Friday, 16 January 2015
Compassion in Practice: two years on
Compassion in Practice: two years on Compassion in Practice, the national strategy for nurses, midwives and care staff, was launched in December 2012. This report talks about the value of the 6Cs (care, compassion, competence, communication, courage and commitment), how they are spreading across health and social care and informing the commissioning process, along with the role care makers play in bringing the vision to life. NHS Employers
Fit for frailty - part 2: developing, commissioning and managing services for people living with frailty in community settings
Fit for frailty - part 2: developing, commissioning and managing services for people living with frailty in community settings This document provides advice and guidance on the development, commissioning and management of services for people living with frailty in community settings. It also considers training and education needs to maximise the sharing of skills. It is aimed at GPs, geriatricians, health service managers, social service managers and commissioners of services. British Geriatrics Society
Learning for the NHS on procurement and supply chain management: a rapid evidence assessment
Learning for the NHS on procurement and supply chain management: a rapid evidence assessment This study aimed to describe approaches to procurement and supply chain management (SCM) in selected areas and to identify best practices that may inform procurement and SCM in the NHS. NHS National Institute for Health Research
Dementia screening for all over 65s ruled out
Dementia screening for all over 65s ruled out The UK National Screening Committee (UK NSC) has advised against screening all over 65s for dementia, following an 'extensive review' of current evidence. GP Online
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- Recommendation against national dementia screening Public Health England
NHS chief: 'More cancer cuts likely'
NHS chief: 'More cancer cuts likely' The head of a special NHS fund for cancer medicines in England has said there will need to be further cuts to the treatments it funds. BBC News
Ebola cases declining in West Africa
Ebola cases declining in West Africa New Ebola cases in the three West African countries worst affected by the deadly outbreak of the virus are declining, weekly UN figures show. BBC News
More action needed on IG - Caldicott
More action needed on IG - Caldicott Dame Fiona Caldicott has warned that the "cultural change" that she called for in her second review of information governance in the NHS "has only emerged in parts of the system." E-Health Insider
Inactivity 'twice as deadly' as obesity
Inactivity 'twice as deadly' as obesity “Lack of exercise is twice as deadly as obesity,” The Daily Telegraph reports. The headline is prompted by a Europe-wide study on obesity, exercise and health outcomes.
Researchers wanted to see how many deaths could theoretically be avoided if inactive people became more active, compared to how many would be avoided if obese people lost weight.
Researchers calculated that if activity levels were increased so that no-one was classed as inactive, then this could reduce early deaths by more than 7%. This compares to avoiding obesity, which could reduce deaths by nearly 4%. In 2008, say the researchers, 676,000 deaths were attributable to physical inactivity, compared with 337,000 deaths attributable to obesity.
This large study also found that among inactive individuals, even small increases in activity may be of benefit, whatever their weight or waist size.
Researchers wanted to see how many deaths could theoretically be avoided if inactive people became more active, compared to how many would be avoided if obese people lost weight.
Researchers calculated that if activity levels were increased so that no-one was classed as inactive, then this could reduce early deaths by more than 7%. This compares to avoiding obesity, which could reduce deaths by nearly 4%. In 2008, say the researchers, 676,000 deaths were attributable to physical inactivity, compared with 337,000 deaths attributable to obesity.
This large study also found that among inactive individuals, even small increases in activity may be of benefit, whatever their weight or waist size.
Child health services require major shake-up, census reveals
Child health services require major shake-up, census reveals A radical shake-up in the delivery of child health services is required, according to a new workforce census published this week as paediatricians say pressures are ‘unsustainable’. OnMedica
Legal challenge on contaminated blood pay-outs
Legal challenge on contaminated blood pay-outs Motion in Parliament calls for new review. OnMedica
Poor flow of patient information puts vulnerable people at risk – report
Poor flow of patient information puts vulnerable people at risk – report ‘Extremely troubling’ evidence that records vital to continuity of care of patients discharged from hospital lost or misplaced, report finds
The safety of vulnerable people is being put at risk because they are discharged from hospital without proper information about their condition and future needs, the state-funded “consumer champion” Healthwatch England has found.
Scan and test results, consultants’ notes and other information vital to the continuity of care are lost or misplaced, it says, following a special inquiry into people’s experiences after they have returned home or been sent to other care settings. Continue reading... The Guardian
The safety of vulnerable people is being put at risk because they are discharged from hospital without proper information about their condition and future needs, the state-funded “consumer champion” Healthwatch England has found.
Scan and test results, consultants’ notes and other information vital to the continuity of care are lost or misplaced, it says, following a special inquiry into people’s experiences after they have returned home or been sent to other care settings. Continue reading... The Guardian
NHS postpone breakthrough £660-a-day hepatitis C drug over cost fears
NHS postpone breakthrough £660-a-day hepatitis C drug over cost fears The NHS has faced criticism for intervening to delay the introduction of a costly but highly effective drug to combat hepatitis C. The Telegraph
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- Hepatitis C drug delayed by NHS due to high cost The Guardian
Care home residents five times more likely to be left thirsty, study reveals
Care home residents five times more likely to be left thirsty, study reveals Too many elderly people are being left thirsty in care homes, doctors have said, after a study revealed five times as many patients who live in homes are admitted to hospital dehydrated as those who live at their own residence. The Independent
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The mystery of shellshock solved: Scientists identify the unique brain injury caused by war
The mystery of shellshock solved: Scientists identify the unique brain injury caused by war When the war poet Wilfred Owen wrote of “men whose minds the Dead have ravished” he was attempting to describe the mysterious effects of shellshock which started appearing during the First World War and of which he himself was a sufferer. The Independent
Thursday, 15 January 2015
Low risk of suspected Ebola case at Northampton General Hospital
Low risk of suspected Ebola case at Northampton General Hospital A patient with a suspected case of Ebola was admitted to NGH on Wednesday 14 January 2015.
Tests have now shown that the patient is malaria negative and Ebola is considered unlikely. Further testing is being done as a precaution, as is usual practice in these circumstances.
We are confident that all appropriate actions are being taken to protect the public’s health and ensure there is no risk to patients or staff. Northampton General Hospital
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Tests have now shown that the patient is malaria negative and Ebola is considered unlikely. Further testing is being done as a precaution, as is usual practice in these circumstances.
We are confident that all appropriate actions are being taken to protect the public’s health and ensure there is no risk to patients or staff. Northampton General Hospital
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- Woman treated for suspected Ebola BBC News
- Northampton General Hospital confirms suspected Ebola patient The Daily Mail
- Ebola in the UK: Hospital confirms it is treating a woman with suspected case of the virus The Independent
- Northampton General Hospital says “Ebola is unlikely” but tests are being done as a precaution Northampton Chronicle and Echo
- Ebola test results on Northampton General Hospital patient expected this afternoon Northampton Chronicle and Echo
- EBOLA SCARE: Woman being treated for suspected ebola at Northampton General Hospital Northants Herald and Post
- Patient tested as a precaution at Northamptonshire hospital but Ebola ‘unlikely’ Northamptonshire Telegraph
John Prescott: 'Angels at Northampton General Hospital saved my sister's life'
John Prescott: 'Angels at Northampton General Hospital saved my sister's life' Former Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott has praised under pressure staff at Northampton General Hospital for saving his elderly sister's life - twice. Northants Herald and Post
Human factors in health care – what’s new and what next?
Human factors in health care – what’s new and what next? We will see human factors firmly embedded in health care across the world, but it won't happen without a great deal of thoughtful work by those at the front line and, importantly, those who hold the system reins, says Martin Bromiley. The Health Foundation
Guidance: Sexual and reproductive health in England: local and national data
Guidance: Sexual and reproductive health in England: local and national data Guidance to help health professionals including local government, service providers and commissioners understand the sexual health data that is available across England and how the data can be accessed. It includes data collected by Public Health England (PHE) and other organisations.
This information provides an overview of the information available on sexually transmitted infection (STIs), HIV, contraception, conception and abortion and where to access it. It is divided into indicators (used for tracking progress), detailed local information (collation and interpretation of local intelligence) and national resources (tables and reports). Public Health England
This information provides an overview of the information available on sexually transmitted infection (STIs), HIV, contraception, conception and abortion and where to access it. It is divided into indicators (used for tracking progress), detailed local information (collation and interpretation of local intelligence) and national resources (tables and reports). Public Health England
News story: Monitor guidance to help patients receive more joined-up care
News story: Monitor guidance to help patients receive more joined-up care Monitor believes that greater integration of health and care services can bring many benefits to patients. The regulator is consulting on draft guidance that makes clear Monitor can take action if providers block efforts to deliver joined-up care for patients.
This is the first time the regulator has produced guidance to help providers comply with the integrated care condition of the NHS provider licence. The licence is Monitor’s main tool for regulating NHS providers and contains a specific condition requiring providers not to block the delivery of integrated care when it can benefit patients.
Monitor’s new guidance sets out core principles - such as working effectively with other health and social care organisations locally in order to identify and improve ways of delivering person-centred, coordinated care for patients.
The guidance also gives examples of situations which might lead to action from the regulator. These include:
Monitor is now seeking feedback on the guidance from providers, commissioners, patients and others.
This is the first time the regulator has produced guidance to help providers comply with the integrated care condition of the NHS provider licence. The licence is Monitor’s main tool for regulating NHS providers and contains a specific condition requiring providers not to block the delivery of integrated care when it can benefit patients.
Monitor’s new guidance sets out core principles - such as working effectively with other health and social care organisations locally in order to identify and improve ways of delivering person-centred, coordinated care for patients.
The guidance also gives examples of situations which might lead to action from the regulator. These include:
- failing to work with commissioners to identify how local services can be better coordinated
- refusing to discuss with other providers the use of shared care plans for patients who need to be treated by more than 1 NHS provider
- allowing unnecessary delays in the handover of patient records when a patient moves from one provider to another
Monitor is now seeking feedback on the guidance from providers, commissioners, patients and others.
Progress in improving cancer services and outcomes in England
Progress in improving cancer services and outcomes in England The Department of Health, its arms length bodies and the NHS have made progress in improving cancer services since 2010, according to the National Audit Office. However, significant variations in outcomes and access to services persist across England, indicating that there is considerable scope for further improvement.
Since the NAO last reported on cancer services, in 2010, overall outcomes for cancer patients have continued to improve. For example, the proportion of people surviving for one year and five years after diagnosis has increased to 69% (for those diagnosed in 2012) and 49% (for those diagnosed in 2008) respectively. However, data on 5-year survival rates published in 2013 (for those diagnosed between 2000 and 2007) showed that survival rates remained about 10% lower than the European average.
Since the NAO last reported on cancer services, in 2010, overall outcomes for cancer patients have continued to improve. For example, the proportion of people surviving for one year and five years after diagnosis has increased to 69% (for those diagnosed in 2012) and 49% (for those diagnosed in 2008) respectively. However, data on 5-year survival rates published in 2013 (for those diagnosed between 2000 and 2007) showed that survival rates remained about 10% lower than the European average.
Quality first: Managing workload to deliver safe patient care: Guidance for GPs in England, Wales and Northern Ireland
Quality first: Managing workload to deliver safe patient care Guidance for GPs in England, Wales and Northern Ireland The aim of this guidance is to help practices to manage their workload and work
efficiently within safe and competent limits. British Medical Association
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efficiently within safe and competent limits. British Medical Association
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- GP workload is getting worse, says BMA British Medical Association
- BMA guidance tells GPs how to refuse unfunded work GP Online
The Invisible Patients Revealing the state of neurology services January 2015
The Invisible Patients Revealing the state of neurology services January 2015 A report of NHS neurological services shows a wide variation across the country and "an alarming lack of understanding" around neurological patients and their needs. The Neurological Alliance
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Right from the start: what we want from the new government
Right from the start: what we want from the new government This report outlines some of the challenges disabled children, young people and their families face. It calls for the next government to address these issues and highlights integrated care and respite care as key actions to be taken to improve the lives of disabled children and their families. Every Disabled Child Matters
More than 400,000 extra A&E visits
More than 400,000 extra A&E visits The number of A&E visits in England has soared by more than 400,000 so far this financial year, doctors tell MPs. BBC News
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- VIDEO: More than 400,000 extra A&E visits BBC News
- AUDIO: Three days in a hospital stock room BBC News
- It could take FIVE YEARS to solve problems causing A&E crisis despite an extra 400,000 emergency visits in eight months The Daily Mail
- 92-year-old RAF veteran forced to wait more than 26 HOURS in A&E The Daily Mail
- A&E crisis caused by NHS 111 phoneline, senior medic suggests The Daily Telegraph
- Labour calls for more GPs in emergency departments GP Online
- A&E nurse: am I on the road to burnout and destruction? The Guardian
- A&E pressures: NHS director faces grilling from MPs The Guardian
- NHS staff are working unpaid to help avert a winter A&E crisis The Independent
- NHS England’s response to media coverage on NHS 111 NHS England
No news is not good news
No news is not good news NHS England's technology funds were supposed to "catalyse" a "technological revolution." But continued delays to the announcement of the outcome of the second fund are leading to disillusion and concern about the future of hard-worked plans. E-Health Insider
Under-80 cancer deaths 'eliminated by 2050' claim
Under-80 cancer deaths 'eliminated by 2050' claim “Cancer deaths will be eliminated for all under 80 by 2050,” The Independent reports. This is the optimistic prediction contained in a paper written by specialists in pharmacy from University College London (UCL).
The paper is an opinion piece (PDF, 2.1Mb) that points out that deaths from the most common cancers have fallen by nearly a third in the last two decades. This is due to factors such as the decline in smoking, more effective early diagnosis, and better drug and surgical treatments. However, it argues that a further reduction in death rates requires more advances in areas such as screening, genetic testing, cancer awareness programmes and innovative treatments.
It claims that further advances in prevention are needed, including the use of aspirin to reduce the risk of colorectal cancer and more effective treatment for late-stage cancers, so that people with advanced diseases can continue to live fulfilling lives.
In particular, it says that "winning the cancer war" depends on reforming a healthcare culture that discourages the reporting of "minor" symptoms that can indicate a serious disease, since all cancers are most effectively treated at an early stage.
The paper is an opinion piece (PDF, 2.1Mb) that points out that deaths from the most common cancers have fallen by nearly a third in the last two decades. This is due to factors such as the decline in smoking, more effective early diagnosis, and better drug and surgical treatments. However, it argues that a further reduction in death rates requires more advances in areas such as screening, genetic testing, cancer awareness programmes and innovative treatments.
It claims that further advances in prevention are needed, including the use of aspirin to reduce the risk of colorectal cancer and more effective treatment for late-stage cancers, so that people with advanced diseases can continue to live fulfilling lives.
In particular, it says that "winning the cancer war" depends on reforming a healthcare culture that discourages the reporting of "minor" symptoms that can indicate a serious disease, since all cancers are most effectively treated at an early stage.
NHS to improve opportunities for black and minority ethnic staff
NHS to improve opportunities for black and minority ethnic staff Workforce race equality standard in response to evidence that BME staff under-represented in NHS leadership and over-represented in disciplinary hearings
Whereas 17% of all NHS staff identify as non-white, only 8% on higher grades do so. The proportion is lower still in very senior management and at board level. Around 20% of NHS nurses but only 3% of nursing directors are from black or minority ethnic (BME) backgrounds.
Last year my company, Public World, published Discrimination by appointment, which drew upon data from 30 NHS trusts showing that, in all but one of them, over a 12-month period the percentage of BME appointments was lower than the percentage shortlisted, which in turn was lower than the percentage of BME applicants. Continue reading... The Guardian
Whereas 17% of all NHS staff identify as non-white, only 8% on higher grades do so. The proportion is lower still in very senior management and at board level. Around 20% of NHS nurses but only 3% of nursing directors are from black or minority ethnic (BME) backgrounds.
Last year my company, Public World, published Discrimination by appointment, which drew upon data from 30 NHS trusts showing that, in all but one of them, over a 12-month period the percentage of BME appointments was lower than the percentage shortlisted, which in turn was lower than the percentage of BME applicants. Continue reading... The Guardian
Ambulance crew who left body on floor ‘thought it was normal practice’
Ambulance crew who left body on floor ‘thought it was normal practice’ Inquest hears that East of England ambulance crews failed to take bodies directly to hospital on seven previous occasions
Ambulance staff who left the dead body of a man on the floor so they could finish their shift on time understood it was common practice to do so, an inquest was told on Wednesday.
James Harrison, who collapsed and died on the street in Littleport, Cambridgeshire, was left in a local ambulance station for another crew to take to the mortuary at Addenbrooke’s hospital, Cambridge. Continue reading The Guardian
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Ambulance staff who left the dead body of a man on the floor so they could finish their shift on time understood it was common practice to do so, an inquest was told on Wednesday.
James Harrison, who collapsed and died on the street in Littleport, Cambridgeshire, was left in a local ambulance station for another crew to take to the mortuary at Addenbrooke’s hospital, Cambridge. Continue reading The Guardian
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GPs to be offered £1bn in new funds if they improve access and elderly care
GPs to be offered £1bn in new funds if they improve access and elderly care NHS England makes £250m-a-year infrastructure cash available for renovating doctors’ surgeries, subject to targets being met
Family doctors will have to increase the number of appointments they offer and improve their care of older patients in order to share in a new £1bn NHS fund to overhaul crumbling GP surgeries.
NHS bosses have decided that England’s 8,500 GP practices must offer patients more time with doctors and expand the services they offer in return for receiving some of the money. Continue reading... The Guardian
Family doctors will have to increase the number of appointments they offer and improve their care of older patients in order to share in a new £1bn NHS fund to overhaul crumbling GP surgeries.
NHS bosses have decided that England’s 8,500 GP practices must offer patients more time with doctors and expand the services they offer in return for receiving some of the money. Continue reading... The Guardian
Lack of exercise is twice as deadly as obesity, Cambridge University finds
Lack of exercise is twice as deadly as obesity, Cambridge University finds Even a small amount of exercise, such as brisk daily 20 minute walk, reduces the risk of premature death. The Daily Telegraph
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Wednesday, 14 January 2015
Former deputy Prime Minister shocked by conditions at Northampton General Hospital
Former deputy Prime Minister shocked by conditions at Northampton General Hospital Former deputy Prime Minister John Prescott said he was left shocked by the conditions at Northampton General Hospital (NGH) during a visit to see his ill sister. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
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MPs renew cross-party bid for extra Kettering General Hospital funding
MPs renew cross-party bid for extra Kettering General Hospital funding Our three MPs have put party allegiances aside to present a united front in the battle for more funding for Kettering General Hospital. Northamptonshire Telegraph
Are we destined for a Korean health care system as Labour suggests?
Are we destined for a Korean health care system as Labour suggests? There can be no doubt that election season has well and truly started, with the NHS as one of its central issues. Emma Spencelayh looks at Labour's document 'The NHS as you know it cannot survive five more years of David Cameron' and analyses the content. The Health Foundation
‘Unsocial hours’ pay arrangements need to be restructured in support of seven-day NHS service improvements
‘Unsocial hours’ pay arrangements need to be restructured in support of seven-day NHS service improvements Unsocial hours payments in the NHS need to be restructured, along with a range of other inhibitors to change, to help provide a better, safer and more responsive service for patients. NHS Employers.
Assessment of NHS foundation trusts’ 5-year strategic plans
Assessment of NHS foundation trusts’ 5-year strategic plans This document summarises NHS trusts' 5-year strategic plans as part of Monitor's planning round for 2014-15.
Poor state of diabetes care “costing lives and money”
Poor state of diabetes care “costing lives and money” The poor state of diabetes healthcare in England is leading to avoidable deaths, record rates of complications and huge costs to the NHS, according to a report published by Diabetes UK
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- Poor diabetes care 'costing lives' BBC News
Ebola care centre for pregnant women
Ebola care centre for pregnant women First treatment centre specialising in care for pregnant women opens. BBC News
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NHS staff lose N3 internet access
NHS staff lose N3 internet access Internet access through the NHS National Network, the secure broadband network for the NHS in England, was unavailable to many health service staff for several hours today in a major failure. E-Health Insider
GPs are failing to properly treat obesity, study finds
GPs are failing to properly treat obesity, study finds Records reveal lack of intervention and follow-up. OnMedica
Ambulances held back from terminally ill patients to save money
Ambulances held back from terminally ill patients to save money Shadow health secretary Andy Burnham said thousands of 999 calls had been downgraded by ambulance bosses – meaning they turned up late to 57 patients who died. The Daily Mail
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How cancer death rates have dropped since 1991
How cancer death rates have dropped since 1991 Cancer death rates are dropping, but what are the reasons? The Daily Telegraph
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- Under-80s cancer deaths 'eradicated within 30 years': Death rates from most common cancers will continue to drop, report claims The Daily Mail
- By 2050 no one under 80 will be dying from cancer, study says The Daily Telegraph
- Cancer deaths will be eliminated for all except the over-80s by 2050, new research predicts The Independent
NHS bed blocking doubles, costing public purse £640m
NHS bed blocking doubles, costing public purse £640m The number of healthy hospital patients who have concluded treatment but cannot be discharged has almost doubled with an expected cost to the public of £640 million. The Daily Telegraph
Tuesday, 13 January 2015
Students working for free at Northampton General Hospital face court action after refusing to pay £10 a day for parking
Students working for free at Northampton General Hospital face court action after refusing to pay £10 a day for parking Students who work in Northampton General Hospital (NGH) without pay are facing court action after failing to pay parking charges which were raised from £1 to £10 per day. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
NHS increases budget for cancer drugs fund from £280 million in 2015/15 to an expected £340 million in 2015/16
NHS increases budget for cancer drugs fund from £280 million in 2015/15 to an expected £340 million in 2015/16 The NHS Cancer Drugs Fund (CDF) published the outcome of its review of drugs included in the Fund.
The budget for the CDF will grow from £200 million in 2013/14, to £280 million in 2014/15, and an estimated £340 million from April 2015. This represents a total increase of 70 per cent since August 2014.
The CDF review announced today also will create projected savings of approximately £80 million through a combination of negotiated price reductions and improved clinical effectiveness. If action had not been taken to review the CDF drugs list, the Fund is projected to have grown to around £420 million next year, necessitating offsetting cuts in other aspects of cancer treatment such as radiotherapy, cancer diagnoses, cancer surgery, and other important NHS services for other patient groups.
The budget for the CDF will grow from £200 million in 2013/14, to £280 million in 2014/15, and an estimated £340 million from April 2015. This represents a total increase of 70 per cent since August 2014.
The CDF review announced today also will create projected savings of approximately £80 million through a combination of negotiated price reductions and improved clinical effectiveness. If action had not been taken to review the CDF drugs list, the Fund is projected to have grown to around £420 million next year, necessitating offsetting cuts in other aspects of cancer treatment such as radiotherapy, cancer diagnoses, cancer surgery, and other important NHS services for other patient groups.
Dozens died during 999 downgrade
Dozens died during 999 downgrade Dozens of patients whose 999 calls were downgraded by an ambulance emergency centre later died, a report reveals. BBC News
Ebola nurse no longer critically ill
Ebola nurse no longer critically ill UK nurse Pauline Cafferkey is no longer critically ill with Ebola, London's Royal Free Hospital says. BBC News
Circle's withdrawal from Hinchingbrooke hospital is no cause for celebration
Circle's withdrawal from Hinchingbrooke hospital is no cause for celebration The failing privately-run NHS hospital is back in public hands, but those celebrating another outsourcing fiasco are missing a larger problem
The announcement that Circle has withdrawn from its contract to run Hinchingbrooke hospital after the Care Quality Commission put it into “special measures” has predictably delighted those who are against outsourcing NHS services to the private sector.
But patients and the public should not rejoice at Circle’s decision. The hospital was in a financial mess and faced with closure when Circle took it over three years ago. Its debts were £39m on a turnover of £73m and Circle agreed to eliminate the debt and leave the NHS with several million pounds to spare. It planned to achieve this by reducing running costs by 5% a year, a total saving of £311m over the 10-year contract. Continue reading... The Guardian
The announcement that Circle has withdrawn from its contract to run Hinchingbrooke hospital after the Care Quality Commission put it into “special measures” has predictably delighted those who are against outsourcing NHS services to the private sector.
But patients and the public should not rejoice at Circle’s decision. The hospital was in a financial mess and faced with closure when Circle took it over three years ago. Its debts were £39m on a turnover of £73m and Circle agreed to eliminate the debt and leave the NHS with several million pounds to spare. It planned to achieve this by reducing running costs by 5% a year, a total saving of £311m over the 10-year contract. Continue reading... The Guardian
Charities offer to help out in A&E to relieve pressure on staff
Charities offer to help out in A&E to relieve pressure on staff Some of Britain’s leading charities will urge the Government to let them make a “radical intervention” at accident and emergency (A&E) departments in a bid to relieve crippling pressure on medical staff. The Independent
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Fall in life expectancy raises alarm amid fears that cuts and pressure on NHS may be to blame for earlier deaths
Fall in life expectancy raises alarm amid fears that cuts and pressure on NHS may be to blame for earlier deaths Health officials are investigating a “statistically significant, sustained” decline in life expectancy among elderly people in some parts of England, amid warnings that cuts to social care and pressures on the NHS may be contributing to earlier deaths. The Independent
Monday, 12 January 2015
Northampton General Hospital and Kettering General Hospital will share services
Northampton General Hospital and Kettering General Hospital will share services Health bosses have named four hospital departments which currently exist at both NGH and KGH, that may in future be provided from only one county hospital. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
NHS launches new bid to beat cancer and save thousands of lives
NHS launches new bid to beat cancer and save thousands of lives NHS England has announced a new independent taskforce to develop a five-year action plan for cancer services that will improve survival rates and save thousands of lives.
It also launched a major new programme to test innovative ways of diagnosing cancer more quickly at more than 60 sites across the country, and committed a further £15m over three years to evaluate and treat patients with a type of modern radiotherapy.
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It also launched a major new programme to test innovative ways of diagnosing cancer more quickly at more than 60 sites across the country, and committed a further £15m over three years to evaluate and treat patients with a type of modern radiotherapy.
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- NHS aims for earlier cancer diagnosis BBC News
- VIDEO: 'We must plan ahead on cancer' BBC News
- VIDEO: Cancer task force looks at diagnosis BBC News
- VIDEO: Chemotherapy on your doorstep BBC News
- Cancer worries? Forget the GP, go straight to the specialist The Independent
Case study on recruiting band 5 nurses from overseas
Case study on recruiting band 5 nurses from overseas In this case study read about Kent Community Health NHS Trust’s overseas recruitment campaign for band 5 nurses. NHS Employers
A&E waits in England 'getting worse'
A&E waits in England 'getting worse' Waiting times in A&E units in England have got even worse in the New Year, figures show. BBC News
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E-Referrals set for 'extended testing'
E-Referrals set for 'extended testing' The Health and Social Care Information Centre will start extended testing of the new NHS e-Referral Service at the end of the month, after its go-live was delayed due to technical defects. E-Health Insider
Cancer Drugs Fund faces renewed barrage of criticism
Cancer Drugs Fund faces renewed barrage of criticism Comments come ahead of next week’s NHS England review of the Fund’s assessment priorities. OnMedica
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- How do we pay for innovative drugs? BBC News
- 'Last hope' drug for prostate cancer patients is axed from the NHS, in a move doctors call a 'travesty' The Daily Mail
- The cancer drugs patients are to be denied on NHS The Daily Telegraph
- David Cameron’s flagship Cancer Drugs Fund ‘is a waste of NHS cash’ The Guardian
- Cancer drugs fund 'has done more harm than good' The Independent
Government says health workers should not be paid extra for weekend shifts
Government says health workers should not be paid extra for weekend shifts Hospital consultants and other NHS staff must no longer be paid overtime payments for working at weekends, ministers have warned, putting the Government on a collision course with medical unions. The Independent
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- NHS staff ‘unsocial hours’ payments under threat The Guardian
Circle Holdings pulls out of NHS contract hours before hospital it ran was rated 'inadequate'
Circle Holdings pulls out of NHS contract hours before hospital it ran was rated 'inadequate' The first private company to be put in charge of an NHS hospital has announced plans to withdraw from its contract, hours before inspectors recommended the hospital be placed in special measures because of “inadequate” care. The Independent
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- First ever private firm to run NHS hospital pulls out ahead of inspection report - blaming soaring costs, funding cuts and A&E chaos The Daily Mail
- Battle with GPs led to Circle’s retreat from Hinchingbrooke hospital The Guardian
- Our health system has too little market; but while Circle walks away the NHS can’t The Guardian
- Private healthcare provider bows out of running Hinchingbrooke Hospital OnMedica
Friday, 9 January 2015
Corby healthcare is ‘most under-funded in England’
Corby healthcare is ‘most under-funded in England’ Corby has the worst-funded health group in the country, an influential House of Commons committee has said. Northamptonshire Telegraph
We shouldn’t just blame sheer weight of traffic for NHS queues this winter
We shouldn’t just blame sheer weight of traffic for NHS queues this winter Conference calls and escalation meetings don't solve flow problems across hospitals, including A&E - we need to look ahead to solve the problems downstream, says Glen Burley. The Health Foundation
Funding healthcare: making allocations to local areas report
Funding healthcare: making allocations to local areas report The slow progress towards target funding allocations means the Government has not fulfilled its policy objective of equal access for equal need.
In 2014-15, nearly two-fifths of clinical commissioning groups and over three-quarters of local authorities remain more than 5 percentage points above or below their target funding allocations. Funding for clinical commissioning groups varies from £137 per person below target to £361 per person above target. This has important implications for the financial sustainability of the health service as underfunded clinical commissioning groups are more likely to be in financial deficit: 19 of the 20 groups with the tightest financial positions at 31 March 2014 had received less than their target funding allocation.
The Department and NHS England explained that there are trade-offs between moving commissioners more quickly towards their target funding allocations and safeguarding the stability of local health economies, and that making quicker progress would involve real-terms reductions in funding for some areas. However, the National Audit Office calculated that, if the slow pace of change were to continue, it would take around 80 years for all local commissioners to get close to their target funding allocations. NHS England said that it wanted to make faster progress and that it aimed to move all clinical commissioning groups to within 5 percentage points of their target allocations within around two years. For public health allocations to local authorities, the Department said that decisions, including the pace of change, were a matter for the government of the day. Public Accounts Select Committee
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In 2014-15, nearly two-fifths of clinical commissioning groups and over three-quarters of local authorities remain more than 5 percentage points above or below their target funding allocations. Funding for clinical commissioning groups varies from £137 per person below target to £361 per person above target. This has important implications for the financial sustainability of the health service as underfunded clinical commissioning groups are more likely to be in financial deficit: 19 of the 20 groups with the tightest financial positions at 31 March 2014 had received less than their target funding allocation.
The Department and NHS England explained that there are trade-offs between moving commissioners more quickly towards their target funding allocations and safeguarding the stability of local health economies, and that making quicker progress would involve real-terms reductions in funding for some areas. However, the National Audit Office calculated that, if the slow pace of change were to continue, it would take around 80 years for all local commissioners to get close to their target funding allocations. NHS England said that it wanted to make faster progress and that it aimed to move all clinical commissioning groups to within 5 percentage points of their target allocations within around two years. For public health allocations to local authorities, the Department said that decisions, including the pace of change, were a matter for the government of the day. Public Accounts Select Committee
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Research and analysis: Winter health watch summary: 8 January 2015
Research and analysis: Winter health watch summary: 8 January 2015 Syndromic surveillance indicators for respiratory infections, including influenza-like illness, decreased in children during week 1, however there were further increases in adults, particularly in the elderly.
GP consultations for severe asthma and lower respiratory tract infection continued to increase in adults, and are currently at levels higher than compared to recent years.
In week 1 2015 (ending 4 January), influenza levels are now higher than the peak of flu activity observed in the last 3 seasons, but have not reached the levels seen in the last notable seasons of 2010 to 2011 and 2008 to 2009. The Department of Health has issued an alert on the prescription of antiviral medicines by GPs.
The number of laboratory reports of norovirus in the season to date is similar to the five year seasonal average (from season 2009 and 2010 to season 2013 and 2014). Public Health England
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GP consultations for severe asthma and lower respiratory tract infection continued to increase in adults, and are currently at levels higher than compared to recent years.
In week 1 2015 (ending 4 January), influenza levels are now higher than the peak of flu activity observed in the last 3 seasons, but have not reached the levels seen in the last notable seasons of 2010 to 2011 and 2008 to 2009. The Department of Health has issued an alert on the prescription of antiviral medicines by GPs.
The number of laboratory reports of norovirus in the season to date is similar to the five year seasonal average (from season 2009 and 2010 to season 2013 and 2014). Public Health England
See also:
- Flu cases 'highest for three years' BBC News
- The mutant strain of flu that's making the winter jab useless: Doctors fear type is contributing to significant rise in admissions to A&E The Daily Mail
- NHS crisis: Mutating flu virus means more cases will join queues at already stretched A&Es The Independent
A rapid synthesis of the evidence on interventions supporting self-management for people with long-term conditions
A rapid synthesis of the evidence on interventions supporting self-management for people with long-term conditions The aim of this research was to undertake a rapid, systematic overview of the evidence on self-management support for long-term conditions to inform health-care commissioners and providers about what works, for whom, and in what contexts. NHS National Institute for Health Research
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- Reducing Care Utilisation through Self-management Interventions (RECURSIVE): a systematic review and meta-analysis NHS National Institute for Health Research
Private firm pulls out of hospital
Private firm pulls out of hospital The company which became the first private firm to manage an NHS hospital says it is looking to "withdraw from its current contract". BBC News
Ebola: A day with the burial team
Ebola: A day with the burial team The teams burying the Ebola victims in Sierra Leone. BBC News
New 'game-changing' antibiotic discovered
New 'game-changing' antibiotic discovered “New class of antibiotic could turn the tables,” on antibiotic resistance, The Guardian reports and is just one of many headlines proclaiming the discovery of a “super-antibiotic”. For once, such enthusiastic headlines might be largely justified.
The study in the spotlight shows the discovery of a new antibiotic, teixobactin, and is exciting for two main reasons.
Firstly, teixobactin proved effective against certain types of drug-resistant bacteria such as MRSAand tuberculosis (TB) in mice models. The way it works, by attacking cell walls rather than proteins, also suggested that bacteria would have a hard time evolving around its effects to develop resistance. This is the first potentially new antibiotic in over 20 years.
Secondly, the mechanism of discovery is potentially revolutionary. The research team used a device known as an iChip to make bacteria in soil “lab-ready” for use. Previously, only 1% of the organisms in soil could be grown and studied in the laboratory. This leaves 99% of bacteria as an untapped source of new antibiotics useful to people. Unlocking this natural reservoir of antibiotic production could potentially lead to the discovery of many more antibiotics in the future.
We now need to wait for tests on humans to make sure that teixobactin works and is safe. Also, teixobactin only appears to be effective against a subset of bacteria (Gram-positive bacteria), so is not a cure-all for Gram-negative bacterial infections, which include E.coli.
This is genuinely exciting news, but only time will tell whether this is a historical moment of similar magnitude to that of Alexander Fleming’s original discovery of penicillin in 1928.
The study in the spotlight shows the discovery of a new antibiotic, teixobactin, and is exciting for two main reasons.
Firstly, teixobactin proved effective against certain types of drug-resistant bacteria such as MRSAand tuberculosis (TB) in mice models. The way it works, by attacking cell walls rather than proteins, also suggested that bacteria would have a hard time evolving around its effects to develop resistance. This is the first potentially new antibiotic in over 20 years.
Secondly, the mechanism of discovery is potentially revolutionary. The research team used a device known as an iChip to make bacteria in soil “lab-ready” for use. Previously, only 1% of the organisms in soil could be grown and studied in the laboratory. This leaves 99% of bacteria as an untapped source of new antibiotics useful to people. Unlocking this natural reservoir of antibiotic production could potentially lead to the discovery of many more antibiotics in the future.
We now need to wait for tests on humans to make sure that teixobactin works and is safe. Also, teixobactin only appears to be effective against a subset of bacteria (Gram-positive bacteria), so is not a cure-all for Gram-negative bacterial infections, which include E.coli.
This is genuinely exciting news, but only time will tell whether this is a historical moment of similar magnitude to that of Alexander Fleming’s original discovery of penicillin in 1928.
Vast majority of practices 'good' as CQC publishes latest ratings
Vast majority of practices 'good' as CQC publishes latest ratings The CQC has published its biggest batch of GP inspections ratings yet, as inspection reports for just over 50 GP providers were released on Thursday. GP Online
NHS trusts will have to make tough choices about their future
NHS trusts will have to make tough choices about their future Unviable finances could see the strongest providers being pushed to support struggling organisations
Kailash Chand: 2014 was the year the cracks began to show in the NHS
Many trusts have already failed in their first aim for 2015 – to keep out of the election campaign headlines. But the sheer number of trusts taking emergency measures such as opening extra beds is now so large that it has become more of a badge of honour than a reason for regulators to begin investigations.
Nonetheless, the brutality already evident in the tone of the political debate in the run-up to polling day means trust leaders are more sensitive than ever to incidents that could put them at the centre of a national controversy. That thinking will dominate the next four months. Continue reading... The Guardian
Kailash Chand: 2014 was the year the cracks began to show in the NHS
Many trusts have already failed in their first aim for 2015 – to keep out of the election campaign headlines. But the sheer number of trusts taking emergency measures such as opening extra beds is now so large that it has become more of a badge of honour than a reason for regulators to begin investigations.
Nonetheless, the brutality already evident in the tone of the political debate in the run-up to polling day means trust leaders are more sensitive than ever to incidents that could put them at the centre of a national controversy. That thinking will dominate the next four months. Continue reading... The Guardian
Thursday, 8 January 2015
Healthwatch Northamptonshire say winter pressure on county hospitals is intense
Healthwatch Northamptonshire say winter pressure on county hospitals is intense Healthwatch Northamptonshire has been informed of the current pressures at both Kettering General Hospital and Northampton General Hospital.
Both hospitals are currently experiencing very high demand for services following an increase in patients with respiratory conditions and complex conditions requiring urgent hospital admission. Northampton Herald and Post
Both hospitals are currently experiencing very high demand for services following an increase in patients with respiratory conditions and complex conditions requiring urgent hospital admission. Northampton Herald and Post
See also:
- Trolleys carrying waiting A&E patients lined corridors at Northampton General Hospital Northampton Chronicle and Echo
- Sixty Dutch nurses taken on by Northampton General Hospital Northampton Chronicle and Echo
- HOSPITAL CRISIS: Northampton General Hospital forced into 'red alert' as it struggles to cope with patient numbers Northampton Herald and Post Northampton General Hospital cancels operations due to 'busiest winter ever recorded' in county Northampton Herald and Post
- KGH on black alert during busiest winter on record Northamptonshire Telegraph
NHS England’s Medical Director launches search for pioneering healthcare innovators
NHS England’s Medical Director launches search for pioneering healthcare innovators Sir Bruce Keogh, NHS England’s Medical Director, today launched the NHS Innovation Accelerator programme.
Together with hosts UCLPartners and The Health Foundation, NHS England is inviting healthcare pioneers from around the world to apply to develop and scale their tried and tested innovations across parts of the NHS.
The programme will focus on the conditions and cultural change needed to enable the NHS to adopt innovations at scale and pace, aiming to improve outcomes and give patients more equitable access to the latest products, services and technology.
Together with hosts UCLPartners and The Health Foundation, NHS England is inviting healthcare pioneers from around the world to apply to develop and scale their tried and tested innovations across parts of the NHS.
The programme will focus on the conditions and cultural change needed to enable the NHS to adopt innovations at scale and pace, aiming to improve outcomes and give patients more equitable access to the latest products, services and technology.
'Game-changing' antibiotic find
'Game-changing' antibiotic find The decades-long drought in the search for new antibiotics to tackle drug-resistant infections could be over, after a breakthrough by US scientists. BBC News
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See also:
'Outrage' at NHS cancer drugs move
'Outrage' at NHS cancer drugs move Two drug companies have attacked a decision to remove their treatments from a special fund designed to give access to new therapies in England. BBC News
See also:
See also:
- Anger as fund cuts six breast cancer drugs The Daily Mail
Patients 'getting stuck in hospital'
Patients 'getting stuck in hospital' Hospitals are reporting they are facing problems discharging patients as they struggle to cope with A&E pressures. BBC News
See also:
See also:
- AUDIO: A&E doctor: We can't turn people away BBC News
- VIDEO: Addenbrooke's declares 'major incident' BBC News
- 'Just busy and performing well? Crisis, more like': Outraged A&E consultant blasts David Cameron's 'lies' about the state of the NHS and challenges him to a debate about the escalating crisis The Daily Mail
- A&E crisis: foreign nurses and untrained volunteers drafted in to plug dangerous shortfall The Daily Telegraph
- ‘Bedblockers’: the fit-to-leave patients deepening hospital crisis The Guardian
- The Secret Doctor: A&E is run on pure fear: how much more can we take? The Guardian
- Cameron accuses Miliband of seeking to ‘weaponise’ the NHS during election The Guardian
- Corporate feasting will devour the NHS The Guardian
- Why is the NHS in trouble? Seven reasons why A&Es are struggling The Guardian
- NHS crisis: Extra cash is not reaching critical areas effectively The Independent
- Health secretary summoned to Commons to explain A&E crisis OnMedica
GPs to be audited for performance on sepsis care
GPs to be audited for performance on sepsis care Part of package of measures to step up efforts to curb human and financial costs of ‘hidden killer’. OnMedica
Litigation reform could save NHS billions, argues medical defence body
Litigation reform could save NHS billions, argues medical defence body Spiralling costs of settling legal claims can no longer be ignored, says MDU. OnMedica
Is the new CQC rating system consistent across health and social care?
Is the new CQC rating system consistent across health and social care? Three adult social care providers have been rated ‘outstanding’, but two in three hospitals are seen as falling short. The Guardian
Wednesday, 7 January 2015
Kettering Hospital misses waiting time target in A&E
Kettering Hospital misses waiting time target in A&E Kettering Hospital is missing national waiting time targets in A&E, because of huge pressure on its services over the winter. Northamptonshire Telegraph
NHS England publishes Health Visiting Service Specification 2015-16
NHS England publishes Health Visiting Service Specification 2015-16 NHS England has published the new health visiting (HV) service specification for 2015-16. NHS Employers
The rich picture: people with cancer
The rich picture: people with cancer This document is a collation of the key available evidence about the numbers, needs and experiences of people affected by cancer. It finds that 2.5 million people today are living with cancer in the UK, an increase of over half a million over the past five years. It argues that this increase puts huge pressure on the NHS, which will have difficulty coping unless urgent action is taken by all political parties. Macmillan Cancer Support
Cameron defends NHS as A&E units record worst-ever performance
Cameron defends NHS as A&E units record worst-ever performance PM criticises scaremongering as eight more hospitals declare they underwent a major or significant incident this winter
David Cameron has been forced to defend the performance of the embattled health service as official figures showed accident and emergency units in England recording their worst-ever performance.
The prime minister’s intervention coincided with eight more hospitals declaring they had undergone a major or significant incident, taking the total reported so far this winter to 15, as the early stages of the election campaign headed into territory traditionally favourable to Labour. Continue reading... The Guardian
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David Cameron has been forced to defend the performance of the embattled health service as official figures showed accident and emergency units in England recording their worst-ever performance.
The prime minister’s intervention coincided with eight more hospitals declaring they had undergone a major or significant incident, taking the total reported so far this winter to 15, as the early stages of the election campaign headed into territory traditionally favourable to Labour. Continue reading... The Guardian
See also:
- Government response: NHS accident and emergency figures Department of Health
- Winter NHS services – where the extra funding is going NHS England
- RCN responds to winter A&E figures Royal College of Nursing
- Labour urges summit to find A&E 'fix' BBC News
- VIDEO: Why are hospital A&Es struggling? BBC News
- VIDEO: Emergency care system 'confusing' BBC News
- A&E: Does missing the target matter? BBC News
- VIDEO: Hunt responds to patients' A&E woes BBC News
- 9th hospital declares 'major incident' in NHS A&E crisis as another issues plea to off-duty nurses The Daily Mail
- Political point-scoring will not help the NHS The Daily Telegraph
- NHS waiting times: Which of the 15 promises have been broken under the Coalition? The Daily Telegraph
- A&E crisis: hospitals tweet pleas for off-duty staff to report for duty The Daily Telegraph
- GPs under pressure as A&E waits worst for a decade GP Online
- Hospitals crisis: what the experts think The Guardian
- Hospital A&E waiting times hit worst level on record The Guardian
- NHS four-hour wait time target in A&E met in 90% of cases Jeremy Hunt The Guardian
- A&E consultant: 'The system is at its limit' video The Guardian
- How did your NHS trust perform over the worst week for waiting times? The Guardian
- NHS in critical condition as A&E waiting times are worst in a decade The Independent
- System changes needed as A&E pressures hit new high OnMedica
Ebola drug trial starts in Liberia
Ebola drug trial starts in Liberia A trial of a potential drug to treat Ebola has started at a Medecins Sans Frontieres centre in Liberia. BBC News
Stevens calls for digital NHS front door
Stevens calls for digital NHS front door NHS England chief executive Simon Stevens has called for the creation of a digital urgent care 'front door' for the health service, as the performance of A&E has become an early general election issue. E-Health Insider
Why common cold may thrive at low temperatures
Why common cold may thrive at low temperatures The “common cold 'prefers cold noses',” reports BBC News today, while The Independent recommends that you “heed your mother’s warning: cover up or you’ll catch a cold”.
While these headlines might make you think this study is proof of a link between colder temperatures outside and catching a cold, this isn’t quite what the researchers looked at.
Our nasal passages are naturally a few degrees colder than the core of our body. It has long been known that rhinovirus – the most common cause of the human cold – grows much better at these lower temperatures.
The current study has looked at why this might be. It found that mouse airway cells were less able to mount immune defences against the cold virus at the lower temperature seen in the human nose than at the higher temperature seen at the core of the body.
While this study may suggest a possible explanation for the known effect of temperature on cold viruses, it is very early stage research, testing just one strain of rhinovirus in mouse cells. The experiments will need to be repeated with different strains and ideally with human airway cells.
Also, while the authors speculate about whether this could explain beliefs around the impact of cold environmental temperatures on catching a cold, and wrapping up warm to prevent a cold, this study didn't actually assess this.
While these headlines might make you think this study is proof of a link between colder temperatures outside and catching a cold, this isn’t quite what the researchers looked at.
Our nasal passages are naturally a few degrees colder than the core of our body. It has long been known that rhinovirus – the most common cause of the human cold – grows much better at these lower temperatures.
The current study has looked at why this might be. It found that mouse airway cells were less able to mount immune defences against the cold virus at the lower temperature seen in the human nose than at the higher temperature seen at the core of the body.
While this study may suggest a possible explanation for the known effect of temperature on cold viruses, it is very early stage research, testing just one strain of rhinovirus in mouse cells. The experiments will need to be repeated with different strains and ideally with human airway cells.
Also, while the authors speculate about whether this could explain beliefs around the impact of cold environmental temperatures on catching a cold, and wrapping up warm to prevent a cold, this study didn't actually assess this.
Exclusive: NHS to increase PR spend in 2014/15 by up to 38%
Exclusive: NHS to increase PR spend in 2014/15 by up to 38% NHS organisations are on course to increase spending on public relations and communications staff by up to 38% in 2014/15, according to analysis by GP. GP Online
31% GP trainee pay cut could deepen recruitment crisis
31% GP trainee pay cut could deepen recruitment crisis The government's plans to significantly cut GP trainee pay could 'exacerbate existing workforce shortages' and make general practice an impossible career option for some trainees, the BMA has warned. GP Online
Teaching unions warn of self-harm epidemic among students
Teaching unions warn of self-harm epidemic among students An epidemic of self-harm is blighting the lives of students across the country, with schools unable to offer assistance due to a shortage of support services, teaching unions have warned. The Independent
Tuesday, 6 January 2015
'Worst winter' postpones operations
'Worst winter' postpones operations Two hospitals in Northamptonshire are having to re-arrange routine operations and outpatient appointments because of the "busiest winter ever". BBC Northamptonshire
See also:
See also:
- Northampton General Hospital cancels operations and calls in community medics to cope with winter demands Northampton Chronicle and Echo
- People asked to avoid Kettering Hospital A&E after unprecedented demand for services Northamptonshire Telegraph
Integration: put people first
Integration: put people first Any push toward integration should begin with the experience of the person who needs support and the promotion of their wellbeing, says Patrick Hall. The Health Foundation
Mental health treatment requirement: a guide to integrated delivery
Mental health treatment requirement: a guide to integrated delivery This non-statutory guidance seeks to provide support to service commissioning and provider agencies so that appropriate mental health service provision and inter-agency partnerships enable mental health treatment requirements delivery locally. Department of Health
The first year: the Independent Information Governance Oversight Panel’s report to the Secretary of State for Health
The first year: the Independent Information Governance Oversight Panel’s report to the Secretary of State for Health This report looks at whether health and social care organisations are sharing information wisely and preventing improper disclosure of personal data. It shows evidence of pockets of exemplary practice but the overall picture is of a need for improvement. It concludes that a basic condition for building public trust is a commitment to more transparency about how data is collected, stored and used. It argues that individuals must also be able to opt out of data sharing arrangements and be confident that their wishes are being respected consistently across the system. Department of Health
Making local health economies work better for patients
Making local health economies work better for patients This report summarises the findings of NHS England, Monitor and the NHS Trust Development Authority’s joint project to support 11 local health economies to develop clinically and financially sustainable 5-year strategic plans. Monitor
A&E performance 'to hit new low'
A&E performance 'to hit new low' A&E waiting times in England have fallen to their worst level for a decade, figures out later are expected to show. BBC News
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See also:
Are most cancers down to 'bad luck'?
Are most cancers down to 'bad luck'? "Most types of cancer can be put down to bad luck rather than risk factors such as smoking," BBC News reports. A US study estimates around two-thirds of cancer cases are caused by random genetic mutations.
The researchers who carried out the study wanted to see why cancer risk varies so much between different body tissues.
For example, the average lifetime risk of lung cancer is around 1 in 14, whereas brain cancer risk is significantly lower at around 1 in 166.
The study estimates around two-thirds (65%) of cancer risk is a result of chance, based on the number of times stem cells divide in the different tissues.
However, this figure could be anywhere between 39% and 81%. This is quite a large margin of error, reducing the accuracy and reliability of the 65% estimate.
Overall, this gives us a clearer idea of the possible relative effects of chance versus lifestyle, versus genetics on our risk of developing cancer over our lifetimes.
But none of this can predict whether individuals will or will not develop cancer.
Even if the majority of cancers are the result of a bad roll of the dice, there are still proven methods of reducing the risk: namely, eating a healthy balanced diet and leading an active lifestyle free of smoking and excess alcohol.
The researchers who carried out the study wanted to see why cancer risk varies so much between different body tissues.
For example, the average lifetime risk of lung cancer is around 1 in 14, whereas brain cancer risk is significantly lower at around 1 in 166.
The study estimates around two-thirds (65%) of cancer risk is a result of chance, based on the number of times stem cells divide in the different tissues.
However, this figure could be anywhere between 39% and 81%. This is quite a large margin of error, reducing the accuracy and reliability of the 65% estimate.
Overall, this gives us a clearer idea of the possible relative effects of chance versus lifestyle, versus genetics on our risk of developing cancer over our lifetimes.
But none of this can predict whether individuals will or will not develop cancer.
Even if the majority of cancers are the result of a bad roll of the dice, there are still proven methods of reducing the risk: namely, eating a healthy balanced diet and leading an active lifestyle free of smoking and excess alcohol.
Pharmacists do not want to verify prescription exemptions
Pharmacists do not want to verify prescription exemptions The government wants pharmacists to check patients’ benefit status to cut prescription fraud. OnMedica
Secret scandal of faulty NHS equipment that kills hundreds of patients a year
Secret scandal of faulty NHS equipment that kills hundreds of patients a year In 2013, there were 13,600 reports of failed devices to the watchdog, the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) — these were linked to 309 deaths and 5,000 serious injuries. The Daily Mail
A new year’s resolution for the NHS: let’s deliver a new leadership approach
A new year’s resolution for the NHS: let’s deliver a new leadership approach Sir Stuart Rose’s upcoming report on NHS leadership may be uncomfortable reading but it could be the impetus to affect change in the health service.
Sir Stuart Rose’s delayed report into leadership in the NHS is expected soon. The mirror he holds up to the NHS will feel uncomfortable in places. As we gaze into it, it is human nature that we will be drawn to any blemishes but must not lose sight of the finer points of NHS Leadership – the sheer guts, resilience, inspiration and ingenuity we see from home to hospital and board to ward every single day. It’s these points that will see us through but only if we redefine and embrace a new set of relationships between government, national bodies and local leaders.
Back in May, alongside national organisations representing patients, doctors, local government and NHS leaders, the NHS Confederation published the 2015 Challenge Declaration. The declaration, designed to kickstart a proper debate on the NHS, was an evidence based statement of the seven big challenges we face. At the heart of the seven were a triumvirate of defining a new leadership style; delivering an open and engaged culture; and creating a 21st century workforce. Continue reading... The Guardian
Sir Stuart Rose’s delayed report into leadership in the NHS is expected soon. The mirror he holds up to the NHS will feel uncomfortable in places. As we gaze into it, it is human nature that we will be drawn to any blemishes but must not lose sight of the finer points of NHS Leadership – the sheer guts, resilience, inspiration and ingenuity we see from home to hospital and board to ward every single day. It’s these points that will see us through but only if we redefine and embrace a new set of relationships between government, national bodies and local leaders.
Back in May, alongside national organisations representing patients, doctors, local government and NHS leaders, the NHS Confederation published the 2015 Challenge Declaration. The declaration, designed to kickstart a proper debate on the NHS, was an evidence based statement of the seven big challenges we face. At the heart of the seven were a triumvirate of defining a new leadership style; delivering an open and engaged culture; and creating a 21st century workforce. Continue reading... The Guardian
NHS chief: New cities will have 'virtual' NHS where visiting GPs is an 'alien concept'
NHS chief: New cities will have 'virtual' NHS where visiting GPs is an 'alien concept' Simon Stevens, the head of the NHS, says new towns will build 'digital health services' with most contact with GPs done by Skype and iPhone. The Daily Telegraph
Cancer survivors can cause ‘unmanageable crisis’ for NHS
Cancer survivors can cause ‘unmanageable crisis’ for NHS A record 2.5 million people are now living with cancer or the after-effects of it, threatening “a crisis of unmanageable proportions” for the NHS, a leading charity has warned. The Independent
See also:
See also:
- 2.5 million people now living with cancer in UK Macmillan Cancer Support
- Cancer cases to reach 'record high' BBC News
- VIDEO: Record number 'living with cancer' BBC News
- Cancer 'becoming a crisis of unimaginable proportions' The Daily Telegraph
Monday, 5 January 2015
Northamptonshire medics laid-off through redundancy were replaced within weeks
Northamptonshire medics laid-off through redundancy were replaced within weeks The two full-time Band Six podiatrists lost their jobs last April as part of a shake-up of the service by bosses at NHS Northamptonshire Healthcare (NHFT).
Unknown to the two staff members, NHS was bidding for funding to keep them in post.
And it has now emerged that weeks after they were given their notice, the funding was granted and their roles were re-advertised.
The news came as a Freedom of Information request showed that in 2011/12, redundancy costs totalled £2.8m followed by £5.5 million the following year. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Unknown to the two staff members, NHS was bidding for funding to keep them in post.
And it has now emerged that weeks after they were given their notice, the funding was granted and their roles were re-advertised.
The news came as a Freedom of Information request showed that in 2011/12, redundancy costs totalled £2.8m followed by £5.5 million the following year. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Life-saving baby screening expanded
Life-saving baby screening expanded Newborn babies across England will be screened for more rare, debilitating genetic diseases from today. BBC News
See also:
See also:
- Babies to be screened for more gene disorders The Independent
Hospitals declare major incident
Hospitals declare major incident Two hospitals in Gloucestershire declare a major incident, due to the high number of people using their A&E departments. BBC News
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