Thursday, 20 March 2014
Lung cancer rates up among UK women
Lung cancer rates up among UK women Lung cancer rates among women in the UK have increased by 73% since 1975 while declining by 47% in men, new figures have revealed. BBC News
NHS complaints system 'too complex'
NHS complaints system 'too complex' Healthwatch England says more than 70 organisations are involved in the process for dealing with complaints about the NHS and social care. BBC News
Health and wellbeing peer challenges
Health and wellbeing peer challenges This publication contains a number of case studies outlining how peer challenge is playing a strong role supporting and improving public health. Local Government Association
Kelsey admits care.data use unclear
Kelsey admits care.data use unclear NHS England delayed the care.data programme because it could not give guarantees on how the data would be used, NHS England's director of patients and information has said. E-Health Insider
NHS hospitals suffer annual loss for first time in eight years
NHS hospitals suffer annual loss for first time in eight years Combined deficit of £456.8m reported by 26 of 102 trusts, renewing fears about long-term financing of the NHS.
NHS hospitals will end the financial year in the red for the first time in eight years, according to official figures, with 26 loss-making trusts reporting a combined deficit of £456.8m.
The University Hospitals of Leicester NHS trust has run up the largest deficit: £39.8m. The figures published on Thursday will renew fears that the NHS's finances have been deteriorating sharply in recent months, especially as a result of many trusts having to hire extra staff, notably nurses, in order to ensure safe and high-quality care in the wake of the Mid Staffordshire scandal.
NHS hospitals will end the financial year in the red for the first time in eight years, according to official figures, with 26 loss-making trusts reporting a combined deficit of £456.8m.
The University Hospitals of Leicester NHS trust has run up the largest deficit: £39.8m. The figures published on Thursday will renew fears that the NHS's finances have been deteriorating sharply in recent months, especially as a result of many trusts having to hire extra staff, notably nurses, in order to ensure safe and high-quality care in the wake of the Mid Staffordshire scandal.
Dutch idea of health checks via the web show NHS a cost-cutting future
Dutch idea of health checks via the web show NHS a cost-cutting future
Imagine if your doctor was as easy to contact as your Facebook friends - and you could Skype them whenever you liked to talk about your health concerns. The Independent
Imagine if your doctor was as easy to contact as your Facebook friends - and you could Skype them whenever you liked to talk about your health concerns. The Independent
Outgoing NHS boss Sir David Nicholson wants to work with press regulator to stop health service being undermined by ‘sensational’ newspaper...
Outgoing NHS boss Sir David Nicholson wants to work with press regulator to stop health service being undermined by ‘sensational’ newspaper...
The outgoing boss of the NHS in England has revealed he plans to spend the next stage of his career defending the health service from newspapers which “hate the NHS”. The Independent
The outgoing boss of the NHS in England has revealed he plans to spend the next stage of his career defending the health service from newspapers which “hate the NHS”. The Independent
Disabled people in care facilities 'deprived of liberty', says judge
Disabled people in care facilities 'deprived of liberty', says judge 'A gilded cage is still a cage', according to judge who says disabled people have the same human right to physical liberty as the rest of the human race. The Daily Telegraph
See also:
See also:
- Disabled in care ‘denied human rights,’ Supreme Court rules The Independent
Dementia is 'the new normal' charity says
Dementia is 'the new normal' charity says Society needs to treat dementia as "the new normal" and involve Alzheimer's sufferers far more closely in local communities, charities have said. The Daily Telegraph
Wednesday, 19 March 2014
Staff car parking charges to rise 50pc at Northampton General Hospital
Staff car parking charges to rise 50pc at Northampton General Hospital Staff car parking charges at Northampton General Hospital are set to rise by 50 per cent from the start of next month, the NHS hospital trust has announced. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Diabetes no longer leading cause of blindness thanks to screening
Diabetes no longer leading cause of blindness thanks to screening A report on the causes of adult blindness found a widening gap between prevalence of diabetes and the number of people with related eye problems. It says that better screening is one of the main factors in the change. Public Health England
Whole-system solutions for urgent and emergency care
Whole-system solutions for urgent and emergency care “This follow-up report acts as a roadmap to the fundamental changes required to create a sustainable and high-quality urgent and emergency care system that can meet the needs of patients now and in the future.” NHS Confederation
Hospitals treat 4,000 FGM patients
Hospitals treat 4,000 FGM patients Nearly 4,000 women and girls have been treated for genital mutilation in London hospitals since 2009, new figures show. BBC News
Patient feedback posts open to abuse
Patient feedback posts open to abuse The NHS removes all but one of 653 patient reviews of a healthcare trust from its website, after Newsnight finds the system is open to abuse. BBC News
Telehealth and telecare
Telehealth and telecare The UK’s elderly population is growing and with it the number of people with long-term health problems. This is putting pressure on the health and social care systems. Increased use of technology such as telehealth and telecare may help to improve quality of care and reduce costs. This note describes current UK telehealth and telecare initiatives and the role they may play in delivering future care. House of Commons
Jr docs need IG training - ICO
Jr docs need IG training - ICO NHS organisations are confused about how to ensure junior doctors get data protection training, a report from the Information Commissioner's Office has found. E-Health Insider
Saturated fats and heart disease link 'unproven'
Saturated fats and heart disease link 'unproven' “No link found between saturated fat and heart disease,” The Daily Telegraph reports. Researchers have looked at large amounts of data and say they have found no significant link between saturated fat and heart disease.
Nutritional guidelines generally encourage low consumption of saturated fats, found in butter, cream, cheese and fatty cuts of meat, as these were thought to be linked to increased cholesterol in the blood and an increased risk of heart disease.
In contrast, unsaturated fats, found in fish and plant sources, have been encouraged (to a certain extent) as these are thought to have a protective effect on the heart and blood vessels.
This latest study finds that the evidence for these guidelines may not be definitive.
Nutritional guidelines generally encourage low consumption of saturated fats, found in butter, cream, cheese and fatty cuts of meat, as these were thought to be linked to increased cholesterol in the blood and an increased risk of heart disease.
In contrast, unsaturated fats, found in fish and plant sources, have been encouraged (to a certain extent) as these are thought to have a protective effect on the heart and blood vessels.
This latest study finds that the evidence for these guidelines may not be definitive.
From structure to function: the impact of change
From structure to function: the impact of change “The original overarching aim of this five year project was to investigate how three hospitals redesigned their services to meet the changing health needs of the people they serve.” Birmingham University
Half of public health doctors might leave profession
Half of public health doctors might leave profession Reforms have increased bureaucracy but not public health, reports the BMA. OnMedica
Diabetic people 'having unnecessary amputations'
Diabetic people 'having unnecessary amputations' Parliamentary group and charity Diabetes UK call attention to wide disparity in treatment of condition across UK
People with diabetes are having their legs and feet amputated unnecessarily, according to a group of MPs and peers who have highlighted stark differences in treatment of the condition across the NHS in England.
People with diabetes are having their legs and feet amputated unnecessarily, according to a group of MPs and peers who have highlighted stark differences in treatment of the condition across the NHS in England.
Little change in NHS culture, whistleblowers warn
Little change in NHS culture, whistleblowers warn There has been “very little change” to ensure NHS staff speak up about their concerns, despite pledges by ministers, the nurse who blew the whistle on the Mid Staffs scandal has told MPs. The Daily Telegraph
See also:
See also:
Tuesday, 18 March 2014
Free support available – health visitor workforce retention
Free support available – health visitor workforce retention If you’re a provider of heath visiting services and would value some help and advice to support recruitment and retention within your health visiting teams, read on. NHS Employers
Contracting out public services to the private sector
Contracting out public services to the private sector This report brings together evidence from two hearings on contracting out government services, which were held on the basis of reports by the National Audit Office. The report states that it is vital for Parliament and the public to be able to follow the taxpayers’ pound to ensure value for money. It calls for three basic transparency measures to ensure this: the extension of Freedom of Information to public contracts with private providers; access rights for the National Audit Office; and a requirement for contractors to open their books up to scrutiny by officials. House of Commons Committee of Public Accounts
Baby organ donor rules 'deadly'
Baby organ donor rules 'deadly' UK doctors have attacked a "crazy double standard" in organ donation that they say leads to the deaths of babies. BBC News
Thousands of NHS staff rehired
Thousands of NHS staff rehired New figures indicate that almost 4,000 staff made redundant from the NHS in England, before last year's major restructuring, have since been re-employed. BBC News
See also:
See also:
Sick and disabled made to wait for more than six months to know if they will get benefit
Sick and disabled made to wait for more than six months to know if they will get benefit
People with disabilities and severe illnesses are being made to wait for more than six months to find out if they are eligible for financial support from the Government under a controversial new benefits system. The Independent
People with disabilities and severe illnesses are being made to wait for more than six months to find out if they are eligible for financial support from the Government under a controversial new benefits system. The Independent
Thousands of hospital patients being moved at night
Thousands of hospital patients being moved at night Campaigners have branded the practice of moving patients in hospital beds at night "dehumanising" as it emerged the practice increased by almost 20 per cent in the last five years. The Daily Telegraph
Teenage model's cancer death prompts petition plea
Teenage model's cancer death prompts petition plea The family of an aspiring model who died of cervical cancer want MPs to consider lowering the age limit for smear tests to prevent further deaths. The Daily Telegraph
Monday, 17 March 2014
Hospital Discharge Scheme Is A Success
Hospital Discharge Scheme Is A Success A scheme which aims to move patients who might need continuing support out of hospital quicker is proving successful in Northamptonshire.
The discharge to assess scheme is helping those who might need continuing support leave hospitals earlier by arranging a care package to support them at home so that the Continuing Health Care assessment takes place in the patient's own environment, providing a much clearer picture of the patient's needs. About My Area
The discharge to assess scheme is helping those who might need continuing support leave hospitals earlier by arranging a care package to support them at home so that the Continuing Health Care assessment takes place in the patient's own environment, providing a much clearer picture of the patient's needs. About My Area
Woman wins right to keep husband’s sperm stored at Northampton clinic
Woman wins right to keep husband’s sperm stored at Northampton clinic A woman whose late husband’s sperm is stored at a Northampton clinic and who won a High Court case to prevent it being destroyed, has learned the ruling could be appealed. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Medical revalidation: from compliance to commitment
Medical revalidation: from compliance to commitment This paper, commissioned by the NHS Revalidation Support Team, presents the findings from focus group discussions with doctors and interviews with wider staff. It provides analysis from interviewees’ perspectives and offers commentary on how leaders at all levels can use revalidation to help create a culture of excellence in patient care. The King's Fund
See also:
- The Early Benefits and Impact NHS Revalidation Support Team
Report of the working group into joined up clinical pathways for obesity
Report of the working group into joined up clinical pathways for obesity This report recommends greater clarity around how obesity care in England is commissioned. It aims to support more equitable access to obesity and weight management services, including obesity surgery, across the country. NHS England
Pay award 2014/15 and 2015/16 announced
Pay award 2014/15 and 2015/16 announced The Government has today responded to the NHS Pay Review Body (NHSPRB) and Doctors’ and Dentists’ Review Body (DDRB) and set out their plans for a two year pay award for NHS staff. NHS Employers
Patients sent to doctor's hospital
Patients sent to doctor's hospital A mental health trust planning to close beds spends £1.2m sending patients to a senior consultant's private hospital. BBC News
Poor 'face many years of bad health'
Poor 'face many years of bad health' People living in the most affluent areas of England can expect almost 20 years' more "good health" than those in the poorest, data suggests. BBC News
New fast track drug scheme to help severely ill
New fast track drug scheme to help severely ill "'Early access' drugs scheme launched for severely ill," BBC News reports. The government has launched the Early Access to Medicines Scheme designed to help patients with life threatening or debilitating conditions get access to unlicensed medications that could potentially be of benefit.
2030 vision: The best - and worst - futures for older people in the UK
2030 vision: The best - and worst - futures for older people in the UK This report provides a futures perspective on how we make the UK the best country to grow old in. It examines both the best and worst case scenarios and the rising costs associated with an ageing population. International Longevity Centre UK
NHS spends £100m a year on patients who should be discharged
NHS spends £100m a year on patients who should be discharged NHS spends £100m a year caring for patients who do not need to be there. The Daily Telegraph
Call for foreign private firms to take over NHS hospitals comes under fire
Call for foreign private firms to take over NHS hospitals comes under fire Care Quality Commission boss suggests up to 30 failing NHS trusts could be run by European or American chains.
The ex-Conservative MP who chairs the health service care regulator is under fire after calling for foreign private health firms to be allowed to take over failing NHS hospitals.
David Prior, the boss of the Care Quality Commission (CQC), said European or American "hospital chains" should be given the chance to turn around what he said could be as many as 30 NHS hospital trusts in England that have run into trouble by the end of 2014.
The ex-Conservative MP who chairs the health service care regulator is under fire after calling for foreign private health firms to be allowed to take over failing NHS hospitals.
David Prior, the boss of the Care Quality Commission (CQC), said European or American "hospital chains" should be given the chance to turn around what he said could be as many as 30 NHS hospital trusts in England that have run into trouble by the end of 2014.
Resurgence of TB poses grave threat worldwide
Resurgence of TB poses grave threat worldwide
The rise of new strains of tuberculosis resistant to drug treatment represents “one of the gravest public health threats facing the world today”, the medical charity Médecins Sans Frontières has warned. The Independent
The rise of new strains of tuberculosis resistant to drug treatment represents “one of the gravest public health threats facing the world today”, the medical charity Médecins Sans Frontières has warned. The Independent
Revealed: the 'conveyor belt care' of those with dementia
Revealed: the 'conveyor belt care' of those with dementia 'Conveyor belt care' of those with dementia means some receive care from more than 40 different workers. The Daily Telegraph
New claims of patients 'locked up' at NHS hospital
New claims of patients 'locked up' at NHS hospital Claims that patients at Dudley hospitals are being restrained against their will resurface after second manager forced out. The Daily Telegraph
Friday, 14 March 2014
Bite-size guides to support patient and public participation in the NHS
Bite-size guides to support patient and public participation in the NHS NHS England has developed some bite-size guides to support patient and public participation in the NHS. These guides are linked to the Transforming participation in Health and Social Care guidance (published September 2013). The guides have been developed with partners and by reviewing good practice in each area. They aim to support Clinical Commissioning Groups and others to plan and deliver good patient and public participation. You can access the guides via the following links:
These four Bite-size guides form the first batch of a suite of bite-size resources, and more will follow throughout the year.
These four Bite-size guides form the first batch of a suite of bite-size resources, and more will follow throughout the year.
Employers guide to NHS Pension Scheme changes 2014/15
Employers guide to NHS Pension Scheme changes 2014/15 Our handy new guide gives an overview of the most recent changes to the NHS Pension Scheme, as well as outlining actions for your trust until April 2015. NHS Employers
2014/15 Quality and outcomes framework guidance published
2014/15 Quality and outcomes framework guidance published NHS Employers, NHS England and the General Practitioners Committee of the BMA jointly published the 2014/15 Quality and Outcomes Framework (QOF) guidance.
Fresh squeeze on NHS pay sparks union strike warning
Fresh squeeze on NHS pay sparks union strike warning Unions have reacted with anger to news of a fresh round of below-inflation pay rises for NHS staff in England. Ministers have announced a basic 1% pay rise, but the 600,000 nurses and other staff receiving automatic "progression-in-job" increases, "typically worth over 3%", will not get the 1% as well. BBC News
See also:
See also:
- Pay award 2014/15 and 2015/16 announced NHS Employers
- Independent report: NHS Pay Review Body 28th report: 2014 Department of Health
- Independent report: Review Body on Doctors' and Dentists' Remuneration 42nd report: 2014 Department of Health
- Anger at NHS pay decision The Royal College of Nursing
- 600,000 NHS workers threaten strike after 'insult' of no pay rise The Independent
- Ministers accused of contempt for NHS with fresh squeeze on public sector pay The Guardian
- Hunt's decision to cancel the NHS pay rise shows just how tight money is The Guardian
- NHS funding: hard times | Editorial The Guardian
CQC new approach to hospitals inspection: initial findings from wave 1 inspections
CQC new approach to hospitals inspection: initial findings from wave 1 inspections The report concludes that compassionate care is alive and well, as well as a strong commitment to the NHS. However, inspectors found significant variations in quality between trusts and even between services within trusts. It also found that apart from critical care and maternity, most services cannot demonstrate whether they are delivering effective care or not. Care Quality Commission
'You've got cancer' email warning
'You've got cancer' email warning A health watchdog is warning that thousands of people have been sent hoax emails suggesting they have cancer. BBC News
See also:
See also:
- Spam email sent out NICE
Statins side effects are minimal, study argues
Statins side effects are minimal, study argues “Cholesterol-lowering statins have almost no side effects,” The Guardian reports. A new UK study argues that the majority of reported side effects are actually due to the nocebo effect – symptoms that are “all in the mind”.
NHS diabetes care at ‘breaking point’ warns report
NHS diabetes care at ‘breaking point’ warns report End recruitment freezes on diabetes nurses, say experts. OnMedica
General practice plays a role in improving health services
General practice plays a role in improving health services Providers and commissioners need to work together to co-produce contracts that deliver the right outcomes for patients.
A combination of an unprecedented financial challenge, an ageing population and a desire by patients to be treated in the community whenever possible, creates a challenge and an opportunity for general practice.
A combination of an unprecedented financial challenge, an ageing population and a desire by patients to be treated in the community whenever possible, creates a challenge and an opportunity for general practice.
Thursday, 13 March 2014
NHS: Reports of Northampton General Hospital administration threat are untrue
NHS: Reports of Northampton General Hospital administration threat are untrue The NHS has moved to quash reports that it has considered whether Northampton General Hospital could be put into administration because of financial concerns. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
A&E performance: a winter’s tale
A&E performance: a winter’s tale With many of us just having enjoyed the warmest weekend in 2014, this may be a good point to take stock on how A&E performed over the winter and what, if anything, it tells us about the state of the NHS and its prospects. The King's Fund
Research and analysis: Unit costs of health and social care
Research and analysis: Unit costs of health and social care This report brings together information about the costs of health and social care staff and services in as transparent and consistent a way as possible. The report is based in economic theory (long run marginal opportunity cost) and includes detailed references, relevant short articles and commentaries. Department of Health
Public sector pay decisions due
Public sector pay decisions due The government is due to announce later whether NHS staff, civil servants and forces personnel will get a pay rise in the next financial year. BBC News
See also:
See also:
- Jeremy Hunt to veto 1 per cent pay rise for NHS workers The Daily Telegraph
Patients 'imprisoned' in care homes
Patients 'imprisoned' in care homes Vulnerable adults are being kept virtual prisoners in care homes because of misuse of mental health laws, a House of Lords committee says. BBC News
See also:
See also:
Mental health cuts 'risk lives'
Mental health cuts 'risk lives' Cuts to mental health services in England will put lives at risk, as funds are reduced for schemes aimed at reducing suicides, ministers are warned. BBC News
See also:
See also:
- Cuts to mental health funding will put lives at risk, charities say OnMedica
- Thousands of people with mental health needs denied social care amid cuts Community Care
- Mental health funding changes in NHS will put lives at risk, say charities The Guardian
- Mentally ill young people's lives at risk because of Coalition cuts, says charity The Independent
Adult social care 'under pressure'
Adult social care 'under pressure' Adult social care in England is under increasing pressure and the government has "no idea" how long the system can cope, an inquiry finds. BBC News
See also:
See also:
- Adult social care in England: overview The National Audit Office
- NAO raises social care alarm E-Health Insider
Challenges and improvements in diagnostic services across seven days
Challenges and improvements in diagnostic services across seven days NHS IQ has published a report on the potential improvements in diagnostics and scientific services.
Obese 11-year-old girls 'get lower school grades'
Obese 11-year-old girls 'get lower school grades' "Study links obesity in teenage girls with lower academic results," BBC News reports. Previous studies have reported that child and adolescent obesity has a wide variety of adverse consequences in both the short and long term.
A large study of UK secondary school pupils has now looked at whether being overweight or obese at the age of 11 influences educational attainment on SAT tests at 11 and 13 years of age and GCSE grades achieved at 16 years of age.
The researchers found an association between obesity at 11 years of age and poorer academic achievement in GCSE exams five years later in girls, even after adjustment for a wide range of factors that could have influenced the results (confounders).
A large study of UK secondary school pupils has now looked at whether being overweight or obese at the age of 11 influences educational attainment on SAT tests at 11 and 13 years of age and GCSE grades achieved at 16 years of age.
The researchers found an association between obesity at 11 years of age and poorer academic achievement in GCSE exams five years later in girls, even after adjustment for a wide range of factors that could have influenced the results (confounders).
GP concerns ignored in 'disappointing' NHS England plan
GP concerns ignored in 'disappointing' NHS England plan GP concerns over funding and workload have not been listened to, GP leaders have said, after NHS England published a major general practice strategy document. GP Online
GPs to be given more notice of CQC inspections
GPs to be given more notice of CQC inspections Practices will now have two weeks rather than two days’ notice. OnMedica
NHS faces ‘managed decline’ unless it is properly funded, says health chief
NHS faces ‘managed decline’ unless it is properly funded, says health chief
The NHS cannot survive in its current form and problems could escalate to the point where anyone who can afford it will choose to go private, the chief executive of NHS England has warned. The Independent
See also:
The NHS cannot survive in its current form and problems could escalate to the point where anyone who can afford it will choose to go private, the chief executive of NHS England has warned. The Independent
See also:
Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt gains powers to shut good hospitals without consultation
Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt gains powers to shut good hospitals without consultation
Jeremy Hunt, the Health Secretary, is to acquire sweeping powers to shut down local hospitals at short notice even if they are performing strongly. The Independent
See also:
Jeremy Hunt, the Health Secretary, is to acquire sweeping powers to shut down local hospitals at short notice even if they are performing strongly. The Independent
See also:
Fury over deal for NHS HR chief
Fury over deal for NHS HR chief Outrage from patients' groups over deal paid to NHS human resources chief. The Daily Telegraph
Wednesday, 12 March 2014
Labour say 32 hospitals 'at risk' of cuts and closures
Labour say 32 hospitals 'at risk' of cuts and closures Labour claim 32 hospital trusts 'at risk' of cuts and closures including Northampton General Hospital and Kettering General Hospital. The Daily Telegraph
Kettering General Hospital to spend £400,000 upgrading maternity services
Kettering General Hospital to spend £400,000 upgrading maternity services Kettering General Hospital has been granted almost £400,000 to improve its maternity services from national modernisation funds. Northamptonshire Telegraph
How to cause more hurt
How to cause more hurt This blog by Martin Bromiley looks at how complaints of poor care are managed in the NHS. The Health Foundation
Prescription charge rise in England
Prescription charge rise in England The price of NHS prescriptions is to rise by 20 pence in April and again next year. BBC News
See also:
See also:
- More children treated on adult wards BBC News
Statistics on children admitted to adult mental health wards released
Statistics on children admitted to adult mental health wards released Figures are released today on the number of under-18s recorded as being inpatients on adult mental health wards. Health & Social Care Information Centre
See also:
See also:
- More children treated on adult wards BBC News
Supporting recovering in mental health services: quality and outcomes
Supporting recovering in mental health services: quality and outcomes This publication aims to help organisations in the mental health sector develop clear, empirically-informed statements about what constitutes high-quality services, and how these will lead to key recovery outcomes for service users. It also includes a series of recommendations for health and social care providers and commissioners, and for NHS England and the government, that aim to support development of an evidence-based approach to commissioning mental health services. Centre for Mental Health
Difficult conversations with dying people and their families
Difficult conversations with dying people and their families This survey of over 1,000 GPs reveals that terminally ill people are not getting access to the right care when they need it. The report highlights issues surrounding round-the-clock care with families reporting having to chase after prescriptions, nurses waiting hours for vital drugs to arrive, and locums unable to prescribe. Marie Curie Cancer Care
Breast cancer care not always compliant with NICE standards
Breast cancer care not always compliant with NICE standards Charity calls for better monitoring of adherence OnMedica
Are expectations for integrating health and social care unrealistic?
Are expectations for integrating health and social care unrealistic? Better joint working between sectors is being seen as part of a shift to a preventive model of care, but there should be pragmatism about what can be achieved.
Breast cancer patients 'threatened by inadequate checks', says research charity
Breast cancer patients 'threatened by inadequate checks', says research charity NHS organisations are not being checked to see whether they are adhering to “best practice” guidance issued by health regulators, a charity has warned. The Independent
Tuesday, 11 March 2014
Former shoe company boss makes ‘generous donation’ to Northampton General Hospital
Former shoe company boss makes ‘generous donation’ to Northampton General Hospital
The urology department at Northampton General Hospital has been refurbished, extended and supplied with new equipment thanks to the generosity of a former shoe company boss, who is a former patient. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
The urology department at Northampton General Hospital has been refurbished, extended and supplied with new equipment thanks to the generosity of a former shoe company boss, who is a former patient. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Government response: Hospital food standards: Sustain campaign
Government response: Hospital food standards: Sustain campaign
The department’s Improving Hospital Food project identified 8 fundamental principles that patients should expect from hospital food, including that hospitals should adopt government buying standards for food and catering services (Food GBS) where practical and supported by procurement practices. The project was well received by partners and welcomed by Sustain.
While there have been a number of calls to introduce mandatory standards for hospital food, the government’s preferred approach remains to encourage the adoption of standards in the NHS through instruction, incentives and inspection.
This approach was outlined by the Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Quality, Earl Howe, during a debate in the House of Lords on 8 November 2013.
The department’s Improving Hospital Food project identified 8 fundamental principles that patients should expect from hospital food, including that hospitals should adopt government buying standards for food and catering services (Food GBS) where practical and supported by procurement practices. The project was well received by partners and welcomed by Sustain.
While there have been a number of calls to introduce mandatory standards for hospital food, the government’s preferred approach remains to encourage the adoption of standards in the NHS through instruction, incentives and inspection.
This approach was outlined by the Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Quality, Earl Howe, during a debate in the House of Lords on 8 November 2013.
MPs debate hospital closure power
MPs debate hospital closure power
MPs are set to debate a controversial measure which would give the health secretary the power to impose the closure of local hospital services. BBC News
MPs, support the care bill and it will come back to bite you | Polly Toynbee Guardian
MPs are set to debate a controversial measure which would give the health secretary the power to impose the closure of local hospital services. BBC News
MPs, support the care bill and it will come back to bite you | Polly Toynbee Guardian
Ripping off the sticking plaster: whole-system solutions for urgent and emergency care
Ripping off the sticking plaster: whole-system solutions for urgent and emergency care
Mounting pressures on England’s urgent and emergency care services have been well documented in local and national media over recent months. This report acts as a roadmap to the fundamental changes required to create a sustainable and high-quality urgent and emergency care system that can meet the needs of patients now and in the future. NHS Confederation
Report
Mounting pressures on England’s urgent and emergency care services have been well documented in local and national media over recent months. This report acts as a roadmap to the fundamental changes required to create a sustainable and high-quality urgent and emergency care system that can meet the needs of patients now and in the future. NHS Confederation
Report
British hospital to become first in Europe to use Skype for consultations
British hospital to become first in Europe to use Skype for consultations
Staffordshire hospital set to become the first in Europe where doctors consult with their patients via Skype. Telegraph
Staffordshire hospital set to become the first in Europe where doctors consult with their patients via Skype. Telegraph
The maternal mental health of migrant women
The maternal mental health of migrant women
This briefing examines why there is low take-up of maternal mental related services by migrant women un the UK. It considers how maternal mental health care providers can develop services which meet the needs of migrant women. Race Equality Foundation
Briefing
This briefing examines why there is low take-up of maternal mental related services by migrant women un the UK. It considers how maternal mental health care providers can develop services which meet the needs of migrant women. Race Equality Foundation
Briefing
'Shortage of senior nurses in NHS'
'Shortage of senior nurses in NHS'
The NHS has lost nearly 4,000 senior nursing posts since 2010, putting patient care at risk, warns the Royal College of Nursing. BBC Health News
The NHS has lost nearly 4,000 senior nursing posts since 2010, putting patient care at risk, warns the Royal College of Nursing. BBC Health News
Trusts need 2-year XP support extension
Trusts need 2-year XP support extension
Trusts will need an extension of Windows XP support for up to two years in order to migrate safely on to a newer operating system, NHS IT experts have said. EHI News
Trusts will need an extension of Windows XP support for up to two years in order to migrate safely on to a newer operating system, NHS IT experts have said. EHI News
Children's diets 'far too salty'
Children's diets 'far too salty'
Children in the UK are eating far too much salt, with much of it coming from breads and cereals, research suggests. BBC News
Children in the UK are eating far too much salt, with much of it coming from breads and cereals, research suggests. BBC News
Intensive care unit cleaning 'poor'
Intensive care unit cleaning 'poor'
Health inspectors seek a string of improvements after finding poor cleaning practices in a hospital's intensive care unit. BBC News
Health inspectors seek a string of improvements after finding poor cleaning practices in a hospital's intensive care unit. BBC News
Does staying in hospital longer make you better?
Does staying in hospital longer make you better? De-institutionalisation, the advent of community care and development of psychotropic medicines are implicated in the reduction in hospital bed numbers and mean length of stay. There remains a huge variance in length of stay and outcomes across the UK and beyond [read the full story...] The Mental Elf
Monday, 10 March 2014
Northamptonshire partnerships launch mental health support website
Northamptonshire partnerships launch mental health support website
Northamptonshire health groups and the county council have teamed up to launch a website devoted to supporting the wellbeing and mental health of youngsters in the county. Evening Telegraph
Northamptonshire health groups and the county council have teamed up to launch a website devoted to supporting the wellbeing and mental health of youngsters in the county. Evening Telegraph
Healthcare provider to create 100 Northamptonshire jobs
Healthcare provider to create 100 Northamptonshire jobs
A healthcare provider is looking to recruit about 100 people in Northamptonshire after an appeal from the county council. Evening Telegraph
A healthcare provider is looking to recruit about 100 people in Northamptonshire after an appeal from the county council. Evening Telegraph
Young people urged to ask ‘Is A&E for me?’
Young people urged to ask ‘Is A&E for me?’
A campaign urging young people to check whether they really need to go to accident and emergency is holding several outreach events in Kettering. Evening Telegraph
A campaign urging young people to check whether they really need to go to accident and emergency is holding several outreach events in Kettering. Evening Telegraph
Kettering Hospital ‘nurtures its own talent’ through apprentice scheme
Kettering Hospital ‘nurtures its own talent’ through apprentice scheme
Kettering Hospital says an initiative to nurture its own talent by helping people with no background in health to gain experience – and then a job – has been a success so far. Evening Telegraph
Kettering Hospital says an initiative to nurture its own talent by helping people with no background in health to gain experience – and then a job – has been a success so far. Evening Telegraph
Standards of care for people who self-harm must be improved, says NICE
Standards of care for people who self-harm must be improved, says NICE
The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has published a quality standard to improve the quality of care and support for children, young people, and adults who self-harm.
The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has published a quality standard to improve the quality of care and support for children, young people, and adults who self-harm.
National lung transplant list urged
National lung transplant list urged
Lung disease experts are calling for a new national system to identify lungs for transplant which could double the number of procedures across the UK. BBC News
Lung disease experts are calling for a new national system to identify lungs for transplant which could double the number of procedures across the UK. BBC News
Less than 1% of public health budget is used to treat obesity in children
Less than 1% of public health budget is used to treat obesity in children
A minute amount of money is being used to combat childhood obesity, despite it being a top health priority, according to new figures released Monday. Independent
A minute amount of money is being used to combat childhood obesity, despite it being a top health priority, according to new figures released Monday. Independent
Scientists find the origin of 'bad' fat linked to heart disease and cancer
Scientists find the origin of 'bad' fat linked to heart disease and cancer
Scientists have discovered the origin of the “bad” kind of fat found in the body which is linked with heart disease, cancer and other serious obesity-related illnesses, even though people carrying it can look slim. Independent
Scientists have discovered the origin of the “bad” kind of fat found in the body which is linked with heart disease, cancer and other serious obesity-related illnesses, even though people carrying it can look slim. Independent
Scientists develop blood test to detect Alzheimer's disease
Scientists develop blood test to detect Alzheimer's disease
A blood test that can detect Alzheimer’s disease up to three years before the onset of symptoms has been developed by scientists who believe that it could lead to the early diagnosis of progressive dementia in elderly people. Independent
A blood test that can detect Alzheimer’s disease up to three years before the onset of symptoms has been developed by scientists who believe that it could lead to the early diagnosis of progressive dementia in elderly people. Independent
NHS data used by third parties
NHS data used by third parties
It emerged yesterday that two NHS partners were accused of privacy errors. Although both parties have claimed they respected the law and people's privacy in using the data, they have both removed the related information from the internet.One of the breaches involved PA Consulting, a Marketing firm who released a report claiming it had used Google BigQuery servers to advise clients on targeting their audience through s... Healthcare Today
It emerged yesterday that two NHS partners were accused of privacy errors. Although both parties have claimed they respected the law and people's privacy in using the data, they have both removed the related information from the internet.One of the breaches involved PA Consulting, a Marketing firm who released a report claiming it had used Google BigQuery servers to advise clients on targeting their audience through s... Healthcare Today
Britain 'will not act' on sugar advice
Britain 'will not act' on sugar advice
Britain will not act on WHO guidance to cut sugar intake, officials say. Telegraph
Britain will not act on WHO guidance to cut sugar intake, officials say. Telegraph
NICE consults on draft recommendations for psychosis and schizophrenia in children and young people
NICE consults on draft recommendations for psychosis and schizophrenia in children and young people
NICE, the healthcare guidance body, is currently developing a clinical guideline on the recognition and management of psychosis and schizophrenia in children and young people. As part of this process, draft recommendations have been published on the NICE website today (9 August) for public consultation.
NICE, the healthcare guidance body, is currently developing a clinical guideline on the recognition and management of psychosis and schizophrenia in children and young people. As part of this process, draft recommendations have been published on the NICE website today (9 August) for public consultation.
Friday, 7 March 2014
Funding crisis: women’s refuges could all close in next four months
Funding crisis: women’s refuges could all close in next four months Every women’s refuge in Northamptonshire could have to close its doors if changes to the way they are funded go ahead, according to domestic violence bosses. Northamptonshire Telegraph
Northampton General Hospital thanks staff as non-urgent surgery resumes normal service
Northampton General Hospital thanks staff as non-urgent surgery resumes normal service Northampton General Hospital said it has not cancelled any non-urgent operations today, the first time that has happened this week. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
See also:
See also:
- Northampton General Hospital ends three days of stopping non-essential operations Northampton Herald and Post
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