Wednesday, 23 July 2014
England's poorest will live nine years less than the richest, according to stark new ONS stats
England's poorest will live nine years less than the richest, according to stark new ONS stats Millions of people across England are destined to die nine years earlier than they should - and have their lives blighted by ill-health prematurely - because they are poor. The shocking new figures, released by the Office for National Statistics, have prompted urgent calls for action and forced government officials to admit the situation of health inequality is “unacceptable.” The Independent
Tuesday, 22 July 2014
Press release: More flexibility for NHS doctors under European Working Time Directive
More flexibility for NHS doctors under European Working Time Directive Significant changes will be considered so doctors can train and work more flexibly, the Government announced today. These changes will be explored in response to an independent review of the impact and implementation of the European Working Time Directive on the NHS and Health Professionals. Department of Health
Understanding the rise in Fitness to Practise complaints from members of the public
Understanding the rise in Fitness to Practise complaints from members of the public Enquiries made by the general public to the General Medical Council (GMC) about doctors’ fitness to practise rose from 5,168 in 2007 to 10,347 in 2012. The report found that an increase in complaints has been seen across the UK, which suggests wider social trends rather than localised issues; pointing towards problems with the wider complaint-handling system and culture. It highlights the increased profile of the GMC, press coverage of medical complaints and social media as potential factors in the rise in complaints. Plymouth University
FGM parents to face prosecution
FGM parents to face prosecution Parents will face prosecution if they fail to prevent their daughters undergoing female genital mutilation or forced marriage under new measures being announced. BBC News
See also:
See also:
- Anatomy of female genital mutilation BBC News
- VIDEO: New measures to tackle FGM BBC News
- VIDEO: Clegg vows action to stop FGM BBC News
MHRA ups its game on medical device safety
MHRA ups its game on medical device safety New independent committee with stronger links to relevant expertise to come on stream within the year. OnMedica
Survey reveals managers' concerns about integrating health and care
Survey reveals managers' concerns about integrating health and care More than half of healthcare managers don't believe that integration will ease pressure on the NHS
Moves to integrate health and social care are regarded by many to be the turnkey solution to take the pressure off our healthcare system. The drive towards closer integration of services does makes sense with an ageing population and one in three older people living with a chronic condition, it is essential that we look at the architecture in place to deliver good quality, effective and compassionate care. Anything that can counter the ongoing fragmentation of services, reduce duplication and allocate resources in a more efficient way is to be welcomed, particularly as it should lead to improvements in patient care. The case has been made rather convincingly by the leaders in our healthcare system.
However, making integrated care a reality will fall to our health and social care managers. Ensuring that they feel comfortable, indeed positive, about the move towards closer integration is paramount. It was somewhat concerning that in spite of the case being made for integration, in our latest survey of Institute of Healthcare Management (IHM) members, more than half said they didn't believe that integrated care would take the pressure off the NHS. If we are to make integrated care a reality it is important that we listen to managers' concerns. Digging beneath this statistic there lay many legitimate concerns about integrated care that must be addressed. Continue reading... The Guardian
Moves to integrate health and social care are regarded by many to be the turnkey solution to take the pressure off our healthcare system. The drive towards closer integration of services does makes sense with an ageing population and one in three older people living with a chronic condition, it is essential that we look at the architecture in place to deliver good quality, effective and compassionate care. Anything that can counter the ongoing fragmentation of services, reduce duplication and allocate resources in a more efficient way is to be welcomed, particularly as it should lead to improvements in patient care. The case has been made rather convincingly by the leaders in our healthcare system.
However, making integrated care a reality will fall to our health and social care managers. Ensuring that they feel comfortable, indeed positive, about the move towards closer integration is paramount. It was somewhat concerning that in spite of the case being made for integration, in our latest survey of Institute of Healthcare Management (IHM) members, more than half said they didn't believe that integrated care would take the pressure off the NHS. If we are to make integrated care a reality it is important that we listen to managers' concerns. Digging beneath this statistic there lay many legitimate concerns about integrated care that must be addressed. Continue reading... The Guardian
First NHS efficiency tables expose 'profligate' waste
First NHS efficiency tables expose 'profligate' waste League tables reveal eight-fold difference in what NHS trusts pay for the same medical items. The Daily Telegraph
NHS patients to be allowed to give TripAdviser style feedback on GPs and dentists
NHS patients to be allowed to give TripAdviser style feedback on GPs and dentists Every patient in the NHS will be asked to provide TripAdviser style feedback on services and if they would recommend their care to friends and family by next year, it has been announced. The Daily Telegraph
See also:
See also:
Schizophrenia research breakthrough identifies over 100 genes involved
Schizophrenia research breakthrough identifies over 100 genes involved The largest study ever undertaken into the genetic basis of mental illnesses has found more than 100 genes that play some kind of role in the development of schizophrenia – one of the most common of the serious psychiatric disorders. The Independent
See also:
See also:
- 'Large gene find in schizophrenia' BBC News
- New DNA hope on schizophrenia: Discovery of 100 genes could help to transform treatment for the condition The Daily Mail
Monday, 21 July 2014
Big report: KGH outlines five-year plan
Big report: KGH outlines five-year plan A five-year plan being drawn up by Kettering General Hospital bosses will be based around retaining vital services including maternity and A&E at the Rothwell Road site. Northamptonshire Telegraph
Further roundtable talks at ACAS between pathology staff and Northampton General Hospital scheduled for Monday
Further roundtable talks at ACAS between pathology staff and Northampton General Hospital scheduled for Monday Northampton General Hospital has announced further talks will be held on Monday at ACAS (Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service) between the trust and biomedical staff who have taken industrial action. Northampton Herald and Post
See also:
See also:
- Acas meeting in hospital pay row BBC Northamptonshire
Guidance: Supporting adult carers through community nursing
Guidance: Supporting adult carers through community nursing Information for district and general practice nurses, other health professionals and commissioners and providers about how community nursing can be used to support adult carers.
This guidance should be read in conjunction with Care in Local Communities: a new vision and model for district nursing. Department of Health
This guidance should be read in conjunction with Care in Local Communities: a new vision and model for district nursing. Department of Health
FGM training for public sector staff
FGM training for public sector staff Extra training is to be given to teachers, doctors and social workers to help them to identify and assist girls at risk of female genital mutilation. BBC News
Social media 'aid doctor complaints'
Social media 'aid doctor complaints' A rise in complaints against doctors reflects the role of social media and negative press coverage of the medical profession, according to a report. BBC News
'More adults should be taking statins,' says NICE
'More adults should be taking statins,' says NICE "Doctors have been told to offer cholesterol-lowering statins to millions more people," BBC News reports.
New guidelines from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) recommend lowering the bar for statin use in adults at risk of heart disease.
NICE suggests up to 8,000 lives could be saved every three years if everyone with a 10% risk of developing cardiovascular disease within the next 10 years is offered one of the widely used cholesterol-lowering medications.
Cardiovascular diseases are diseases affecting the heart and blood vessels, such as heart disease and stroke.
NICE says the evidence clearly shows statins are safe and effective and would be a good use of healthcare resources if given to these people.
New guidelines from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) recommend lowering the bar for statin use in adults at risk of heart disease.
NICE suggests up to 8,000 lives could be saved every three years if everyone with a 10% risk of developing cardiovascular disease within the next 10 years is offered one of the widely used cholesterol-lowering medications.
Cardiovascular diseases are diseases affecting the heart and blood vessels, such as heart disease and stroke.
NICE says the evidence clearly shows statins are safe and effective and would be a good use of healthcare resources if given to these people.
More patients receiving harm free care from the NHS
More patients receiving harm free care from the NHS Drop in patients experiencing pressure ulcers, falls, UTIs with a catheter, and VTEs. OnMedica
NHS employing more nurses than ever before
NHS employing more nurses than ever before Increase in nursing workforce highlights the difficulties hospitals face balancing their books while providing quality care. OnMedica
Thousands of NHS patients to have DNA sequenced to help cancer research
Thousands of NHS patients to have DNA sequenced to help cancer research A pioneering project that could one day help cure cancers and rare genetic diseases by sequencing the DNA of up to 100,000 NHS patients is one step closer. The Independent
Drug-resistant bacteria: Sewage-treatment plants described as giant 'mixing vessels' after scientists discover mutated microbes in British river
Drug-resistant bacteria: Sewage-treatment plants described as giant 'mixing vessels' after scientists discover mutated microbes in British river Superbugs resistant to some of the most powerful antibiotics in the medical arsenal have been found for the first time in a British river – with scientists pinpointing a local sewage-treatment plant as the most likely source. The Independent
Friday, 18 July 2014
Injunction lodged in hospital row
Injunction lodged in hospital row A hospital is accused of trying to "flout the law" in a dispute with its medical staff. BBC Northamptonshire
See also:
See also:
- Pathology Services Update - 17 July 2014 Northampton General Hospital
- Health chiefs defend decision to employ agency workers at Northampton General Hospital Northampton Chronicle and Echo
- Union takes court action over use of agency workers at Northampton General Hospital to “break strike” Northampton Chronicle and Echo
- General Secretary of Unite, Len McCluskey to join biomedical staff on the picket line at Northampton General Hospital on Friday Northampton Herald and Post
Northampton GP: ‘NHS is letting my patients down daily’
Northampton GP: ‘NHS is letting my patients down daily’ A doctor at a Northampton GP surgery says the NHS is letting down patients by failing to invest in his practice which he says is “unfit for purpose”. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
How is the NHS performing? Quarterly monitoring report, July 2014
How is the NHS performing? Quarterly monitoring report, July 2014 This report illustrates the pressures on NHS finances, with a quarter of NHS trust finance directors surveyed for the report expecting to overspend their budgets this year. Analysis of the data collected for the report shows that the nursing workforce increased by almost 9,000 over the past six months to nearly 315,000 – the highest on record. This underlines the choice facing hospitals: whether to balance the books or maintain quality of services, with many choosing to recruit more nurses despite their budgets being stretched to the limit. It warns that cracks are beginning to appear in NHS performance as a result of the growing financial pressures and rising demand for services. King's Fund
Quality, access and affordability: can the NHS do it all?
Quality, access and affordability: can the NHS do it all? All health care systems are always looking to achieve quality, access and affordability (the three points of the triangle), but can only deliver two at best. Currently the NHS is being asked to deliver all three - Richard Taunt asks what this means for each of those areas. The Health Foundation
Phone app emergency alert for medically trained
Phone app emergency alert for medically trained The GoodSAM app alerts those with medical training to nearby emergencies so that potentially life-saving interventions can be given before the arrival of emergency services.
The brainchild of consultant neurosurgeon Mark Wilson, the app enables those with medical training, from doctors and nurses to people with first-aid qualifications, to register as responders. British Medical Association
The brainchild of consultant neurosurgeon Mark Wilson, the app enables those with medical training, from doctors and nurses to people with first-aid qualifications, to register as responders. British Medical Association
Evidence white paper released for wellbeing and engagement
Evidence white paper released for wellbeing and engagement Engage for success has released a whitepaper report containing evidence for the link between employee engagement and wellbeing and the resulting impact on both individual and organisational performance. NHS Employers
Transform district nursing to stop it facing extinction
Transform district nursing to stop it facing extinction The Royal College of Nursing projects that in a decade we might see the complete demise of district nurse services, but how can this be happening in tandem with calls to care for more patients at home? Health Service Journal
Steroid asthma inhalers restrict children’s growth
Steroid asthma inhalers restrict children’s growth “Children who use inhalable steroids for asthma grow slower than their peers in the first year of taking the medication,” The Guardian reports. While this is an accurate report of the science, the effect found by researchers was small. On average, a reduction of around half a centimetre per year was seen, compared to children taking a placebo or other asthma medication.
The researchers were studying the effects of inhaled corticosteroids. These are known as “preventers” – the brown inhalers that deliver a dose of steroids to the airways reducing inflammation, to prevent symptoms.
After pooling the results of 25 trials, they found a small but significant link between the use of preventer inhalers and restricted childhood growth, which was estimated to be an average reduction of 0.48cm (or 0.19in).
The authors recommend that these drugs should be prescribed at the “lowest effective dose” and that the growth rate of children treated with inhaled corticosteroids should be monitored, as they will affect each child differently.
However, as the authors point out, the small effect on growth is a minor risk compared to the proven benefits of these drugs in controlling asthma, and ensuring children’s lungs grow to their full capacity.
Untreated childhood asthma is much more likely to have a harmful effect on a child’s development than a small reduction in growth.
The researchers were studying the effects of inhaled corticosteroids. These are known as “preventers” – the brown inhalers that deliver a dose of steroids to the airways reducing inflammation, to prevent symptoms.
After pooling the results of 25 trials, they found a small but significant link between the use of preventer inhalers and restricted childhood growth, which was estimated to be an average reduction of 0.48cm (or 0.19in).
The authors recommend that these drugs should be prescribed at the “lowest effective dose” and that the growth rate of children treated with inhaled corticosteroids should be monitored, as they will affect each child differently.
However, as the authors point out, the small effect on growth is a minor risk compared to the proven benefits of these drugs in controlling asthma, and ensuring children’s lungs grow to their full capacity.
Untreated childhood asthma is much more likely to have a harmful effect on a child’s development than a small reduction in growth.
Move all non-emergency NHS work into primary care, say health groups
Move all non-emergency NHS work into primary care, say health groups All non-emergency NHS treatment should be moved out of hospitals and into primary care, according to a report by leading health organisations. GP Online
Advice for doctors criticised online
Advice for doctors criticised online Medical Defence Union outlines the implications of a European court ruling on the right to be forgotten online. OnMedica
At life's end: dying painlessly and peacefully is the goal of most
At life's end: dying painlessly and peacefully is the goal of most As the assisted dying bill goes to the Lords, doctors explain how most wish for palliative care, friendship and dignity at the end
A good death, like an easy experience of childbirth, is not something that happens to everybody, and it is impossible to predict who will slip away painlessly and at peace and who will find the process far harder.
"It's a lottery," says Ann Munro, a clinical ethicist who works with the dying and those who care for them in a large NHS hospital. "You never really know what it is going to be like." Continue reading... The Guardian
A good death, like an easy experience of childbirth, is not something that happens to everybody, and it is impossible to predict who will slip away painlessly and at peace and who will find the process far harder.
"It's a lottery," says Ann Munro, a clinical ethicist who works with the dying and those who care for them in a large NHS hospital. "You never really know what it is going to be like." Continue reading... The Guardian
Prescribing statins more widely ‘could avert tragedy’, new medical guidelines suggest
Prescribing statins more widely ‘could avert tragedy’, new medical guidelines suggest Four-and-a-half million more adults should be offered statins to avert “a tragedy waiting to happen” by reducing the number of people suffering heart attacks and strokes, according to new medical guidelines. The Independent
See also:
See also:
- Controversial statin rules go ahead BBC News
- Forty per cent of adults advised to take statins under new NHS guidance The Daily Telegraph
- NHS medicines watchdog lowers bar for statins prescriptions The Guardian
David Cameron urged to exempt the NHS from TTIP deal after unions claim it is at risk from being sold to American corporations
David Cameron urged to exempt the NHS from TTIP deal after unions claim it is at risk from being sold to American corporations Unions today claimed the NHS was under threat by the giant US-EU trade agreement known as TTIP despite assurances from negotiators that it was exempt. The Independent
Thursday, 17 July 2014
Health roadshow finds 130 people at risk of developing Type 2 diabetes
Health roadshow finds 130 people at risk of developing Type 2 diabetes
Half of the people tested at a diabetes roadshow in Northampton were found to be at risk of developing the condition. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Half of the people tested at a diabetes roadshow in Northampton were found to be at risk of developing the condition. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Met Office issues level 2 heatwave warning
Met Office issues level 2 heatwave warning
The Met Office has today forecast potential heatwave conditions for parts of the South East, London, the East of England, the East Midlands and West Midlands for later this week, as it declared a Level 2 Heat-health alert.
This warning is triggered when the Met Office forecasts that there is a 60% or higher chance of temperatures being high enough on at least two consecutive days and the intervening night to have a significant effect on health.
While many people enjoy hot weather, high temperatures can be dangerous, especially for people who may be particularly vulnerable such as older people, young children and those with serious illnesses.
NHS England jointly produces the Heatwave Plan for England 2014 with Public Health England.
Top advice for being sun safe:
Try to keep out of the sun between 11am to 3pm.
Apply sunscreen of at least SPF15 with UVA protection.
Wear UV sunglasses, preferably wraparound, to reduce UV exposure to the eyes.
Wear light, loose-fitting cotton clothes, a hat and light scarf.
Drink lots of cool drinks.
Look out for others especially vulnerable groups such as older people, young children and babies and those with serious illnesses.
Never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle, especially infants, young children or animals.
Level 2 warning is valid from 08:00am on Friday 18th July to 08:00am Sunday 20 July.
NHS Commissioning
The Met Office has today forecast potential heatwave conditions for parts of the South East, London, the East of England, the East Midlands and West Midlands for later this week, as it declared a Level 2 Heat-health alert.
This warning is triggered when the Met Office forecasts that there is a 60% or higher chance of temperatures being high enough on at least two consecutive days and the intervening night to have a significant effect on health.
While many people enjoy hot weather, high temperatures can be dangerous, especially for people who may be particularly vulnerable such as older people, young children and those with serious illnesses.
NHS England jointly produces the Heatwave Plan for England 2014 with Public Health England.
Top advice for being sun safe:
Try to keep out of the sun between 11am to 3pm.
Apply sunscreen of at least SPF15 with UVA protection.
Wear UV sunglasses, preferably wraparound, to reduce UV exposure to the eyes.
Wear light, loose-fitting cotton clothes, a hat and light scarf.
Drink lots of cool drinks.
Look out for others especially vulnerable groups such as older people, young children and babies and those with serious illnesses.
Never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle, especially infants, young children or animals.
Level 2 warning is valid from 08:00am on Friday 18th July to 08:00am Sunday 20 July.
NHS Commissioning
Care minister backs assisted dying
Care minister backs assisted dying
Care Minister Norman Lamb says he has changed his mind and is now in favour of a law on assisted dying in certain circumstances. BBC News
Care Minister Norman Lamb says he has changed his mind and is now in favour of a law on assisted dying in certain circumstances. BBC News
Asthma inhalers make children half a centimetre shorter
Asthma inhalers make children half a centimetre shorter
Children who use corticosteroids inhalers to control asthma are likely to be 0.5cm shorter than they should be, because the drug stunts growth, a major review has found. Telegraph
Children who use corticosteroids inhalers to control asthma are likely to be 0.5cm shorter than they should be, because the drug stunts growth, a major review has found. Telegraph
Poll shows support for raising taxes to sustain NHS
Poll shows support for raising taxes to sustain NHS
Guardian/ICM poll finds 48% of voters back tax-funded spending increases, while 21% would prefer charges for some services
Voters remain wedded to Britain's taxpayer-funded model of healthcare even as NHS leaders question its sustainability, according to a Guardian/ICM poll. Analysis by NHS England and outside experts points to a large funding gap that could reach £30bn by the end of the decade, and last month 71 leading lights of the health service wrote to the Guardian to warn politicians that failure to level with the public about the black hole before polling day would jeopardise the service's future.
Asked how they would tackle the future funding of medicine, voters are resolved by a margin of more than two to one that "raising taxes for everybody, to put more money in" is the right way to go. Guardian
Continue reading...
Guardian/ICM poll finds 48% of voters back tax-funded spending increases, while 21% would prefer charges for some services
Voters remain wedded to Britain's taxpayer-funded model of healthcare even as NHS leaders question its sustainability, according to a Guardian/ICM poll. Analysis by NHS England and outside experts points to a large funding gap that could reach £30bn by the end of the decade, and last month 71 leading lights of the health service wrote to the Guardian to warn politicians that failure to level with the public about the black hole before polling day would jeopardise the service's future.
Asked how they would tackle the future funding of medicine, voters are resolved by a margin of more than two to one that "raising taxes for everybody, to put more money in" is the right way to go. Guardian
Continue reading...
King's Fund warns of "cracks" in system
King's Fund warns of "cracks" in system
The King's Fund has found further signs of financial stress on the health service - and warned that "cracks are starting to appear" in its performance against key targets. EHI News
The King's Fund has found further signs of financial stress on the health service - and warned that "cracks are starting to appear" in its performance against key targets. EHI News
Charging migrants to access NHS healthcare - implementation plan published
Charging migrants to access NHS healthcare - implementation plan published
The Department of Health has published the Visitor and Migrant NHS Cost Recovery Programme Implementation, it outlines what will take place over the next two years to ensure the NHS receives a contribution for the cost of healthcare it provides to non-UK residents. NHS Employers
The Department of Health has published the Visitor and Migrant NHS Cost Recovery Programme Implementation, it outlines what will take place over the next two years to ensure the NHS receives a contribution for the cost of healthcare it provides to non-UK residents. NHS Employers
Press release: Continuation of whooping cough vaccination programme in pregnancy advised
Press release: Continuation of whooping cough vaccination programme in pregnancy advised
Public Health England (PHE) welcomes today’s (16 July 2014) announcement from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) advising the Department of Health (DH) that the whooping cough (pertussis) vaccination programme for pregnant women should continue for a further 5 years. The advice reflects new data on vaccine effectiveness and safety published byPHE and the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA).
The DH announced the temporary vaccination programme for pregnant women in October 2012, in response to a national whooping cough outbreak that led to several infant deaths. Vaccinating women against whooping cough in pregnancy (between 28 and 38 weeks) means that the mother passes immunity on to her unborn child, protecting the baby until they receive their first whooping cough vaccination at 2 months old.
Public Health England (PHE) welcomes today’s (16 July 2014) announcement from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) advising the Department of Health (DH) that the whooping cough (pertussis) vaccination programme for pregnant women should continue for a further 5 years. The advice reflects new data on vaccine effectiveness and safety published byPHE and the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA).
The DH announced the temporary vaccination programme for pregnant women in October 2012, in response to a national whooping cough outbreak that led to several infant deaths. Vaccinating women against whooping cough in pregnancy (between 28 and 38 weeks) means that the mother passes immunity on to her unborn child, protecting the baby until they receive their first whooping cough vaccination at 2 months old.
UK research councils join forces in 'unprecedented move' to tackle rise of antibiotic-resistant 'superbugs'
UK research councils join forces in 'unprecedented move' to tackle rise of antibiotic-resistant 'superbugs'
All of the major scientific funding bodies in Britain are to collaborate on a joint research effort to combat the rise of antibiotic-resistant “superbugs” that threaten to end the era of modern medicine, it was announced today. Independent
All of the major scientific funding bodies in Britain are to collaborate on a joint research effort to combat the rise of antibiotic-resistant “superbugs” that threaten to end the era of modern medicine, it was announced today. Independent
Pharmacies demand to be 'first point of contact' for overstretched NHS
Pharmacies demand to be 'first point of contact' for overstretched NHS
Pharmacies and high-street health specialists are “key to the survival of the NHS” and should be the “first point of contact” for tackling smoking and obesity levels, according to a coalition of leading primary healthcare experts. Independent
Pharmacies and high-street health specialists are “key to the survival of the NHS” and should be the “first point of contact” for tackling smoking and obesity levels, according to a coalition of leading primary healthcare experts. Independent
Wednesday, 16 July 2014
School nurse numbers set to increase in Northamptonshire
School nurse numbers set to increase in Northamptonshire
A new focus on school nursing in Northamptonshire is set to see the number of school nurses increase over the next five years. Northampton Chronicle & Echo
A new focus on school nursing in Northamptonshire is set to see the number of school nurses increase over the next five years. Northampton Chronicle & Echo
NHS Employers responds to NICE on safe staffing
NHS Employers responds to NICE on safe staffing
The NHS Employers organisation responds to the final advice on safe staffing in nursing issued by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) today (15 July).
The NHS Employers organisation responds to the final advice on safe staffing in nursing issued by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) today (15 July).
NHS emergency services 'overwhelmed', senior doctors say
NHS emergency services 'overwhelmed', senior doctors say
The pressure on hospitals must be relieved with radical changes to the way services are run, a report by the College of Emergency Medicine urges. Telegraph
The pressure on hospitals must be relieved with radical changes to the way services are run, a report by the College of Emergency Medicine urges. Telegraph
National group to look at healthcare for people with learning disabilities
National group to look at healthcare for people with learning disabilities
The group will include healthcare, charity and voluntary sectors, as well as with people with learning disabilities and their families. It aims to design more innovative and integrated local commissioning of healthcare and housing to best support people with learning disabilities at home and in their communities, reducing reliance on hospital care. NHS Networks
The group will include healthcare, charity and voluntary sectors, as well as with people with learning disabilities and their families. It aims to design more innovative and integrated local commissioning of healthcare and housing to best support people with learning disabilities at home and in their communities, reducing reliance on hospital care. NHS Networks
Failing care homes face new measures
Failing care homes face new measures
A system of special measures designed to improve failing hospitals in England is to be extended to care homes, the government is expected to announce. BBC News
A system of special measures designed to improve failing hospitals in England is to be extended to care homes, the government is expected to announce. BBC News
Open consultation: Proposals to make private vehicles smokefree when carrying children
Open consultation: Proposals to make private vehicles smokefree when carrying children
The Children and Families Act 2014 gave the Secretary of State for Health the power to legislate against smoking in vehicles to protect children’s health.
The purpose of this consultation is to seek views on draft regulations that would prohibit smoking in private vehicles carrying children. The draft regulations explain how the ban would work in practice.
Alongside the consultation, we have also published an Impact Assessment and Equality Analysis.
Department of Health
The Children and Families Act 2014 gave the Secretary of State for Health the power to legislate against smoking in vehicles to protect children’s health.
The purpose of this consultation is to seek views on draft regulations that would prohibit smoking in private vehicles carrying children. The draft regulations explain how the ban would work in practice.
Alongside the consultation, we have also published an Impact Assessment and Equality Analysis.
Department of Health
Childhood abuse and adverse life events interact synergistically to produce a high risk for psychotic experiences
Childhood abuse and adverse life events interact synergistically to produce a high risk for psychotic experiences
This recent study concludes that childhood abuse creates an enduring vulnerability to psychosis that is realised in the event of exposure to further stressors and risk factors, such as separation, bereavement, or being involved in an accident or physical attack. The Mental Elf
This recent study concludes that childhood abuse creates an enduring vulnerability to psychosis that is realised in the event of exposure to further stressors and risk factors, such as separation, bereavement, or being involved in an accident or physical attack. The Mental Elf
Childhood flu immunisation: information for parents and schools
Childhood flu immunisation: information for parents and schools
The geographical pilots for primary school aged children established in 2013 to 2014 will continue and there will be a number of additional pilots for children in secondary school years 7 and 8 (aged around 11 to 13 years). NHS Networks
The geographical pilots for primary school aged children established in 2013 to 2014 will continue and there will be a number of additional pilots for children in secondary school years 7 and 8 (aged around 11 to 13 years). NHS Networks
Husband, partner, dad, son, carer?
Husband, partner, dad, son, carer?
Carers Trust - This report looked at the experiences and needs of male carers and highlights the need for support for informal carers. Over half (53%) of the male carers surveyed felt that their needs were different to those of female carers, many citing that men find it harder to ask for help and support and that balancing work and caring is challenging, particularly if they are the main earner. NHS Evidence
Report
Summary
Press release
Carers Trust - This report looked at the experiences and needs of male carers and highlights the need for support for informal carers. Over half (53%) of the male carers surveyed felt that their needs were different to those of female carers, many citing that men find it harder to ask for help and support and that balancing work and caring is challenging, particularly if they are the main earner. NHS Evidence
Report
Summary
Press release
Enable more NHS organisations to become mutuals and devolve decision-making, says independent review
Enable more NHS organisations to become mutuals and devolve decision-making, says independent review
An independent review for the government has concluded that more NHS organisations should be encouraged to become public service mutuals.
The review, led by Chris Ham, Chief Executive of The King’s Fund, found compelling evidence that NHS organisations with high levels of staff engagement – where staff are strongly committed to their work and involved in decision-making – deliver better quality care. Organisations with high levels of staff engagement report:
lower mortality rates
better patient experience
lower rates of sickness absence and staff turnover.
Organisations with low levels of staff engagement are more likely to provide poor-quality care – the failures in care at Mid Staffordshire NHS Foundation Trust are one high-profile example of this.
While staff engagement levels have increased across the NHS in recent years, the review found significant variations between organisations. It calls on all NHS organisations to make staff engagement a key priority in order to improve care at a time of unprecedented financial and service pressures.
An independent review for the government has concluded that more NHS organisations should be encouraged to become public service mutuals.
The review, led by Chris Ham, Chief Executive of The King’s Fund, found compelling evidence that NHS organisations with high levels of staff engagement – where staff are strongly committed to their work and involved in decision-making – deliver better quality care. Organisations with high levels of staff engagement report:
lower mortality rates
better patient experience
lower rates of sickness absence and staff turnover.
Organisations with low levels of staff engagement are more likely to provide poor-quality care – the failures in care at Mid Staffordshire NHS Foundation Trust are one high-profile example of this.
While staff engagement levels have increased across the NHS in recent years, the review found significant variations between organisations. It calls on all NHS organisations to make staff engagement a key priority in order to improve care at a time of unprecedented financial and service pressures.
Chlamydia screening and condom schemes promote safer sex among young
Chlamydia screening and condom schemes promote safer sex among young
After testing for chlamydia, 62% of respondents to an anonymous web survey reported they were more likely to use condoms with a new partner and 66% reported they were more likely to test for chlamydia again. NHS Networks
After testing for chlamydia, 62% of respondents to an anonymous web survey reported they were more likely to use condoms with a new partner and 66% reported they were more likely to test for chlamydia again. NHS Networks
Housing associations and the NHS: new thinking, new partnerships
Housing associations and the NHS: new thinking, new partnerships
The Smith Institute - The treatment and care of more people in their own communities and the provision of more support to allow them to stay in their own homes or in specially designed accommodation is vital if our society is to cope with an ageing population and the growing number of people with multiple long-term conditions. Furthermore, given the increase in demand and the consequential rise in healthcare costs, it is essential to secure efficiency savings and productivity improvements wherever possible. Much greater integration of health and housing is widely seen as one way of meeting these challenges. The report provides a snapshot of current thinking around some elements of the agenda, including using surplus NHS land to improve clinical outcomes. The report aims to stimulate a debate across both disciplines and help shape the policy response.
BMA calls for better GP premises
BMA calls for better GP premises
The minister met doctors at the BMA’s London headquarters earlier this month, as a new BMAsurvey revealed the scale of GP concerns about their premises.
Nearly half the UK’s GP practices responded to the BMA survey, which found doctors struggling to provide essential services in buildings that are cramped and outdated. NHS Networks
The minister met doctors at the BMA’s London headquarters earlier this month, as a new BMAsurvey revealed the scale of GP concerns about their premises.
Nearly half the UK’s GP practices responded to the BMA survey, which found doctors struggling to provide essential services in buildings that are cramped and outdated. NHS Networks
Tuesday, 15 July 2014
Safe staffing for nursing in adult inpatient wards in acute hospitals
Safe staffing for nursing in adult inpatient wards in acute hospitals This guideline covers safe staffing for nursing in adult inpatient wards in acute hospitals. It recommends a systematic approach at ward level to ensure that patients receive the nursing care they need, regardless of the ward to which they are allocated, the time of the day, or the day of the week.
The guideline identifies organisational and managerial factors that are required to support safe staffing for nursing, and makes recommendations for monitoring and taking action if there are not enough nursing staff available to meet the nursing needs of patients on the ward. NICE
The guideline identifies organisational and managerial factors that are required to support safe staffing for nursing, and makes recommendations for monitoring and taking action if there are not enough nursing staff available to meet the nursing needs of patients on the ward. NICE
See also:
- NICE unveils safe staffing plans for nursing care in wards NICE
- NHS gets safe nurse staffing rules BBC News
- Patient power 'to raise the red flag on poor care' The Daily Telegraph
- Hospital red flag events should prompt staffing action, says Nice The Guardian
Preventing dementia: a provocation
Preventing dementia: a provocation This report highlights how we can do more to prevent dementia, save lives and reduce avoidable costs. It explores potential savings to the state if we were able to intervene successfully on the risk factors that cause dementia - these include physical activity, smoking, obesity and depression. International Longevity Centre - UK
Personalisation for people from black and minority ethnic groups
Personalisation for people from black and minority ethnic groups This briefing looks at how personalisation can increase access to healthcare for people from black and minority ethnic communities, but also considers some of the challenges that it may bring. Race Equality Foundation
Central funding of NHSmail SMS to end
Central funding of NHSmail SMS to end Plans to end central funding of email-to-SMS services for NHSmail2 will "go down like a lead balloon" with GPs, a primary care leader has warned. E-Health Insider
'Exercise may help prevent Alzheimer's disease'
'Exercise may help prevent Alzheimer's disease' "Cut Alzheimer's risk by walking," the Daily Mail recommends. This advice is prompted by a statistical modelling study looking at population attributable risks (PARS) – factors known to influence the prevalence of a disease, such as Alzheimer's, at a population level.
The seven risk factors researchers looked at included diabetes, smoking, high blood pressure, lack of exercise, obesity, depression and low educational level. In theory, some cases of Alzheimer's disease might be prevented by reducing these risk factors.
For example, the study estimated physical inactivity accounted for 21.8% of the risk of developing Alzheimer's in the UK. Another way of saying this is that if nobody was inactive, the risk of Alzheimer's in the UK population could reduce by 21.8%.
But this is only a theory that applies to an entire population, not individuals. We cannot say for sure that living a healthier life will definitely prevent Alzheimer's disease.
The seven risk factors researchers looked at included diabetes, smoking, high blood pressure, lack of exercise, obesity, depression and low educational level. In theory, some cases of Alzheimer's disease might be prevented by reducing these risk factors.
For example, the study estimated physical inactivity accounted for 21.8% of the risk of developing Alzheimer's in the UK. Another way of saying this is that if nobody was inactive, the risk of Alzheimer's in the UK population could reduce by 21.8%.
But this is only a theory that applies to an entire population, not individuals. We cannot say for sure that living a healthier life will definitely prevent Alzheimer's disease.
NHS England to monitor effectiveness of CCGs' telehealth schemes
NHS England to monitor effectiveness of CCGs' telehealth schemes NHS England plans to measure the impact of telehealth and telecare services on patients' health to encourage CCGs to commission the technologies, a minister has revealed. GP Online
Patients denied vital operations by NHS bodies, surgeons report
Patients denied vital operations by NHS bodies, surgeons report Inquiry finds that 44% of commissioning groups require patients to be in various degrees of pain and immobility before surgery.
Patients are being denied access to vital surgery by NHS bodies, which are ignoring guidelines and choosing to ration some operations, according to an investigation by the Royal College of Surgeons. Continue reading... The Guardian
See also:
Patients are being denied access to vital surgery by NHS bodies, which are ignoring guidelines and choosing to ration some operations, according to an investigation by the Royal College of Surgeons. Continue reading... The Guardian
See also:
- Many CCGs are ignoring clinical evidence in their surgical commissioning policies Royal College of Surgeons
- Is Access to Surgery a Postcode Lottery? (Report) Royal College of Surgeons
Dozens of NHS executives face tax inquiry into off-payroll earnings
Dozens of NHS executives face tax inquiry into off-payroll earnings Dozens of NHS executives face an HMRC inquiry into their tax affairs, Treasury discloses, after refusing to give assurances over use of personal companies. The Daily Telegraph
New government policy for the NHS could allow doctors and nurses to ‘own’ hospitals
New government policy for the NHS could allow doctors and nurses to ‘own’ hospitals Ministers are drawing up plans to allow doctors and nurses to own and run the hospitals they work in as part of a radical blueprint to change the way the NHS is run. The Independent
See also:
See also:
- Enable more NHS organisations to become mutuals and devolve decision-making, says independent review The King's Fund
- Improving NHS care by engaging staff and devolving decision-making (report) The King's Fund
Foreign patients will face extra costs for treatment in the latest Government crackdown on health tourism
Foreign patients will face extra costs for treatment in the latest Government crackdown on health tourism Foreign patients using the NHS face are being charged far more than their treatment actually costs, in a new crackdown by the Government on health tourism. The Independent
See also:
See also:
- Visitor & migrant NHS cost recovery programme implementation plan 2014–16 Department of Health
- Migrants to pay more to use NHS BBC News
- NHS to charge non-EU patients 150% of cost of treatment The Guardian
- NHS tourists to be charged a premium for healthcare OnMedica
Monday, 14 July 2014
Shorter waiting times at new fracture clinic at Northampton General Hospital
Shorter waiting times at new fracture clinic at Northampton General Hospital Patients are benefiting from improved efficiency and shorter waiting times for broken bones at Northampton General Hospital. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
The 'lock out' of pathology staff at Northampton General Hospital reaches day 15
The 'lock out' of pathology staff at Northampton General Hospital reaches day 15 Talks between Northampton General Hospital and biomedical staff broke up at ACAS, (Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service) after being described by Dr Sonia Swart, CEO of Northampton General Hospital as 'not fruitful'. Northampton Herald and Post
Northampton mum launches legal action against hospital claiming alleged errors left her daughter disabled
Northampton mum launches legal action against hospital claiming alleged errors left her daughter disabled The mother of a four-year-old girl from Northampton has launched legal action against a hospital claiming a series of alleged medical errors left her daughter severely disabled. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
2014 Local Health Profiles
2014 Local Health Profiles The profiles present a picture of health in each local area in a format that’s easy to use. This valuable tool helps local government and health services to understand their communities’ needs, so they can improve people’s health and reduce health inequalities. Public Health England
Mental health work scheme piloted
Mental health work scheme piloted Ministers are piloting ways to get more people with mental health problems into work with earlier treatment and employment support. BBC News
Offer weight loss surgery to diabetics, says NICE
Offer weight loss surgery to diabetics, says NICE "An expansion of weight loss surgery in England is being proposed to tackle an epidemic of type 2 diabetes," BBC News reports. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has recommended obese people with type 2 diabetes should be offered weight loss (bariatric) surgery.
These draft guidelines include new recommendations about the treatment of obesity. In particular, NICE advises that those with recent-onset type 2 diabetes who fulfil certain body mass index (BMI)criteria should have surgery. The recommendations also provide guidance on the use of very low-calorie diets.
As is often the case, the proposed NICE recommendations have made a huge media splash, leading to front-page headlines such as the Daily Mail's claim that, "Thousands more to get obesity ops on the NHS".
These are draft guidelines, so it is far from certain whether they will become official advice. A consultation will be taking place between July 11 and August 8 2014.
These draft guidelines include new recommendations about the treatment of obesity. In particular, NICE advises that those with recent-onset type 2 diabetes who fulfil certain body mass index (BMI)criteria should have surgery. The recommendations also provide guidance on the use of very low-calorie diets.
As is often the case, the proposed NICE recommendations have made a huge media splash, leading to front-page headlines such as the Daily Mail's claim that, "Thousands more to get obesity ops on the NHS".
These are draft guidelines, so it is far from certain whether they will become official advice. A consultation will be taking place between July 11 and August 8 2014.
Home Office accessing NHS records to help track down illegal immigrants
Home Office accessing NHS records to help track down illegal immigrants Patients' and migrants' rights groups express concern over use of little-noticed exemption in data protection rules
The Home Office has been given access to the NHS records of more than 6,900 people since 2010 as part of its efforts to track down illegal immigrants, prompting concerns from patients' and migrants' rights groups.
Medical records are protected by data protection laws but new statistics show the Home Office has made use of a little-noticed exemption in the rules to access patients' non-clinical records, without any need for a court order. Continue reading... The Guardian
The Home Office has been given access to the NHS records of more than 6,900 people since 2010 as part of its efforts to track down illegal immigrants, prompting concerns from patients' and migrants' rights groups.
Medical records are protected by data protection laws but new statistics show the Home Office has made use of a little-noticed exemption in the rules to access patients' non-clinical records, without any need for a court order. Continue reading... The Guardian
Figures expose ambulance delays in life and death calls
Figures expose ambulance delays in life and death calls Warnings from medical experts as figures show lengthening waits for ambulances in the most urgent cases. The Daily Telegraph
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World Health Organisation recommends that all gay men should take antiretroviral medicine to halt 'exploding' HIV epidemic
World Health Organisation recommends that all gay men should take antiretroviral medicine to halt 'exploding' HIV epidemic The World Health Organisation has announced for the first time that all men who have sex with men should take antiretroviral drugs, in a bid to try and contain the growing rates of HIV in gay communities around the world. The Independent
See also:
See also:
- Consolidated guidelines on HIV prevention, diagnosis, treatment and care for key populations World Health Organisation
- Gay men urged to take HIV drugs BBC News
Newly qualified doctors failing elderly patients due to a lack of skills or training in their treatment
Newly qualified doctors failing elderly patients due to a lack of skills or training in their treatment Thousands of new doctors qualify to practise medicine without the skills or training to give frail elderly patients the respect and treatment they deserve, according to a major new study. The Independent
Friday, 11 July 2014
Talks between NGH and striking scientists break down
Talks between NGH and striking scientists break down Talks about Northampton General Hospital blood test scientists coming back to work have collapsed today, union representatives have said. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
We owe it to patients and taxpayers
We owe it to patients and taxpayers Following publication of the OBR's annual report on the sustainability of public finances, Anita Charlesworth examines the numbers that will inform the debate and decisions we face on the future sustainability of the NHS. The Health Foundation
Better care for older people
Better care for older people This online resource aims to support doctors in their day-to-day care of older patients. The resource gives practical advice, including from leading clinicians, on how to put older patients first and use GMC guidance to handle their clinical, emotional and psychological needs. It contains a mixture of guidance, case studies, scenarios, articles and tips to prepare doctors for caring for the growing number of older patients. General Medical Council
Maternity closures due to shortages
Maternity closures due to shortages Many NHS trusts in England have temporarily shut maternity units in the past year, commonly because of lack of staff and beds, a BBC investigation shows. BBC News
Shortage in child mental health beds
Shortage in child mental health beds NHS England says it does not know how many hospital beds are needed to deal with increasing demand for children's mental health services. BBC News
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Imperial creates patient surgery app
Imperial creates patient surgery app University researchers at Imperial College London have developed a mobile app to help patients prepare for surgery and reduce the risk of surgical complications. E-Health Insider
English waiting list tops 3 million, its biggest in six years
English waiting list tops 3 million, its biggest in six years The English waiting list is 20 per cent bigger than at the last general election but despite that, long waits have improved under the Coalition. We are now well into the zone where the ‘90 per cent adjusted admitted’ target is at risk. Health Service Journal
Lack of cash for premises damaging patient care, say third of GPs
Lack of cash for premises damaging patient care, say third of GPs Cramped and inadequate premises limit capacity for appointments and extra services, finds survey. OnMedica
See also:
See also:
- Premises Survey results infographic BMA
- Premises Survey results BMA
- GP premises not fit for patients BMA
- State of GP practices another symptom of chronic lack of funding in general practice Royal College of General Practitioners
Councils and NHS services must work together to share risks and savings
Councils and NHS services must work together to share risks and savings Relationships across the system need to be strengtened before the Better Care Fund goes live in April 2015
The biggest ever push to integrate health and social care is in serious difficulty. What has gone wrong with the Better Care Fund and can it be fixed?
The difficulty stems from the fact that half of the basic £3.8bn fund, intended to support integration projects in 2015-16, has been stripped out of budgets for acute health services. The hospital lobby argued that this risked pushing providers further into financial difficulty. The government has responded with a clawback mechanism which will keep £1bn of it largely in the NHS and make it dependent on achieving locally agreed reductions in hospital admissions. Continue reading... The Guardian
The biggest ever push to integrate health and social care is in serious difficulty. What has gone wrong with the Better Care Fund and can it be fixed?
The difficulty stems from the fact that half of the basic £3.8bn fund, intended to support integration projects in 2015-16, has been stripped out of budgets for acute health services. The hospital lobby argued that this risked pushing providers further into financial difficulty. The government has responded with a clawback mechanism which will keep £1bn of it largely in the NHS and make it dependent on achieving locally agreed reductions in hospital admissions. Continue reading... The Guardian
One in four unaware of out of hours GPs
One in four unaware of out of hours GPs One in four patients are unaware of out-of-hours GPs, piling pressure on A&E departments. The Daily Telegraph
See also:
See also:
- Out-of-hours GP services in England National Audit Office
- Many 'unaware of out-of-hours GPs' BBC News
Type 2 diabetes sufferers could be considered for NHS weight-loss surgery under new guidelines
Type 2 diabetes sufferers could be considered for NHS weight-loss surgery under new guidelines Hundreds of thousands of sufferers of type 2 diabetes could be offered weight-loss surgery on the NHS, according to new draft medical guidance. The Independent
See also:
See also:
- More weight loss ops for diabetes BBC News
- Obesity surgery could be offered to a million more people on NHS The Daily Telegraph
- Low-calorie diets should be scrapped for the obese, health watchdog warns The Daily Telegraph
- NHS anti-obesity plans could lead to sharp rise in gastric band surgery The Guardian
Thursday, 10 July 2014
Hospital laboratory staff 'lockout'
Hospital laboratory staff 'lockout' Laboratory staff in dispute over working hours and pay at Northampton General Hospital are "locked out", a union claims. BBC Northamptonshire
Medical engagement should be central to hospital leadership
Medical engagement should be central to hospital leadership Medical engagement should be a central element of hospital leadership, not an optional extra, concludes a new report published today by The King’s Fund. Based on case studies from four trusts with high levels of medical engagement, the report states that sustained commitment from board to ward can improve medical engagement, which is closely linked to better clinical and organisational performance.
White Paper: The new era of thinking and practice in change and transformation
White Paper: The new era of thinking and practice in change and transformation The White Paper identifies the profound implications and opportunities for leaders of health and care, including a fundamental rethink about what organisational and system change means.
The White Paper concludes with a call to action: join the new breed of leaders across the world who are rewriting the rules of change and leading change to get different results. NHS Improving Quality
The White Paper concludes with a call to action: join the new breed of leaders across the world who are rewriting the rules of change and leading change to get different results. NHS Improving Quality
Gloucester hospital worker stabbed to death at work
Gloucester hospital worker stabbed to death at work A member of staff at a mental health hospital in Gloucester has died after being stabbed at work. The female victim, who has not been named, was attacked at the inpatient unit of Wotton Lawn Hospital. BBC News
See also:
- Woman stabbed to death while working at hospital in Gloucester The Independent
- Woman stabbed to death at Wotton Lawn hospital The Guardian
- Mental Health Hospital Worker Fatally Stabbed At Work Huffington Post UK
- Hospital worker stabbed to death on ward The Daily Telegraph
Making mental health count: the social and economic costs of neglecting mental health care
Making mental health count: the social and economic costs of neglecting mental health care This report argues that even in those OECD countries with a long history of deinstitutionalisation, there is still a long way to go to make community-based mental health care that achieves good outcomes for people with severe mental illness a reality. It addresses the high cost of mental illness, weaknesses and innovative developments in the organisation of care, changes and future directions for the mental health workforce, the need to develop better indicators for mental health care and quality, and tools for better governance of the mental health system. Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development
Fears raised 'free NHS' will end
Fears raised 'free NHS' will end Fears are being raised the NHS in England will no longer be free at the point of use - up to now a key principle for the health service - within 10 years. BBC News
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See also:
Call to review surgery waiting times
Call to review surgery waiting times The new president of the Royal College of Surgeons says the 18-week waiting target for routine operations in England should be reviewed. BBC News
Community prescribing increases by almost 60 per cent, but costs rise by only 15 per cent since 2003
Community prescribing increases by almost 60 per cent, but costs rise by only 15 per cent since 2003 The number of prescription items dispensed in the community has increased by 58.5 per cent since 2003 new Health and Social Care Information Centre (HSCIC) analysis shows today. Over 1.03 billion items were prescribed in 2013 compared to 649.7 million in 2003.
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Dengue fever cases in returning travellers increase by 60% in one year
Dengue fever cases in returning travellers increase by 60% in one year In 2013, 541 cases of dengue fever were reported in travellers returning from dengue-affected countries. OnMedica
Pensioners to prisoners: how telecare can treat hard to reach patients
Pensioners to prisoners: how telecare can treat hard to reach patients Airedale foundation NHS trust conducts videoconferencing consultations with prisoners at Full Sutton maximum security jail
Last winter, 93-year-old Ernest Towers had access to arguably one of the most transformational tools in healthcare, when his North Yorkshire care home, Sutton Lodge, was linked to Airedale NHS foundation trust's telemedicine service.
For many older people, unplanned admissions to emergency departments or even routine hospital appointments can be hugely disruptive. The link to Airedale's telehealth hub, staffed by nurses experienced in acute assessment, provides Towers with on call specialised medical care around the clock, albeit via video link. Continue reading... The Guardian
Last winter, 93-year-old Ernest Towers had access to arguably one of the most transformational tools in healthcare, when his North Yorkshire care home, Sutton Lodge, was linked to Airedale NHS foundation trust's telemedicine service.
For many older people, unplanned admissions to emergency departments or even routine hospital appointments can be hugely disruptive. The link to Airedale's telehealth hub, staffed by nurses experienced in acute assessment, provides Towers with on call specialised medical care around the clock, albeit via video link. Continue reading... The Guardian
One in 10 NHS watchdog staff should not have got the jobs
One in 10 NHS watchdog staff should not have got the jobs Documents reveal one in 10 inspectors working for Care Quality Commission failed competency tests but will not be fired. The Daily Telegraph
Charities warn of 'alarming' rise in cancer test waits
Charities warn of 'alarming' rise in cancer test waits Official statistics show number of patients waiting at least six weeks for some NHS scans has doubled in just one month. The Daily Telegraph
Head of NHS England announces a radical new patient care plan in move to save money
Head of NHS England announces a radical new patient care plan in move to save money The head of NHS England has unveiled a radical plan for the reorganisation of how care is delivered in the community by giving vulnerable patients control of their own combined health and social care budgets. The Independent
See also:
See also:
- NHS England Chief offers local government leaders radical new health and social care integration option NHS England
- Patients to control their own integrated care funding from 2015 GP Online
- Individuals to be allowed to control their own NHS and community care OnMedica
- Frail 'need joint NHS and care fund' BBC News
Exclusive: Government launches inquiry over 100 suspicious deaths at a Hampshire hospital
Exclusive: Government launches inquiry over 100 suspicious deaths at a Hampshire hospital
A Hillsborough-style inquiry to investigate up to 100 suspicious deaths at a Hampshire hospital during the 1990s is set to be announced by the Government today. The Independent
A Hillsborough-style inquiry to investigate up to 100 suspicious deaths at a Hampshire hospital during the 1990s is set to be announced by the Government today. The Independent
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