitches in appointment systems. Telegraph
Too much of a good thing: the death of antibiotics
Too much of a good thing: the death of antibiotics
Antibiotics have saved millions of lives. Now, due to overuse, they are no longer working. The golden age of medicine is coming to and end. Telegraph
Antibiotics have saved millions of lives. Now, due to overuse, they are no longer working. The golden age of medicine is coming to and end. Telegraph
Use of Telemedicine Can Reduce Hospitalizations of Nursing Home Residents and Generate Savings for Medicare
Use of Telemedicine Can Reduce Hospitalizations of Nursing Home Residents and Generate Savings for Medicare
Results from a new Commonwealth Fund–supported study in Health Affairs led by Harvard Medical School's David C. Grabowski confirm that telemedicine can be a cost-effective alternative to a trip to the hospital. Commonwealth Fund
Results from a new Commonwealth Fund–supported study in Health Affairs led by Harvard Medical School's David C. Grabowski confirm that telemedicine can be a cost-effective alternative to a trip to the hospital. Commonwealth Fund
An integrated approach is fundamental in care of adults with drug use disorders, says NICE
An integrated approach is fundamental in care of adults with drug use disorders, says NICE
The NHS needs to work closely with social services, local authorities and the voluntary sector if it is to deliver the best chance of recovery for adults with drug use disorders, says NICE in a new quality standard.
The NHS needs to work closely with social services, local authorities and the voluntary sector if it is to deliver the best chance of recovery for adults with drug use disorders, says NICE in a new quality standard.
Hospitals to log victims of FGM
Hospitals to log victims of FGM
Doctors and nurses in the UK are to log details of the injuries suffered by victims of Female genital mutilation. BBC News
Doctors and nurses in the UK are to log details of the injuries suffered by victims of Female genital mutilation. BBC News
The Francis Report: One Year On
The Francis Report: One Year On
In the year since the publication of the Francis Report NHS England has led many significant improvements to address the concerns raised in this landmark report.
Jane Cummings, Chief Nursing Officer for England and NHS England Chief Nurse said: “The lasting legacy that NHS England can give back to the patients and families who suffered in Mid-Staffs is to make the NHS the safest healthcare service in the world.
In the year since the publication of the Francis Report NHS England has led many significant improvements to address the concerns raised in this landmark report.
Jane Cummings, Chief Nursing Officer for England and NHS England Chief Nurse said: “The lasting legacy that NHS England can give back to the patients and families who suffered in Mid-Staffs is to make the NHS the safest healthcare service in the world.
Digitising expenses saves trust money
Digitising expenses saves trust money
An NHS Trust saved 20% on its expenses spend after digitising its claims process using Expenses Health. EHI News
An NHS Trust saved 20% on its expenses spend after digitising its claims process using Expenses Health. EHI News
Wednesday, 5 February 2014
Northamptonshire comes fifth in England obesity league of shame
Northamptonshire comes fifth in England obesity league of shame
Northamptonshire has the fifth highest percentage of people who are overweight in England, a new report has revealed. Evening Telegraph
Northamptonshire has the fifth highest percentage of people who are overweight in England, a new report has revealed. Evening Telegraph
Data reveals England's fattest areas
Data reveals England's fattest areas
Copeland in West Cumbria is the fattest local authority area in England, according to new government figures. BBC News
Copeland in West Cumbria is the fattest local authority area in England, according to new government figures. BBC News
Service transformation: lessons from mental health
Service transformation: lessons from mental health
"While nationally and internationally developed models are useful, choice of any particular model should be driven by local need, allowing flexibility for local providers to innovate."
Service transformation: lessons from mental health
H Gilburt, E Peck, B Ashton, N Edwards, C Naylor The King's Fund February 2014 Read more here.
"While nationally and internationally developed models are useful, choice of any particular model should be driven by local need, allowing flexibility for local providers to innovate."
Service transformation: lessons from mental health
H Gilburt, E Peck, B Ashton, N Edwards, C Naylor The King's Fund February 2014 Read more here.
The effect of hospital mergers on long-term sickness absence among hospital employees
The effect of hospital mergers on long-term sickness absence among hospital employees
"Mergers have a significant effect on employee health that should be taken into consideration when deciding to merge hospitals."
The effect of hospital mergers on long-term sickness absence among hospital employees: a fixed effects multivariate regression analysis using panel data
LE Kjekshus, VH Bernstrom, E Dahl, T Lorentzen BMC Health Services Research, 2014, 14:50 Read more here.
"Mergers have a significant effect on employee health that should be taken into consideration when deciding to merge hospitals."
The effect of hospital mergers on long-term sickness absence among hospital employees: a fixed effects multivariate regression analysis using panel data
LE Kjekshus, VH Bernstrom, E Dahl, T Lorentzen BMC Health Services Research, 2014, 14:50 Read more here.
How clinical commissioning groups are changing the face of the NHS
How clinical commissioning groups are changing the face of the NHS
"These stories demonstrate how the NHS can become patient centred and sustainable. Not only do these innovations help people to stay well or prevent them becoming ill in the first place, they also allow the NHS to make best use of precious resources."
Taking the lead: how clinical commissioning groups are changing the face of the NHS
NHS Clinical Commissioners January 2014 Read more here.
"These stories demonstrate how the NHS can become patient centred and sustainable. Not only do these innovations help people to stay well or prevent them becoming ill in the first place, they also allow the NHS to make best use of precious resources."
Taking the lead: how clinical commissioning groups are changing the face of the NHS
NHS Clinical Commissioners January 2014 Read more here.
Scientists talk of 'pandemic potential' after first confirmed human death from new strain of bird flu
Scientists talk of 'pandemic potential' after first confirmed human death from new strain of bird flu
Chinese scientists have said the “pandemic potential” of a new strain of bird flu “should not be underestimated” after the first known human infection resulted in the death of an elderly woman. Independent
Chinese scientists have said the “pandemic potential” of a new strain of bird flu “should not be underestimated” after the first known human infection resulted in the death of an elderly woman. Independent
NHS whistleblowers helping service become more caring, says Jeremy Hunt
NHS whistleblowers helping service become more caring, says Jeremy Hunt
In an article for The Telegraph, Health Secretary says that NHS has started to move on from scandals such as Mid Staffs, with 'compassionate care' replacing 'tick-box targets'. Telegraph
In an article for The Telegraph, Health Secretary says that NHS has started to move on from scandals such as Mid Staffs, with 'compassionate care' replacing 'tick-box targets'. Telegraph
HEE launches first national consultation on a NHS bands 1-4 workforce strategy
HEE launches first national consultation on a NHS bands 1-4 workforce strategy
Health Education England (HEE) has launched a consultation to hear views about developing staff in roles banded 1-4. The staff in bands 1-4 make up around 40 per cent of the NHS’s 1.3 million workforce, and are responsible for an estimated 60 per cent of direct patient contact. However, this group receives only around 5 per cent of the whole training budget.
HEE wants to know what people think are the barriers and challenges for this part of the workforce, and how these can be overcome. All the feedback collected will be analysed to create a bands 1-4 national strategy – “The Talent for Care”:
The closing date for feedback is 24 March 2014.
The project also wants to establish nationally agreed recognition of support roles in the healthcare team and their part in delivering high quality, safe patient care. It also will develop formal opportunities for people to improve and progress within and beyond bands 1-4, through nationally agreed arrangements, consistent standards and certification, where relevant.
As such HEE is looking for ambition, innovation and the commitment to widen the bands 1-4 route to clinical and professional training; but most of all, to provide some of the best patient care in the world.
The support in training and development of our Bands 1-4 Workforce has been identified as a core objective in the Health Education England Mandate (April 2013 to March 2015) and is also recognised as a key priority for HEE and its LETBs.
To share your views and learn more about this project, visit http://eoe.hee.nhs.uk/our-work/1to4/consultation/, search #TalentForCare or take our survey.
For more information email HEEE.bands1-4@nhs.net.
Health Education England (HEE) has launched a consultation to hear views about developing staff in roles banded 1-4. The staff in bands 1-4 make up around 40 per cent of the NHS’s 1.3 million workforce, and are responsible for an estimated 60 per cent of direct patient contact. However, this group receives only around 5 per cent of the whole training budget.
HEE wants to know what people think are the barriers and challenges for this part of the workforce, and how these can be overcome. All the feedback collected will be analysed to create a bands 1-4 national strategy – “The Talent for Care”:
The closing date for feedback is 24 March 2014.
The project also wants to establish nationally agreed recognition of support roles in the healthcare team and their part in delivering high quality, safe patient care. It also will develop formal opportunities for people to improve and progress within and beyond bands 1-4, through nationally agreed arrangements, consistent standards and certification, where relevant.
As such HEE is looking for ambition, innovation and the commitment to widen the bands 1-4 route to clinical and professional training; but most of all, to provide some of the best patient care in the world.
The support in training and development of our Bands 1-4 Workforce has been identified as a core objective in the Health Education England Mandate (April 2013 to March 2015) and is also recognised as a key priority for HEE and its LETBs.
To share your views and learn more about this project, visit http://eoe.hee.nhs.uk/our-work/1to4/consultation/, search #TalentForCare or take our survey.
For more information email HEEE.bands1-4@nhs.net.
Tuesday, 4 February 2014
Nominations sought for caring staff in Northampton General Hospital awards
Nominations sought for caring staff in Northampton General Hospital awards
Northampton General Hospital is inviting people to nominate members of hospital staff who go the extra mile to care for patients. Chronicle & Echo
Northampton General Hospital is inviting people to nominate members of hospital staff who go the extra mile to care for patients. Chronicle & Echo
Patients 'in dark' over database
Patients 'in dark' over database
The roll-out of a new NHS data-sharing scheme involving medical records should be delayed as patients have been left "in the dark", a patient watchdog says. BBC News
The roll-out of a new NHS data-sharing scheme involving medical records should be delayed as patients have been left "in the dark", a patient watchdog says. BBC News
Hair tongs and mugs top burns list
Hair tongs and mugs top burns list
Hair straighteners and hot mugs are the leading causes of childhood scalds and burns, and one year olds are at greatest risk, data reveals. BBC News
Hair straighteners and hot mugs are the leading causes of childhood scalds and burns, and one year olds are at greatest risk, data reveals. BBC News
NICE BNF consultation
NICE BNF consultation
This consultation document sets out proposals to enhance the information and support currently offered by the British National Formulary (BNF) Publications. It sets out plans for a service that integrates the best available evidence and gives easy access to healthcare professionals working with medicines to meet the needs of their patients. The aim of the consultation is to ensure that NICE's vision for an enhanced BNF reflects the requirements and needs of users.
This consultation document sets out proposals to enhance the information and support currently offered by the British National Formulary (BNF) Publications. It sets out plans for a service that integrates the best available evidence and gives easy access to healthcare professionals working with medicines to meet the needs of their patients. The aim of the consultation is to ensure that NICE's vision for an enhanced BNF reflects the requirements and needs of users.
First NICE Medtech Innovation Briefings published
First NICE Medtech Innovation Briefings published
NICE publishes its first Medtech Innovation Briefings today (Tues 4 February) on a range of novel technologies: a device to cool the brain in patients who?ve suffered a heart attack, a system for measuring narrowing of arteries in people with angina, a hydrosurgery device for cleaning wounds and a test to diagnose kidney damage. NICE
NICE publishes its first Medtech Innovation Briefings today (Tues 4 February) on a range of novel technologies: a device to cool the brain in patients who?ve suffered a heart attack, a system for measuring narrowing of arteries in people with angina, a hydrosurgery device for cleaning wounds and a test to diagnose kidney damage. NICE
Coordinated care for people nearing the end of life – feedback wanted
Coordinated care for people nearing the end of life – feedback wanted
This document will express the perspective of people nearing the end of life.The narrative for coordinated care has been a landmark document in changing the conversation about integration of health and social care and has been adopted by NHS England. There are currently four new branches of the narrative in development, each giving the perspective of a particular group of people. The others are for frail and older people, children and young people with complex needs and people with continuing mental health needs. NHS Networks
This document will express the perspective of people nearing the end of life.The narrative for coordinated care has been a landmark document in changing the conversation about integration of health and social care and has been adopted by NHS England. There are currently four new branches of the narrative in development, each giving the perspective of a particular group of people. The others are for frail and older people, children and young people with complex needs and people with continuing mental health needs. NHS Networks
HSCIC publishes strategy for 2013-2015
HSCIC publishes strategy for 2013-2015
04 February, 2014: We have published our strategy, setting out our priorities for the next 18 months, together with a roadmap for the longer-term development of our data and information systems. IC QOF
04 February, 2014: We have published our strategy, setting out our priorities for the next 18 months, together with a roadmap for the longer-term development of our data and information systems. IC QOF
NHS scrambles to fix bug sending users to malware site
NHS scrambles to fix bug sending users to malware site
‘Coding error’ saw NHS Choices visitors unknowingly redirected to advertising and malware site. Guardian
‘Coding error’ saw NHS Choices visitors unknowingly redirected to advertising and malware site. Guardian
NHS admits it should have been clearer over medical records-sharing scheme
NHS admits it should have been clearer over medical records-sharing scheme
NHS partially accepts criticism that it has failed to adequately explain how patients can opt out of care.data scheme
The NHS has conceded that it should be clearer about how patients can opt out of a controversial scheme to share their medical records in a single English database.
Patients have until March to opt out of the new system, which is aimed at improving research into the outcome of treatments, and will allow drug and insurance companies to buy "pseudonymised" medical information about them.
NHS partially accepts criticism that it has failed to adequately explain how patients can opt out of care.data scheme
The NHS has conceded that it should be clearer about how patients can opt out of a controversial scheme to share their medical records in a single English database.
Patients have until March to opt out of the new system, which is aimed at improving research into the outcome of treatments, and will allow drug and insurance companies to buy "pseudonymised" medical information about them.
NHS watchdog accused of 'throwing away' complaints
NHS watchdog accused of 'throwing away' complaints
NHS watchdog accused of 'throwing away' complaints after it finally admits errors in Morecambe Bay scandal. Telegraph Health News
NHS watchdog accused of 'throwing away' complaints after it finally admits errors in Morecambe Bay scandal. Telegraph Health News
Monday, 3 February 2014
Cancer alliance talks for Northampton General Hospital and Leicester
Cancer alliance talks for Northampton General Hospital and Leicester
Northampton General Hospital’s cancer department is in partnership talks with a Leicester hospital to protect specialist oncology services on both sites in future years. Chronicle & Echo
Northampton General Hospital’s cancer department is in partnership talks with a Leicester hospital to protect specialist oncology services on both sites in future years. Chronicle & Echo
Inspectors say staff levels at St Andrew’s are still too low
Inspectors say staff levels at St Andrew’s are still too low
Inspectors have said staffing levels at a Northampton hospital are still too low, following the latest inspection of the facility. Chronicle & Echo
Inspectors have said staffing levels at a Northampton hospital are still too low, following the latest inspection of the facility. Chronicle & Echo
Care and comfort - Daventry Express
Care and comfort - Daventry Express
Vince Baxter is locality manager of Daventry and South Northants, in charge of Danetre Hospital's building for Northamptonshire HealthcareNHS Trust. He said: “We have services including the ward beds, which are run by Northampton General Hospital, and ... Daventry Express
Vince Baxter is locality manager of Daventry and South Northants, in charge of Danetre Hospital's building for Northamptonshire HealthcareNHS Trust. He said: “We have services including the ward beds, which are run by Northampton General Hospital, and ... Daventry Express
New alerting will spread safety risk warnings more quickly
New alerting will spread safety risk warnings more quickly
A new alerting system launched today by NHS England will ensure warnings of potential risks to the safety of patients can be developed much more quickly and be rapidly disseminated right across the NHS.
The new National Patient Safety Alerting System (NPSAS) will ensure warnings of emerging risks can be rapidly issued following their identification by the NHS England Patient Safety Domain. As part of the new process, by April 2014 NHS England will also begin publishing monthly data on trusts who fail to confirm they have complied with the required actions of an alert within the set timeframe.
A new alerting system launched today by NHS England will ensure warnings of potential risks to the safety of patients can be developed much more quickly and be rapidly disseminated right across the NHS.
The new National Patient Safety Alerting System (NPSAS) will ensure warnings of emerging risks can be rapidly issued following their identification by the NHS England Patient Safety Domain. As part of the new process, by April 2014 NHS England will also begin publishing monthly data on trusts who fail to confirm they have complied with the required actions of an alert within the set timeframe.
Health watchdog attacks NHS culture
Health watchdog attacks NHS culture
The health watchdog criticises the NHS in England for a culture that "doesn't listen" and is jeopardising safety - while warning it could go bust without serious change. BBC News
The health watchdog criticises the NHS in England for a culture that "doesn't listen" and is jeopardising safety - while warning it could go bust without serious change. BBC News
E-cigarettes could become 'medicines' available on NHS
E-cigarettes could become 'medicines' available on NHS
Manufacturers apply for licences from regulatory body as tobacco substitutes scrutinised by EU and advertising watchdog
E-cigarettes could be available on the NHS by the end of the year with at least two companies – one a subsidiary of British American Tobacco – having already embarked on the process of obtaining licences from the medicines regulator.
The UK company Nicolites said its application was "well-advanced" while BAT's Nicoventures has also started the process, although decisions on whether their products are prescribed on the NHS will be made by local commissioning groups.
The status of "medicines" will give the companies commercial advantage and allow the e-cigarette makers to market their product internationally, including in sponsorship deals, a move that will be banned for competitors not in the same bracket.
Manufacturers apply for licences from regulatory body as tobacco substitutes scrutinised by EU and advertising watchdog
E-cigarettes could be available on the NHS by the end of the year with at least two companies – one a subsidiary of British American Tobacco – having already embarked on the process of obtaining licences from the medicines regulator.
The UK company Nicolites said its application was "well-advanced" while BAT's Nicoventures has also started the process, although decisions on whether their products are prescribed on the NHS will be made by local commissioning groups.
The status of "medicines" will give the companies commercial advantage and allow the e-cigarette makers to market their product internationally, including in sponsorship deals, a move that will be banned for competitors not in the same bracket.
Government attacked over deals with fast-food industry: ‘Pure illusion’ to think this approach can cut obesity
Government attacked over deals with fast-food industry: ‘Pure illusion’ to think this approach can cut obesity
The Government’s plan to fight obesity through voluntary deals with fast-food chains is founded on “pure illusion” and will lead to ever-worsening ill health in Britain, a leading expert claims today. Guardian
The Government’s plan to fight obesity through voluntary deals with fast-food chains is founded on “pure illusion” and will lead to ever-worsening ill health in Britain, a leading expert claims today. Guardian
NHS Change Day is about a different approach to leadership | Interview with Jackie Lynton
NHS Change Day is about a different approach to leadership | Interview with Jackie Lynton
A former mental health nurse organising pledges to improve patient care explains how to empower frontline staff . In March, staff across the NHS will be asked to make pledges to improve patient care, as part of the second-ever NHS Change Day.
The first NHS Change Day took place in March 2013 as a concept that sprang from frontline staff. It has been described as the largest ever health and care social movement, and one of the unusual aspects of this grassroots movement is that it has no single figurehead, but aims to make healthcare staff themselves leaders of change.
A former mental health nurse organising pledges to improve patient care explains how to empower frontline staff . In March, staff across the NHS will be asked to make pledges to improve patient care, as part of the second-ever NHS Change Day.
The first NHS Change Day took place in March 2013 as a concept that sprang from frontline staff. It has been described as the largest ever health and care social movement, and one of the unusual aspects of this grassroots movement is that it has no single figurehead, but aims to make healthcare staff themselves leaders of change.
Cochrane review finds no evidence to support the use of user held records for patients with severe mental illness
Cochrane review finds no evidence to support the use of user held records for patients with severe mental illness
The use of care plans and Wellness Recovery Action Plans (WRAP®) (Cook et al, 2009) within mental health is commonplace. In Wales, care planning is covered by legislation in the form of the Mental Health Measure (Welsh Government website, 2013). The care plans are designed to be developed and agreed in a collaborative way with input [read the full story...] The Mental Elf
The use of care plans and Wellness Recovery Action Plans (WRAP®) (Cook et al, 2009) within mental health is commonplace. In Wales, care planning is covered by legislation in the form of the Mental Health Measure (Welsh Government website, 2013). The care plans are designed to be developed and agreed in a collaborative way with input [read the full story...] The Mental Elf
New guide to help people to talk about their mental health with their GP
New guide to help people to talk about their mental health with their GP
Mental Health Foundation provides practical advice for patients. OnMedica News
Mental Health Foundation provides practical advice for patients. OnMedica News
Guidance for efficient use of off-tariff medicines
Guidance for efficient use of off-tariff medicines
NHS England’s medicines optimisation clinical reference group has published a document setting out how NHS England can work with providers incentivise more efficient use of high cost drugs excluded from the national tariff. NHS Networks
NHS England’s medicines optimisation clinical reference group has published a document setting out how NHS England can work with providers incentivise more efficient use of high cost drugs excluded from the national tariff. NHS Networks
NHS trusts failing to support staff health and mental wellbeing
NHS trusts failing to support staff health and mental wellbeing
Nearly a quarter of trusts do not monitor their staff's mental wellbeing. Only 57 per cent have a mental wellbeing policy in place, even though mental health is one of the leading causes for long-term sickness absence among the NHS workforce. More .... NHS Networks
Nearly a quarter of trusts do not monitor their staff's mental wellbeing. Only 57 per cent have a mental wellbeing policy in place, even though mental health is one of the leading causes for long-term sickness absence among the NHS workforce. More .... NHS Networks
Friday, 31 January 2014
Rape data shows regional variation
Rape data shows regional variation New figures show Northamptonshire has the highest number of recorded adult rapes per 100,000 of population in England and Wales. BBC Northamptonshire
Care for offenders with learning disabilities
Care for offenders with learning disabilities A new report shows a lack of adequate care in the criminal justice system for people with learning disabilities. RCN
Peanut allergy therapy shows promise
Peanut allergy therapy shows promise "A tough nut cracked? Scientists discover new treatment for peanut allergy sufferers," is the punning headline in The Independent. It comes from research that suggests that exposing children with a peanut allergy to trace elements of peanuts boosts their tolerance to the nut.
Eating disorders: Hospital admissions up by 8 per cent in a year
Eating disorders: Hospital admissions up by 8 per cent in a year New figures from the the Health and Social Care Information Centre (HSCIC) show a national rise of 8 per cent in the number of admissions to hospital for an eating disorder(3).
See also:
See also:
- Eating disorders admissions up 8% BBC News
- Hospital admissions for eating disorders rise 8 per cent in a year OnMedica
- Eating disorder increase among young people The Daily Telegraph
Providing integrated care for older people with complex needs: lessons from seven international case studies
Providing integrated care for older people with complex needs: lessons from seven international case studies This report synthesises evidence from seven case studies covering Australia, Canada, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Sweden, the United Kingdom and the United States. It considers similarities and differences of programmes that are successfully delivering integrated care, and identifies lessons for policy-makers and service providers to help them address the challenges ahead. The King's Fund
NHS patients 'face more treatment rationing since coalition restructuring'
NHS patients 'face more treatment rationing since coalition restructuring' Doctors say restrictions on access to healthcare have increased since creation of NHS clinical commissioning groups
Patients are facing growing rationing of treatments such as counselling, cataract removal and IVF since the coalition restructured the NHS last year, GPs say.
In a survey of 315 family doctors, GP magazine found that 71% believed that restrictions on access to treatment in their area had increased since April 2013, when the controversial shake-up of the NHS in England began.
Patients are facing growing rationing of treatments such as counselling, cataract removal and IVF since the coalition restructured the NHS last year, GPs say.
In a survey of 315 family doctors, GP magazine found that 71% believed that restrictions on access to treatment in their area had increased since April 2013, when the controversial shake-up of the NHS in England began.
'Insufficient' Government funding threatens NHS's ability to provide universally safe maternity care, says MPs
'Insufficient' Government funding threatens NHS's ability to provide universally safe maternity care, says MPs
England may not have enough midwives and maternity consultants to provide universally safe care because Government funding is “insufficient”, MPs have said, in the latest stark warning on the country's maternity care crisis. The Independent
See also:
England may not have enough midwives and maternity consultants to provide universally safe care because Government funding is “insufficient”, MPs have said, in the latest stark warning on the country's maternity care crisis. The IndependentSee also:
Thursday, 30 January 2014
Crying in A&E
Crying in A&E The A&E system is creaking with shortages of clinical staff and waiting times beginning to creep up - how might queues and associated poor outcomes for patients be reduced for no extra cost? asks Jennifer Dixon. The Health Foundation
NHS England urged to check pathology safety
NHS England urged to check pathology safety Professor Sir Bruce Keogh, medical director of NHS England commissioned Dr Ian Barnes, chair of NHS England’s Pathology Quality Assurance Review Board, to improve the quality assurance process for pathology services in England. NHS England
Heart failure patients may have higher cancer risk
Heart failure patients may have higher cancer risk "Heart attacks increase the risk of developing cancer," is the completely inaccurate headline on the Mail Online website. The Mail was attempting to report on a study looking at cancer risk in people with heart failure. This is where damage to the heart means that it fails to pump blood around the body efficiently.
Leading the information revolution in cancer intelligence: why the National Lung Cancer Audit is the key to transforming lung cancer...
Leading the information revolution in cancer intelligence: why the National Lung Cancer Audit is the key to transforming lung cancer... This report analyses the importance of the National Lung Cancer Audit, which was launched in 1994 and captures up to date information on almost every lung cancer case in the UK. It compares clinical practice at hospitals across the country, helping to identify problem areas and drive up standards of care for the disease, which kills 35,000 people every year. This report credits the audit with increasing the number of patients who receive radiotherapy, increasing the number of patients who have surgery, increasing the number of patients who have chemotherapy and increasing the number of patients who see a nurse specialist. Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation
Removing QOF not detrimental to patient care
Removing QOF not detrimental to patient care Clinical performance generally remains stable long after incentives withdrawn OnMedica
Sustainable healthcare: the NHS launches a new strategy
Sustainable healthcare: the NHS launches a new strategy As one of the world's biggest employers, there can be no better sector or better time to set out examples of the NHS's responsibilities for the future, writes David Pencheon.
Some of the key players in the public sector are coming together this month to launch a joint approach to sustainability.
Some of the key players in the public sector are coming together this month to launch a joint approach to sustainability.
A quarter of suicides happen within 90 days of being discharged from hospital, study finds
A quarter of suicides happen within 90 days of being discharged from hospital, study finds A quarter of suicides occur within three months of discharge from hospital, a major study in Scotland has found. The Independent
Lords vote to ban motorists from smoking in cars carrying children
Lords vote to ban motorists from smoking in cars carrying children
Smoking in cars in the presence of children could be outlawed after the House of Lords voted for a ban. The Independent
See also:
Smoking in cars in the presence of children could be outlawed after the House of Lords voted for a ban. The IndependentSee also:
- Peers back child car smoking ban BBC News
Data reveals six NHS trusts with 'persistently' high death rates
Data reveals six NHS trusts with 'persistently' high death rates Six NHS trusts have “persistently” high death rates for patients who die in hospital or within 30 days of discharge, according to new data. The Independent
See also:
See also:
- Six NHS trusts under fresh scrutiny over high death rates The Guardian
- Report shows hospital trusts with persistently high or low death ratios Health & Social Care Information Centre
Wednesday, 29 January 2014
GPs doing well on data protection - ICO
GPs doing well on data protection - ICO Most GP surgeries have good patient data protection schemes in place, a report by the Information Commissioner's Office has concluded. E-Health Insider
See also:
See also:
- Outcomes from visits to general practitioners and primary healthcare providers Information Commissioner's Office
Over-90s ambulance trips 'up 81%'
Over-90s ambulance trips 'up 81%' The number of over-90s brought to A&E by ambulance in England has risen 81% over the past three years, figures highlighted by Labour show. BBC News
See also:
See also:
- Attendance rates at major A&E departments highest in London Health & Social Care Information Centre
- Use of ambulances by over-90s to go to A&E rises by 81% The Guardian
- Scandal of elderly forced into A&E as faith lost in care outside hospitals The Daily Telegraph
- A&E needs reform, says senior doctor The Daily Telegraph
- A&E figures: Young patients without a GP add to growing pressure on casualty units The Independent
New Resource: 10 Top Tips for Reporting Concerns
New Resource: 10 Top Tips for Reporting Concerns The new 10 Top Tips for Reporting Concerns is the perfect size to use as a payslip insert, as a handout to give to staff or can be shared electronically on your local intranet. NHS Employers
New strains of the Black Death could emerge
New strains of the Black Death could emerge "Plague that killed millions is able to rise from the dead,” warns The Independent after a new study looked at the genetic history of the Yersinia pestis bacteria.
Plague is a devastating disease which causes rapid death if left untreated. There have been three plague pandemics in recorded history. The most famous was the second – the “Black Death” of the 14th to 17th centuries in Europe.
Plague is a devastating disease which causes rapid death if left untreated. There have been three plague pandemics in recorded history. The most famous was the second – the “Black Death” of the 14th to 17th centuries in Europe.
DDT pesticide exposure may up Alzheimer's risk
DDT pesticide exposure may up Alzheimer's risk "DDT: Pesticide linked to Alzheimer's," BBC News reports. A US study found that levels of the now banned pesticide DDT were almost four times higher in people with a confirmed diagnosis ofAlzheimer's disease.
DDT was widely used as a pesticide during much of the 20th century, but is now banned in most countries because of concerns that it contaminates the environment and the food chain. The UK was relatively late in banning the pesticide, which did not come into force until 1984.
DDT was widely used as a pesticide during much of the 20th century, but is now banned in most countries because of concerns that it contaminates the environment and the food chain. The UK was relatively late in banning the pesticide, which did not come into force until 1984.
Monitoring the Mental Health Act in 2012/13
Monitoring the Mental Health Act in 2012/13 This annual report into the use of the Mental Health Act provides an insight into the experiences of patients who received care under the act throughout 2012/13. It highlights five key areas which CQC will examine following the results of this report: community care; reporting on death; emergency and mental health crisis; involving people who use services; and investigating complaints relating to the use of the Mental Health Act. Care Quality Commission
See also:
NHS failing in its duty to look after the health of its staff, doctors say
NHS failing in its duty to look after the health of its staff, doctors say
The NHS in England is not doing enough to look after the health of its staff, doctors have warned, as a report found that nearly half of NHS trusts do not have a mental wellbeing policy in place for their employees. The Independent
See also:
The NHS in England is not doing enough to look after the health of its staff, doctors have warned, as a report found that nearly half of NHS trusts do not have a mental wellbeing policy in place for their employees. The Independent
See also:
MPs outraged at £1m redundancy payments for three NHS managers
MPs outraged at £1m redundancy payments for three NHS managers
Three NHS managers reportedly received redundancy payments totalling nearly £1m - even though they continued to work for the health service. The Independent
See also:
Three NHS managers reportedly received redundancy payments totalling nearly £1m - even though they continued to work for the health service. The Independent
See also:
- NHS under fire over redundancy payment to health chiefs The Daily Telegraph
Tuesday, 28 January 2014
Good outcomes? Bad outcomes? Let patients define value
Good outcomes? Bad outcomes? Let patients define value When it comes to value in healthcare, who defines value? Who creates value? Value to whom? asks Jeremy Taylor. The Health Foundation
Are your medical records in danger?
Are your medical records in danger? Should we be concerned about plans to share information? BBC News
'Good' cholesterol can turn 'bad', study finds
'Good' cholesterol can turn 'bad', study finds "Good cholesterol also has a nasty side that can increase the risk of heart attacks," BBC News reports after a US study has suggested that labelling cholesterol either "good" or "bad" is oversimplifying a complex situation.
The segment tool: segmenting life expectancy gaps by cause of death
The segment tool: segmenting life expectancy gaps by cause of death This tool aims to help local authorities identify causes of death that contribute most to their life expectancy gaps and, therefore, enable them to target interventions appropriately. It provides charts and tables which segment the life expectancy gap from January 2009 to December 2011 by the major causes of death. A summary report is also available for each upper tier local authority. Public Health England
NHS to axe 300 support jobs
NHS to axe 300 support jobs Managers alarmed at downsizing of recently set-up clinical support units, as NHS confirms plans for 3% staff reduction.
Elderly care loans could bankrupt councils after 'massive cost underestimate', claim
Elderly care loans could bankrupt councils after 'massive cost underestimate', claim Council chiefs warn flagship care loans scheme could leave them facing crisis within a decade to meet costs of more than £1 billion. The Daily Telegraph
Anger over NHS 'U-turn' on prostate cancer drugs
Anger over NHS 'U-turn' on prostate cancer drugs NHS rationing body accused of "playing fast and loose" with the lives of cancer sufferers. The Daily Telegraph
See also:
See also:
Monday, 27 January 2014
Throat-grabbing nurse struck off
Throat-grabbing nurse struck off A nurse who held the throat of a brain-injured patient and would not let go is struck off the register. BBC Northamptonshire
New hospital unit for A&E patients
New hospital unit for A&E patients The pressure on Kettering Hospital’s accident and emergency department has been relieved with the opening of a new unit. Northamptonshire Telegraph
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