Guidance to support the introduction of access and waiting time standards for mental health services in 2015/16
This guidance is aimed at CCGs and how new access and waiting time standards for mental health services are to be introduced. It explains the case for change in four areas and sets out the expectations of local commissioners for delivery during the year ahead working with providers and other partners.
Monday, 16 February 2015
NHS England publishes latest Assuring Transformation data
NHS England publishes latest Assuring Transformation data
NHS England has today published the latest quarterly Assuring Transformation data that tracks progress on moving people with learning disabilities and/or autism from in-patient to community settings.
The figures at 31 December 2014 show a reduction in the overall number of people with learning disabilities and /or autism in in-patient settings.
The data also shows that more people (1,561) now have a transfer date to a community setting and almost two thirds of these are within the next 12 months.
This follows the recent publication of the Next Steps report, developed jointly by the key national partners across health and social care, to do more to improve services for people with learning disabilities and/or autism over the coming months.
The work, led by NHS England, the Local Government Association (LGA), the Association of Adult Social Services (ADASS), the Care Quality Commission (CQC), Health Education England (HEE) and the Department of Health (DH), will substantially reduce the number of people in hospitals and ensure that care is delivered in community settings, closer to home.
NHS England has today published the latest quarterly Assuring Transformation data that tracks progress on moving people with learning disabilities and/or autism from in-patient to community settings.
The figures at 31 December 2014 show a reduction in the overall number of people with learning disabilities and /or autism in in-patient settings.
The data also shows that more people (1,561) now have a transfer date to a community setting and almost two thirds of these are within the next 12 months.
This follows the recent publication of the Next Steps report, developed jointly by the key national partners across health and social care, to do more to improve services for people with learning disabilities and/or autism over the coming months.
The work, led by NHS England, the Local Government Association (LGA), the Association of Adult Social Services (ADASS), the Care Quality Commission (CQC), Health Education England (HEE) and the Department of Health (DH), will substantially reduce the number of people in hospitals and ensure that care is delivered in community settings, closer to home.
NHS Commissioning
For more details on the latest data, including the detailed analysis, see Assuring Transformation data.
For more details on the latest data, including the detailed analysis, see Assuring Transformation data.
VIDEO: Lung cancer breath test trialled
VIDEO: Lung cancer breath test trialled
Scientists in Cambridge have developed a revolutionary device that could be used to detect lung cancer on a person's breath.
Scientists in Cambridge have developed a revolutionary device that could be used to detect lung cancer on a person's breath.
BBC News
Tests begin on 'traffic light pacemaker' that could revolutionise heart treatment
Tests begin on 'traffic light pacemaker' that could revolutionise heart treatment
Scientists are to begin work on a revolutionary “traffic light pacemaker” that controls the beating of damaged hearts using blue and yellow fibre optic lights inside the body.
Scientists are to begin work on a revolutionary “traffic light pacemaker” that controls the beating of damaged hearts using blue and yellow fibre optic lights inside the body.
Independent
Fastest rise in scarlet fever cases for half a century
Fastest rise in scarlet fever cases for half a century
Britain is facing an outbreak of scarlet fever, with infection rates rising rapidly and the disease spreading faster than at any time in half a century.
Britain is facing an outbreak of scarlet fever, with infection rates rising rapidly and the disease spreading faster than at any time in half a century.
Independent
20,000 winter operations cancelled at last minute, admits NHS
20,000 winter operations cancelled at last minute, admits NHS
Number of surgical procedures called off in the last three months of 2014 up by almost a quarter in the last year
Almost 20,000 patients had their operations cancelled at the last minute in the last three months of 2014 as the NHS struggled to cope with the onset of winter causing overcrowded A&Es and bed shortages.
Number of surgical procedures called off in the last three months of 2014 up by almost a quarter in the last year
Almost 20,000 patients had their operations cancelled at the last minute in the last three months of 2014 as the NHS struggled to cope with the onset of winter causing overcrowded A&Es and bed shortages.
Guardian
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Expert patients
Expert patients
It argues that greater patient engagement could both improve outcomes and reduce costs and presents four case studies of successful patient engagement.
It argues that greater patient engagement could both improve outcomes and reduce costs and presents four case studies of successful patient engagement.
NHS Networks
Friday, 13 February 2015
Northampton General Hospital aiming to attract millions of pounds worth of private patients to NHS
Northampton General Hospital aiming to attract millions of pounds worth of private patients to NHS
Millions of pounds worth of surgery performed by private hospitals is to be targeted by Northampton General Hospital bosses.
Millions of pounds worth of surgery performed by private hospitals is to be targeted by Northampton General Hospital bosses.
Northampton Chronicle & Echo
Doctor involved in ‘failings’ of care of Northampton toddler declared fit to practise
Doctor involved in ‘failings’ of care of Northampton toddler declared fit to practise
A medical tribunal has ruled that a doctor is ‘fit to practise’ despite finding that she was responsible for a series of failings in the care of a Northampton toddler who died of dehydration.
A medical tribunal has ruled that a doctor is ‘fit to practise’ despite finding that she was responsible for a series of failings in the care of a Northampton toddler who died of dehydration.
Northampton Chronicle & Echo
Is 'special measures' working?
Is 'special measures' working?
This report provides the first analysis of the impact that the intervention of ‘special measures’ has had on mortality rates at the 11 hospital trusts placed under these measures following Professor Sir Bruce Keogh’s review into standards of care in 2013. The analysis finds that the pattern of mortality rates at the 11 trusts as a group is significantly different to the rest of the country and that this is not something that might have happened by chance.
This report provides the first analysis of the impact that the intervention of ‘special measures’ has had on mortality rates at the 11 hospital trusts placed under these measures following Professor Sir Bruce Keogh’s review into standards of care in 2013. The analysis finds that the pattern of mortality rates at the 11 trusts as a group is significantly different to the rest of the country and that this is not something that might have happened by chance.
Exercise is a 'miracle cure staring us in the face', doctors say
Exercise is a 'miracle cure staring us in the face', doctors say
Regular exercise is a “miracle cure staring us in the face” that can dramatically cut our risk of cancer, dementia, heart disease and diabetes, leading doctors have said. Independent
Regular exercise is a “miracle cure staring us in the face” that can dramatically cut our risk of cancer, dementia, heart disease and diabetes, leading doctors have said. Independent
Expert patients
Expert patients
This research explores how patients can be more engaged in their health and more involved in their healthcare. It argues that greater patient engagement could both improve outcomes and reduce costs and presents four case studies of successful patient engagement.
This research explores how patients can be more engaged in their health and more involved in their healthcare. It argues that greater patient engagement could both improve outcomes and reduce costs and presents four case studies of successful patient engagement.
Children and young people to get more say in their health care
Children and young people to get more say in their health care
The move comes as NHS England has announced seven sites across the country chosen to develop patient centred outcome measures (PCOMs) for children and young people with a range of health conditions.
It involves putting patients, and their families and carers, at the heart of deciding which goals are most valuable for them.
As well as psychological interventions as part of medical treatment, and mental health conditions such as self-harming and eating disorders, children will be consulted on illnesses such as asthma, complex respiratory conditions, palliative care and on use of wheelchair and posture services.
The move comes as NHS England has announced seven sites across the country chosen to develop patient centred outcome measures (PCOMs) for children and young people with a range of health conditions.
It involves putting patients, and their families and carers, at the heart of deciding which goals are most valuable for them.
As well as psychological interventions as part of medical treatment, and mental health conditions such as self-harming and eating disorders, children will be consulted on illnesses such as asthma, complex respiratory conditions, palliative care and on use of wheelchair and posture services.
Delays in moving patients from A&E to hospital could cause 'hundreds of deaths a year'
Delays in moving patients from A&E to hospital could cause 'hundreds of deaths a year'
“Exit block” in A&E departments is leading to “hundreds of deaths per year” in the UK, the Royal College of Emergency Medicine (RCEM) has warned, ahead of the publication of latest waiting times figures for England.
“Exit block” in A&E departments is leading to “hundreds of deaths per year” in the UK, the Royal College of Emergency Medicine (RCEM) has warned, ahead of the publication of latest waiting times figures for England.
Independent
News story: Crime Prevention Minister announces mandatory reporting of FGM
News story: Crime Prevention Minister announces mandatory reporting of FGM
The government has tabled amendments to the Serious Crime Bill to ensure the new duty is legislated for ahead of the dissolution of Parliament. The government will also include a measure to provide multi-agency statutory guidance for front line professionals.
The move follows a public consultation which sought views from a wide range of professionals, community groups, survivors and law enforcement on how a mandatory reporting duty could work and who it should apply to. A summary of responses to the consultation has also been published today.
The intention to introduce the measure was announced by the Prime Minister at the Girl Summit 2014, the first global summit to mobilise domestic and international efforts to end FGM within a generation.
The government has tabled amendments to the Serious Crime Bill to ensure the new duty is legislated for ahead of the dissolution of Parliament. The government will also include a measure to provide multi-agency statutory guidance for front line professionals.
The move follows a public consultation which sought views from a wide range of professionals, community groups, survivors and law enforcement on how a mandatory reporting duty could work and who it should apply to. A summary of responses to the consultation has also been published today.
The intention to introduce the measure was announced by the Prime Minister at the Girl Summit 2014, the first global summit to mobilise domestic and international efforts to end FGM within a generation.
HRT can increase a woman's chances of developing ovarian cancer, research shows
HRT can increase a woman's chances of developing ovarian cancer, research shows
Women going through the menopause who take hormone replacement therapy (HRT) are putting themselves at a greater risk of ovarian cancer, Oxford University researchers have said. Guardian
Women going through the menopause who take hormone replacement therapy (HRT) are putting themselves at a greater risk of ovarian cancer, Oxford University researchers have said. Guardian
Thursday, 12 February 2015
New discharge suite opens to improve patient flow
New discharge suite opens to improve patient flow
A new discharge suite has opened at Northampton General Hospital this week to help free up beds on wards.
A new discharge suite has opened at Northampton General Hospital this week to help free up beds on wards.
NGH News
Cardiac rehab services return to Daventry and South Northants
Cardiac rehab services return to Daventry and South Northants
Cardiac patients living in Daventry and South Northamptonshire are set to benefit from rehabilitation services closer to home. From Thursday, cardiac rehabilitation services including education and exercise programmes will be delivered from Danetre Hospital.
Cardiac patients living in Daventry and South Northamptonshire are set to benefit from rehabilitation services closer to home. From Thursday, cardiac rehabilitation services including education and exercise programmes will be delivered from Danetre Hospital.
NGH News
NHS whistleblowers report: reactions from the healthcare sector
NHS whistleblowers report: reactions from the healthcare sector
Sir Robert Francis’s inquiry into the treatment of NHS whistleblowers has prompted strong reactions from the government and sector professionals
Sir Robert Francis’s inquiry into the treatment of NHS whistleblowers has prompted strong reactions from the government and sector professionals
Guidance: Culture change in the NHS
Guidance: Culture change in the NHS
This report shows that a great deal has been achieved since Sir Robert Francis’s public inquiry into Mid Staffs, and that the improvements made since must be sustained and embedded for the future and applied equally and rigorously across all sectors of the health and care system.
Each chapter sets out the main areas where further action is needed to ensure that safe, effective and compassionate care is the norm.
The supporting annex sets out in detail the substantial progress made against the 290 recommendations of the Francis report.
This report shows that a great deal has been achieved since Sir Robert Francis’s public inquiry into Mid Staffs, and that the improvements made since must be sustained and embedded for the future and applied equally and rigorously across all sectors of the health and care system.
Each chapter sets out the main areas where further action is needed to ensure that safe, effective and compassionate care is the norm.
The supporting annex sets out in detail the substantial progress made against the 290 recommendations of the Francis report.
Department of Health
You can also see progress against the recommendations in a fully searchable online version
You can also see progress against the recommendations in a fully searchable online version
Open consultation: Updating the NHS Constitution
Open consultation: Updating the NHS Constitution
The NHS Constitution sets out:
rights to which patients, public and staff are entitled
responsibilities owed to each other to ensure the NHS operates fairly and effectively.
This consultation proposes to amend the NHS Constitution to respond to recommendations made by Sir Robert Francis QC and to:
give greater prominence to mental health
reflect the importance of access to transparent and comparable data
include the Armed Forces Covenant
reflect the new fundamental standards in April 2015
The NHS Constitution sets out:
rights to which patients, public and staff are entitled
responsibilities owed to each other to ensure the NHS operates fairly and effectively.
This consultation proposes to amend the NHS Constitution to respond to recommendations made by Sir Robert Francis QC and to:
give greater prominence to mental health
reflect the importance of access to transparent and comparable data
include the Armed Forces Covenant
reflect the new fundamental standards in April 2015
Department of Health
How the role of clinical research nurses in the NHS has changed
How the role of clinical research nurses in the NHS has changed
The last 10 to 15 years have seen a significant shift in clinical research in the health service – it is now a mainstream activity with a large workforce
How is the role of nursing changing? Live discussion
When people imagine nurses, it could be Florence Nightingale or Mary Seacole, or the nurses working in GP surgeries or on busy hospital wards. They are less likely to think about the growing body of NHS nurses who specialise in clinical research to develop next generation treatments.
Dr Susan Hamer, workforce development director at the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Clinical Research Network, says that the last 10-15 years have seen a significant shift in clinical research in the NHS. Instead of “being a bit of a hobby”, it is now a mainstream activity with a large workforce of the NIHR Clinical Research Network sponsored clinical research nurses (CRNs) – about 4,000-strong - who support, manage and lead trials.
The last 10 to 15 years have seen a significant shift in clinical research in the health service – it is now a mainstream activity with a large workforce
How is the role of nursing changing? Live discussion
When people imagine nurses, it could be Florence Nightingale or Mary Seacole, or the nurses working in GP surgeries or on busy hospital wards. They are less likely to think about the growing body of NHS nurses who specialise in clinical research to develop next generation treatments.
Dr Susan Hamer, workforce development director at the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Clinical Research Network, says that the last 10-15 years have seen a significant shift in clinical research in the NHS. Instead of “being a bit of a hobby”, it is now a mainstream activity with a large workforce of the NIHR Clinical Research Network sponsored clinical research nurses (CRNs) – about 4,000-strong - who support, manage and lead trials.
There's 'no point' telling obese people to exercise more, doctors claim
There's 'no point' telling obese people to exercise more, doctors claim
Expecting all obese people to lose weight solely by “eating less and moving more” misunderstands the nature of the condition and will never solve the obesity epidemic, leading doctors have said.
Expecting all obese people to lose weight solely by “eating less and moving more” misunderstands the nature of the condition and will never solve the obesity epidemic, leading doctors have said.
Independent
Obesity adviser rejects conflict of interest claim
Obesity adviser rejects conflict of interest claim
Researchers defend Prof Susan Jebb after journal says food companies funded 10 projects in which she was involved
The government’s leading obesity adviser has strongly denied suggestions from a medical journal that her independence has been compromised by taking funding from the sugar and other food industries for research projects.
The British Medical Journal says many public health scientists have links to the sugar industry, including Prof Susan Jebb, chair of the government’s Responsibility Deal food network.
Researchers defend Prof Susan Jebb after journal says food companies funded 10 projects in which she was involved
The government’s leading obesity adviser has strongly denied suggestions from a medical journal that her independence has been compromised by taking funding from the sugar and other food industries for research projects.
The British Medical Journal says many public health scientists have links to the sugar industry, including Prof Susan Jebb, chair of the government’s Responsibility Deal food network.
Sign up for NHS Change Day 2015!
Sign up for NHS Change Day 2015!
The countdown has begun to NHS Change Day 2015 on March 11.
Chief Executive Simon Stevens made this year’s first pledge telling staff who gathered at Skipton House in London he would: “Help drive through change for people with learning disabilities”.
He added: “I fully support this campaign which is a remarkable social movement for change.”
It is hoped that Change Day 2015 can surpass both the 189,000 pledges of action made in 2013 and the phenomenal 500,000 made by individuals, teams and whole organisations last year.
The countdown has begun to NHS Change Day 2015 on March 11.
Chief Executive Simon Stevens made this year’s first pledge telling staff who gathered at Skipton House in London he would: “Help drive through change for people with learning disabilities”.
He added: “I fully support this campaign which is a remarkable social movement for change.”
It is hoped that Change Day 2015 can surpass both the 189,000 pledges of action made in 2013 and the phenomenal 500,000 made by individuals, teams and whole organisations last year.
Advice on secret care home filming
Advice on secret care home filming
Guidance is being issued about the use of hidden cameras to monitor the care of people in hospital and care homes in England. BBC News
Guidance is being issued about the use of hidden cameras to monitor the care of people in hospital and care homes in England. BBC News
The false or misleading information offence: guidance for providers
The false or misleading information offence: guidance for providers
The Care Act 2014 has put in place a new criminal offence applicable to care providers who supply, publish or otherwise make available certain types of information that is false or misleading, where that information is required to comply with a statutory or other legal obligation. The offence also applies to the ‘controlling minds’ of the organisation, where they have consented or connived in an offence committed by a care provider. This guidance sets out the context for the offence and explains how the offence is applied.
Department of Health
Guidance
Department of Health - publications
The Care Act 2014 has put in place a new criminal offence applicable to care providers who supply, publish or otherwise make available certain types of information that is false or misleading, where that information is required to comply with a statutory or other legal obligation. The offence also applies to the ‘controlling minds’ of the organisation, where they have consented or connived in an offence committed by a care provider. This guidance sets out the context for the offence and explains how the offence is applied.
Department of Health
Guidance
Department of Health - publications
News story: Smoking in cars set to become illegal
News story: Smoking in cars set to become illegal
The new rules will come into force on 1 October 2015 and people failing to comply could face a £50 fixed penalty notice. Department of Health
The new rules will come into force on 1 October 2015 and people failing to comply could face a £50 fixed penalty notice. Department of Health
Press release: Secondhand smoke campaign launch coincides with vote ending smoking in cars with children
Press release: Secondhand smoke campaign launch coincides with vote ending smoking in cars with children
Public Health England today (11 February 2015) launches its campaign to highlight the hidden dangers that secondhand smoke in homes and cars can cause to children’s health, coinciding with the passing by Parliament of regulations to end smoking in cars carrying children in England.
Secondhand smoke is particularly harmful to children as they breathe more rapidly and have less developed airways. Children being exposed to secondhand smoke results in more than 300,000 GP consultations and 9,500 hospital admissions every year.
The government estimates that 3 million children in England are exposed to secondhand smoke in their family car, which puts them at risk of serious conditions, including respiratory infections and meningitis and triggering asthma. A survey by the British Lung Foundation found that 86% of children who are exposed to smoking in cars would like the smoker to stop, yet only 31% actually feel able to ask them to do so.
Public Health England today (11 February 2015) launches its campaign to highlight the hidden dangers that secondhand smoke in homes and cars can cause to children’s health, coinciding with the passing by Parliament of regulations to end smoking in cars carrying children in England.
Secondhand smoke is particularly harmful to children as they breathe more rapidly and have less developed airways. Children being exposed to secondhand smoke results in more than 300,000 GP consultations and 9,500 hospital admissions every year.
The government estimates that 3 million children in England are exposed to secondhand smoke in their family car, which puts them at risk of serious conditions, including respiratory infections and meningitis and triggering asthma. A survey by the British Lung Foundation found that 86% of children who are exposed to smoking in cars would like the smoker to stop, yet only 31% actually feel able to ask them to do so.
Launch of flexible retirement hub tools and resources
Launch of flexible retirement hub tools and resources
Our newly launched flexible retirement hub contains a range of tools and resources to support your organisation to make the most of flexible retirement options at a local level. NHS Employers
Our newly launched flexible retirement hub contains a range of tools and resources to support your organisation to make the most of flexible retirement options at a local level. NHS Employers
Wednesday, 11 February 2015
Hospital in Northampton provides ‘good’ care, but uses unsafe restraints on children, report says
Hospital in Northampton provides ‘good’ care, but uses unsafe restraints on children, report says
A Northampton hospital has been graded by inspectors as ‘requires improvement’, a report reveals today, after they found it had failed to meet some management and safety standards and restrained children too often. Northampton Chronicle & Echo
A Northampton hospital has been graded by inspectors as ‘requires improvement’, a report reveals today, after they found it had failed to meet some management and safety standards and restrained children too often. Northampton Chronicle & Echo
NHS staff 'afraid to speak out'
NHS staff 'afraid to speak out'
The head of a review into the treatment of whistleblowers in England, Sir Robert Francis QC, tells the BBC he has heard shocking accounts of suffering by staff who raised concerns. BBC News
The head of a review into the treatment of whistleblowers in England, Sir Robert Francis QC, tells the BBC he has heard shocking accounts of suffering by staff who raised concerns. BBC News
Research and analysis: Health and wellbeing: a guide to community-centred approaches
Research and analysis: Health and wellbeing: a guide to community-centred approaches
Local government and the NHS have important roles in building confident and connected communities as part of efforts to improve health and reduce inequalities.
The project ‘Working with communities: empowerment evidence and learning’ was initiated jointly by PHE and NHS England to draw together and disseminate research and learning on community-centred approaches for health and wellbeing.
This report presents the work undertaken in phase 1 of the project and provides a guide to the case for change, the concepts, the varieties of approach that have been tried and tested and sources of evidence. Public Health England
Local government and the NHS have important roles in building confident and connected communities as part of efforts to improve health and reduce inequalities.
The project ‘Working with communities: empowerment evidence and learning’ was initiated jointly by PHE and NHS England to draw together and disseminate research and learning on community-centred approaches for health and wellbeing.
This report presents the work undertaken in phase 1 of the project and provides a guide to the case for change, the concepts, the varieties of approach that have been tried and tested and sources of evidence. Public Health England
Launch of FGM e-learning resource
Launch of FGM e-learning resource
Next month Health Education England (HEE) will be launching a new e-learning resource designed to improve the knowledge and understanding of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) amongst healthcare professionals in the NHS.
In the lead up to the official launch, HEE encourages everyone to visit the e-lfh.org.uk website to find out about how NHS staff, including school nurses, practice nurses, health visitors and GPs can gain access to this free interactive e-learning resource.
Developed in collaboration with key stakeholders, and supported by the Department of Health’s FGM Prevention team, the material deals with the issues posed by FGM at all stages of a girl or woman’s life, including the impact on physical and emotional health, legal status and referral pathways.
The content has been written by clinicians with real practical experience of working with women and children in this field, supported by a wide range of stakeholders (including survivors).
One aspect of the e-learning particularly focuses on communication to help staff approach the topic sensitively, which is unique to this e-learning programme.
According to the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), there are an estimated 130 million women and girls living with FGM worldwide. Most of these women are located in 29 African countries. In the UK, FGM is increasingly identified amongst migrants from FGM-practising countries. There are an estimated 137,000 women in the UK affected by FGM.
Professor Wendy Reid, Director of Education and Quality and Medical Director, Health Education England, said:
“I am delighted that HEE has taken the initiative to develop the workforce in this way on this hugely important topic.
This e-learning will make a major difference in ensuring healthcare staff in primary, secondary care and schools are much more aware of the issues, how to approach them and where to go and what to do.
The content of this e-learning is nationally endorsed and written by clinicians, so for the first time, addresses real clinical needs in a useful way.” Health Education England
http://www.e-lfh.org.uk/programmes/female-genital-mutilation
Next month Health Education England (HEE) will be launching a new e-learning resource designed to improve the knowledge and understanding of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) amongst healthcare professionals in the NHS.
In the lead up to the official launch, HEE encourages everyone to visit the e-lfh.org.uk website to find out about how NHS staff, including school nurses, practice nurses, health visitors and GPs can gain access to this free interactive e-learning resource.
Developed in collaboration with key stakeholders, and supported by the Department of Health’s FGM Prevention team, the material deals with the issues posed by FGM at all stages of a girl or woman’s life, including the impact on physical and emotional health, legal status and referral pathways.
The content has been written by clinicians with real practical experience of working with women and children in this field, supported by a wide range of stakeholders (including survivors).
One aspect of the e-learning particularly focuses on communication to help staff approach the topic sensitively, which is unique to this e-learning programme.
According to the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), there are an estimated 130 million women and girls living with FGM worldwide. Most of these women are located in 29 African countries. In the UK, FGM is increasingly identified amongst migrants from FGM-practising countries. There are an estimated 137,000 women in the UK affected by FGM.
Professor Wendy Reid, Director of Education and Quality and Medical Director, Health Education England, said:
“I am delighted that HEE has taken the initiative to develop the workforce in this way on this hugely important topic.
This e-learning will make a major difference in ensuring healthcare staff in primary, secondary care and schools are much more aware of the issues, how to approach them and where to go and what to do.
The content of this e-learning is nationally endorsed and written by clinicians, so for the first time, addresses real clinical needs in a useful way.” Health Education England
http://www.e-lfh.org.uk/programmes/female-genital-mutilation
Lung cancer breathalyser to go on trial in NHS hospitals by summer 2015
Lung cancer breathalyser to go on trial in NHS hospitals by summer 2015
A new device that could detect lung cancer from a patient's breath is about to undergo clinical trials in NHS hospitals. Independent
A new device that could detect lung cancer from a patient's breath is about to undergo clinical trials in NHS hospitals. Independent
Care of people with learning disabilities and challenging behaviour
Care of people with learning disabilities and challenging behaviour
This report finds that the government did not meet its goal of transferring people with learning and behavioural conditions from mental hospitals into the community by 1 June 2014. NHS Networks
This report finds that the government did not meet its goal of transferring people with learning and behavioural conditions from mental hospitals into the community by 1 June 2014. NHS Networks
NHS to shut many residential hospitals for people with learning disabilities
NHS to shut many residential hospitals for people with learning disabilities
Health chiefs seek to address failure of previous moves to stop people being placed in hospitals rather than helped to live in community.
The NHS is to shut many of the 58 hospital units in England where people with learning disabilities are still being sent to live despite ministers’ demands that the practice should end in the wake of the Winterbourne View abuse scandal.
Health chiefs intend also to force closure or reform of up to 49 private hospitals that provide long-term accommodation for people with learning disabilities or autism whose behaviour is considered challenging. One company has already been refused a licence to operate. Guardian
Continue reading...
Health chiefs seek to address failure of previous moves to stop people being placed in hospitals rather than helped to live in community.
The NHS is to shut many of the 58 hospital units in England where people with learning disabilities are still being sent to live despite ministers’ demands that the practice should end in the wake of the Winterbourne View abuse scandal.
Health chiefs intend also to force closure or reform of up to 49 private hospitals that provide long-term accommodation for people with learning disabilities or autism whose behaviour is considered challenging. One company has already been refused a licence to operate. Guardian
Continue reading...
Hinchingbrooke Hospital: Britain's only privately run NHS hospital appeals for £10m taxpayer-funded bailout
Hinchingbrooke Hospital: Britain's only privately run NHS hospital appeals for £10m taxpayer-funded bailout
The only NHS hospital run by a private company has asked for a £10m taxpayer-funded bailout. Independent
The only NHS hospital run by a private company has asked for a £10m taxpayer-funded bailout. Independent
Winter death toll is highest for 15 years after millions are given useless flu jab
Winter death toll is highest for 15 years after millions are given useless flu jab
The highest winter death toll for 15 years has followed the flu vaccination fiasco in which millions of people were given useless jabs, official figures showing death rates have soared. Daily Mail
The highest winter death toll for 15 years has followed the flu vaccination fiasco in which millions of people were given useless jabs, official figures showing death rates have soared. Daily Mail
Hearing aids to rationed by crisis-stricken NHS
Hearing aids to rationed by crisis-stricken NHS
Another 41 per cent of trusts will only offer patients one hearing aid unless they specifically ask for two, while after-care checks, staff numbers, and access to appointments have also been cut. Daily Mail
Another 41 per cent of trusts will only offer patients one hearing aid unless they specifically ask for two, while after-care checks, staff numbers, and access to appointments have also been cut. Daily Mail
Tuesday, 10 February 2015
Life-saving stroke team at Northampton General Hospital ‘among best in England’
Life-saving stroke team at Northampton General Hospital ‘among best in England’ Quick care for patients has led to Northampton General Hospital stroke centre being rated among the best in the country in a new report. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
See also:
See also:
- Building on a track record of stroke excellence at Northampton General Hospital Northampton General Hospital
- Sentinel Stroke National Audit Programme Royal College of Physicians
Cancer patient in Northampton launches campaign after funding is cut for drug to treat rare condition
Cancer patient in Northampton launches campaign after funding is cut for drug to treat rare condition A cancer patient in Northampton is campaigning against moves to withdraw funding from a drug that could treat his condition. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Woman bailed over 'FGM conspiracy'
Woman bailed over 'FGM conspiracy' A woman arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit female genital mutilation (FGM) is released on police bail. BBC Northamptonshire
Northampton General Hospital chiefs spend £1.5 million on hiring agency nurses in just three months
Northampton General Hospital chiefs spend £1.5 million on hiring agency nurses in just three months Almost £2 million of taxpayers money has been spent in just three months by Northampton General Hospital chiefs on hiring agency nursing staff to care for patients. Northants Herald and Post
What does it really take to improve patient safety?
What does it really take to improve patient safety? Setting ambitious goals for patient safety without investing in developing systems that are capable of reliably delivering care is like asking drivers to drive vehicles more safely without investing in traffic lights, road signs or well-designed road layouts, says Penny Pereira. The Health Foundation
Guidance: Ebola: public health recommendations for asymptomatic contacts
Guidance: Ebola: public health recommendations for asymptomatic contacts This guidance provides public health recommendations for asymptomatic contacts of an Ebola case in the UK. Public Health England
Warning over new drug-driving law
Warning over new drug-driving law People who have been prescribed powerful anxiety or pain relief drugs are being warned about a new drug-driving law. BBC News
Fiddling figures a jail crime from April
Fiddling figures a jail crime from April NHS directors and senior staff who publish false or misleading information could face a two-year jail sentence as part of a crackdown on cover-ups in the NHS. E-Health Insider
SCR reaches 50m patients
SCR reaches 50m patients The NHS Summary Care Record has reached the 50 million patient mark, with more than 30,000 record views now occurring each week. E-Health Insider
See also:
See also:
- Friends and family test passes 5m landmark NHS England
Five million items of feedback for Friends and Family Test
Five million items of feedback for Friends and Family Test NHS now has largest database of patient opinion in the world. OnMedica
NHS sets aside quarter of its budget for medical negligence claims
NHS sets aside quarter of its budget for medical negligence claims The health service has set aside £26bn to cover medical negligence claims against NHS hospitals, it has emerged. The Daily Telegraph
Doctors' inquiry dismisses 'unreliable' claims over NHS death rates
Doctors' inquiry dismisses 'unreliable' claims over NHS death rates New report has rejected the controversial accusations, made in 2013, that death rates in patients receiving NHS care are 45% higher than in US hospitals.
An inquiry by leading doctors has rejected the controversial claims that death rates in NHS hospitals are far higher than those in the United States.
A report by the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges has dismissed high-profile claims, made in 2013 by Prof Brian Jarman, that 45% more patients die in England because of weaknesses in NHS care, including poorer out-of-hours GP services, long waiting lists and bed shortages. Continue reading... The Guardian
An inquiry by leading doctors has rejected the controversial claims that death rates in NHS hospitals are far higher than those in the United States.
A report by the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges has dismissed high-profile claims, made in 2013 by Prof Brian Jarman, that 45% more patients die in England because of weaknesses in NHS care, including poorer out-of-hours GP services, long waiting lists and bed shortages. Continue reading... The Guardian
'Ludicrous' spending on NHS overseas trips revealed
'Ludicrous' spending on NHS overseas trips revealed An investigation reveals soaring numbers of NHS trips abroad in search of foreign nurses - but one in four of staff hired is gone within a year, The Daily Telegraph
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Monday, 9 February 2015
Northants police hold FGM suspect
Northants police hold FGM suspect A woman has been arrested at Heathrow Airport for conspiracy to commit female genital mutilation (FGM).
The 42-year-old was about to board a flight travelling to Ghana via Amsterdam when she was held by officers carrying out an FGM awareness operation.
The woman, a British national born in Zimbabwe, was taken to a west London police station.
An eight-year-old girl with the woman was taken into social services' care.
The arrested woman was subsequently transferred to Northamptonshire Police who will investigate the case. BBC News
The 42-year-old was about to board a flight travelling to Ghana via Amsterdam when she was held by officers carrying out an FGM awareness operation.
The woman, a British national born in Zimbabwe, was taken to a west London police station.
An eight-year-old girl with the woman was taken into social services' care.
The arrested woman was subsequently transferred to Northamptonshire Police who will investigate the case. BBC News
Ombudsman finds variation in quality of NHS investigations into complaints of avoidable death and avoidable harm
Ombudsman finds variation in quality of NHS investigations into complaints of avoidable death and avoidable harm More than a third of NHS investigations regarding allegations of avoidable harm or avoidable death were inadequate and failed to identify when something had gone wrong, according to a review carried out by the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman.
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See also:
- NHS complaints process 'inadequate' BBC News
- VIDEO: 'Full investigation' when care fails BBC News
- NHS investigations into care complaints 'appalling' The Guardian
Mental Health Act annual report 2013/14
Mental Health Act annual report 2013/14 This report assesses the use of the Mental Health Act and explores the experiences of patients who received care under the act throughout 2013/14. It finds that uses of the MHA have grown by 6% since 2012/13. In CQC's monitoring visits, they found that too often patients were not involved in their own care and treatment and concerns were raised around bed availability and patients being detained too far away from home. Care Quality Commission
3 tests for a credible health policy
3 tests for a credible health policy This paper outlines the actions politicians need to take to maintain and improve the quality of care both now and for the future. It argues that the English NHS needs to focus on maintaining and improving care quality; transforming the way care is delivered in the future; and achieving financial balance. The Health Foundation
Jeremy Hunt orders yearly study of 'avoidable' hospital deaths
Jeremy Hunt orders yearly study of 'avoidable' hospital deaths New plans to reduce the number of "avoidable deaths" in English hospitals have been unveiled by Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt. BBC News
See also:
- Hospitals are told to stop gagging NHS whistleblowers The Daily Mail
- Hunt: Sweeping reforms to end 'NHS cover up culture' The Daily Telegraph
- Jeremy Hunt orders review of 'avoidable' hospital deaths The Guardian
- Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt orders annual review of 'avoidable deaths' in NHS hospitals The Independent
The short run elasticity of National Health Service nurses’ labour supply in Great Britain
The short run elasticity of National Health Service nurses’ labour supply in Great Britain The paper investigates the short run responsiveness of NHS nurses’ labour supply to changes in wages of NHS nurses relative to wages in outside options available to nurses, utilising the panel data aspect of the annual survey of hours and earnings. We find the short run responsiveness of NHS nurses’ labour supply to the relative wage of NHS nurses is positive and statistically significant, albeit economically small, in regions outside the London area. In contrast, in the London region, the short run elasticity is much higher. We discuss the policy implications of these findings. Institute for Fiscal Studies
One in five care homes 'fail key test'
One in five care homes 'fail key test' One in five care homes for older people in England fail to meet national standards set by the Care Quality Commission, a report by 5 live suggests. BBC News
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- Care staff 'miss out on minimum pay' BBC News
Flu jab is not a 'waste of time'
Flu jab is not a 'waste of time' “Flu jab given to millions is 'useless',” and "Flu jab is a waste of time," are the irresponsible headlines in The Daily Telegraph and the Daily Mail.
While recent research shows that the current seasonal flu vaccine only has 3% protection against the main circulating strain – A(H3N2) – in adults, it can still protect against other strains.
Both papers also ignore the fact that another version of the flu vaccine, in the form of a nasal spray designed for vulnerable children, is also available.
Discouraging parents of vulnerable children from getting vaccinated could increase the risk of serious childhood illnesses and possible hospitalisation.
While recent research shows that the current seasonal flu vaccine only has 3% protection against the main circulating strain – A(H3N2) – in adults, it can still protect against other strains.
Both papers also ignore the fact that another version of the flu vaccine, in the form of a nasal spray designed for vulnerable children, is also available.
Discouraging parents of vulnerable children from getting vaccinated could increase the risk of serious childhood illnesses and possible hospitalisation.
Public health officials knew months ago about UK flu vaccine mismatch
Public health officials knew months ago about UK flu vaccine mismatch Public Health England says it could not have developed vaccine to protect against new strain in time for winter
Public health officials have conceded that they have been aware for months that the current flu vaccine provides almost no protection against the main strain spreading around the UK.
The strain was first detected by the World Health Organisation last March. But Public Health England said it could not have developed a new vaccine in time to protect against the mutation, which is fuelling a rise in the number of emergency hospital admissions and a death rate a third higher than normal. Continue reading... The Guardian
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Public health officials have conceded that they have been aware for months that the current flu vaccine provides almost no protection against the main strain spreading around the UK.
The strain was first detected by the World Health Organisation last March. But Public Health England said it could not have developed a new vaccine in time to protect against the mutation, which is fuelling a rise in the number of emergency hospital admissions and a death rate a third higher than normal. Continue reading... The Guardian
See also:
- Flu vaccine failing to take the strain Public Health England
- Health bosses knew for six months that flu vaccine was defective The Daily Mail
- UK flu vaccine just 3% effective, health experts warn GP Online
- Next winter’s flu vaccine may not be effective, concedes researcher The Guardian
- Hospital claims it warned last month of mutated flu strain not covered by jab The Guardian
NHS 'special measures' have saved hundreds of lives, say experts
NHS 'special measures' have saved hundreds of lives, say experts The NHS’s unprecedented decision to put 11 trusts into special measures is likely to have saved hundreds of lives, experts have said. Death rates fell at the trusts after the 2013 intervention, spearheaded by NHS England’s medical director Sir Bruce Keogh in the wake of the Mid Staffordshire hospital trust scandal. The Independent
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Canada strikes down ban on assisted suicide
Canada strikes down ban on assisted suicide Canada’s Supreme Court has struck down the country’s 1993 ban on assisted suicide, meaning doctors there can now help mentally competent patients with severe and incurable medical conditions to die. The ruling puts Canada among the few Western countries to permit the practice. The Independent
See also:
See also:
- Canada to allow assisted suicide BBC News
The Digital Health Revolution
The Digital Health Revolution Digital technologies have transformed nearly every aspect of our lives. But for many of us, they haven’t yet improved the way we receive or participate in our health care. This new multimedia essay look at how that's changing with the arrival of new digital tools, from mobile apps and data-driven software solutions to wearable sensors that transmit information to a patient’s team of health care providers. The Commonwealth Fund
Friday, 6 February 2015
Mum from Northampton deemed ‘not an emergency’ by ambulance service after falling down the stairs and blacking out in front of young son
Mum from Northampton deemed ‘not an emergency’ by ambulance service after falling down the stairs and blacking out in front of young son A mother who blacked out and broke her ankle when she fell down stairs had to take herself to hospital after the ambulance deemed her not an emergency - despite having a history of brain injury. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Coalition health reforms damaging and distracting says new review from The King’s Fund
Coalition health reforms damaging and distracting says new review from The King’s Fund A major assessment of the coalition government's record on NHS reform by The King's Fund concludes that the upheaval caused by the Health and Social Care Act has been damaging and distracting.
The new report highlights some positive developments as a result of the Act including closer involvement of GPs in commissioning services, giving local authorities responsibility for public health and the establishment of health and wellbeing boards. However, it criticises the decision to implement complex organisational changes at a time when the NHS should have been focused on tackling growing pressures on services and an unprecedented funding squeeze.
Other key findings from the assessment of the Act are that:
The new report highlights some positive developments as a result of the Act including closer involvement of GPs in commissioning services, giving local authorities responsibility for public health and the establishment of health and wellbeing boards. However, it criticises the decision to implement complex organisational changes at a time when the NHS should have been focused on tackling growing pressures on services and an unprecedented funding squeeze.
Other key findings from the assessment of the Act are that:
- an unwieldy structure has emerged with leadership fractured between several national bodies, a bewilderingly complex regulatory system and a strategic vacuum in place of the system leadership that was previously provided by strategic health authorities
- while claims of widespread privatisation are exaggerated with less than 10 per cent of the NHS budget spent on non-NHS providers, the emphasis on competition has resulted in greater complexity and uncertainty about when contracts should be put out to tender
- despite the intention to devolve decision-making and reduce political interference, the period since the Act was implemented has been characterised by regular ministerial intervention and a continued focus on targets
- responsibility for commissioning has been fragmented between different bodies and NHS England has been slow to establish itself, weighed down by its wide-ranging responsibilities
- although not an explicit aim of the original reforms, progress has been made in developing integrated care and the Care Act 2014 is an important step towards a fairer system for funding social care.
Mental health illness prevalence in criminal justice system a scandal
Mental health illness prevalence in criminal justice system a scandal A new report n policing and mental health says the prevalence of people with mental health illness in the criminal justice system is a scandal. The Home Affairs Committee
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A season of major incidents: what is really causing the A&E crisis this winter?
A season of major incidents: what is really causing the A&E crisis this winter? This briefing identifies 11 factors potentially contributing to emergency departments’ current poor performance. The author also explores the differences between England and Wales, and whether these can be attributed to differences in leadership. Civitas
What are the implications of objections to the 2015/16 tariff?
What are the implications of objections to the 2015/16 tariff? Policy makers and others almost always over-estimate the positive power of payment reforms to improve health systems. The service should focus on the underlying challenge of working together to manage demand and cost pressures, says Anita Charlesworth. The Health Foundation
Investing in children's mental health
Investing in children's mental health The report claims that the return on investment, measured in benefits to the recipients of care, ranges from £3 to £31 for every £1 invested, depending on the intervention. Centre for Mental Health
Press release: Flu vaccine shows low effectiveness against the main circulating strain seen so far this season
Press release: Flu vaccine shows low effectiveness against the main circulating strain seen so far this season New research from has found that the seasonal influenza vaccine has provided low protection this winter against flu infection caused by one particular subtype, H3N2. This is because of a mismatch between the A(H3N2) strain selected for the vaccine this year and the main A(H3N2) strain that has been circulating in the UK this winter. The findings on mid-season flu vaccine effectiveness in the UK are published today in Eurosurveillence.
The research, based on the results from 1,314 patients presenting in primary care across the UK, found that vaccine effectiveness in preventing laboratory confirmed influenza was estimated to be 3% overall. This compares to approximately 50% vaccine effectiveness that has typically been seen in the UK over recent years.
The research, based on the results from 1,314 patients presenting in primary care across the UK, found that vaccine effectiveness in preventing laboratory confirmed influenza was estimated to be 3% overall. This compares to approximately 50% vaccine effectiveness that has typically been seen in the UK over recent years.
Workforce plan for England 2015/16
Workforce plan for England 2015/16 We have published our second Workforce Plan for England, which sets out the £5bn investment we will make in education and training programmes for 2015/16. Health Education England
Findings from ICO audits and reviews of community healthcare providers: June 2013 to December 2014
Findings from ICO audits and reviews of community healthcare providers: June 2013 to December 2014 This report looks at how community healthcare providers approach data protection. Community providers often involve staff working at remote locations or off-site entirely, bringing data protection challenges. The report provides an analysis of data breaches in the sector that shows a trend of information being ‘disclosed in error’ - the report offers tips that aim to help address these problems. Information Commissioner’s Office
Making the sums add up
Making the sums add up What are the effects of giving the NHS the money it wants? BBC News
Exclusive: GPs fight for patient care as treatment requests are denied
Exclusive: GPs fight for patient care as treatment requests are denied GPs are increasingly having to fight to provide the care their patients need, as CCGs clamp down on approvals for treatment funding requests. GP Online
Clinical commissioning must be better resourced to affect change
Clinical commissioning must be better resourced to affect change CCGs have an important role, but require a new sense of purpose in order to make a bigger impact on the NHS
Clinical commissioning is in urgent need of a new sense of direction and purpose as it faces the spectre of yet another round of reorganisation after the general election.
Research by the Nuffield Trust and the King’s Fund into the workings of clinical commissioning groups (CCG) concludes that the future of the clinical role in commissioning “remains fragile”. Interest from CCG leaders is waning, and they do not have the time, money or management support to do their jobs properly. Continue reading... The Guardian
Clinical commissioning is in urgent need of a new sense of direction and purpose as it faces the spectre of yet another round of reorganisation after the general election.
Research by the Nuffield Trust and the King’s Fund into the workings of clinical commissioning groups (CCG) concludes that the future of the clinical role in commissioning “remains fragile”. Interest from CCG leaders is waning, and they do not have the time, money or management support to do their jobs properly. Continue reading... The Guardian
Charity volunteers to help 29 A&E hospital departments
Charity volunteers to help 29 A&E hospital departments Age UK, Red Cross and Royal Voluntary Service to assist as NHS England struggles to cope with unprecedented squeeze on its budget
Charity volunteers are stepping in to help 29 accident and emergency departments that are under the most pressure, as NHS England struggles to cope with the growing demand for care and an unprecedented squeeze on its budget.
Under the scheme announced Thursday, Age UK, Red Cross and the Royal Voluntary Service will provide 700 volunteers for 12 weeks for A&E units in England. Continue reading... The Guardian
Charity volunteers are stepping in to help 29 accident and emergency departments that are under the most pressure, as NHS England struggles to cope with the growing demand for care and an unprecedented squeeze on its budget.
Under the scheme announced Thursday, Age UK, Red Cross and the Royal Voluntary Service will provide 700 volunteers for 12 weeks for A&E units in England. Continue reading... The Guardian
FGM needs to become an old story. Here's how
FGM needs to become an old story. Here's how International Day of Zero Tolerance to FGM: Tanya Barron, chief of charity Plan UK, reflects on the first female genital mutilation case to come through the UK courts - and explains what needs to happen in order to end it once and for all. The Daily Telegraph
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University College Hospital London charging brain cancer patients £6,000 for potentially life-saving treatment, claims source
University College Hospital London charging brain cancer patients £6,000 for potentially life-saving treatment, claims source Brain cancer patients are being denied potentially life-saving treatment at an NHS hospital, unless they pay around £6,000 to use it privately. The Independent
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See also:
- Breakthrough cancer treatment 'only offered to private patients' The Daily Telegraph
Referrals for young transgender people to support services increase fivefold
Referrals for young transgender people to support services increase fivefold The number of teenagers being referred to support services dealing with transgender issues has increased fivefold within four years, new figures have shown. The Independent
Thursday, 5 February 2015
Huge expansion of Northampton General Hospital will depend on performance and finance
Huge expansion of Northampton General Hospital will depend on performance and finance Performance targets as well as balance sheets hold the key to any expansion of the Northampton General Hospital site. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Northampton General Hospital to have 200 new parking spaces by July
Northampton General Hospital to have 200 new parking spaces by July Visitors, patients and staff are to benefit from 200 new car parking spaces at Northampton General Hospital. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
The Commission on Acute Adult Psychiatric Care
The Commission on Acute Adult Psychiatric Care The Commission has been set up by the Royal College of Psychiatrists (RCPsych) in response to widespread concerns about the provision of acute inpatient psychiatric beds and alternatives to admission available for patients.
There is evidence – some quantified, some anecdotal – of difficulties in admissions, variable services for patients in the community, long distance transfers of patients, high occupancy rates and high stress levels amongst patients, their families, carers and staff.
The Commission is independent of RCPsych and is being chaired by Lord Nigel Crisp, former Chief Executive of the NHS in England and Permanent Secretary of the UK Department of Health between 2000 and 2006. It has been asked to review the situation, examine the causes of these pressures and make recommendations for improvement.
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There is evidence – some quantified, some anecdotal – of difficulties in admissions, variable services for patients in the community, long distance transfers of patients, high occupancy rates and high stress levels amongst patients, their families, carers and staff.
The Commission is independent of RCPsych and is being chaired by Lord Nigel Crisp, former Chief Executive of the NHS in England and Permanent Secretary of the UK Department of Health between 2000 and 2006. It has been asked to review the situation, examine the causes of these pressures and make recommendations for improvement.
See also:
- Background briefing paper The Commission to Review the Provision of Acute Inpatient Psychiatric Care for Adults in England, Wales and Northern Ireland
- Commisison launched to review psychiatric care for adults Care Appointments
- UK commission launches review into inpatient psychiatric care PharmaTimes
The cost of short-term planning - £1bn on agency nurses in 2014/15
The cost of short-term planning - £1bn on agency nurses in 2014/15 A new Fontline First report showing an unprecedented rise in the amount the NHS spends on agency nursing staff in England, with a projected spend of at least £980 million on agency nursing staff by the end of this financial year if action is not taken. This is an average of £4.2 million per trust. Royal College of Nursing
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See also:
- Frontline First: Runaway agency spending Royal College of Nursing
- NHS agency nurses spending 'soars' BBC News
- NHS bill for agency nurses will double to £1bn this year The Daily Mail
- NHS spending on agency nurses triples in two years The Daily Telegraph
Tackling a global health crisis: initial steps
Tackling a global health crisis: initial steps The second paper from the Review on Antimicrobial Resistance which includes an assessment of the international AMR research funding landscape, and makes first recommendations for global action to address the challenges of rising drug resistance. This includes the establishment of a global AMR Innovation Fund; steps to help maintain the effectiveness of existing antibiotics; and action to address an emerging skills shortage in this crucial field of research.
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See also:
- Call to boost antibiotics funding BBC News
Consultation: Care Act 2014: cap on care costs and appeals
Consultation: Care Act 2014: cap on care costs and appeals These reforms are part of the Care Act 2014 and are due to come into effect in April 2016. The guidance and regulations associated with the act set out how the act will work in practice.
Find out more and have your say online
This consultation is building on the evidence we gathered as part of our 2013 consultation Caring for our future: implementing funding reform. Department of Health
Find out more and have your say online
This consultation is building on the evidence we gathered as part of our 2013 consultation Caring for our future: implementing funding reform. Department of Health
Viewpoint: Talking about mental health is just the first step
Viewpoint: Talking about mental health is just the first step Talking about mental health is half the battle. BBC News
Doctor not guilty of performing FGM
Doctor not guilty of performing FGM NHS doctor Dhanuson Dharmasena not guilty of performing female genital mutilation on a young mother in London. BBC News
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NHS 111 caught in onward referrals row
NHS 111 caught in onward referrals row A "serious and urgent analysis" of NHS 111 is needed to address concerns that it is creating a higher workload for GPs and A&E departments, the BMA has said. E-Health Insider
Flu and freezing weather may be driving up winter death rates
Flu and freezing weather may be driving up winter death rates "The current death rate in England and Wales is running about one-third higher than its normal rate for this time of year," BBC News reports. A combination of flu and very cold weather may be responsible.
The BBC's story comes from the latest official statistics on deaths in England and Wales. They show that in the last three weeks of January, death rates were significantly higher than predicted for the time of year.
In addition, over the last six weeks a significantly higher than predicted death rate was reported in people aged 65 and above living in England.
Although the cause of these spikes is uncertain, experts point out they coincide with both seasonal increases in respiratory problems – in particular the flu – and the recent cold snap.
The BBC's story comes from the latest official statistics on deaths in England and Wales. They show that in the last three weeks of January, death rates were significantly higher than predicted for the time of year.
In addition, over the last six weeks a significantly higher than predicted death rate was reported in people aged 65 and above living in England.
Although the cause of these spikes is uncertain, experts point out they coincide with both seasonal increases in respiratory problems – in particular the flu – and the recent cold snap.
Exclusive: NHS funding freeze could derail CCG co-commissioning
Exclusive: NHS funding freeze could derail CCG co-commissioning Co-commissioning of primary care by CCGs could be derailed by politicians' failure to commit to increase NHS funding, one of the architects of the plan has warned. GP Online
Mental health: hundreds forced to travel long distances for acute care
Mental health: hundreds forced to travel long distances for acute care Care minister Norman Lamb orders review after figures show more than 400 adults had to travel to hospitals over 30 miles from home
More than 400 adults with acute mental health problems are being forced to seek treatment at hospitals more than 30 miles from their homes, figures show, prompting ministers to order a review.
The figures for England (xls), compiled by the NHS’s Health and Social Care Information Centre (HSCIC), show that in some cases patients from Derbyshire are being treated in south Devon and others from south Devon are being treated in Birmingham. Continue reading... The Guardian
More than 400 adults with acute mental health problems are being forced to seek treatment at hospitals more than 30 miles from their homes, figures show, prompting ministers to order a review.
The figures for England (xls), compiled by the NHS’s Health and Social Care Information Centre (HSCIC), show that in some cases patients from Derbyshire are being treated in south Devon and others from south Devon are being treated in Birmingham. Continue reading... The Guardian
Community pharmacies are an untapped gold mine of data
Community pharmacies are an untapped gold mine of data We should use the rich seams of information lying in community pharmacies to drive improved patient outcomes
Data routinely recorded by pharmacies around the UK could provide physicians, commissioners, public health authorities and the pharmaceutical industry with invaluable insights into the effectiveness of medicines and the behaviour of patients.
Every day, pharmacies around the country gather data on the use of medicines, outcomes, adherence levels and the progress of symptoms. Continue reading... The Independent
Data routinely recorded by pharmacies around the UK could provide physicians, commissioners, public health authorities and the pharmaceutical industry with invaluable insights into the effectiveness of medicines and the behaviour of patients.
Every day, pharmacies around the country gather data on the use of medicines, outcomes, adherence levels and the progress of symptoms. Continue reading... The Independent
Wednesday, 4 February 2015
New waiting area at Northampton General Hopsital aims to free up beds for A&E patients
New waiting area at Northampton General Hopsital aims to free up beds for A&E patients A discharge suite is to open at Northampton General Hospital to help free up beds on the wards. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Northampton MP helps draft law proposal that could help doctors treat terminal illnesses with experimental treatment
Northampton MP helps draft law proposal that could help doctors treat terminal illnesses with experimental treatment A law which could bring doctors closer to discovering cures for cancer and other terminal illnesses could soon be passed with the support of a Northampton MP. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Care services for people with learning disabilities and challenging behaviour
Care services for people with learning disabilities and challenging behaviour The Government has not met its central goal of moving people with learning disabilities and challenging behaviour out of hospital by 1 June 2014, because it underestimated the complexity and level of challenge in meeting the commitments in its action plan.
Following the exposure in May 2011 of abuse of patients at the Winterbourne View Hospital, the Department of Health set out its action plan in the ‘Winterbourne View Concordat’. At the time the Concordat was published in December 2012, the Government had not determined the scale of the challenge involved in increasing the capacity of community placements. According to the NAO, the absence of reliable data on the number of people in mental health hospitals complicated the task of discharging inpatients. At September 2014, there were 2,600 inpatients with learning disabilities in mental health hospitals.
The NAO estimates that, in 2012-13, the NHS spent £557 million on services for inpatients with learning disabilities and challenging behaviour. In addition, local authorities with adult social services responsibilities spent £5.3 billion, in 2013-14, on community services for adults with learning disabilities.
Following the exposure in May 2011 of abuse of patients at the Winterbourne View Hospital, the Department of Health set out its action plan in the ‘Winterbourne View Concordat’. At the time the Concordat was published in December 2012, the Government had not determined the scale of the challenge involved in increasing the capacity of community placements. According to the NAO, the absence of reliable data on the number of people in mental health hospitals complicated the task of discharging inpatients. At September 2014, there were 2,600 inpatients with learning disabilities in mental health hospitals.
The NAO estimates that, in 2012-13, the NHS spent £557 million on services for inpatients with learning disabilities and challenging behaviour. In addition, local authorities with adult social services responsibilities spent £5.3 billion, in 2013-14, on community services for adults with learning disabilities.
Moving services out of hospital: joining up general practice and community services?
Moving services out of hospital: joining up general practice and community services? This report summarises the findings of a rapid review undertaken by PRUComm of the available evidence of what factors should be taken into account in planning for the closer working of primary and community health/care services in order to increase the scope of services provided outside of hospitals. This report was commissioned by the Department of Health to provide background evidence to support policy development on primary and community health care integration. Policy Research Unit in Commissioning and the Healthcare System
What is driving a rise in death rate?
What is driving a rise in death rate? Why are we seeing a higher-than-average death rate? BBC News
See also:
See also:
- Weekly Provisional Figures on Deaths Registered in England and Wales, Week Ending 23/01/2015 Office for National Statistics
- Death rate third higher than average, ONS figures reveal The Daily Telegraph
NHS 111 'increasing pressure on NHS'
NHS 111 'increasing pressure on NHS' There has been a big increase in the number of people referred to GP surgeries and A&E, analysis of the NHS 111 urgent care line in England shows. BBC News
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