Sexual and reproductive health must not become the "Cinderella" service of the NHS The College is launching its report Time To Act, highlighting the findings of a College consultation with its 50,000-strong membership.
It found that GPs fear rates of teenage pregnancy and transmission of sexually transmitted diseases will rise – reversing current trends – as vulnerable patients are being excluded from accessing the most appropriate forms of contraception, and that health inequalities are being widened as a result.
Members particularly cited the difficulties patients living in rural areas have in accessing sexual and reproductive health services, as well as younger patients who rely on their parents for transport. Royal College of General Practitioners
Thursday, 27 July 2017
Inpatient provision for children and young people with mental health problems
Inpatient provision for children and young people with mental health problems This report examines the state of child and adolescent mental health inpatient services in England. It explores the latest evidence and NHS data on admissions, quality of care, staffing and capacity. It highlights five challenges to raising standards in young people’s mental health provision. Education Policy Institute
Mental health crisis services in England 'under pressure'
Mental health crisis services in England 'under pressure' Services for people who are suicidal or self-harming are facing unprecedented demand in England, a BBC Radio 5 live investigation has found.
Out of 39 mental health trusts that provided figures for their crisis teams, 27 had seen their workload increase - 70%.
And some had seen referrals rise by as much as 60% - but without a comparable rise in funding.
NHS England said an extra £400m would be spent on crisis resolution teams.
BBC Radio 5 live contacted all 54 mental health trusts who run crisis teams in England.
One of them, East London NHS Foundation Trust, revealed its crisis team had seen referrals increase from 7,057 to 11,368 last year, a 60% rise in demand. BBC News
Out of 39 mental health trusts that provided figures for their crisis teams, 27 had seen their workload increase - 70%.
And some had seen referrals rise by as much as 60% - but without a comparable rise in funding.
NHS England said an extra £400m would be spent on crisis resolution teams.
BBC Radio 5 live contacted all 54 mental health trusts who run crisis teams in England.
One of them, East London NHS Foundation Trust, revealed its crisis team had seen referrals increase from 7,057 to 11,368 last year, a 60% rise in demand. BBC News
Should you finish a course of antibiotics?
Should you finish a course of antibiotics? It is time to reconsider the widespread advice that people should always complete an entire course of antibiotics, experts in the BMJ say.
They argue there is not enough evidence to back the idea that stopping pills early encourages antibiotic resistance.
Instead, they suggest, more studies need to be done to see if other strategies - such as stopping once feeling better - can help cut antibiotic use.
But GPs urge people not to change their behaviour in the face of one study. BBC News
See also:
They argue there is not enough evidence to back the idea that stopping pills early encourages antibiotic resistance.
Instead, they suggest, more studies need to be done to see if other strategies - such as stopping once feeling better - can help cut antibiotic use.
But GPs urge people not to change their behaviour in the face of one study. BBC News
See also:
NHS patient data serious incidents doubled since Capita contract
NHS patient data serious incidents doubled since Capita contract There was a 'significant increase' in patient information being dropped, accidentally left behind or sent to the wrong location after the NHS outsourced functions to Capita.
In 2016/17, one year after NHS England entered into the new primary care support services contract, around 700 patients were affected by inadvertent disclosure of their information - although in most cases items were discovered by, or handed into, GP practices unopened.
In all, 12 of the 18 Serious Incidents Requiring Investigation reported by NHS England in the last financial year were related to the Primary Care Support England (PCSE) contract with Capita, NHS England’s annual report reveals. Pulse
In 2016/17, one year after NHS England entered into the new primary care support services contract, around 700 patients were affected by inadvertent disclosure of their information - although in most cases items were discovered by, or handed into, GP practices unopened.
In all, 12 of the 18 Serious Incidents Requiring Investigation reported by NHS England in the last financial year were related to the Primary Care Support England (PCSE) contract with Capita, NHS England’s annual report reveals. Pulse
Mental health spending cut despite more people seeking help, new figures reveal
Mental health spending cut despite more people seeking help, new figures reveal The number of people referred to mental health trusts in England surged last year even as spending on crisis teams was cut, figures have revealed.
Seven in 10 mental health trusts saw referrals to their mental health community crisis teams increase between 2015 and 2016, with several soaring by more than 30 per cent, including one that took in 61 per cent more referrals than it did the previous year.
The figures, obtained by Radio 5 Live, show that of the 39 trusts that responded, 27 saw a rise in referrals. Eleven of these also saw a drop in funding for their funding on crisis teams. The Independent
Seven in 10 mental health trusts saw referrals to their mental health community crisis teams increase between 2015 and 2016, with several soaring by more than 30 per cent, including one that took in 61 per cent more referrals than it did the previous year.
The figures, obtained by Radio 5 Live, show that of the 39 trusts that responded, 27 saw a rise in referrals. Eleven of these also saw a drop in funding for their funding on crisis teams. The Independent
'You have no choice but to cope': a day on the ward with a student nurse
'You have no choice but to cope': a day on the ward with a student nurse It’s exhausting and sometimes distressing, but Chantelle Brooks, on her final placement at a mental health hospital in Blackpool, wouldn’t work anywhere else
Inside the Harbour, Blackpool’s mental health hospital, a patient is anxiously eyeing up the student nurse who is taking another patient’s blood pressure. When it comes to her turn, the woman begins shouting insults. On the acute woman’s ward, it’s easy for things to escalate if one patient becomes upset. For nurses on placement, it can be a stressful introduction to life on the wards.
Chantelle Brooks has learned to cope by now. This is her final placement on a three-year degree course in mental health nursing at the University of Cumbria. Despite the occasionally distressing nature of her job, she can’t imagine doing anything else. Continue reading... The Guardian
Inside the Harbour, Blackpool’s mental health hospital, a patient is anxiously eyeing up the student nurse who is taking another patient’s blood pressure. When it comes to her turn, the woman begins shouting insults. On the acute woman’s ward, it’s easy for things to escalate if one patient becomes upset. For nurses on placement, it can be a stressful introduction to life on the wards.
Chantelle Brooks has learned to cope by now. This is her final placement on a three-year degree course in mental health nursing at the University of Cumbria. Despite the occasionally distressing nature of her job, she can’t imagine doing anything else. Continue reading... The Guardian
Ex-bishop drafted in to help save contaminated blood inquiry
Ex-bishop drafted in to help save contaminated blood inquiry Former Hillsborough panel chair Right Rev James Jones asked to break stalemate by talking to victims boycotting proceedings
The former bishop of Liverpool who chaired the Hillsborough panel has been drafted in to help save the contaminated blood inquiry, which is being boycotted by hundreds of victims infected with HIV and hepatitis C.
The Right Rev James Jones has been asked to break the stalemate by hosting talks with victims, who lack trust in the Department of Health (DH) to set up an independent investigation after being given contaminated blood by the NHS. Continue reading... The Guardian
See also:
The former bishop of Liverpool who chaired the Hillsborough panel has been drafted in to help save the contaminated blood inquiry, which is being boycotted by hundreds of victims infected with HIV and hepatitis C.
The Right Rev James Jones has been asked to break the stalemate by hosting talks with victims, who lack trust in the Department of Health (DH) to set up an independent investigation after being given contaminated blood by the NHS. Continue reading... The Guardian
See also:
- What is the contaminated blood scandal? The Guardian
Hospitals that puts the sick at risk face court
Hospitals that puts the sick at risk face court Hospitals will face criminal prosecutions for putting patients at risk, the official watchdog has warned.
The Care Quality Commission is considering taking legal action against an unspecified number of trusts where patients have been harmed.
The watchdog was given new powers to prosecute NHS trusts in 2015 following a landmark inquiry into the Mid Staffordshire hospital scandal.
In March, it used these powers for the first time by bringing a criminal prosecution against Southern Healthcare Trust. The Daily Mail
The Care Quality Commission is considering taking legal action against an unspecified number of trusts where patients have been harmed.
The watchdog was given new powers to prosecute NHS trusts in 2015 following a landmark inquiry into the Mid Staffordshire hospital scandal.
In March, it used these powers for the first time by bringing a criminal prosecution against Southern Healthcare Trust. The Daily Mail
PHE did not raise alarm about E.coli outbreak for four months, report reveals
PHE did not raise alarm about E.coli outbreak for four months, report reveals Health bosses did not raise an alert about an outbreak of deadly E.coli for more than four months while 21 people became infected, a report reveals.
The outbreak of E.coli VTEC 044 left 11 children and two adults fighting for their lives after they developed rare complications.
It was the first infection of its kind in England and ended up affecting 31 people in Dorset between July 2014 and November 2015.
The victims included a 21-month-old boy, who had to be placed in a medically induced coma while suffering kidney failure and seizures due to swelling on the brain. The Daily Telegraph
The outbreak of E.coli VTEC 044 left 11 children and two adults fighting for their lives after they developed rare complications.
It was the first infection of its kind in England and ended up affecting 31 people in Dorset between July 2014 and November 2015.
The victims included a 21-month-old boy, who had to be placed in a medically induced coma while suffering kidney failure and seizures due to swelling on the brain. The Daily Telegraph
Wednesday, 26 July 2017
Why we shouldn't panic about nursing students... yet
Why we shouldn't panic about nursing students... yet We’ve known for some time that there is a shortage of nurses in England. There’s nothing particularly new in that statement. It’s been said by us at the Fund, the Public Accounts Committee, Health Education England, and the Migration Advisory Committee.
That’s one reason why the decision to scrap the NHS bursary scheme and require trainee nurses and other health care students to take out loans has polarised debate. On the one hand, the government argues that this will create an additional 10,000 university places by making it more financially rewarding for universities to provide places on nursing courses, ultimately significantly increasing the pool of qualified staff. On the other, critics say it will deter people – particularly mature students and those from disadvantaged backgrounds – from applying for nursing courses and will saddle nurses with debt. And this takes place within the context of a wider debate about student finance and calls for it to be reformed.
So what effect has this had on the number of people training to be a nurse? Well, the number of applications for undergraduate nursing places in the UK has dropped dramatically this year: down 19 per cent from 2016. The King's Fund
That’s one reason why the decision to scrap the NHS bursary scheme and require trainee nurses and other health care students to take out loans has polarised debate. On the one hand, the government argues that this will create an additional 10,000 university places by making it more financially rewarding for universities to provide places on nursing courses, ultimately significantly increasing the pool of qualified staff. On the other, critics say it will deter people – particularly mature students and those from disadvantaged backgrounds – from applying for nursing courses and will saddle nurses with debt. And this takes place within the context of a wider debate about student finance and calls for it to be reformed.
So what effect has this had on the number of people training to be a nurse? Well, the number of applications for undergraduate nursing places in the UK has dropped dramatically this year: down 19 per cent from 2016. The King's Fund
Behind closed doors: can we expect NHS staff to be the shock absorbers of a system under pressure?
Behind closed doors: can we expect NHS staff to be the shock absorbers of a system under pressure? This briefing highlights concerns that the pressures within the NHS are placing staff under stress and at risk of burnout and the impact that this could have on patient safety. It makes recommendations that focus on support for bottom-up initiatives that acknowledge the intrinsic motivations that staff feel to care for patients, and for actions at every level of the NHS to enable staff to be at their best with patients. Point of Care Foundation
Vaginal implants: Report recommends recording complications
Vaginal implants: Report recommends recording complications An NHS England report on vaginal mesh implants has recommended better support and communication between patients and doctors over the devices.
The Mesh Oversight Group report also said complications caused by the implants should be recorded so that experts fully understood the risks.
Vaginal mesh implants are used to treat stress urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse.
But some women said they left them in permanent pain and unable to walk.
The research - seen exclusively by the BBC's Victoria Derbyshire programme - aims to address concerns over the use of mesh devices. BBC News
The Mesh Oversight Group report also said complications caused by the implants should be recorded so that experts fully understood the risks.
Vaginal mesh implants are used to treat stress urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse.
But some women said they left them in permanent pain and unable to walk.
The research - seen exclusively by the BBC's Victoria Derbyshire programme - aims to address concerns over the use of mesh devices. BBC News
More than 80,000 NHS posts vacant, says report
More than 80,000 NHS posts vacant, says report More than 86,000 NHS posts were vacant between January 2017 and March 2017, figures for England suggest.
Statistics from NHS Digital, which collates data, shows the number of vacancies climbed by almost 8,000 compared to the same period in 2016.
Nurses and midwives accounted for the highest proportion of shortages, with 11,400 vacant posts in March 2017.
The Department of Health said staffing was a priority and that more money was being invested in frontline staff.
The data includes job adverts published on the NHS Jobs website between February 2015 and March 2017. BBC News
See also:
Statistics from NHS Digital, which collates data, shows the number of vacancies climbed by almost 8,000 compared to the same period in 2016.
Nurses and midwives accounted for the highest proportion of shortages, with 11,400 vacant posts in March 2017.
The Department of Health said staffing was a priority and that more money was being invested in frontline staff.
The data includes job adverts published on the NHS Jobs website between February 2015 and March 2017. BBC News
See also:
- NHS job vacancies have rocketed by 30% in 2 years The Daily Mail
- Soaring NHS vacancies prompt warnings of 'desperate' understaffing The Guardian
Anti-depressants linked to 28 murders in three decades, BBC investigation finds
Anti-depressants linked to 28 murders in three decades, BBC investigation finds Anti-depressants have been associated with 28 reports of murder referred to the UK medicines regulator in the last three decades, according to a new BBC investigation.
Murderous thoughts were also believed to be linked to the medication on 32 occasions, according to Panorama, although the possible connection does not necessarily mean the drugs caused the events.
In 2016, over 40 million prescriptions were made for SSRIs, a type of anti-depressant that boosts levels of the chemical seratonin in the brain. The Independent
Murderous thoughts were also believed to be linked to the medication on 32 occasions, according to Panorama, although the possible connection does not necessarily mean the drugs caused the events.
In 2016, over 40 million prescriptions were made for SSRIs, a type of anti-depressant that boosts levels of the chemical seratonin in the brain. The Independent
Dementia nurses provide a lifeline for carers that is all too rare
Dementia nurses provide a lifeline for carers that is all too rare Although specialist Admiral nurses can prevent hospital admissions and save money, there are only 200 in the UK and many counties have none at all.
Kate and Jon Henderson have devoted the past decade to looking after their 67-year-old mother, Sally, who has dementia. At first the siblings, who, until this February shared their bungalow in Rottingdean, near Brighton with her, were able to cope. But as Sally’s condition worsened, she began to lose her balance and had to use a wheelchair. Her speech deteriorated so much that Jon and Kate had to anticipate her needs by reading her body language. They installed a wet room, a disabled access door and a hospital bed with rails.
Last year, constant urinary tract infections made Sally more confused and a bad cold led to acute illness because she could not clear her throat. Kate was so worried she began sleeping on an air bed in her mum’s room.
You have to be emotionally tough. When a carer is drained from looking after someone you refill his or her jug Continue reading... The Guardian
Kate and Jon Henderson have devoted the past decade to looking after their 67-year-old mother, Sally, who has dementia. At first the siblings, who, until this February shared their bungalow in Rottingdean, near Brighton with her, were able to cope. But as Sally’s condition worsened, she began to lose her balance and had to use a wheelchair. Her speech deteriorated so much that Jon and Kate had to anticipate her needs by reading her body language. They installed a wet room, a disabled access door and a hospital bed with rails.
Last year, constant urinary tract infections made Sally more confused and a bad cold led to acute illness because she could not clear her throat. Kate was so worried she began sleeping on an air bed in her mum’s room.
You have to be emotionally tough. When a carer is drained from looking after someone you refill his or her jug Continue reading... The Guardian
Lack of mental health support leaving children stuck in hospital – thinktank
Lack of mental health support leaving children stuck in hospital – thinktank Figures show rise in number of ‘wasted days’ spent in hospital by young patients who have been declared fit for discharge
Children with serious mental health problems are becoming trapped in NHS psychiatric units, unable to leave because care is unavailable outside hospitals, a thinktank has said.
NHS figures show that between October 2015 and September 2016 children and young people in England spent almost 9,000 days in hospital after being declared fit to be discharged. Some end up stuck in units for several months. Continue reading... The Guardian
Children with serious mental health problems are becoming trapped in NHS psychiatric units, unable to leave because care is unavailable outside hospitals, a thinktank has said.
NHS figures show that between October 2015 and September 2016 children and young people in England spent almost 9,000 days in hospital after being declared fit to be discharged. Some end up stuck in units for several months. Continue reading... The Guardian
NHS needs more money but must improve how it spends it, says watchdog
NHS needs more money but must improve how it spends it, says watchdog Outgoing chief inspector of hospitals calls for more investment, but says ‘things can be done better without more money’
More money should be spent on the NHS, though funding alone is not the answer to all its problems, according to England’s outgoing chief inspector of hospitals.
Prof Sir Mike Richards said the health service was in a perilous situation and needed investment to cope, including a pay rise for overworked nurses to convince them to stay. But he insisted that other improvements could be made without spending more cash. Continue reading... The Guardian
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More money should be spent on the NHS, though funding alone is not the answer to all its problems, according to England’s outgoing chief inspector of hospitals.
Prof Sir Mike Richards said the health service was in a perilous situation and needed investment to cope, including a pay rise for overworked nurses to convince them to stay. But he insisted that other improvements could be made without spending more cash. Continue reading... The Guardian
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Continuing Healthcare NHS fund can help with care costs
Continuing Healthcare NHS fund can help with care costs Frail elderly people are being forced to sell their homes because the NHS is taking years to pay them vital cash to fund their care bills.
A Money Mail investigation found officials are taking up to five years to process claims for funding.
In some cases, families are having to wait two years even after the NHS has agreed to pay up.
Currently, you have to finance your own care bills if you have assets of more than £23,250. This includes your home. The Daily Mail
A Money Mail investigation found officials are taking up to five years to process claims for funding.
In some cases, families are having to wait two years even after the NHS has agreed to pay up.
Currently, you have to finance your own care bills if you have assets of more than £23,250. This includes your home. The Daily Mail
Pressure mounts to curtail surgery on intersex children
Pressure mounts to curtail surgery on intersex children The American Medical Association is considering a proposal to ban genital surgery on intersex children.
For years, children whose sexual characteristics don't align with either male or female have been eligible for surgery during infancy to rearrange their anatomy.
This practice is now under attack as never before, with many criticizing that these children were operated on before they were old enough to have a say in the matter.
On Tuesday, Human Rights Watch and InterACT, which is a group advocating for intersex youth, released a detailed report assailing the practice and urging Congress to ban it. The Daily Mail
For years, children whose sexual characteristics don't align with either male or female have been eligible for surgery during infancy to rearrange their anatomy.
This practice is now under attack as never before, with many criticizing that these children were operated on before they were old enough to have a say in the matter.
On Tuesday, Human Rights Watch and InterACT, which is a group advocating for intersex youth, released a detailed report assailing the practice and urging Congress to ban it. The Daily Mail
Tuesday, 25 July 2017
Plan to cut £230m from the NHS in Northamptonshire over the next five years needs 'improvement'
Plan to cut £230m from the NHS in Northamptonshire over the next five years needs 'improvement' The NHS's plans to meet its multi-million savings targets in Northamptonshire will be among the most difficult to achieve, a national report has found.
It has now been eight months since health chiefs in the county released their Sustainability Transformation Plan (STP) to shake up the way care is delivered by 2020.
The NHS in Northamptonshire needs to change the way it works in order to meet a projected £230 million shortfall from the Government.
But the plans, which include delivering more care from home and reducing A&E emissions were largely criticised for being difficult to understand, for lacking consultation and for the fact consultants were paid £720,000 to help draw them up.
A report by NHS England, looking at the progress of STPs nationwide, states that Northamptonshire's proposals will be among the most difficult to deliver.
It is one of only five STP areas labelled "needs most improvement". Northampton Chronicle and Echo
It has now been eight months since health chiefs in the county released their Sustainability Transformation Plan (STP) to shake up the way care is delivered by 2020.
The NHS in Northamptonshire needs to change the way it works in order to meet a projected £230 million shortfall from the Government.
But the plans, which include delivering more care from home and reducing A&E emissions were largely criticised for being difficult to understand, for lacking consultation and for the fact consultants were paid £720,000 to help draw them up.
A report by NHS England, looking at the progress of STPs nationwide, states that Northamptonshire's proposals will be among the most difficult to deliver.
It is one of only five STP areas labelled "needs most improvement". Northampton Chronicle and Echo
STP progress dashboard
STP progress dashboard This report outlines baseline data for each STP area in England relating to progress so far on STP plans against nine domains. The nine domains focus on hospital performance, patient-focused change and transformation. NHS England
Focus on physicians: census of consultant physicians and higher specialty trainees 2016-17
Focus on physicians: census of consultant physicians and higher specialty trainees 2016-17 This report outlines the findings of a wellbeing survey and it finds that only one in four substantive consultant physicians in the UK feel valued by the hospital in which they work. Respondents also reported a desire for more time for teaching, research and patient care in their workload. Royal College of Physicians
Decommissioning health care: identifying best practice through primary and secondary research a prospective mixed-methods study
Decommissioning health care: identifying best practice through primary and secondary research a prospective mixed-methods study This study aims to formulate theoretically grounded, evidence-informed guidance to support best practice in effective decommissioning of NHS services. It finds that there is a lack of robust evidence to guide decommissioning, but among experts there is a high level of consensus for three good-practice principles: establish a strong leadership team, engage clinical leaders from an early stage and establish a clear rationale for change. National Institute for Health Research
Measuring and monitoring of safety framework e-guide: better questions, safer care
Measuring and monitoring of safety framework e-guide: better questions, safer care This guide has been produced in conjunction with Advancing Quality Alliance, UK Improvement Alliance, Health Improvement Scotland and the Improvement Academy.
The guide contains a range of useful resources to help health and care professionals to take a more holistic approach when looking at the safety of care. It also offers detailed case studies and practical templates spanning roles from board to ward, and across ambulance, acute, mental health and primary care settings. Haelo
The guide contains a range of useful resources to help health and care professionals to take a more holistic approach when looking at the safety of care. It also offers detailed case studies and practical templates spanning roles from board to ward, and across ambulance, acute, mental health and primary care settings. Haelo
Vlogger: I'm using magnets to treat depersonalisation
Vlogger: I'm using magnets to treat depersonalisation Dodie Clark suffers from a mental health condition called depersonalisation which leaves her feeling depressed. She has tried a rare new treatment to help her with the condition.
The treatment is called trans-cranial magnetic stimulation, or TMS. It sends electromagnetic pulses to the brain. BBC News
See also:
The treatment is called trans-cranial magnetic stimulation, or TMS. It sends electromagnetic pulses to the brain. BBC News
See also:
- 'Spaced out' BBC News
Length of fitness to practise hearings will be reduced, says MPTS
Length of fitness to practise hearings will be reduced, says MPTS The Medical Practitioners Tribunal Service (MPTS) will 'reduce the length' of hearings and offer more support to affected doctors over the next year, it has told parliament. GPonline
The NHS and social care must stop bickering over funding | Niall Dickson
The NHS and social care must stop bickering over funding | Niall Dickson With both parts of the system under pressure, blaming each other will do nothing to help those who rely on services.
A comprehensive settlement for funding social care remains elusive. Successive governments have placed it in the “too difficult” pile and, given the role that social care played in the election campaign and its outcome, it is difficult to envisage the government being able to solve it anytime soon.
Now, as a result of repeated failures to address this fundamental issue, we have a growing dispute between health and local government about how new money announced in the budget earlier this year should be allocated. While there may be those who wish to cast aspersions on either side, the reality is that this dispute reflects the fact that both parts of the system are under intolerable pressure. Yet it is in no one’s interest, least of all those who rely on our services, for the NHS and local government to be at loggerheads about how funding is allocated. Continue reading... The Guardian
A comprehensive settlement for funding social care remains elusive. Successive governments have placed it in the “too difficult” pile and, given the role that social care played in the election campaign and its outcome, it is difficult to envisage the government being able to solve it anytime soon.
Now, as a result of repeated failures to address this fundamental issue, we have a growing dispute between health and local government about how new money announced in the budget earlier this year should be allocated. While there may be those who wish to cast aspersions on either side, the reality is that this dispute reflects the fact that both parts of the system are under intolerable pressure. Yet it is in no one’s interest, least of all those who rely on our services, for the NHS and local government to be at loggerheads about how funding is allocated. Continue reading... The Guardian
Women damaged by surgical mesh furious at NHS report
Women damaged by surgical mesh furious at NHS report Women damaged by surgical mesh used to treat post-childbirth incontinence have reacted with fury to a Government report investigating the problem.
At least 7,800 women say they’ve suffered lacerations and nerve damage because the mesh has broken into tiny fragments.
The report, which is unpublished but has been seen by Good Health, is the result of a three-year investigation by NHS England. It confirms that many more women have complained of injuries than previously suggested and calls for a helpline to support victims. The Daily Mail
At least 7,800 women say they’ve suffered lacerations and nerve damage because the mesh has broken into tiny fragments.
The report, which is unpublished but has been seen by Good Health, is the result of a three-year investigation by NHS England. It confirms that many more women have complained of injuries than previously suggested and calls for a helpline to support victims. The Daily Mail
Shortfall in hospital doctors causing devastating problems
Shortfall in hospital doctors causing devastating problems Anyone who’s tried to get an appointment with their GP lately will know there aren’t enough family doctors to go round.
The average wait to see a GP is now 13 days, according to a survey by Pulse, the GP magazine, and last week the NHS announced it will recruit an extra 2,000 GPs from overseas to help make up the shortfall.
But it’s not only GPs who are thin on the ground. Many vital specialties, including paediatrics, emergency medicine and mental health, are struggling with severe staff shortages. The Daily Mail
The average wait to see a GP is now 13 days, according to a survey by Pulse, the GP magazine, and last week the NHS announced it will recruit an extra 2,000 GPs from overseas to help make up the shortfall.
But it’s not only GPs who are thin on the ground. Many vital specialties, including paediatrics, emergency medicine and mental health, are struggling with severe staff shortages. The Daily Mail
NHS concerns as critically ill people being turned away
NHS concerns as critically ill people being turned away Trusts across the country are introducing 'front-door streaming' by the autumn, with GPs stationed at casualty units to identify the least sick patients in an attempt to relieve overcrowding. The Daily Mail
See also:
See also:
Charlie Gard's parents spend 'last precious moments' with son after ending legal fight
Charlie Gard's parents spend 'last precious moments' with son after ending legal fight Charlie Gard's parents are spending their "last precious moments" with the terminally ill little boy after abandoning attempts to persuade a judge to let him travel to America for experimental therapy.
Lawyers representing Chris Gard and Connie Yates say they want to spend the "maximum amount of time they have left with Charlie".
The little boy would turn one year old on August 4, but Charlie's parents say he "unfortunately won't make his first birthday". The Daily Telegraph
Lawyers representing Chris Gard and Connie Yates say they want to spend the "maximum amount of time they have left with Charlie".
The little boy would turn one year old on August 4, but Charlie's parents say he "unfortunately won't make his first birthday". The Daily Telegraph
Monday, 24 July 2017
Kettering Hospital patient data 'flawed for nine years'
Kettering Hospital patient data 'flawed for nine years' A hospital may have lost track of its patients for almost a decade, according to a report obtained by the BBC.
It was commissioned after Kettering General Hospital admitted "anomalies" with its waiting lists data.
The report said patient safety was seriously jeopardised and cost-cutting contributed to the problem.
A whistleblower claimed patients were removed from lists to help meet national targets, but investigators found no evidence of fraud.
In May, the BBC reported allegations by David Phelan, who was also a trust governor at the time, that data had been "fiddled" .
A hospital review found that 138 patients were harmed - including one who had substantial sight loss - as a result of the long waits.
The hospital admitted using "inappropriate filtering" of its data to remove patients but denied it was a deliberate attempt at making figures look better to avoid fines. BBC Northampton
It was commissioned after Kettering General Hospital admitted "anomalies" with its waiting lists data.
The report said patient safety was seriously jeopardised and cost-cutting contributed to the problem.
A whistleblower claimed patients were removed from lists to help meet national targets, but investigators found no evidence of fraud.
In May, the BBC reported allegations by David Phelan, who was also a trust governor at the time, that data had been "fiddled" .
A hospital review found that 138 patients were harmed - including one who had substantial sight loss - as a result of the long waits.
The hospital admitted using "inappropriate filtering" of its data to remove patients but denied it was a deliberate attempt at making figures look better to avoid fines. BBC Northampton
Corby Urgent Care Centre raised in Parliament
Corby Urgent Care Centre raised in Parliament The plight of Corby Urgent Care Centre has been raised in Parliament by the town’s MP.
Speaking in the House of Commons yesterday, Tom Pursglove called for reassurance from the clinical commissioning group that the centre will not only be protected but improved.
In a post on his Facebook page, he wrote: “Earlier today, I again raised the Corby Urgent CareCentre, on the floor of the House of Commons.
“During a debate on matters to be raised before the Summer Recess, I spoke about the fantastic record that the Urgent Care Centre has, the pressures that it relieves on Kettering General Hospital, and what a valued and hugely important resource this is to our community." Northamptonshire Telegraph
Speaking in the House of Commons yesterday, Tom Pursglove called for reassurance from the clinical commissioning group that the centre will not only be protected but improved.
In a post on his Facebook page, he wrote: “Earlier today, I again raised the Corby Urgent CareCentre, on the floor of the House of Commons.
“During a debate on matters to be raised before the Summer Recess, I spoke about the fantastic record that the Urgent Care Centre has, the pressures that it relieves on Kettering General Hospital, and what a valued and hugely important resource this is to our community." Northamptonshire Telegraph
More people will be able to give blood following scientific review
More people will be able to give blood following scientific review The government has announced changes to blood donation rules following a review by the Advisory Committee on the Safety of Blood, Tissues and Organs (SaBTO).
As a result of the latest clinical evidence, more people will be given the opportunity to donate blood without affecting the safety of the blood supply, from early 2018.
Current blood donation rules prevent people who engage in some sexual behaviours from giving blood for a 12 month period. As a result of scientific advances and improved understanding of the tests used, the deferral period for these people will now be reduced to 3 months.
NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT) will also be looking at ways to allow more people to donate blood without impacting blood safety. Department of Health
See also:
As a result of the latest clinical evidence, more people will be given the opportunity to donate blood without affecting the safety of the blood supply, from early 2018.
Current blood donation rules prevent people who engage in some sexual behaviours from giving blood for a 12 month period. As a result of scientific advances and improved understanding of the tests used, the deferral period for these people will now be reduced to 3 months.
NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT) will also be looking at ways to allow more people to donate blood without impacting blood safety. Department of Health
See also:
- Independent report: Blood, tissue and cell donor selection criteria report: 2017 Department of Health
The NHS summer report says it could try harder
The NHS summer report says it could try harder Little publicised or trailed, the Department of Health's annual report and accounts were quietly released this week - on the face of it, not everyone's cup of tea or preferred sun lounger reading.
But it serves as an important in-depth account of the state of the NHS in England.
The opening pages, inevitably, emphasise the positives - just as a corporate annual report would do. Half a million more patients seen in A&E than in the previous year, more than one million appointments booked or cancelled online, an increase in the NHS workforce, almost £1bn invested over five years in infrastructure to boost research.
But read on and the more difficult truths begin to emerge. BBC News
But it serves as an important in-depth account of the state of the NHS in England.
The opening pages, inevitably, emphasise the positives - just as a corporate annual report would do. Half a million more patients seen in A&E than in the previous year, more than one million appointments booked or cancelled online, an increase in the NHS workforce, almost £1bn invested over five years in infrastructure to boost research.
But read on and the more difficult truths begin to emerge. BBC News
'A misuse of scarce funds': NHS to end prescription of homeopathic remedies
'A misuse of scarce funds': NHS to end prescription of homeopathic remedies New guidelines mean homeopathic remedies and 17 other items will no longer be prescribed, for reasons ranging from low clinical effectiveness to low cost-effectiveness
Homeopathic remedies will no longer be available on prescription on the NHS according to newly-announced plans.
The move comes as part of the NHS England’s drive to save more than £190m a year through a new set of national guidelines, which are now open for public consultation. Continue reading... The Guardian
See also:
Homeopathic remedies will no longer be available on prescription on the NHS according to newly-announced plans.
The move comes as part of the NHS England’s drive to save more than £190m a year through a new set of national guidelines, which are now open for public consultation. Continue reading... The Guardian
See also:
- NHS England launches action plan to drive out wasteful and ineffective drug prescriptions, saving NHS over £190 million a year NHS England
- Items which should not be routinely prescribed in primary care: A Consultation on guidance for CCGs NHS England
- Safe, sensible measures to reduce NHS prescription costs should be encouraged, says RCGP Royal College of General Practitioners
- NHS prescription cuts 'to hit low income families' BBC News
- NHS plans to scrap homeopathy treatments BBC News
- NHS announces ban on homeopathy and herbal medicine The Daily Mail
- NHS to ban homeopathy and herbal medicine, as 'misuse of resources' The Daily Telegraph
- NHS ban on 'wasteful' prescribing could harm poorest patients, GPs warn GPonline
- The Guardian view on homeopathy: the NHS shouldn’t pay | Editorial The Guardian
Heavy drinking will kill 63,000 people over next five years, doctors warn
Heavy drinking will kill 63,000 people over next five years, doctors warn Doctors urge government to introduce minimum unit pricing for alcohol as research reveals extent of liver disease
Almost 63,000 people in England will die over the next five years from liver problems linked to heavy drinking unless ministers tackle the scourge of cheap alcohol, doctors are warning.
Senior members of the medical profession and health charities are urging the government to bring in minimum unit pricing of alcohol and a crackdown on drink advertising to avert what they claim is the “public health crisis” of liver disease deaths.
The evidence is clear: raise the price of the cheapest alcohol to save lives and save money Continue reading... The Guardian
Almost 63,000 people in England will die over the next five years from liver problems linked to heavy drinking unless ministers tackle the scourge of cheap alcohol, doctors are warning.
Senior members of the medical profession and health charities are urging the government to bring in minimum unit pricing of alcohol and a crackdown on drink advertising to avert what they claim is the “public health crisis” of liver disease deaths.
The evidence is clear: raise the price of the cheapest alcohol to save lives and save money Continue reading... The Guardian
Exclusive: National review of schemes to divert patients from A&E amid safety fears
Exclusive: National review of schemes to divert patients from A&E amid safety fears NHS officials have ordered a national review of schemes to divert patients away from Accident & Emergency departments, amid fears that desperately-ill cases are being put at risk.
Every NHS trust is under instructions to introduce “front-door streaming” by this autumn, with GPs stationed at casualty units to weed out the least sick patients.
The initiative is part of attempts to relieve hospital overcrowding, and stave off pressures on units across the country.
But an investigation by The Telegraph reveals that a national review of such schemes has been ordered following the death of a man turned away by a pilot scheme. The Daily Telegraph
Every NHS trust is under instructions to introduce “front-door streaming” by this autumn, with GPs stationed at casualty units to weed out the least sick patients.
The initiative is part of attempts to relieve hospital overcrowding, and stave off pressures on units across the country.
But an investigation by The Telegraph reveals that a national review of such schemes has been ordered following the death of a man turned away by a pilot scheme. The Daily Telegraph
Charlie Gard hospital calls in police over death threats to staff
Charlie Gard hospital calls in police over death threats to staff Health bosses have called in police after staff at Great Ormond Street Hospital have been bombarded with violent threats and abuse over the case of baby Charlie Gard.
Thousands of abusive messages, including death threats, have been sent to doctors and nurses at the children’s hospital in London, managers revealed on Saturday.
Staff have also been abused in the street, said the hospital.
Scotland Yard has been informed and the hospital has warned it will seek the prosecution of anyone suspected of threatening its staff. The Daily Telegraph
Thousands of abusive messages, including death threats, have been sent to doctors and nurses at the children’s hospital in London, managers revealed on Saturday.
Staff have also been abused in the street, said the hospital.
Scotland Yard has been informed and the hospital has warned it will seek the prosecution of anyone suspected of threatening its staff. The Daily Telegraph
Exclusive: NHS told to close gender pay gap as 'BBC effect' engulfs public sector
Exclusive: NHS told to close gender pay gap as 'BBC effect' engulfs public sector Senior women in the NHS should be given pay rises while men should be passed over to close a widening gender gap, health officials have been told, as the “BBC effect” engulfs more of the public sector.
An official review of executive pay, seen by The Sunday Telegraph, found that, at the highest levels, female NHS managers are being paid almost 9 per cent less than male counterparts – an average gap of around £11,000 a year. The Daily Telegraph
An official review of executive pay, seen by The Sunday Telegraph, found that, at the highest levels, female NHS managers are being paid almost 9 per cent less than male counterparts – an average gap of around £11,000 a year. The Daily Telegraph
Hospital staff 'sick with stress' over crippling parking fines racked up every week
Hospital staff 'sick with stress' over crippling parking fines racked up every week Dozens of doctors, nurses and support workers have been left suffering high levels of stress and sickness after a NHS trust authorised a private car park operator to pursue them through the courts over unpaid fines.
Several members of staff at the Cardiff trust are understood to have gone off work with stress-related illnesses, off sick with stress, with many others anxious about how they will cope with paying multiple fines for parking at work while saving lives. The Daily Telegraph
Several members of staff at the Cardiff trust are understood to have gone off work with stress-related illnesses, off sick with stress, with many others anxious about how they will cope with paying multiple fines for parking at work while saving lives. The Daily Telegraph
Friday, 21 July 2017
NHS Protect finds 'no evidence' of Kettering Hospital fraud
NHS Protect finds 'no evidence' of Kettering Hospital fraud Investigators say they have found no evidence of fraud at a hospital which admitted more than 100 patients had been harmed by treatment delays.
A whistleblower had alleged patients were removed from lists at Kettering General Hospital because national targets were being missed.
The hospital denied "fiddling" but admitted inappropriate "filtering" to remove patients from waiting lists.
NHS Protect said it had carried out inquiries and no fraud was found.
The organisation, which investigates potential fraud in the NHS, said having conducted preliminary inquiries it would not be carrying out a full investigation. BBC Northampton
A whistleblower had alleged patients were removed from lists at Kettering General Hospital because national targets were being missed.
The hospital denied "fiddling" but admitted inappropriate "filtering" to remove patients from waiting lists.
NHS Protect said it had carried out inquiries and no fraud was found.
The organisation, which investigates potential fraud in the NHS, said having conducted preliminary inquiries it would not be carrying out a full investigation. BBC Northampton
KGH set to move some staff into town centre offices
KGH set to move some staff into town centre offices Kettering Council has bought an office block in town which it wants to refurbish and lease to Kettering General Hospital for office space. Northamptonshire Telegraph
All parties invited to meeting over Corby urgent care centre
All parties invited to meeting over Corby urgent care centre A meeting over the future of Corby’s urgent care centre is to take place next week.
The contract to run the centre expires on September 30 but there are currently no bidders. Northamptonshire Telegraph
The contract to run the centre expires on September 30 but there are currently no bidders. Northamptonshire Telegraph
New head and neck nurse specialist for KGH
New head and neck nurse specialist for KGH Kettering General Hospital has taken on its first head and neck cancer nurse specialist to support patients with cancers of the mouth, throat and thyroid. Northamptonshire Telegraph
The state of care in mental health services 2014 to 2017
The state of care in mental health services 2014 to 2017 The report captures learning from inspections and findings from our role monitoring use of the the Mental Health Act, as well as analysis of data from other sources. This rich resource of information means we now know more about the quality of mental health care than ever before.
The report describes how our inspectors found that the clear majority of services are caring and compassionate towards their patients, with 88% of NHS and 93% of independent services being rated as good in this key question.
However, the report also identifies several areas of concern: difficulties around accessing services, physical environments not designed to keep people safe, care that is over-restrictive and institutional in nature, and poor recording and sharing of information that undermines the efforts of staff to work together to make sure that people get the right care at the right time. Care Quality Commission
See also:
The report describes how our inspectors found that the clear majority of services are caring and compassionate towards their patients, with 88% of NHS and 93% of independent services being rated as good in this key question.
However, the report also identifies several areas of concern: difficulties around accessing services, physical environments not designed to keep people safe, care that is over-restrictive and institutional in nature, and poor recording and sharing of information that undermines the efforts of staff to work together to make sure that people get the right care at the right time. Care Quality Commission
See also:
Creative health: the arts for health and wellbeing
Creative health: the arts for health and wellbeing This report presents the findings of a two-year inquiry into the practice and research in the arts in health and social care. It discusses the return on the investment that art can bring to health and social care services; how art can help meet major challenges presented by ageing, long-term conditions, loneliness and mental health; and that the arts can contribute to wellbeing and a longer, high-quality of life. All-Party Parliamentary Group on Arts, Health and Wellbeing
The right to decide: towards a greater understanding of mental capacity and deprivation of liberty
The right to decide: towards a greater understanding of mental capacity and deprivation of liberty This report finds that vulnerable people are being forced into situations against their will because care providers are not going through the proper processes. It highlights concerns about the way some of the most vulnerable people in society are being treated when decisions are being made on behalf of people who lack mental capacity to choose how they are cared for. The report offers advice and guidance to social care professionals on how to get things right when working with people who may lack mental capacity. It also provides questions councillors can use for scrutinising their own authorities to ensure people in their area are treated properly. Local Government Association
GMC publishes action plan to improve revalidation
GMC publishes action plan to improve revalidation The General Medical Council has unveiled a plan to implement the recommendations in Sir Keith Pearson’s report –Taking Revalidation Forward – published earlier this year.
The plan has been agreed by the newly-established Revalidation Oversight Group, which includes representatives of stakeholder organisations across the UK, as well as the GMC itself.
It details work the GMC and others will do to improve medical revalidation, making it a more positive and meaningful experience for doctors, responsible officers, patients and everyone involved
.
The plan has been agreed by the newly-established Revalidation Oversight Group, which includes representatives of stakeholder organisations across the UK, as well as the GMC itself.
It details work the GMC and others will do to improve medical revalidation, making it a more positive and meaningful experience for doctors, responsible officers, patients and everyone involved
.
Unmet need for care
Unmet need for care This report, conducted in partnership with the NIHR School for Social Care Research, NatCen Social Research, Age UK and Independent Age, highlights the experiences of unmet need for care among older people living in their own homes. It finds that despite varying measures of unmet need, by any measure over half of older people with care needs have unmet needs. People eligible for local authority support as well as self-funders are affected by unmet need and those who live alone are particularly vulnerable. Ipsos MORI
Half of pupils expelled from school 'mentally ill'
Half of pupils expelled from school 'mentally ill' Half of pupils expelled from England's schools have a mental health issue, according to analysis of official data.
The Institute of Public Policy Research suggests if excluded students with undiagnosed problems were included, the rate would be much higher.
This figure compares with one in 50 pupils in the wider population who have a mental health condition.
The government said it would be publishing plans to improve mental health services later in the year. BBC News
See also:
The Institute of Public Policy Research suggests if excluded students with undiagnosed problems were included, the rate would be much higher.
This figure compares with one in 50 pupils in the wider population who have a mental health condition.
The government said it would be publishing plans to improve mental health services later in the year. BBC News
See also:
- Half of expelled pupils suffer mental health issues in ‘burningly injust system’, think-tank finds Institute for Public Policy Research
Jeremy Hunt says NHS should remove damp from council homes to improve people's health
Jeremy Hunt says NHS should remove damp from council homes to improve people's health Jeremy Hunt has suggested the NHS could intervene to remove damp from council homes in an effort to improve people’s health.
The Health Secretary said there are “very strong links between poor health and poor-quality housing” and any new policy would be part of a “holistic” approach from the health service.
“It is about providing green spaces in cities to help improve our mental health, providing cycle routes, a whole range of things, and housing is critical,” he told an audience at the King’s Fund in London. The Independent
The Health Secretary said there are “very strong links between poor health and poor-quality housing” and any new policy would be part of a “holistic” approach from the health service.
“It is about providing green spaces in cities to help improve our mental health, providing cycle routes, a whole range of things, and housing is critical,” he told an audience at the King’s Fund in London. The Independent
GP leaders fear government 'airbrushing' of workforce failures
GP leaders fear government 'airbrushing' of workforce failures GP leaders have warned the government against 'airbrushing' its failure to increase GP numbers after the health secretary's annual review of NHS England's performance did not evaluate progress on GP recruitment. GPonline
How private GP care is meeting growing demand for fast access to appointments
How private GP care is meeting growing demand for fast access to appointments Private health providers are using technology to respond to increasing demand for quick access to GP healthcare.
Traditionally, an appointment with the GP involved a journey to the local surgery, but in response to a growing demand for fast access to GPs the private sector is introducing an innovative, and more flexible way to see a GP. Continue reading... The Guardian
Traditionally, an appointment with the GP involved a journey to the local surgery, but in response to a growing demand for fast access to GPs the private sector is introducing an innovative, and more flexible way to see a GP. Continue reading... The Guardian
Nursing shortages fuelling delayed discharge from hospital
Nursing shortages fuelling delayed discharge from hospital Falling number of district and other community nurses as big a factor as social care blockages, analysis finds
There is no doubt that delays in arranging follow-on social care are causing more older people to be stranded in hospital. But a new analysis of the problem says shortage of district nurses is at least as big a factor.
The number of district nurses in the UK has plummeted by 44% since 2010 when counted as full-time jobs, according to the analysis of NHS data by consultancy Christie & Co (pdf). Continue reading... The Guardian
There is no doubt that delays in arranging follow-on social care are causing more older people to be stranded in hospital. But a new analysis of the problem says shortage of district nurses is at least as big a factor.
The number of district nurses in the UK has plummeted by 44% since 2010 when counted as full-time jobs, according to the analysis of NHS data by consultancy Christie & Co (pdf). Continue reading... The Guardian
NHS doc mistakenly operated on wrong side of woman's body
NHS doc mistakenly operated on wrong side of woman's body A mother is suing the NHS after a surgeon operated on the wrong side of her body and potentially damaged a healthy kidney.
Lauren Hodgson, 29, was due to undergo a minor operation to remove a stone in her left kidney at Milton Keynes Hospital in March.
But a mix-up by an inexperienced surgeon, described in medical jargon as a 'never-event', meant her right kidney was operated on instead. The Daily Mail
Lauren Hodgson, 29, was due to undergo a minor operation to remove a stone in her left kidney at Milton Keynes Hospital in March.
But a mix-up by an inexperienced surgeon, described in medical jargon as a 'never-event', meant her right kidney was operated on instead. The Daily Mail
Top NHS boss Sir Andrew Morris sparks sexism row
Top NHS boss Sir Andrew Morris sparks sexism row An NHS boss has sparked outrage after saying men die younger because 'they are nagged to death' by their wives.
Sir Andrew Morris, chief executive of Frimley Health NHS Foundation Trust, was labelled a 'dinosaur' for his controversial comment.
The remark was made just days after experts said life expectancy improvements are grinding to a halt because of the ailing NHS. The Daily Mail
See also:
Sir Andrew Morris, chief executive of Frimley Health NHS Foundation Trust, was labelled a 'dinosaur' for his controversial comment.
The remark was made just days after experts said life expectancy improvements are grinding to a halt because of the ailing NHS. The Daily Mail
See also:
Thursday, 20 July 2017
Nurses could train to become doctors by doing 'part-time' medical degrees
Nurses could train to become doctors by doing 'part-time' medical degrees Nurses could train to become doctors by doing “part-time degrees” under radical proposals to increase the number of medics.
Health officials on Wednesday said they were looking at ways to encourage nurses, pharmacists, and physios to train to become doctors while they earned. The Telegraph
Health officials on Wednesday said they were looking at ways to encourage nurses, pharmacists, and physios to train to become doctors while they earned. The Telegraph
Generous contractor helps out KGH
Generous contractor helps out KGH A contractor is saving Kettering General Hospital thousands of pounds by carrying out more than two weeks of work for free. Northamptonshire Telegraph
MS treatments: life-changing, but hard to access
MS treatments: life-changing, but hard to access Therapies for multiple sclerosis are becoming more effective. But an underfunded NHS is struggling to provide timely diagnosis and make the latest treatments widely available
More than 100,000 people in the UK have multiple sclerosis (MS), the most common cause of serious physical disability in working age adults, according to the MS guidelines set out by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence. The Guardian
More than 100,000 people in the UK have multiple sclerosis (MS), the most common cause of serious physical disability in working age adults, according to the MS guidelines set out by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence. The Guardian
Need a wheelchair? Pay for it yourself
Need a wheelchair? Pay for it yourself A fourfold increase in the number of disabled people forced to use a crowdfunding site to buy their wheelchair undermines a basic tenet of the NHS, campaigners say. The Guardian
Quality improvement in mental health: a commitment to long-term change
Quality improvement in mental health: a commitment to long-term change Some recent high-profile reports have shown that NHS mental health care services are under pressure. Last month, the BMA reported that the number of adults sent ‘out of area’ for mental health care has increased over the past couple of years, a practice the Commission on Acute Adult Psychiatric Care highlighted as one of a number of issues contributing to variation in the quality of care in mental health. King's Fund
Corporate report: NHS Improvement: annual report and accounts 2016/17
Corporate report: NHS Improvement: annual report and accounts 2016/17 NHS Improvement is the operational name for the organisation that brings together Monitor, NHS Trust Development Authority (NHS TDA), Patient Safety including the National Reporting and Learning System, the Advancing Change team and the Intensive Support Teams.
Monitor and NHS TDA continue to exist as legal entities, but these reports refer mainly to NHS Improvement.
Our annual report and accounts were laid before Parliament on 18 July 2017. Monitor
Monitor and NHS TDA continue to exist as legal entities, but these reports refer mainly to NHS Improvement.
Our annual report and accounts were laid before Parliament on 18 July 2017. Monitor
Patients to benefit from £325 million investment in NHS transformation projects
Patients to benefit from £325 million investment in NHS transformation projects Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt and NHS England boss Simon Stevens have today (Wednesday July 19) announced £325m of capital investment for local projects that will help the NHS to modernise and transform care for patients. NHS England
Outdated handovers putting East Midlands patient care at risk, GMC report finds
Outdated handovers putting East Midlands patient care at risk, GMC report finds Patient care at East Midlands hospitals is potentially at risk due to inadequate handovers between teams of doctors on different shifts, a General Medical Council (GMC) review published today (Wednesday 19 July) has found. General Medical Council
Call for tighter checks on private hospitals used by NHS after MRSA case
Call for tighter checks on private hospitals used by NHS after MRSA case Labour MP Louise Haigh cites case of young patient who contracted infection while on mental health ward in Sheffield
Theresa May has been urged to tighten checks on private hospitals used by the NHS after a Labour MP raised the case of a young patient with an open wound who contracted MRSA on a private mental health ward. The Guardian
Theresa May has been urged to tighten checks on private hospitals used by the NHS after a Labour MP raised the case of a young patient with an open wound who contracted MRSA on a private mental health ward. The Guardian
NHS England 'urgently needs 2,200 more A&E consultants'
NHS England 'urgently needs 2,200 more A&E consultants' Royal College of Emergency Medicine says hospitals must more than double current number of consultants to ensure safe care. The Guardian
A trade in people: the inpatient healthcare economy for people with learning disabilities and/or autism spectrum disorder
A trade in people: the inpatient healthcare economy for people with learning disabilities and/or autism spectrum disorder Centre for Disability Research, University of Lancaster (CeDR), June 2017
This report finds that around half of inpatient services for people with learning disabilities or autism are being run by the independent sector rather than the NHS. Over a quarter of a billion pounds of public money every year is being paid to independent sector companies to run these services. Lancashire Health Libraries.
This report finds that around half of inpatient services for people with learning disabilities or autism are being run by the independent sector rather than the NHS. Over a quarter of a billion pounds of public money every year is being paid to independent sector companies to run these services. Lancashire Health Libraries.
A Mental Health Act fit for tomorrow: an agenda for reform
A Mental Health Act fit for tomorrow: an agenda for reform Mental Health Alliance, June 2017
This report summarises the findings of a survey of over 8000 people who use mental health services, carers, and professionals working in the field. The report highlights concerns that the Mental Health Act overlooks the dignity and human rights of people with mental illness. Lancashire Health Libraries
This report summarises the findings of a survey of over 8000 people who use mental health services, carers, and professionals working in the field. The report highlights concerns that the Mental Health Act overlooks the dignity and human rights of people with mental illness. Lancashire Health Libraries
Arts can help recovery from illness and keep people well, report says
Arts can help recovery from illness and keep people well, report says All-party inquiry demonstrates benefits to health and wellbeing of the arts, leading to fall in hospital admissions.
GPs prescribing arts activities to some patients could lead to a dramatic fall in hospital admissions and save the NHS money, according to a report into the subject of arts, health and wellbeing published after two years of evidence gathering. The Guardian
GPs prescribing arts activities to some patients could lead to a dramatic fall in hospital admissions and save the NHS money, according to a report into the subject of arts, health and wellbeing published after two years of evidence gathering. The Guardian
See also:
- Doctors advised to send patients to arts classes Mail Online
Thousands of mental health patients spend years on secure wards
Thousands of mental health patients spend years on secure wards
Critics condemn ‘Victorian approach’ to treatment after NHS watchdog reveals 3,500 patients are kept locked in.
Thousands of mental health patients are being kept in secure wards for years at a time when they should be being rehabilitated and preparing to leave hospital, a NHS watchdog has revealed. The Guardian
Thousands of mental health patients are being kept in secure wards for years at a time when they should be being rehabilitated and preparing to leave hospital, a NHS watchdog has revealed. The Guardian
See also:
Plan not to give HPV vaccine to boys causes concern
Plan not to give HPV vaccine to boys causes concern
A decision not to vaccinate boys against a cancer-causing sexually transmitted infection has attracted fierce criticism.
Reported cases of human papilloma virus (HPV) - thought to cause about 80% of cervical cancers - have fallen sharply since girls were given the vaccine.
But the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) found little evidence to justify treating boys too. BBC News
A decision not to vaccinate boys against a cancer-causing sexually transmitted infection has attracted fierce criticism.
Reported cases of human papilloma virus (HPV) - thought to cause about 80% of cervical cancers - have fallen sharply since girls were given the vaccine.
But the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) found little evidence to justify treating boys too. BBC News
See also:
Wednesday, 19 July 2017
Midwives call for 'urgent' funding for mental health care for new mothers
Midwives call for 'urgent' funding for mental health care for new mothers after postnatal depression death. There is an "urgent need" for more funding for mental health care for expectant and new mothers, leading midwives have said.
The comments from the Royal College of Midwives come after a report claimed services across the UK are "under resourced".
Researchers wrote the report following an online petition which gathered more than 55,000 signatures calling for the NHS to review how it treats and cares for women with postnatal depression. The Independent
Pay row threatens overnight care for vulnerable
Pay row threatens overnight care for vulnerable Vulnerable people with learning difficulties could lose overnight supervision, disability charity Mencap warns.
The HMRC has ruled carers sleeping overnight to provide safety and reassurance should be be paid the national minimum wage for all hours.
Mencap says the total bill for back pay - due by September, and in some cases dating back six years - could be £400m. BBC News - Health
The HMRC has ruled carers sleeping overnight to provide safety and reassurance should be be paid the national minimum wage for all hours.
Mencap says the total bill for back pay - due by September, and in some cases dating back six years - could be £400m. BBC News - Health
Pharmacists influence latest NHS reform
Pharmacists influence latest NHS reform NHS England chief executive Simon Stevens has announced the creation of eight ‘accountable care systems’ (ACSs), which will see local NHS organisations work more closely together, often with social care services and the voluntary sector, in different parts of the country.
NHS England hopes ACSs will be another move towards genuinely integrated working, and they come as the next step on from the development of vanguards and the creation of sustainability and transformation partnerships (STPs). The Pharmaceutical Journal
NHS England hopes ACSs will be another move towards genuinely integrated working, and they come as the next step on from the development of vanguards and the creation of sustainability and transformation partnerships (STPs). The Pharmaceutical Journal
Local alcohol consumption survey: national report
Local alcohol consumption survey: national report Public Health England (PHE) - Ipsos MORI was commissioned to collect data on behalf of PHE on alcohol consumption over a sample of 25 upper-tier local authorities in England. The results aim to provide reliable alcohol consumption estimates for local authorities, particularly on data that is not routinely available through other sources. The survey examined drinking habits, motivations for drinking or abstention and awareness of public health campaigns around alcohol consumption. King's Fund
Sustainability and Transformation Plans: five key questions for planners
Sustainability and Transformation Plans: five key questions for planners Centre for Health and the Public Interest (CHPI) -This analysis identifies five key questions to ask of each of England’s 44 Sustainability and Transformation Plans. It aims to set out a framework for assessing their potential impacts. King's Fund
'It's sad that it's come to this': Northampton hospital charity group announces closure over parking troubles
'It's sad that it's come to this': Northampton hospital charity group announces closure over parking troubles A volunteer group with 28 years of history at Northampton General Hospital will close shop next month following a dispute over parking. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Rise in children seeking mental health support after terror attacks
Rise in children seeking mental health support after terror attacks Royal College of Psychiatrists says number being treated in Manchester and London has spiked since recent attacks
The number of children and young people seeking help from mental health services has spiked in the wake of recent terrorist attacks in England, according to the Royal College of Psychiatrists (RCP).
Hospitals across the Manchester region have seen an estimated 10% increase in children seeking help since a bomb ripped through the Manchester Arena on 22 May, killing 22 people, according to the RCP. Mental health experts in Greater Manchester hospitals received hundreds more patients from June to July compared with previous months. The Guardian
The number of children and young people seeking help from mental health services has spiked in the wake of recent terrorist attacks in England, according to the Royal College of Psychiatrists (RCP).
Hospitals across the Manchester region have seen an estimated 10% increase in children seeking help since a bomb ripped through the Manchester Arena on 22 May, killing 22 people, according to the RCP. Mental health experts in Greater Manchester hospitals received hundreds more patients from June to July compared with previous months. The Guardian
Tuesday, 18 July 2017
Traffic wardens deployed to direct non-emergency vehicles away from Northampton hospital A&E as construction begins on new building
Traffic wardens deployed to direct non-emergency vehicles away from Northampton hospital A&E as construction begins on new building Access to Northampton General Hospital's A&E has been restricted to emergency vehicles only while construction begins on a new assessment unit.
Access to Northampton General Hospital's A&E has been restricted to emergency vehicles only while construction begins on a new assessment unit. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Access to Northampton General Hospital's A&E has been restricted to emergency vehicles only while construction begins on a new assessment unit. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Policy paper: Towards a smoke-free generation: tobacco control plan for England
Policy paper: Towards a smoke-free generation: tobacco control plan for England The objectives of the tobacco control plan are to:
- reduce the number of 15 year olds who regularly smoke from 8% to 3% or less
- reduce smoking among adults in England from 15.5% to 12% or less
- reduce the inequality gap in smoking prevalence, between those in routine and manual occupations and the general population
- reduce the prevalence of smoking in pregnancy from 10.5% to 6% or less
See also:
- Research and analysis: Cost of smoking to the NHS in England: 2015 Public Health England
- England 'on track' to stamp out smoking BBC News
Growing gaps in children’s doctor workforce revealed in new report
Growing gaps in children’s doctor workforce revealed in new report New figures published by the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH) highlight an urgent and growing problem in the paediatric workforce. Prior to reaching consultant level, children’s doctors train for around eight years. The RCPCH study shows that almost 1 in 5 of paediatric trainee positions are currently vacant even though trainees themselves report high levels of enthusiasm for the speciality. Even more alarming is that this figure jumps to nearly 1 in 4 in more senior trainee positions and almost 90% of children’s units express concern over how they will cope over the coming six months.
See also:
See also:
- Rota compliance and vacancies Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health
- NHS Employers comments on media coverage of shortfall in paediatricians NHS Employers
- Shortfall in number of children's doctors BBC News
- Poorly infants are in danger due to NHS staffing crisis The Daily Mail
- NHS staff shortages to blame for big rise in cancelled operations on children and young people, Labour warns The Independent
Sustainability and Transformation Plans: Five key questions for planners
Sustainability and Transformation Plans: Five key questions for planners This analysis identifies five key questions to ask of each of England’s 44 ‘Sustainability and Transformation Plans’.
Each STP has been produced by a local Sustainability and Transformation Partnership formed with the task of transforming the provision of NHS services in a given area, as part of efforts to close the NHS’s unprecedented ‘funding gap’. Centre for Health and the Public Interest
Each STP has been produced by a local Sustainability and Transformation Partnership formed with the task of transforming the provision of NHS services in a given area, as part of efforts to close the NHS’s unprecedented ‘funding gap’. Centre for Health and the Public Interest
Rises in life expectancy 'levelling off'
Rises in life expectancy 'levelling off' Rising rates of life expectancy are grinding to a halt after more than 100 years of continuous progress, according to a leading health expert.
University College London expert Sir Michael Marmot said he was "deeply concerned" by the situation, calling it "historically highly unusual".
He said it was "entirely possible" austerity was to blame and said the issue needed looking at urgently.
But the government said its policies were not responsible.
The Department of Health said ministers were providing the necessary support and funding to ensure life expectancy "continues to increase". BBC News
See also:
University College London expert Sir Michael Marmot said he was "deeply concerned" by the situation, calling it "historically highly unusual".
He said it was "entirely possible" austerity was to blame and said the issue needed looking at urgently.
But the government said its policies were not responsible.
The Department of Health said ministers were providing the necessary support and funding to ensure life expectancy "continues to increase". BBC News
See also:
- Middle classes hit as life expectancy 'grinds to a halt' The Daily Mail
- Rise in life expectancy has stalled since 2010, research shows The Guardian
- Rise in life expectancy has stalled since Tories introduced austerity in 2010, study finds The Independent
Chatbot docs
Chatbot docs Could health apps and chatbots eventually replace your traditional doctor?
"Let's talk about how you've been feeling over the past 30 days," says Joy. "This will help me get a sense for your current state."
Joy probes a bit deeper, asking a series of questions: Do I feel hopeless? Do I feel restless? When I respond that I'm a bit stressed, Joy offers me several de-stressing techniques.
Joy might appear to be my counsellor or my life coach, but the conversation I'm having is actually with a chatbot that uses artificial intelligence and machine learning to track emotions and provide mental health support - all through Facebook Messenger.
Welcome to healthcare in the digital age, where smartphone owners have access to their very own doctors and therapists at the touch of a button. BBC News
"Let's talk about how you've been feeling over the past 30 days," says Joy. "This will help me get a sense for your current state."
Joy probes a bit deeper, asking a series of questions: Do I feel hopeless? Do I feel restless? When I respond that I'm a bit stressed, Joy offers me several de-stressing techniques.
Joy might appear to be my counsellor or my life coach, but the conversation I'm having is actually with a chatbot that uses artificial intelligence and machine learning to track emotions and provide mental health support - all through Facebook Messenger.
Welcome to healthcare in the digital age, where smartphone owners have access to their very own doctors and therapists at the touch of a button. BBC News
Noel Conway: Challenging law on assisted suicide
Noel Conway: Challenging law on assisted suicide Noel Conway says his terminal illness will leave him in a zombie-like condition.
He is challenging the law on assisted suicide because he believes he has a right to choose when he dies. BBC News
He is challenging the law on assisted suicide because he believes he has a right to choose when he dies. BBC News
NHS needs to recruit 2,000 more foreign doctors
NHS needs to recruit 2,000 more foreign doctors Simon Stevens, the head of NHS England, has said the current target of recruiting 500 doctors from overseas needs to be quadrupled, and we need to search as far afield as Australia. The Daily Mail
See also:
See also:
- RCGP welcomes plans to extend overseas GP recruitment Royal College of General Practitioners
- Emergency draft of 2,000 overseas GPs is 'clear admission of failure', says GPC GPonline
NHS staff ordered to pay thousands in parking fines racked up at a hospital
NHS staff ordered to pay thousands in parking fines racked up at a hospital NHS staff have been left “broken” and face losing their homes after a court ordered them to pay thousands in parking fines racked up at a Cardiff hospital.
A judge has ruled that the employees, including nurses, doctors and admin staff, must pay the charges dating back to April 2016 after losing a legal fight with Indigo, the private operator that manages the car park at the University Hospital of Wales.
One nurse reportedly owes £150,000 after the court ruled that £128 must be paid for each unpaid ticket, plus £26,000 in court fees.
The dispute began last year when Indigo and the Cardiff and Vale University Health Board agreed new measures for parking on the hospital site.
The hospital has 6,000 staff but the car park has only 1,800 spaces, so many said they were left with no choice but to park in spots reserved for visitors. The Daily Telegraph
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A judge has ruled that the employees, including nurses, doctors and admin staff, must pay the charges dating back to April 2016 after losing a legal fight with Indigo, the private operator that manages the car park at the University Hospital of Wales.
One nurse reportedly owes £150,000 after the court ruled that £128 must be paid for each unpaid ticket, plus £26,000 in court fees.
The dispute began last year when Indigo and the Cardiff and Vale University Health Board agreed new measures for parking on the hospital site.
The hospital has 6,000 staff but the car park has only 1,800 spaces, so many said they were left with no choice but to park in spots reserved for visitors. The Daily Telegraph
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Monday, 17 July 2017
Concern over future of Corby Urgent Care Centre to be raised in Parliament
Concern over future of Corby Urgent Care Centre to be raised in Parliament The MP for Corby says he has been working tirelessly to find a resolution to the dispute over the town’s urgent care centre and has outlined his plans for the coming weeks. Northamptonshire Telegraph
See also:
See also:
- Residents set up ‘Save Corby Urgent Care Centre’ group Northamptonshire Telegraph
The NHS financial regime: cleverly flexible or horribly messy?
The NHS financial regime: cleverly flexible or horribly messy? The broad theory behind the NHS financial regime set out in the 2012 Health and Social Care Act built on experience garnered over the previous decade. Autonomous local commissioners would lay contracts with similarly autonomous providers (on a level playing field between NHS and private providers), paid for at nationally set prices (tariffs). These tariffs already existed (mostly for the acute sector) or were meant to progressively expand to cover a wider array of services. The King's Fund
UK health system comes out on top in new report
UK health system comes out on top in new report The UK was rated first out of 11 countries in a report on international healthcare systemspublished today by the Commonwealth Fund.
The report compared the UK to healthcare systems in the US, Switzerland, Sweden, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Canada, New Zealand, Norway and Australia.
The Commonwealth Fund’s report ranks the UK first overall and first for care process (prevention, safe care, coordination, and patient engagement) and equity (comparison of performance for higher- and lower-income individuals). The UK also scores highly in terms of getting value out of the money the tax payer puts in. NHS England
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The report compared the UK to healthcare systems in the US, Switzerland, Sweden, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Canada, New Zealand, Norway and Australia.
The Commonwealth Fund’s report ranks the UK first overall and first for care process (prevention, safe care, coordination, and patient engagement) and equity (comparison of performance for higher- and lower-income individuals). The UK also scores highly in terms of getting value out of the money the tax payer puts in. NHS England
See also:
Guidance: Healthcare education and training tariff: 2017 to 2018
Guidance: Healthcare education and training tariff: 2017 to 2018 This document sets out:
- the national tariffs for healthcare education and training placements in the academic year 2017 to 2018
- how the tariffs will be implemented
- in what circumstances the national tariffs may be varied and how to do this
2017 drug strategy
2017 drug strategy The drug strategy 2017 sets out how the government and its partners, at local, national and international levels, will take new action to tackle drug misuse and the harms it causes. It builds on an existing approach to preventing drug misuse, supporting people to recover from dependence and restricting the supply of drugs. Home Office
Children 'exercise less as they get older'
Children 'exercise less as they get older' The number of children doing an hour of exercise a day falls by 40% between the ages of five and 12. BBC News
GPs accuse government of 'long-standing underfunding'
GPs accuse government of 'long-standing underfunding' The Royal College of GPs says there is confusion over £500m of future spending commitments. BBC News
Sick patients dying ‘unnecessarily’ in NHS because of poor care
Sick patients dying ‘unnecessarily’ in NHS because of poor care Inquiry finds series of major flaws, including lack of equipment, leading to ‘shocking’ death rate among those who needed emergency oxygen treatment
Some of the sickest patients that hospitals treat are dying unnecessarily because they receive poor care, blighted by shortages of staff and equipment, a new NHS inquiry has revealed.
A death rate of one in three among inpatients who need emergency help with breathing is already high by international standards, and is getting worse. Continue reading... The Guardian
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Some of the sickest patients that hospitals treat are dying unnecessarily because they receive poor care, blighted by shortages of staff and equipment, a new NHS inquiry has revealed.
A death rate of one in three among inpatients who need emergency help with breathing is already high by international standards, and is getting worse. Continue reading... The Guardian
See also:
- Acute Non-Invasive Ventilation: Inspiring Change 2017 National Confidential Enquiry into Patient Outcome and Death
- Patients dying due to poor care, 'shocking' NHS report finds The Independent
GP crisis laid bare: 200 surgeries shut in past year
GP crisis laid bare: 200 surgeries shut in past year The figures do not differentiate between surgeries that have closed and merged. But with hundreds of GPs retiring or quitting the NHS each year, it is likely many will be due to closures. The Daily Mail
See also:
See also:
- Practices being forced to close will impact patients and wider NHS, says RCGP Royal College of General Practitioners
- More than 200 GP practices closed or merged in past 12 months GPonline
999 callers assessed by Skype instead of being sent ambulance
999 callers assessed by Skype instead of being sent ambulance Patients who phone 999 are being offered a video call assessment rather than an ambulance.
Video consultations using smartphone apps like Skype and FaceTime are being tested out in different areas of England for patients suffering from non-life-threatening conditions, such as falls or back pain.
The calls connect the patient with paramedics and nurses who assess their condition remotely, but there have been warnings that such video consultations can be unreliable.
Details of scheme were revealed by a former call handler at South Central Ambulance Service. The Daily Telegraph
See also:
Video consultations using smartphone apps like Skype and FaceTime are being tested out in different areas of England for patients suffering from non-life-threatening conditions, such as falls or back pain.
The calls connect the patient with paramedics and nurses who assess their condition remotely, but there have been warnings that such video consultations can be unreliable.
Details of scheme were revealed by a former call handler at South Central Ambulance Service. The Daily Telegraph
See also:
- Northamptonshire's ambulance crews given new categories for 999 calls to help pick priorities Northampton Chronicle and Echo
- Patients who call 999 will be assessed over Skype The Daily Mail
- Ambulance response system overhaul will deliver improvements The Guardian
Record NHS negligence payouts, fuelled by maternity blunders
Record NHS negligence payouts, fuelled by maternity blunders The NHS paid out more than £1bn in damages for medical negligence last year - a record high, fuelled by maternity blunders, official figures show.
Patients groups said the figures showed the need to improve safety in hospitals, with particular concerns about the rising costs caused by catastrophic errors in childbirth.
Doctors’ representatives said the trends - which show a doubling in overall negligence costs in a decade, showed the need to cap costs, in order to limit the amount being spent on lawyers.
The figures from NHS Resolution show £1.7bn in total on negligence claims - with almost £700,000 spent on lawyers. The total figure has almost doubled since 2010/11, the statistics show. The Daily Telegraph
Patients groups said the figures showed the need to improve safety in hospitals, with particular concerns about the rising costs caused by catastrophic errors in childbirth.
Doctors’ representatives said the trends - which show a doubling in overall negligence costs in a decade, showed the need to cap costs, in order to limit the amount being spent on lawyers.
The figures from NHS Resolution show £1.7bn in total on negligence claims - with almost £700,000 spent on lawyers. The total figure has almost doubled since 2010/11, the statistics show. The Daily Telegraph
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