Wednesday, 5 November 2014
MPs vote to make sex selection abortion illegal
MPs vote to make sex selection abortion illegal MPs vote 181 to 1 for a motion brought forward by a cross-party alliance of MPs in an effort to end uncertainty over the law. The Daily Telegraph
Is general practice in crisis?
Is general practice in crisis? A policy briefing that provides an evidence-based overview of the current state of general practice in England, and offers policy-makers some potential solutions. Nuffield Trust
See also:
See also:
- Is general practice really in crisis? Moving beyond the headlines Nuffield Trust
- Are the family doctor's days numbered? Local GPs increasingly choosing federalism The Independent
- Can General Practice survive NHS England's Five Year Forward View? The Information Daily
- General Practice ‘in crisis’ and ‘in need of reform’ OnMedica
Tuesday, 4 November 2014
Northamptonshire health chief 'takes over Twitter' to give insight into her role
Northamptonshire health chief 'takes over Twitter' to give insight into her role The Chief Executive of Northamptonshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust (NHFT), Angela Hillery, is embarking on a twitter takeover week on the Trust's official account @nhftnhs. Over the course of the week Angela will be updating followers on what she’s doing, what her priorities are for NHFT and giving an insight on some of the challenges she faces. Northampton Herald and Post
Library information skills programme for 2015
Library information skills programme for 2015 Need to find some information to inform your practice? Need to make a decision but can't find the evidence? Found the evidence but not sure of it's validity? We can help. All of our training programme dates for 2015 are now available on the Library's web site.
People in control of their own health and care: The state of involvement
People in control of their own health and care: The state of involvement The idea that people should have a stronger voice in decisions about their health and care, and that services should better reflect their needs and preferences, has been a policy goal of politicians and senior policy-makers in health for at least 20 years. Patients want it, and the evidence shows that when they are involved, decisions are better, health and health outcomes improve, and resources are allocated more efficiently. The King's Fund
See also:
See also:
Openness and honesty when things go wrong: the professional duty of candour
Openness and honesty when things go wrong: the professional duty of candour This joint consultation (running until the 5th January 2015) asks for views on guidance which is designed to support doctors, nurses and midwives in fulfilling their professional duty to be open and honest about mistakes. It also calls on clinical leaders and employers to support doctors, nurses and midwives by creating cultures in the workplace that are open, honest, and where people learn from mistakes so that future patients are protected from harm.General Medical Council and the Nursing and Midwifery Council
See also:
A vision for hepatitis C
A vision for hepatitis C This report calls for the government to improve hepatitis C services now to prevent thousands of unnecessary deaths. It highlights concerns from clinicians and patient and professional groups about the rising rate of hepatitis C related deaths and the need for improved screening and diagnosis. Hepatitis C Coalition
Is there really a crisis among GPs?
Is there really a crisis among GPs? A decade ago they got a new contract that allowed them to give up night and weekend cover, while seeing their pay shoot through the £100,000 a year barrier.
More recently, this government's reforms in England have put them at the heart of decision-making in the NHS by giving them responsibility for two thirds of the NHS budget.
And yet the profession, it seems, is at its wits end. A recent survey of 1,000 doctors by the British Medical Association found GPs had lower levels of morale and work-life balance than their medical colleagues elsewhere in the health service. BBC News
More recently, this government's reforms in England have put them at the heart of decision-making in the NHS by giving them responsibility for two thirds of the NHS budget.
And yet the profession, it seems, is at its wits end. A recent survey of 1,000 doctors by the British Medical Association found GPs had lower levels of morale and work-life balance than their medical colleagues elsewhere in the health service. BBC News
Ebola: Are cases levelling off?
Ebola: Are cases levelling off? We may be entering a new phase of the Ebola epidemic in West Africa.
There is growing - but certainly guarded - talk within the World Health Organization that the overall number of new cases is levelling off.
Officials have told me they now expect the figure to stick at around 1,000 fresh cases each week.
It is in sharp contrast to the early phase of the outbreak when the number was doubling every three to four weeks. BBC News
See also:
There is growing - but certainly guarded - talk within the World Health Organization that the overall number of new cases is levelling off.
Officials have told me they now expect the figure to stick at around 1,000 fresh cases each week.
It is in sharp contrast to the early phase of the outbreak when the number was doubling every three to four weeks. BBC News
See also:
- UK's Ebola appeal reaches £10m mark BBC News
- Ebola in Sierra Leone 'spreading 9 x faster than 2 months ago', campaigners warn Daily Mail
- New British Ebola labs to help stop spread of virus Department of Health
- Britain steps up its involvement in Ebola treatment OnMedica
- Common sense guide to Ebola for GPs and their teams Royal College of General Practitioners
Hike in checks for most vulnerable
Hike in checks for most vulnerable Applications to restrict freedom of people with illnesses like dementia and autism for their own safety rises ten-fold since a landmark court ruling. BBC News
Dying in the UK – nurses raise “profound” concerns
Dying in the UK – nurses raise “profound” concerns Almost half a million people die in the UK every year and RCN members are concerned about the ability of health services to deliver high quality care to them. Royal College of Nursing
See also:
See also:
- Nurses 'do not have time to care properly for the dying' The Daily Telegraph
Weight loss surgery cuts diabetes risk in very obese
Weight loss surgery cuts diabetes risk in very obese “Weight loss surgery can dramatically reduce the odds of developing type 2 diabetes,” BBC News reports.
The underlying research identified a group of 2,167 obese adults without diabetes, the majority of whom were severely obese, with a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or above.
This group had undergone weight loss surgery, so researchers compared them with a comparison group matched for age, sex and BMI, who did not have surgery. They looked at the development of type 2 diabetes in both groups.
Using the maximum follow-up period in the study (seven years), they found that the “surgery group” had an 80% reduced risk of developing diabetes compared with the “no surgery” group.
These findings are mainly applicable to those with a very high BMI (over 40). Results at lower BMIs (30 to 35) were still positive, but did not have statistical significance.
It's important to stress that weight loss surgery is no magic bullet and is associated with both short- and long-term risks and complications, such as unsightly excess skin.
The underlying research identified a group of 2,167 obese adults without diabetes, the majority of whom were severely obese, with a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or above.
This group had undergone weight loss surgery, so researchers compared them with a comparison group matched for age, sex and BMI, who did not have surgery. They looked at the development of type 2 diabetes in both groups.
Using the maximum follow-up period in the study (seven years), they found that the “surgery group” had an 80% reduced risk of developing diabetes compared with the “no surgery” group.
These findings are mainly applicable to those with a very high BMI (over 40). Results at lower BMIs (30 to 35) were still positive, but did not have statistical significance.
It's important to stress that weight loss surgery is no magic bullet and is associated with both short- and long-term risks and complications, such as unsightly excess skin.
Big data: enabling the future of healthcare
Big data: enabling the future of healthcare By collecting patient data, clinicians can use predictive analytics to prevent potentially deadly conditions.
Data security threat holding back digital progress in the NHS
Everyones talking about the importance of big data in healthcare. Yet, as the data piles up most of it is isolated in different silos, and health systems are struggling to turn big data from a concept into a reality. Heres how I see it having a substantial impact on the health of populations, today and in the future.
Most healthcare organisations today are using two sets of data: retrospective data, basic event-based information collected from medical records, and real-time clinical data, the information captured and presented at the point of care (imaging, blood pressure, oxygen saturation, heart rate, etc). For example, if a diabetic patient enters the hospital complaining about numbness in their toes, instead of immediately assuming the cause is their diabetes, the clinician could monitor their blood flow and oxygen saturation, and potentially determine if there's something more threatening around the corner, like an aneurysm or a stroke. Continue reading... The Guardian
Data security threat holding back digital progress in the NHS
Everyones talking about the importance of big data in healthcare. Yet, as the data piles up most of it is isolated in different silos, and health systems are struggling to turn big data from a concept into a reality. Heres how I see it having a substantial impact on the health of populations, today and in the future.
Most healthcare organisations today are using two sets of data: retrospective data, basic event-based information collected from medical records, and real-time clinical data, the information captured and presented at the point of care (imaging, blood pressure, oxygen saturation, heart rate, etc). For example, if a diabetic patient enters the hospital complaining about numbness in their toes, instead of immediately assuming the cause is their diabetes, the clinician could monitor their blood flow and oxygen saturation, and potentially determine if there's something more threatening around the corner, like an aneurysm or a stroke. Continue reading... The Guardian
NHS spending on agency nurses soars past £5.5bn
NHS spending on agency nurses soars past £5.5bn Government accused of truly incompetent planning after years of training cuts push cost of temporary staff way over budget
NHS spending on agency nurses and staff has spiralled to more than £5.5bn over the past four years and is continuing to rise amid a debilitating recruitment crisis in the health service. Budgets for temporary staff this financial year have already been blown apart, it can be revealed, with spending in some parts of the NHS running at twice the planned figure.
Reliance on agencies at a cost of up to £1,800 per day per nurse comes as the number of nurse training places in England has been cut. In the last year of the Labour government, 20,829 nurse training positions were filled in England. That fell to 17,741 in 2011-12 and to 17,219 in 2012-13, rising to 18,009 in 2013-14. Continue reading... The Guardian
NHS spending on agency nurses and staff has spiralled to more than £5.5bn over the past four years and is continuing to rise amid a debilitating recruitment crisis in the health service. Budgets for temporary staff this financial year have already been blown apart, it can be revealed, with spending in some parts of the NHS running at twice the planned figure.
Reliance on agencies at a cost of up to £1,800 per day per nurse comes as the number of nurse training places in England has been cut. In the last year of the Labour government, 20,829 nurse training positions were filled in England. That fell to 17,741 in 2011-12 and to 17,219 in 2012-13, rising to 18,009 in 2013-14. Continue reading... The Guardian
Nurses 'will have to be able to speak English to work in UK'
Nurses 'will have to be able to speak English to work in UK' Language tests on nurses who come to work here from elsewhere in the European Union are to be introduced for the first time. The Daily Telegraph
See also:
See also:
- Language controls for healthcare and associated professions Department of Health (consultation)
- Language checks for nurses proposed BBC News
Three vulnerable patients a day die due to lack of care
Three vulnerable patients a day die due to lack of care A shortage of specialist nurses trained to care for people with learning disabilities is putting the lives of thousands of vulnerable people at risk, the leading charity Mencap has warned. The Independent
Friday, 31 October 2014
Police ‘found no evidence of crime’ after Northampton’s ambulance service lost 42,000 copies of patient records
Police ‘found no evidence of crime’ after Northampton’s ambulance service lost 42,000 copies of patient records
No criminal charges will be brought against anyone working at East Midlands Ambulance Service over the loss of 42,000 patients records. Northampton Chronicle & Echo
No criminal charges will be brought against anyone working at East Midlands Ambulance Service over the loss of 42,000 patients records. Northampton Chronicle & Echo
New strike by NHS staff announced
New strike by NHS staff announced
NHS workers, including nurses and midwives, are to stage a new four-hour strike in England on 24 November as part of an ongoing pay dispute. BBC News
NHS workers, including nurses and midwives, are to stage a new four-hour strike in England on 24 November as part of an ongoing pay dispute. BBC News
NHS Five Year Forward View: the pressures on to test new models of care
NHS Five Year Forward View: the pressures on to test new models of care
NHS England has set itself a challenge to provide support, flexibility and skills to allow innovation to thrive
NHS Five Year Forward Review: a shopping list without the pricesNHS Five Year Forward View: biggest challenge is on funding
Among the scores of commitments to reform which came tumbling out of NHS Englands Five Year Forward View last week, a picture emerges of how the national bodies are going to leverage reforms among both the high-performers and the strugglers.
At the struggling end, the national bodies have promised to take a joined-up approach to addressing weaknesses across whole health economies rather than separately targeting failing organisations. Guardian
Continue reading...
NHS England has set itself a challenge to provide support, flexibility and skills to allow innovation to thrive
NHS Five Year Forward Review: a shopping list without the pricesNHS Five Year Forward View: biggest challenge is on funding
Among the scores of commitments to reform which came tumbling out of NHS Englands Five Year Forward View last week, a picture emerges of how the national bodies are going to leverage reforms among both the high-performers and the strugglers.
At the struggling end, the national bodies have promised to take a joined-up approach to addressing weaknesses across whole health economies rather than separately targeting failing organisations. Guardian
Continue reading...
Top doctors urge people not to store up health problems if “feeling under the weather”
Top doctors urge people not to store up health problems if “feeling under the weather”
The NHS will today launch its national public awareness campaign in a bid to persuade people to seek advice early from their local pharmacist if they are ‘feeling under the weather’.
The campaign, ‘feeling under the weather’ has been launched to encourage people, particularly older people and those with existing respiratory conditions, to nip health problems in the bud by seeking early advice from their local pharmacist. It will run for six weeks.
Every year the NHS sees a huge increase in numbers of emergency admissions to hospital over the colder months. Those with existing respiratory conditions, such as asthma or bronchitis are particularly vulnerable, and for frailer and older people, even the common cold can become more serious.
The NHS will today launch its national public awareness campaign in a bid to persuade people to seek advice early from their local pharmacist if they are ‘feeling under the weather’.
The campaign, ‘feeling under the weather’ has been launched to encourage people, particularly older people and those with existing respiratory conditions, to nip health problems in the bud by seeking early advice from their local pharmacist. It will run for six weeks.
Every year the NHS sees a huge increase in numbers of emergency admissions to hospital over the colder months. Those with existing respiratory conditions, such as asthma or bronchitis are particularly vulnerable, and for frailer and older people, even the common cold can become more serious.
Alcohol 'should have calorie labels'
Alcohol 'should have calorie labels'
Alcohol should have a calorie content label in order to reduce obesity, according to public health doctors. BBC News
Alcohol should have a calorie content label in order to reduce obesity, according to public health doctors. BBC News
Growing concern about staff morale as NHS performance slips
Growing concern about staff morale as NHS performance slips
Staff morale tops the list of concerns raised by NHS finance directors in The King's Fund's latest quarterly monitoring report.
Nearly half (47 per cent) of trust finance directors surveyed for the report identified staff morale as one of their top three concerns, twice as many as in the previous quarter. The report suggests this should be a significant cause for concern given the close link between staff engagement and quality of care.
The report underlines the financial pressures facing the NHS, with nearly 40 per cent of trust finance directors forecasting a deficit by the end of the year, the highest proportion since the survey began. Worryingly, nearly 60 per cent are also concerned about whether their trust will be able to meet its cost improvement target for the current year, suggesting that it is getting more difficult to find efficiency savings.
Staff morale tops the list of concerns raised by NHS finance directors in The King's Fund's latest quarterly monitoring report.
Nearly half (47 per cent) of trust finance directors surveyed for the report identified staff morale as one of their top three concerns, twice as many as in the previous quarter. The report suggests this should be a significant cause for concern given the close link between staff engagement and quality of care.
The report underlines the financial pressures facing the NHS, with nearly 40 per cent of trust finance directors forecasting a deficit by the end of the year, the highest proportion since the survey began. Worryingly, nearly 60 per cent are also concerned about whether their trust will be able to meet its cost improvement target for the current year, suggesting that it is getting more difficult to find efficiency savings.
Policy paper: Carers strategy: actions for 2014 to 2016
Policy paper: Carers strategy: actions for 2014 to 2016
The document identifies the main actions for the next 2 years around supporting carers.
There is an overview of evidence gathered over the last few years. It also explains the main achievements in recognising and supporting carers during that time. Department of Health
This builds on the national Carers Strategy of 2008 and the next steps update of 2010.
The document identifies the main actions for the next 2 years around supporting carers.
There is an overview of evidence gathered over the last few years. It also explains the main achievements in recognising and supporting carers during that time. Department of Health
This builds on the national Carers Strategy of 2008 and the next steps update of 2010.
Press release: Blogging project to capture everyday experiences of people living with mental health difficulties
Press release: Blogging project to capture everyday experiences of people living with mental health difficulties
A new online project is calling on people living with mental health difficulties to blog about their lives.
People signing up to A Day in the Life will be invited to share their experiences of what makes their mental health better and what makes it worse by submitting a 700 word blog on set days as part of the year-long project. Bloggers will be asked to write about the same days, starting on 7 November 2014 and followed by 3 more dates in winter 2014, spring 2015 and summer 2015.
A Day in the Life is designed to provide an insight into the lives of people living with a mental health difficulty to help inform the development of policies and projects which better meet their needs. The project is also designed to better educate and raise awareness among the wider public of the reality of mental health issues.
Blogs submitted to A Day in the Life will be available to the public and will be searchable by theme, topic, and the positive or negative impact of events and situations on people with mental difficulties. This categorisation will allow the project to compile and publish reports on emerging themes, as well as propose ideas for further investigation.
A new online project is calling on people living with mental health difficulties to blog about their lives.
People signing up to A Day in the Life will be invited to share their experiences of what makes their mental health better and what makes it worse by submitting a 700 word blog on set days as part of the year-long project. Bloggers will be asked to write about the same days, starting on 7 November 2014 and followed by 3 more dates in winter 2014, spring 2015 and summer 2015.
A Day in the Life is designed to provide an insight into the lives of people living with a mental health difficulty to help inform the development of policies and projects which better meet their needs. The project is also designed to better educate and raise awareness among the wider public of the reality of mental health issues.
Blogs submitted to A Day in the Life will be available to the public and will be searchable by theme, topic, and the positive or negative impact of events and situations on people with mental difficulties. This categorisation will allow the project to compile and publish reports on emerging themes, as well as propose ideas for further investigation.
Commissioning better mental health services for young people
Commissioning better mental health services for young people
The guide is based on a pioneering five-year programme run by the Mental Health Foundation and Paul Hamlyn Foundation at four sites across the UK. NHS Networks
The guide is based on a pioneering five-year programme run by the Mental Health Foundation and Paul Hamlyn Foundation at four sites across the UK. NHS Networks
The Mental Capacity Act (MCA) and care planning
The Mental Capacity Act (MCA) and care planning
This report shows commissioners and providers of care how to embed the principles of the MCA into care and support planning across the board. Social Care Institute for Excellence (SCIE)
Report
This report shows commissioners and providers of care how to embed the principles of the MCA into care and support planning across the board. Social Care Institute for Excellence (SCIE)
Report
Falls prevention: how to slash the NHS's £2bn bill
Falls prevention: how to slash the NHS's £2bn bill
A quarter of ambulance callouts are for falls. HSJ
A quarter of ambulance callouts are for falls. HSJ
Secret of healthy ageing discovered in ground-breaking 35-year study
Secret of healthy ageing discovered in ground-breaking 35-year study
Landmark survey of 2,500 men shows how healthy lifestyle ultimately pays off in old age. Telegraph
Landmark survey of 2,500 men shows how healthy lifestyle ultimately pays off in old age. Telegraph
Thursday, 30 October 2014
Further cost cutting would harm patients at Northampton General Hospital as it heads for £14m deficit
Further cost cutting would harm patients at Northampton General Hospital as it heads for £14m deficit More savings at Northampton General Hospital (NGH) are impossible without jeopardising patient care, its chief executive has said. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Plans to close Northamptonshire ambulance stations halted
Plans to close Northamptonshire ambulance stations halted The East Midlands Ambulance Service (EMAS) has dropped plans to close down ambulance stations in the region. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
See also:
See also:
- Ambulance chiefs in U-turn over station closures Northamptonshire Telegraph
Quarterly Monitoring Report
Quarterly Monitoring Report The latest survey of finance directors reveals the highest level of pessimism about the financial position of health organisations since we began surveying in the autumn of 2011. The King's Fund
See also:
- Growing concern about staff morale as NHS performance slips The King's Fund
- King's Fund forecasts hard winter E-Health Insider
Deaths Registered in England and Wales 2013
Deaths Registered in England and Wales 2013 The leading cause of death for males in 2013 was ischaemic heart diseases (15.4% of all male deaths). For females, the leading cause was dementia and Alzheimer’s disease (12.2% of all female deaths). Office for National Statistics
See also:
See also:
- Dementia tops female causes of death BBC News
- DEMENTIA is now the leading killer of women Daily Mail
- New figures show Britain's dementia crisis The Daily Telegraph
- Dementia is the biggest killer for women The Independent
GPs and Social Workers: Partners for Better Care Delivering health and social care integration together
GPs and Social Workers: Partners for Better Care Delivering health and social care integration together GPs and social workers are ideally placed to work together to implement radical solutions to the funding crises facing both general practice and social work, according to a joint report by The Royal College of General Practitioners and The College of Social Work.
See also:
See also:
Leading local partnerships: how CCGs are driving integration for their patients and local populations
Leading local partnerships: how CCGs are driving integration for their patients and local populations
This report profiles some of the CCGs across England who, despite still being relatively new organisations, are already driving new and innovative models of care that put the patient at the heart of the system, and are improving the health and wellbeing of their local populations. It showcases twenty examples of CCGs joining with partners, not just from social care, but from the voluntary and private sectors, to improve the health of their populations. NHS Clinical Commissioners
This report profiles some of the CCGs across England who, despite still being relatively new organisations, are already driving new and innovative models of care that put the patient at the heart of the system, and are improving the health and wellbeing of their local populations. It showcases twenty examples of CCGs joining with partners, not just from social care, but from the voluntary and private sectors, to improve the health of their populations. NHS Clinical Commissioners
Care plan 'to ease hospital pressure'
Care plan 'to ease hospital pressure' Vulnerable patients in England will get better support in the community as part of plans to ease pressure on hospitals, ministers say. BBC News
NHS trusts counting on bailouts
NHS trusts counting on bailouts NHS hospital trusts are continuing to draw heavily on government bailouts to plug funding shortfalls - but the cash may not last, the BBC has found. BBC News
Care for military veterans 'flawed'
Care for military veterans 'flawed' The government is failing to abide by its military covenant with armed forces veterans not getting the care they need, medical experts say. BBC News
Mental Health Act: Hospital based Place of Safety orders increase whilst police station orders decrease
Mental Health Act: Hospital based Place of Safety orders increase whilst police station orders decrease Latest figures on detentions under Section 136 of the Mental Health Act 1983 show that the reported number of Place of Safety Orders made where an individual was taken to a police station has decreased by 24 per cent, from 7,900 in 2012-13 to 6,000 in 2013-14. Health & Social Care Information Centre
Innovator case study: Dementia diagnosis times plummet in ground breaking project
Innovator case study: Dementia diagnosis times plummet in ground breaking project The winner of the 2013 NHS Innovation Challenge Prize for Dementia - worth £80,000 - has reduced the average diagnosis time from three years to four weeks. Here we explore Gnosall Surgery’s ground breaking project. HSJ
New figures show UK increasingly reliant on overseas nurses
New figures show UK increasingly reliant on overseas nurses The United Kingdom has become a net importer of nurses for the first time in eight years, showing the extent of the reliance on overseas staff as hospitals desperately struggle to recruit enough staff to keep patients safe. Royal College of Nursing
Could sex with 21 women 'cut prostate risk'?
Could sex with 21 women 'cut prostate risk'? "Sleeping with more than 20 women protects men against prostate cancer, academics find," The Daily Telegraph reports.
The study in question included more than 1,500 men diagnosed with prostate cancer and a matched group of men without prostate cancer from the general population. Researchers then interviewed the men about their sexual activity.
The study concluded that having more than 20 female partners over a man’s lifetime was associated with a decreased risk of prostate cancer, while having several male partners seemed to increase the risk.
However, studies like this one cannot prove that having several female partners reduces the risk of prostate cancer, or that having more male partners increases risk.
The study in question included more than 1,500 men diagnosed with prostate cancer and a matched group of men without prostate cancer from the general population. Researchers then interviewed the men about their sexual activity.
The study concluded that having more than 20 female partners over a man’s lifetime was associated with a decreased risk of prostate cancer, while having several male partners seemed to increase the risk.
However, studies like this one cannot prove that having several female partners reduces the risk of prostate cancer, or that having more male partners increases risk.
Quarter of CCGs set to miss 1% surplus target
Quarter of CCGs set to miss 1% surplus target Almost 50 CCGs are set to miss the NHS's financial target of being at least 1% in surplus this year, and 18 CCGs are forecast to be in deficit at year end, the House of Commons health select committee has been told. GP Online
How sick are the worlds healthcare systems?
How sick are the worlds healthcare systems? The NHS is in trouble and its chief executive has requested £8bn to save it. But how does Britains system compare with healthcare around the world and what can we learn? From hard-pressed India to highly organised Germany, eight Guardian correspondents report Continue reading... The Guardian
Ebola rages on, but we are approaching a turning point in this epidemic
Ebola rages on, but we are approaching a turning point in this epidemic New urgency on Ebola from the rich world, major investment and vaccine development suggest we may have reached the end of the beginning.
The news from Guinea and Sierra Leone has been unrelentingly horrific. Despite encouraging signs from Liberia, overall things will get worse. Today the official toll of the Ebola epidemic reached 13,703 cases, though the true figure is higher. By Christmas there may be thousands of new cases every week. More countries will probably report introduced infections, as in the US and, more worryingly, African neighbours. Several bleak months lie ahead.
Yet through this darkness it is finally becoming possible to see some light. In the past 10 days theinternational community has belatedly begun to take the actions necessary to start turning Ebolas tide. The progress is preliminary and uncertain; even if ultimately successful it will not reduce mortality or stop transmission for some time. We are not close to seeing the beginning of the end of the epidemic. But three developments offer hope that we may have reached the end of the beginning. Continue reading... The Guardian
The news from Guinea and Sierra Leone has been unrelentingly horrific. Despite encouraging signs from Liberia, overall things will get worse. Today the official toll of the Ebola epidemic reached 13,703 cases, though the true figure is higher. By Christmas there may be thousands of new cases every week. More countries will probably report introduced infections, as in the US and, more worryingly, African neighbours. Several bleak months lie ahead.
Yet through this darkness it is finally becoming possible to see some light. In the past 10 days theinternational community has belatedly begun to take the actions necessary to start turning Ebolas tide. The progress is preliminary and uncertain; even if ultimately successful it will not reduce mortality or stop transmission for some time. We are not close to seeing the beginning of the end of the epidemic. But three developments offer hope that we may have reached the end of the beginning. Continue reading... The Guardian
Diabetes 'out of control' in most parts of England
Diabetes 'out of control' in most parts of England Warning that diabetes is 'out of control' in most of England, with 120 amputations a week, and those living in East London and West Suffolk faring worst for uncontrolled disease. The Daily Telegraph
See also:
See also:
‘Urgent action’ needed to halt alcohol abuse in armed forces
‘Urgent action’ needed to halt alcohol abuse in armed forces Dangerous levels of alcohol consumption are “the norm” in the armed forces and the link between drinking and higher rates of violence among veterans must be investigated, MPs have warned. The Independent
Wednesday, 29 October 2014
Developing strategy in the NHS – mission impossible or essential leadership task?
Developing strategy in the NHS – mission impossible or essential leadership task? With the NHS facing both financial and quality challenges, just how can the sector plan ahead for an uncertain future? asks Suzie Bailey. The Health Foundation
Failings in NHS and poor government complaint handling highlighted in new report
Failings in NHS and poor government complaint handling highlighted in new report The Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman has published 161 summaries of investigations it carried out between April and June this year.
The Ombudsman Service investigates complaints about the NHS in England and UK government departments and their agencies, such as the Child Maintenance Service and the DVLA. The summaries published include 35 governmental cases and 126 are healthcare.
The cases investigated included several complaints about incorrect discharges from hospitals, failings in diagnosis of cancer.
See also:
The Ombudsman Service investigates complaints about the NHS in England and UK government departments and their agencies, such as the Child Maintenance Service and the DVLA. The summaries published include 35 governmental cases and 126 are healthcare.
The cases investigated included several complaints about incorrect discharges from hospitals, failings in diagnosis of cancer.
See also:
- NHS errors that left patients infertile, brain-damaged or dead REVEALED Daily Mail
- NHS Ombudsman report: how the vulnerable were failed The Daily Telegraph
- NHS investigation exposes failings for every generation The Daily Telegraph
- End the culture of patient deference towards NHS professionals | Denis Campbell The Guardian
- Ombudsman report: NHS sending patients home too early The Independent
Better communication needed in health screening programmes
Better communication needed in health screening programmes The risks and benefits of participating in screening programmes, for conditions and diseases like cancer, are not consistently communicated by either the NHS or private health care providers, a new report has warned. It is calling on the Government to ensure that a standardised process to produce screening information is introduced and that better communications training is provided to health care professionals. Science and Technology Committee (House of Commons Select Committee)
See also:
Adult social care funding: 2014 state of the nation report
Adult social care funding: 2014 state of the nation report This report, jointly produced by the Local Government Association and the Association of Directors of Adult Social Services, warns that services for elderly and disabled residents are in crisis after new analysis reveals a £4.3 funding gap by the end of this decade. It highlights the need for integration of health and social care as a priority in order to prevent the care system from collapsing. Local Government Association
Do you care?
Do you care? This report finds that nine in ten (89%) of health professionals who regularly deal with cancer patients agree friends and family caring for someone with cancer often neglect their own health whilst 85% believe a lack of support is the main reason carers reach breaking point and are forced to stop caring. The report calls for the prioritisation of the healthcare for carers in the NHS in England. MacMillan Cancer Support
Best practice in social media – measurement and evaluation
Best practice in social media – measurement and evaluation This briefing discusses how to plan and manage social media measurement and evaluation. NHS Employers
Drugs fund 'papers over cracks'
Drugs fund 'papers over cracks' A temporary fund to pay for cancer drugs not available on the NHS does not address problems with the price of new treatments, says Breakthrough Breast Cancer. BBC News
See also:
See also:
- Demand a fair price campaign Breakthrough Breast Cancer
- NHS Cancer Drugs Fund 'no longer fit for purpose', charity warns The Independent
Disasters group launches Ebola appeal
Disasters group launches Ebola appeal The Disasters Emergency Committee is to launch an appeal in response to a disease outbreak for the first time, in aid of the Ebola crisis. BBC News
See also:
See also:
- World Bank plea for Ebola volunteers BBC News
- Power to the people: Ebola - hacking social cohesion E-Health Insider
- Ebola outbreak: The appeal that shows this is no ordinary medical emergency The Independent
- Ebola outbreak: The contact tracers facing a race against time to track down those who have been exposed The Independent
Challenge Fund GP access pilots 'unsustainable', warns GPC
Challenge Fund GP access pilots 'unsustainable', warns GPC Government plans to extend GP opening hours are unsustainable and could cost £1bn a year across all practices in England, GP leaders have warned. GP Online
See also:
See also:
- GPs to bid for share of £100m ‘access’ fund NHS England
Call for action to tackle ill health of homeless
Call for action to tackle ill health of homeless Campaigning charity says three quarters of homeless people have health problems. OnMedica
See also:
See also:
- A Future. Now Homeless Health Matters: the case for change St Mungos Broadway
Employer bias against mental health conditions rife, study reveals - CIPD (blog)
Employer bias against mental health conditions rife, study reveals A study of employer attitudes towards staff with mental health conditions has revealed that 94 per cent of UK leaders admit prejudice against sufferers remains an issue in their organisation. Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development
Five tips on how the NHS can engage patients and the public
Five tips on how the NHS can engage patients and the public Health service needs to do things differently and change relationships and nature of dialogue.
Ten ways to improve patient involvement in the NHS
Over the last few years, patient engagement and patient-centred care have become buzzwords across the health service. NHS organisations at all levels across the UK have developed opportunities for feedback and involvement, taskforces have been established, and patient representatives have been recruited. But, while these are all steps in the right direction, they do not produce the results that either the patients, managers or clinicians hope for.
Many healthcare professionals feel that the patients who sit on their committees do not understand the way the system works and have unrealistic expectations of what change can be brought about. Conversely, when they do understand the system, patients are often described as too expert or so far removed from the realities facing new patients that they are unable to make a valuable contribution. Patients who use their positions to identify problems or to complain are commonly viewed as difficult. Often middle-class and retired, many patient volunteers are also derisively described as the usual suspects. Continue reading... The Guardian
Ten ways to improve patient involvement in the NHS
Over the last few years, patient engagement and patient-centred care have become buzzwords across the health service. NHS organisations at all levels across the UK have developed opportunities for feedback and involvement, taskforces have been established, and patient representatives have been recruited. But, while these are all steps in the right direction, they do not produce the results that either the patients, managers or clinicians hope for.
Many healthcare professionals feel that the patients who sit on their committees do not understand the way the system works and have unrealistic expectations of what change can be brought about. Conversely, when they do understand the system, patients are often described as too expert or so far removed from the realities facing new patients that they are unable to make a valuable contribution. Patients who use their positions to identify problems or to complain are commonly viewed as difficult. Often middle-class and retired, many patient volunteers are also derisively described as the usual suspects. Continue reading... The Guardian
Samaritans launches app to spot 'calls for help' on Twitter
Samaritans launches app to spot 'calls for help' on Twitter Suicide prevention charity's free app watches Twitter for signs that people are struggling to cope, including phrases like "tired of being alone", and sends a warning to friends. The Daily Telegraph
Tuesday, 28 October 2014
Cancer awareness campaign launches in Northamptonshire to reduce deaths
Cancer awareness campaign launches in Northamptonshire to reduce deaths
A Northamptonshire health body has launched a campaign to encourage awareness of the first key signs of bladder and kidney cancers, after the diseases resulted in 87 deaths in the county in 2012. Northampton Chronicle & Echo
A Northamptonshire health body has launched a campaign to encourage awareness of the first key signs of bladder and kidney cancers, after the diseases resulted in 87 deaths in the county in 2012. Northampton Chronicle & Echo
Ambulance bosses drop super-hub plan
Ambulance bosses drop super-hub plan
Plans by East Midlands Ambulance Service to develop a series of super-hub stations and sell off smaller sites, are to be scrapped and a new plan drawn up. BBC News
Plans by East Midlands Ambulance Service to develop a series of super-hub stations and sell off smaller sites, are to be scrapped and a new plan drawn up. BBC News
Implementing the ‘responsible consultant/clinician’ and ‘named nurse’ in your NHS foundation trust
Implementing the ‘responsible consultant/clinician’ and ‘named nurse’ in your NHS foundation trust
One of the recommendations of the Francis Report and the government’s response was that every hospital patient should have the name of the consultant and nurse responsible for their care above their bed: the ‘responsible consultant/clinician’ and ‘named nurse’. This letter to all foundation trust medical and nursing directors outline details of the implementation of the ‘responsible consultant/clinician’ and ‘named nurse’ recommendation. Each NHS trust has been asked to provide the relevant information on the implementation of these recommendations. Monitor
One of the recommendations of the Francis Report and the government’s response was that every hospital patient should have the name of the consultant and nurse responsible for their care above their bed: the ‘responsible consultant/clinician’ and ‘named nurse’. This letter to all foundation trust medical and nursing directors outline details of the implementation of the ‘responsible consultant/clinician’ and ‘named nurse’ recommendation. Each NHS trust has been asked to provide the relevant information on the implementation of these recommendations. Monitor
Final Care Act guidance
Final Care Act guidance
The government response explains how the regulations and guidance, which come into effect from April 2015, have been updated. NHS Networks
The government response explains how the regulations and guidance, which come into effect from April 2015, have been updated. NHS Networks
Mental health spending 'too low'
Mental health spending 'too low'
Local authorities in England spend on average just 1.4% of their public health budgets on mental health, the charity Mind says. BBC News
Local authorities in England spend on average just 1.4% of their public health budgets on mental health, the charity Mind says. BBC News
Its time to tackle mental health inequality among black people
Its time to tackle mental health inequality among black people
Lambeth will lead the way in the treatment of mental health in black communities
What 12 Years a Slave tells us about 21st century black mental health
Black men face inequalities in cancer care
With African and Caribbean people far more likely to be diagnosed with a serious mental illness it is fitting that World Mental Health Day falls in Black History Month this year.
Black men in Britain are 17 times more likely than white counterparts to be diagnosed with a psychotic illness. Guardian
Continue reading...
Lambeth will lead the way in the treatment of mental health in black communities
What 12 Years a Slave tells us about 21st century black mental health
Black men face inequalities in cancer care
With African and Caribbean people far more likely to be diagnosed with a serious mental illness it is fitting that World Mental Health Day falls in Black History Month this year.
Black men in Britain are 17 times more likely than white counterparts to be diagnosed with a psychotic illness. Guardian
Continue reading...
Press release: Over a quarter of a million quit for Stoptober as smoking rates reach an all-time low in England
Press release: Over a quarter of a million quit for Stoptober as smoking rates reach an all-time low in England
The nation’s biggest mass quit attempt saw more people than ever helping each other through to 28 days without smoking.
The latest data from the Office for National Statistics reveals that the number of smokers in England has hit a record low, with smokers now accounting for only 18.4% of the population in 2013, a drop of 1.1% compared to 2012. And according to UCL’s Smoking Toolkit Study, smoking rates are continuing to fall in 2014. Those who successfully took part in Stoptober and didn’t smoke for 28 days are now 5 times more likely to remain smoke free, contributing to the growing numbers of non-smokers nationwide.
The nation’s biggest mass quit attempt saw more people than ever helping each other through to 28 days without smoking.
The latest data from the Office for National Statistics reveals that the number of smokers in England has hit a record low, with smokers now accounting for only 18.4% of the population in 2013, a drop of 1.1% compared to 2012. And according to UCL’s Smoking Toolkit Study, smoking rates are continuing to fall in 2014. Those who successfully took part in Stoptober and didn’t smoke for 28 days are now 5 times more likely to remain smoke free, contributing to the growing numbers of non-smokers nationwide.
Choices and 111 reach usuage milestones
Choices and 111 reach usuage milestones
Two NHS public technology services have hit milestone usage figures, according to figures put out by the Health and Social Care Information Centre and the Department of Health. EHI News
Two NHS public technology services have hit milestone usage figures, according to figures put out by the Health and Social Care Information Centre and the Department of Health. EHI News
Monday, 27 October 2014
Care sector future for ex-hospital
Care sector future for ex-hospital A derelict hospital in Northampton that was once a workhouse is to be turned into apartments for the care sector. BBC Northamptonshire
East Midlands Ambulance Service still not hitting targets
East Midlands Ambulance Service still not hitting targets East Midlands Ambulance Service (EMAS) has consistently failed to meet the minimum Government targets over a number of years, and with the winter months almost upon us, figures presented this week show that they are still failing. Northamptonshire Telegraph
NHS England chief, Simon Stevens, issues stark warning on future of NHS
NHS England chief, Simon Stevens, issues stark warning on future of NHS Ben Gowland CEO Nene CCG and Joe Tibbetts publisher of Health Care Innovation Daily discuss Simon Stevens' five year plan to save the NHS in language easily understood by non experts. The Information Daily
Waiting for mental health care: what does the public think?
Waiting for mental health care: what does the public think? Nick Clegg used his party conference speech earlier this month to highlight ‘the second class status given to mental health in the NHS’. On the same day, the government and NHS England announced new waiting times standards as part of the drive to put mental health care on an equal footing with the rest of the system. This is the first time mental health providers have been subject to explicit expectations around waiting times – something they may find is a mixed blessing.
Cancer: shifting gears
Cancer: shifting gears This report outlines a future vision for cancer care in order to improve the quality of care for cancer patients and to improve the survival rate for patients diagnosed with cancer. It calls for all political parties to commit to naming cancer as a priority for the NHS and makes recommendations for actions which will improve experiences of treatment and care, improve quality of life for cancer survivors and save more lives – ultimately, bringing our cancer outcomes in line with the best in Europe. Cancer Campaigning Group
Ebola outbreak cases pass 10,000
Ebola outbreak cases pass 10,000 The number of cases in the Ebola outbreak has exceeded 10,000, with 4,922 deaths, the World Health Organization says. BBC News
See also:
See also:
- Ebola crisis 'may harm malaria fight' BBC News
- AUDIO: Ebola health worker's audio diary fears BBC News
- Million Ebola vaccine doses for 2015 BBC News
- Dozens monitored for Ebola in Mali BBC News
- Ebola outbreak will 'explode' by mid-December, scientists warn Daily Mail
- UK-trained doctor who died to save Nigeria from Ebola The DailyTelegraph
- Ebola crisis: Cases pass 10,000 as almost 5,000 killed by disease in eight countries The Independent
John Kennedy's care home inquiry
John Kennedy's care home inquiry The final report of a personal inquiry into care homes for older people to discover how to address the crisis in the UK and to find out what makes a good care home.
During John’s inquiry, which built on existing JRF research, he spoke to a range of people involved in the care sector, and used social media to broaden the range of views.
The report seeks to achieve an open and evidence-informed debate around how to improve life in care homes for older people and suggests principles and makes recommendations for regulators, commissioners and providers so that care homes are good places for people to live and work in. Joseph Rowntree Foundation
During John’s inquiry, which built on existing JRF research, he spoke to a range of people involved in the care sector, and used social media to broaden the range of views.
The report seeks to achieve an open and evidence-informed debate around how to improve life in care homes for older people and suggests principles and makes recommendations for regulators, commissioners and providers so that care homes are good places for people to live and work in. Joseph Rowntree Foundation
Sunshine isn't slimming and can't halt diabetes
Sunshine isn't slimming and can't halt diabetes "Sunshine can make you thin," claims the Daily Mirror, while the Daily Express splashed on its front page that, "Sunlight is key to fighting diabetes". Both are strong contenders for the title of the day's most inaccurate health headline.
The news – reported more circumspectly by The Times and BBC News – is based on highly artificial laboratory experiments on mice.
The study found that long-term ultraviolet (UV) light exposure stopped male mice fed a high-fat diet gaining weight. UV also reduced glucose intolerance and insulin resistance and levels of insulin in the blood after fasting, as well as glucose and cholesterol.
In humans, these are signs associated with metabolic syndrome – a combination of diabetes, high blood pressure and obesity that puts you at greater risk of heart disease.
Human skin produces vitamin D when it is exposed to UV light, so the researchers tested whether the same benefits were seen if the mice were given a vitamin D supplement in their food.
But this did not produce the same effects. The researchers instead think nitric oxide, which is also produced when skin is exposed to UV light, may be responsible for the effects of UV.
Mice are nocturnal animals covered in fur, so their skin is not usually exposed to much sunlight. This means this research has no immediate implications for people.
The news – reported more circumspectly by The Times and BBC News – is based on highly artificial laboratory experiments on mice.
The study found that long-term ultraviolet (UV) light exposure stopped male mice fed a high-fat diet gaining weight. UV also reduced glucose intolerance and insulin resistance and levels of insulin in the blood after fasting, as well as glucose and cholesterol.
In humans, these are signs associated with metabolic syndrome – a combination of diabetes, high blood pressure and obesity that puts you at greater risk of heart disease.
Human skin produces vitamin D when it is exposed to UV light, so the researchers tested whether the same benefits were seen if the mice were given a vitamin D supplement in their food.
But this did not produce the same effects. The researchers instead think nitric oxide, which is also produced when skin is exposed to UV light, may be responsible for the effects of UV.
Mice are nocturnal animals covered in fur, so their skin is not usually exposed to much sunlight. This means this research has no immediate implications for people.
Practices could boycott £5m dementia diagnosis scheme
Practices could boycott £5m dementia diagnosis scheme Practices should consider boycotting a scheme that would pay them £55 per patient diagnosed with dementia, the GPC has suggested. GP Online
Simon Stevens interview: The NHS is a social movement and not just a health care service
Simon Stevens interview: The NHS is a social movement and not just a health care service This week NHS Englands new chief executive unveiled a blueprint for tackling the worst budget crunch in its 66-year history. So just who is Simon Stevens? And can he save our health service?
From his offices, with their panoramic views of south London, Simon Stevens can see the scene of his happiest experience with the NHS so far St Thomas hospital, where his wife, Maggie, gave birth to their son in 2003. Because it was Christmas day, a lot of staff were off and there were locums. There was a bit of Christmas spirit, but a lot of planned deliveries not happening, so when my son was born they basically said, If you and your wife want to go to an empty ward, you can spend the night there with your baby. In this darkened ward with no staff we spent a very happy first night. The recollection prompts a smile.
He can also recall his worst moment. He was just seven. I had a hip problem and was in hospital for the best part of a school term. It is a visceral memory. I woke one morning and I couldnt walk. I crawled to my parents bedroom. They took a bit of persuading that I wasnt just messing about, but we went to hospital. I still remember when the staff said to them, OK, you can leave him now. That first night. I was just screaming: that complete sense of abandonment. Continue reading... The Guardian
See also:
From his offices, with their panoramic views of south London, Simon Stevens can see the scene of his happiest experience with the NHS so far St Thomas hospital, where his wife, Maggie, gave birth to their son in 2003. Because it was Christmas day, a lot of staff were off and there were locums. There was a bit of Christmas spirit, but a lot of planned deliveries not happening, so when my son was born they basically said, If you and your wife want to go to an empty ward, you can spend the night there with your baby. In this darkened ward with no staff we spent a very happy first night. The recollection prompts a smile.
He can also recall his worst moment. He was just seven. I had a hip problem and was in hospital for the best part of a school term. It is a visceral memory. I woke one morning and I couldnt walk. I crawled to my parents bedroom. They took a bit of persuading that I wasnt just messing about, but we went to hospital. I still remember when the staff said to them, OK, you can leave him now. That first night. I was just screaming: that complete sense of abandonment. Continue reading... The Guardian
See also:
- Of the people, by the people, for the people Coalition for Collaborative Care
- The health service needs more than a bag of grapes to get better | Andrew Rawnsley The Guardian
Dozens of maternity and A&E units shut
Dozens of maternity and A&E units shut Dozens of NHS maternity and Accident and Emergency units are under threat, new research reveals. The Daily Telegraph
See also:
See also:
- The public deserves better than stealth NHS closures The Daily Telegraph
- The list of 66 A&E and maternity units being hit by cuts The Daily Telegraph
NHS spends £2.5bn on agency staff to meet rising demand
NHS spends £2.5bn on agency staff to meet rising demand NHS hospitals spent £2.5bn on part-time agency staff last year – far more than planned – in a bid to improve patient safety amid sharply rising demand, new figures show. The Independent
So-called 'Saatchi Bill' under fire for unintended consequences
So-called 'Saatchi Bill' under fire for unintended consequences A proposed overhaul of the law surrounding doctors’ use of experimental treatments is unnecessary, would undermine clinical trials and could put patients at risk, a coalition of leading research organisations has said. The Independent
See also:
See also:
Friday, 24 October 2014
Plans to convert former 19th Century Northampton workhouse into elderly care home
Plans to convert former 19th Century Northampton workhouse into elderly care home A former workhouse and hospital (St Edmund's) in Northampton that has been derelict for the past 15 years is to be brought back to life as a care home, it has been announced today. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
The parallel universes of integrated care: the process of change is as important as the content
The parallel universes of integrated care: the process of change is as important as the content Norman Lamb’s announcement of a second wave of 10 integrated care pioneers at our recent integrated care summit signaled the continuing commitment of ministers to joining up care around the needs of patients and populations.
The achievements of the first wave of pioneers were showcased at the summit in a presentation from colleagues in Greenwich demonstrating how they have reduced emergency hospital admissions by targeting high risk groups in the population. In Greenwich and elsewhere priority is being given to intervening early to support these groups through closer integration of health and social care. The emphasis now placed in the Better Care Fund on cutting emergency admissions seems likely to reinforce these initiatives.
The achievements of the first wave of pioneers were showcased at the summit in a presentation from colleagues in Greenwich demonstrating how they have reduced emergency hospital admissions by targeting high risk groups in the population. In Greenwich and elsewhere priority is being given to intervening early to support these groups through closer integration of health and social care. The emphasis now placed in the Better Care Fund on cutting emergency admissions seems likely to reinforce these initiatives.
News story: Final Care Act guidance published
News story: Final Care Act guidance published The government response explains how the regulations and guidance, which come into effect from April 2015, have been revised as a result of the suggestions we received during the consultation.
We have made changes that include clarifying the guidance on adult safeguarding and revising the eligibility criteria to focus on outcomes and better address social isolation.
In addition to the revised regulations and guidance for local authorities there will be more materials to help those implementing the Care Act on the Local Government Association’s website.. The Care Act factsheets have also been updated.
The Care Act aims to make the social care system fairer and help people get better care. Department of Health
See also:
We have made changes that include clarifying the guidance on adult safeguarding and revising the eligibility criteria to focus on outcomes and better address social isolation.
In addition to the revised regulations and guidance for local authorities there will be more materials to help those implementing the Care Act on the Local Government Association’s website.. The Care Act factsheets have also been updated.
The Care Act aims to make the social care system fairer and help people get better care. Department of Health
See also:
- Statutory guidance: Care Act 2014: statutory guidance for implementation Department of Health
From evidence into action: opportunities to protect and improve the nation’s health
From evidence into action: opportunities to protect and improve the nation’s health This strategic document sets out PHE's priorities for the next 5 years, having looked closely at the evidence to determine where it can most effectively focus its efforts. It is an invitation to others across the health professions, local and national government, the voluntary and community sector and the public, to join PHE in applying the evidence of what we know works to achieve the step-change in the nation’s health. Public Health England
Everybody active, every day: an evidence-based approach to physical activity
Everybody active, every day: an evidence-based approach to physical activity This framework for national and local action addresses the national physical inactivity epidemic, responsible for 1 in 6 deaths and costing the country an estimated £7.4 billion a year. It aims to change the social ‘norm’ to make physical activity the expectation; develop expertise and leadership within professionals and volunteers; create environments to support active lives; and identify and up-scale successful programmes nationwide. Public Health England
Doctors' contract talks - Q&As
Doctors' contract talks - Q&As Q&As to answer questions you may have on the ending of the contract negotiations. NHS Employers
US 'probes hackable' medical devices
US 'probes hackable' medical devices US government investigators are looking into about two dozen cases of medical kit suspected to be vulnerable to life-threatening hacks. BBC News
Health ministers refuse to commit to £8bn funding sought in NHS report
Health ministers refuse to commit to £8bn funding sought in NHS report Conservatives Jeremy Hunt and Labours Andy Burnham both claim report supports their policies for future of health service
Health ministers from all three main Westminster parties have refused to commit to an extra £8bn funding sought by the chief executive of NHS England in a report looking at the looming cost pressures facing the NHS in the next five years.
They embraced the reports principles, often arguing it endorsed their existing political positions, but they all shied away from a commitment to the extra cash above inflation over the next parliament. Continue reading... The Guardian
See also:
Health ministers from all three main Westminster parties have refused to commit to an extra £8bn funding sought by the chief executive of NHS England in a report looking at the looming cost pressures facing the NHS in the next five years.
They embraced the reports principles, often arguing it endorsed their existing political positions, but they all shied away from a commitment to the extra cash above inflation over the next parliament. Continue reading... The Guardian
See also:
- The man with the plan E-Health Insider
- NHS plan "turning point" for IT? E-Health Insider
- GP leaders welcome NHS five-year plan but warn funding must rise soon GP Online
- NHS Five Year Forward View: biggest challenge is on funding The Guardian
- NHS has come 'a huge distance' in 15 years, says chief - video The Guardian
- The NHS has 'a really bright future', says Jeremy Hunt - video The Guardian
- The NHS is on life support. Can this plan revive it? | Polly Toynbee The Guardian
- NHS boss Simon Stevens defends privatisation The Guardian
- Betting the farm: inside the NHS Forward View The Health Foundation
Two in five fear NHS will soon cease to be free
Two in five fear NHS will soon cease to be free Survey finds pessimism among UK population, particularly women and poorer people, over future of national health service
More than two out of five people fear the NHS will cease to be a free service over the next 20 years, a new survey reveals. When asked how likely it was that the NHS by 2034 would still be free at point of use, 44% said it was unlikely and 37% thought it was likely to be the case.
Women and the less well-off were the most pessimistic. Among women, 48% believe the free NHS will have disappeared, while 36% do not. More men (40%) share that concern, though almost as many (38%) think free care will survive. Continue reading... The Guardian
More than two out of five people fear the NHS will cease to be a free service over the next 20 years, a new survey reveals. When asked how likely it was that the NHS by 2034 would still be free at point of use, 44% said it was unlikely and 37% thought it was likely to be the case.
Women and the less well-off were the most pessimistic. Among women, 48% believe the free NHS will have disappeared, while 36% do not. More men (40%) share that concern, though almost as many (38%) think free care will survive. Continue reading... The Guardian
The 'Saatchi Bill' is dangerous and will bring nothing but harm
The 'Saatchi Bill' is dangerous and will bring nothing but harm Quacks, Big Pharma and insurance firms will benefit from the Saatchi Bill - not doctors and certainly not patients, says Peter Oborne. The Daily Telegraph
Ebola outbreak: Quarantine camps in West Africa at breaking-point
Ebola outbreak: Quarantine camps in West Africa at breaking-point Dozens of people quarantined for Ebola monitoring in western Liberia are threatening to break out of isolation because they have no food, the West African nation’s state radio has reported. The Independent
See also:
See also:
Thursday, 23 October 2014
Thousands more flu jabs will be needed in Northants this winter
Thousands more flu jabs will be needed in Northants this winter An extra 22,000 flu vaccinations will need to be issued to under 65s at risk this winter, according to public health experts at Northamptonshire County Council. Northamptonshire Telegraph
Pioneering health project receives national award
Pioneering health project receives national award A pioneering Northamptonshire project to improve care to patients has won a national award. Northamptonshire Telegraph
The NHS Five Year Forward View
The NHS Five Year Forward View This new report sets out a new vision for the future of the NHS showing how the NHS needs to change over the next five years if it is to close the widening gaps in the health of the population, quality of care and the funding of services.
The report looks at why change is needed, what that change might look like and how it can achieved. It describes various models of care, defining the actions required at local and national level to support delivery. It covers areas such as disease prevention; new, flexible models of service delivery tailored to local populations and needs; integration between services; and consistent leadership across the health and care system.
The Five Year Forward View starts the move towards a different NHS, recognising the challenges and outlining potential solutions to the big questions facing health and care services in England. It defines the framework for further detailed planning about how the NHS needs to evolve over the next five years. NHS England
See also:
The report looks at why change is needed, what that change might look like and how it can achieved. It describes various models of care, defining the actions required at local and national level to support delivery. It covers areas such as disease prevention; new, flexible models of service delivery tailored to local populations and needs; integration between services; and consistent leadership across the health and care system.
The Five Year Forward View starts the move towards a different NHS, recognising the challenges and outlining potential solutions to the big questions facing health and care services in England. It defines the framework for further detailed planning about how the NHS needs to evolve over the next five years. NHS England
See also:
- Five Year Forward executive summary NHS England
- NHS Leaders set out vision for healthcare in England NHS England
Responses
- NHS Five Year Forward View Care Quality Commission
- Five year Forward view is a statement of great confidence in the NHS Foundation Trust Network
- Reaction to NHS England’s Forward View The Health Foundation
- No escaping the financial challenge facing the NHS: our response to NHS England’s Five Year Forward View The King's Fund
- NHS Confederation, NHS Employers and NHS Partners responds to NHS England's Five Year Forward View NHS Confederation Health service cannot continue with ‘business as usual’ Nuffield Trust
- Response to NHS England's road map for the future of the health service Royal College of General Practitioners
- RCN responds to NHS Five Year Forward View Royal College of Nursing
- The NHS plan: Five things we've learned BBC News
- NHS five-year plan 'packs a punch' BBC News
- NHS 'needs extra cash and overhaul' BBC News
- NHS: Money alone won't buy us better treatment The Daily Telegraph
- NHS can close £30 billion gap - Stevens E-Health Insider
- National systems to become 'glue' of NHS E-Health Insider
- NHS chief pledges major primary care funding rise in 'new deal' for GPs GP Online
- The Guardian view on the Forward View: at last the debate the NHS deserves | Editorial The Guardian
- Simon Stevens: new NHS chief executive with a private past The Guardian
- The Stevens report: 35 pages that serve up challenge to politicians of all colours The Guardian
- NHS Five Year Forward View: radical and costly surgery to provide a new lease of life The Guardian
- The NHS calls for an extra £8bn by 2020 in order to safeguard its services The Guardian
- Firms to receive NHS cash to reward staff for losing weight in radical model for health care The Independent
- NHS England to spend a ‘much higher proportion’ of budget on general practice over next five years Pulse
You can also follow the reponse to the report on Twitter using the hashtag #FutureNHS
'Nine million have TB' - WHO report
'Nine million have TB' - WHO report The World Health Organization revises its estimate as to how many people have tuberculosis up by 500,000, in its latest report into the killer disease. BBC News
See also:
See also:
- Global tuberculosis report 2014 World Health Organization
VIDEO: Can technology plug NHS funding gap?
VIDEO: Can technology plug NHS funding gap? The NHS is under pressure to close a huge projected funding gap - Dominic Hughes reports on how the NHS has addressed this in West Yorkshire. BBC News
Mental Health: Visions of the Future
Mental Health: Visions of the Future In light of recent criticism of the over-reliance on drugs in mental health treatment, the President of the World Psychiatric Association outlines his vision for the future of the discipline. IAI News
Tackle Ebola in Africa to ensure threat to UK is stemmed, says medical expert
Tackle Ebola in Africa to ensure threat to UK is stemmed, says medical expertDame Sally Davies, chief medical officer for England, says risks to British low, but NHS and global community need to act now
Britain is well prepared for an Ebola outbreak but the best way to ensure the threat to the UK does not escalate is to fight the disease in west Africa, the chief medical officer for England, said on Wednesday.
Dame Sally Davies told MPs on the Commons health select committee that airport screening had been introduced mainly to alert people coming from Ebola-affected countries as to what to do should they develop symptoms. Continue reading... The Guardian
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Britain is well prepared for an Ebola outbreak but the best way to ensure the threat to the UK does not escalate is to fight the disease in west Africa, the chief medical officer for England, said on Wednesday.
Dame Sally Davies told MPs on the Commons health select committee that airport screening had been introduced mainly to alert people coming from Ebola-affected countries as to what to do should they develop symptoms. Continue reading... The Guardian
See also:
Thousands with degenerative conditions classified as 'fit to work in future' - despite no possibility of improvement
Thousands with degenerative conditions classified as 'fit to work in future' - despite no possibility of improvement More than a third of people with degenerative conditions such as Parkinson’s and multiple sclerosis are having their benefits slashed because the Department for Work and Pensions deems they will recover enough to look for work. The Independent
NHS must end IVF 'postcode lottery', watchdog says
NHS must end IVF 'postcode lottery', watchdog says The NHS must end “unacceptable” restrictions on fertility treatment for thousands of women in England, the national health watchdog has said. The Independent
See also:
See also:
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