Cancer-detecting dogs approved for NHS trial
Animals at specialist charity will undergo evaluation at Milton Keynes hospital after proving 93% effective in detecting odour of prostate tumours
Dogs capable of sniffing out cancer have been approved for use in a trial by the NHS.
The charity Medical Detection Dogs has gained approval from Milton Keynes University Hospital for further trials, after an initial study showed specially trained dogs can detect prostate tumours in urine in 93% of cases. Guardian
Related: Experience: my dog found my cancer
Continue reading...
Monday, 10 August 2015
Iodine pills 'could save NHS money'
Iodine pills 'could save NHS money'
Recommending iodine supplements for all pregnant women could save the NHS money as well as providing overall economic benefits, say researchers. BBC News
Recommending iodine supplements for all pregnant women could save the NHS money as well as providing overall economic benefits, say researchers. BBC News
GMC launches mobile app for doctors’ professional development
GMC launches mobile app for doctors’ professional development
The GMC has launched a mobile app to help doctors manage their continuous professional development. General Medical Council
The GMC has launched a mobile app to help doctors manage their continuous professional development. General Medical Council
Voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) sector review
Voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) sector review
These two consultations aim to inform the debate on the future of voluntary sector involvement in the NHS. The first consultation seeks feedback from respondents from the voluntary and health and social care sectors the current state of partnership working, and how closer collaboration could be fostered. The second seeks views on the role and effectiveness of the government’s current ‘voluntary sector investment partnership’ suite of grants. Both consultations end on 6 November 2015. NHS England
VCSE partnership consultation
VCSE investment consultation
Press release
These two consultations aim to inform the debate on the future of voluntary sector involvement in the NHS. The first consultation seeks feedback from respondents from the voluntary and health and social care sectors the current state of partnership working, and how closer collaboration could be fostered. The second seeks views on the role and effectiveness of the government’s current ‘voluntary sector investment partnership’ suite of grants. Both consultations end on 6 November 2015. NHS England
VCSE partnership consultation
VCSE investment consultation
Press release
Top tips for being an engaging line manager
Top tips for being an engaging line manager
This top tips guide for line managers look at the qualities and behaviours needed to help with fostering good staff engagement and being a successful manager. Latest NHS Employers News
This top tips guide for line managers look at the qualities and behaviours needed to help with fostering good staff engagement and being a successful manager. Latest NHS Employers News
Friday, 7 August 2015
Cuts to public health spending: the falsest of false economies
Cuts to public health spending: the falsest of false economies Back in June, with no prior warning, the Treasury announced that the 2015/16 public health grant to local authorities would be reduced by £200 million. Last week, the Department of Health finally released the consultation on these ‘in-year savings’ (for the rest of us that means cuts).
Given the delay in doing so following the announcement, you’d be forgiven for thinking that it is an extensive, highly technical document setting out complex options. But it’s not – it’s 20 pages, including annexes. So why the delay? Why is the consultation open for just four weeks? And why does it take place in August, when many people are likely to be on leave? Presumably because it is already desperately late to be cutting in-year budgets – suggesting the cut caught the Department of Health by surprise. Not so long ago, the Department was trying to give local authorities planning certainty by issuing multi-year budgets – the contrast between this and an in-year cut could hardly be more stark. The King's Fund
Given the delay in doing so following the announcement, you’d be forgiven for thinking that it is an extensive, highly technical document setting out complex options. But it’s not – it’s 20 pages, including annexes. So why the delay? Why is the consultation open for just four weeks? And why does it take place in August, when many people are likely to be on leave? Presumably because it is already desperately late to be cutting in-year budgets – suggesting the cut caught the Department of Health by surprise. Not so long ago, the Department was trying to give local authorities planning certainty by issuing multi-year budgets – the contrast between this and an in-year cut could hardly be more stark. The King's Fund
Consultants, a seven-day NHS and that petition
Consultants, a seven-day NHS and that petition Its August and the holiday season but even so talks between NHS employers and the British Medical Association have just got under way over the vexed issue of consultants' contracts. BBC News
Evaluation of complex health and care interventions using retrospective matched control methods
Evaluation of complex health and care interventions using retrospective matched control methods The NHS is undertaking a range of initiatives that are introducing new ways of delivering care services to patients. It is becoming increasingly important for policy-makers and decision-makers to understand what works, why it works, and what impact these changes are having on cost and patient outcomes. The Nuffield Trust
The digital doctor report 2015
The digital doctor report 2015 Health systems across Europe are facing challenges with an ageing population, enduring chronic health conditions and limited budgets. Digital health is often cited as the opportunity to help bridge the gap between optimum healthcare delivery and efficiency of service; however this cannot be achieved without healthcare professionals' input and support. In order to keep abreast of these developments and help our clients better tailor their offerings, Ipsos Healthcare has sought to uncover how doctors feel about digital health, and how they see its role developing in the future.
Drugs firms accused of overcharging
Drugs firms accused of overcharging Pharmaceutical firms Pfizer and Flynn Pharma are accused of charging "excessive and unfair" prices for an anti-epilepsy drug by the UK's competition watchdog. BBC News
See also:
See also:
Health regulation system needs radical overhaul, claim
Health regulation system needs radical overhaul, claim The whole system for regulating health and social care in the UK needs to be radically rethought, according to the Professional Standards Authority (PSA), the body that oversees all health regulators. OnMedica
See also:
See also:
- Rethinking regulation Professional Standards Authority
Delay in NHS patients' access to cancer drug labelled a 'disgrace'
Delay in NHS patients' access to cancer drug labelled a 'disgrace' Chief executive of lung cancer charity bemoans likely nine-month wait for immunotherapy drug nivolumab to be approved for NHS use
A delay in access to a drug that has been shown to double the life expectancy of some patients with lung cancer has been described as a “disgrace”.
Paula Chadwick, chief executive of Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation, said patients are unlikely to be able to take immunotherapy drug nivolumab until May 2016 at the earliest, which will be too late for some. Continue reading... The Guardian
See also:
A delay in access to a drug that has been shown to double the life expectancy of some patients with lung cancer has been described as a “disgrace”.
Paula Chadwick, chief executive of Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation, said patients are unlikely to be able to take immunotherapy drug nivolumab until May 2016 at the earliest, which will be too late for some. Continue reading... The Guardian
See also:
- Cancer treatment is delayed for a year by NHS red tape The Daily Mail
Doctors sign letter expressing worry over criminalisation of surgeon
Doctors sign letter expressing worry over criminalisation of surgeon Letter signed by over 300 doctors says CPS is increasingly investigating doctors for alleged negligence over patient deaths, highlighting David Sellu case
More than 300 doctors and other medical staff have signed a letter voicing their disquiet at the criminalisation of a surgeon operating in a private hospital who was held responsible in the courts for the death of a patient.
David Sellu, a colorectal surgeon, was found guilty of gross negligence manslaughter andsentenced to two and a half years in jail in November 2013.
It is vital that the focus is not just on the individual doctor but equally on the system they are working in Continue reading... The Guardian
More than 300 doctors and other medical staff have signed a letter voicing their disquiet at the criminalisation of a surgeon operating in a private hospital who was held responsible in the courts for the death of a patient.
David Sellu, a colorectal surgeon, was found guilty of gross negligence manslaughter andsentenced to two and a half years in jail in November 2013.
It is vital that the focus is not just on the individual doctor but equally on the system they are working in Continue reading... The Guardian
Plan to put price tag on NHS medicines is a 'headline-grabbing gimmick', says journal
Plan to put price tag on NHS medicines is a 'headline-grabbing gimmick', says journal Jeremy Hunt’s plan to include the price tag on medicines issued by the NHS is a “headline-grabbing gimmick” with no evidence to suggest it will reduce waste, a leading pharmaceuticals journal has said. The Independent
See also:
See also:
Recruiters urge doctors to switch to 'four-day working week' in New Zealand amid plans for seven-day access to GP surgeries
Recruiters urge doctors to switch to 'four-day working week' in New Zealand amid plans for seven-day access to GP surgeries Government plans for seven-day access to GP surgeries are being capitalised on by overseas recruiters urging doctors to switch to a “four-day working week” in New Zealand. The Independent
Thursday, 6 August 2015
NICE refuses to fund ovarian cancer drug
NICE refuses to fund ovarian cancer drug
NHS will not fund ovarian cancer drug which is the first treatment for inherited genetic mutations, such as that caused by the 'Jolie gene' until women have had three rounds of chemotherapy. Telegraph
NHS will not fund ovarian cancer drug which is the first treatment for inherited genetic mutations, such as that caused by the 'Jolie gene' until women have had three rounds of chemotherapy. Telegraph
Ending pay supplement for GP trainees would be a 'disaster', warns BMA
Ending pay supplement for GP trainees would be a 'disaster', warns BMA
Doctors’ union says scrapping payments may create an even greater shortage of GPs by pushing more trainees into hospital work
The proposed removal of a supplement that boosts the pay of GP trainees would be a “disaster”, exacerbating an existing shortage of family doctors, the British Medical Association has warned.
The doctors’ union said scrapping the supplement, which accounts for 31% of a trainee’s income, would drive more people towards hospital work instead of general practice at a time when there are already concerns about unfilled GP training places and the government is determined to push through seven-day opening of surgeries. Guardian
Related: 'We've done all we could': Islington GP explains why she and her colleagues are quitting
Continue reading...
Doctors’ union says scrapping payments may create an even greater shortage of GPs by pushing more trainees into hospital work
The proposed removal of a supplement that boosts the pay of GP trainees would be a “disaster”, exacerbating an existing shortage of family doctors, the British Medical Association has warned.
The doctors’ union said scrapping the supplement, which accounts for 31% of a trainee’s income, would drive more people towards hospital work instead of general practice at a time when there are already concerns about unfilled GP training places and the government is determined to push through seven-day opening of surgeries. Guardian
Related: 'We've done all we could': Islington GP explains why she and her colleagues are quitting
Continue reading...
Difficulties solving problems could mean increased heart attack risk
Difficulties solving problems could mean increased heart attack risk
Difficulties solving problems and carrying out simple tasks quickly could indicate an increased risk of heart attack or stroke, a study suggests. Telegraph
Difficulties solving problems and carrying out simple tasks quickly could indicate an increased risk of heart attack or stroke, a study suggests. Telegraph
Perinatal mental health services: Recommendations for the provision of services for childbearing women
Perinatal mental health services: Recommendations for the provision of services for childbearing women This report describes the provision of good-quality mental health services to childbearing women. It makes various recommendations and will assist those providing and planning services for pregnant and postpartum women across a range of disorders and severities at all levels of service provision. It outlines the particular importance of perinatal mental health problems and the need for specialised services. Royal College of Psychiatrists
Taking action to support doctors who raise concerns
Taking action to support doctors who raise concerns How we deal with complaints about doctors who are whistleblowers. General Medical Council
Cancer survival 'lagging in England'
Cancer survival 'lagging in England' England's track record for cancer survival remains poorer than other countries with similar health systems, a study suggests. BBC News
See also:
See also:
- Is England closing the international gap in cancer survival? (open access) British Journal of Cancer
New QOF proposals focus on mental health
New QOF proposals focus on mental health NICE proposes better support for mental health patients. OnMedica
Deaths in custody inquiry is a game changer for mental health services
Deaths in custody inquiry is a game changer for mental health services New inquiry could reform the way mental health care is delivered and has implications for clinical commissioning groups
The home secretary’s announcement of an independent inquiry into police deaths in custody has significant implications for black Britain. Even though there isn’t a higher prevalence of mental illness among this group, people from the UK’s African Caribbean communities in particular are 50% more likely to be subject to detention under the Mental Health Act via police referrals than their white counterparts. Theresa May highlighted, in her speech in Brixton last month, that this has resulted in too many tragic and preventable fatalities in police custody of those who have been failed by mental health services.
This new independent inquiry could reform the way mental health care is delivered and has significant implications for clinical commissioning groups’ (CCGs) 2016/17 commissioning intentions and mental health providers as, for the first time, alternatives to statutory health detention will need to be prioritised. Continue reading... The Guardian
The home secretary’s announcement of an independent inquiry into police deaths in custody has significant implications for black Britain. Even though there isn’t a higher prevalence of mental illness among this group, people from the UK’s African Caribbean communities in particular are 50% more likely to be subject to detention under the Mental Health Act via police referrals than their white counterparts. Theresa May highlighted, in her speech in Brixton last month, that this has resulted in too many tragic and preventable fatalities in police custody of those who have been failed by mental health services.
This new independent inquiry could reform the way mental health care is delivered and has significant implications for clinical commissioning groups’ (CCGs) 2016/17 commissioning intentions and mental health providers as, for the first time, alternatives to statutory health detention will need to be prioritised. Continue reading... The Guardian
Elective surgery cancelled in South Australia in worst flu season on record
Elective surgery cancelled in South Australia in worst flu season on record State government triggers ‘winter demand strategy’ and moves some patients to nearby country hospitals to free up beds
South Australia is in the grip of its worst flu season on record, forcing elective surgery to be cancelled as hospital admissions soar.
The state government has activated a winter demand strategy for metropolitan hospitals, cancelling most elective surgery and moving some patients to nearby country hospitals to free up beds. Continue reading... The Guardian
South Australia is in the grip of its worst flu season on record, forcing elective surgery to be cancelled as hospital admissions soar.
The state government has activated a winter demand strategy for metropolitan hospitals, cancelling most elective surgery and moving some patients to nearby country hospitals to free up beds. Continue reading... The Guardian
Wednesday, 5 August 2015
How much has generic prescribing and dispensing saved the NHS?
How much has generic prescribing and dispensing saved the NHS? Our recent report, Better value in the NHS, includes changes to generic prescribing as an example of improved productivity. Over the past 40 years, the rising trend in cheaper generic medicines rather than proprietary or ‘branded’ drugs being prescribed and dispensed has improved productivity, saving the NHS billions of pounds and enabling millions more prescriptions to be dispensed. The King's Fund
Statistics: Local tobacco control profiles for England: August 2015 data update
Statistics: Local tobacco control profiles for England: August 2015 data update The Local Tobacco Control Profiles data update for August 2015 has been published by Public Health England.
The data are presented in an interactive data tool that allows users to view data in a user-friendly format. The profiles provide a snapshot of the extent of tobacco use, tobacco related harm, and measures being taken to reduce this harm at a local level. These profiles have been designed to help local government and health services to assess the effect of tobacco use on their local populations.
View the Local Tobacco Control Profiles.
This update contains:
The data are presented in an interactive data tool that allows users to view data in a user-friendly format. The profiles provide a snapshot of the extent of tobacco use, tobacco related harm, and measures being taken to reduce this harm at a local level. These profiles have been designed to help local government and health services to assess the effect of tobacco use on their local populations.
View the Local Tobacco Control Profiles.
This update contains:
- 5 new indicators, including smoking prevalence in adults and at age 15, and cost of stop smoking services
- more recent data for 5 indicators
- an indicator of deprivation for comparison purposes
New report publishes figures about smoking among 15 year olds
New report publishes figures about smoking among 15 year olds A new report providing figures on the proportion of 15 year olds who smoke has been published today by the Health and Social Care Information Centre.
What's behind the 'anti-vax' movement?
What's behind the 'anti-vax' movement? This spring saw the first death from measles in the United States in 12 years.
Measles infections there are at their highest since the disease was supposedly eradicated. The reason for this is that the number of people vaccinated against measles has been falling.
More and more parents have been refusing to immunise their children. The influence of a loose group of fringe campaigners against immunisation - "anti-vaxxers", as they're known - has been spreading. And with it, disease. BBC News
Measles infections there are at their highest since the disease was supposedly eradicated. The reason for this is that the number of people vaccinated against measles has been falling.
More and more parents have been refusing to immunise their children. The influence of a loose group of fringe campaigners against immunisation - "anti-vaxxers", as they're known - has been spreading. And with it, disease. BBC News
First 3D-printed pill approved in US
First 3D-printed pill approved in US In a world first, the US Food and Drug Administration has given go-ahead for a 3D printed pill to go into production. BBC News
Many GPs misunderstand discharge letter shorthand
Many GPs misunderstand discharge letter shorthand Survey reveals a more than a quarter of GPs misinterpret six common abbreviations. OnMedica
Cancer survival rates in England see more patients dying than any Western country
Cancer survival rates in England see more patients dying than any Western country Patients in England are more likely to die from six of the most common types of the illness than those in Australia, Canada, Sweden and Norway, according to researchers. The Daily Mail
NHS patients may face widescale charges, warns financial thinktank
NHS patients may face widescale charges, warns financial thinktank Health budget must rise, or patient fees increase and services diminish, public finance institute warns ministers in bleak assessment of ‘short-term’ pledges
Ministers will have to consider charging patients for seeing a GP, attending A&E, and using the food, power and water of hospitals, unless better long-term solutions for funding the NHS can be found, public finance experts have warned.
Contributions towards the cost of treatments and patients taking out health insurance are among other options that must be on the table if the comprehensive spending review in November fails to address the issue, the Chartered Institute of Public Finance (Cipfa) says in a briefing. Continue reading... The Guardian
See also:
Ministers will have to consider charging patients for seeing a GP, attending A&E, and using the food, power and water of hospitals, unless better long-term solutions for funding the NHS can be found, public finance experts have warned.
Contributions towards the cost of treatments and patients taking out health insurance are among other options that must be on the table if the comprehensive spending review in November fails to address the issue, the Chartered Institute of Public Finance (Cipfa) says in a briefing. Continue reading... The Guardian
See also:
- The health of NHS finances (download) Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy
Thousands of blood donors turned away by NHS as staff are too busy
Thousands of blood donors turned away by NHS as staff are too busy FOI request reveals 6,798 people complained to the NHS in 2013-14 about not being able to give blood at arranged sessions despite fears of future shortage
The NHS has turned away thousands of potential blood donors because staff are too busy, despite complaining of a 40% slump in people coming forward and a potential shortage of future stocks.
The health service’s blood and transplant unit revealed, after a freedom of information request, that 1,986 people complained they had been turned away from walk-in sessions in the year 2013-14; a similar number (1,949) said they did not have their blood taken even when they had made an appointment. Continue reading... The Guardian
The NHS has turned away thousands of potential blood donors because staff are too busy, despite complaining of a 40% slump in people coming forward and a potential shortage of future stocks.
The health service’s blood and transplant unit revealed, after a freedom of information request, that 1,986 people complained they had been turned away from walk-in sessions in the year 2013-14; a similar number (1,949) said they did not have their blood taken even when they had made an appointment. Continue reading... The Guardian
Top children's doctor quits after 'taking cocaine before going on duty' at Leeds General Infirmary
Top children's doctor quits after 'taking cocaine before going on duty' at Leeds General Infirmary Consultant paediatric neurologist Colin Ferrie resigns from leading job as he is due to appear before Leeds magistrates charged possessing drugs. The Daily Telegraph
Government backs letter sent by national regulator urging NHS to freeze recruitment
Government backs letter sent by national regulator urging NHS to freeze recruitment The NHS must “live within its means” the Government has said, giving its backing to a controversial letter sent to hospitals by the national regulator, urging them to freeze recruitment unless “essential”. The Independent
See also:
See also:
- Foundation trusts told to review financial plans NHS Employers
- RCN responds to Monitor's letter to trusts Royal College of Nursing
Tuesday, 4 August 2015
NHS Northamptonshire reveals details of complaints made against services
NHS Northamptonshire reveals details of complaints made against services A schoolboy from Northamptonshire was wrongly told by the NHS that he could not be treated for speech and co-ordination problems because of cutbacks. Northamptonshire Chronicle and Echo
Electric vehicles scheme to be put in place at three NHS sites in Northamptonshire
Electric vehicles scheme to be put in place at three NHS sites in Northamptonshire Six new electric vehicles are to be put in place at Northamptonshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust sites across the county. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Research and analysis: Improving liver health in the East Midlands: a call to action
Research and analysis: Improving liver health in the East Midlands: a call to action This paper calls for action across the East Midlands to improve liver health, and draws on the evidence from the recent Lancet Commission on liver disease to identify the main factors in this fight and actions to take.
It also focuses on each of the 3 major preventable causes of liver disease:
It also focuses on each of the 3 major preventable causes of liver disease:
- alcohol
- obesity
- viral hepatitis
NHS England launches first stage of new programme to improve young people’s mental health services
NHS England launches first stage of new programme to improve young people’s mental health services NHS England has distributed £30m of funding to improve eating disorder services aiming to achieve 95 per cent of patients being seen within four weeks or one week for urgent cases by 2020.
The funding is the first stage of a new programme to improve children and young people’s mental health and wellbeing and will be used to improve community based eating disorder (ED) services so patients are helped earlier and fewer need in-patient care.
The funding will be recurrent for five years as part of the Autumn statement announcement in 2014, and in addition to the £1.25bn pledged in the March 2015 budget for CAMHS which is also over the next five years. NHS England
The funding is the first stage of a new programme to improve children and young people’s mental health and wellbeing and will be used to improve community based eating disorder (ED) services so patients are helped earlier and fewer need in-patient care.
The funding will be recurrent for five years as part of the Autumn statement announcement in 2014, and in addition to the £1.25bn pledged in the March 2015 budget for CAMHS which is also over the next five years. NHS England
Consultation on restricting public sector exit payments
Consultation on restricting public sector exit payments The government has announced plans to introduce a public sector exit payment cap of £95,000 for public sector workers, including those in the NHS. NHS Employers
Hiding HIV virus 'flushed out' by skin cancer drug
Hiding HIV virus 'flushed out' by skin cancer drug "HIV flushed out by cancer drug", BBC News reports. This headline was prompted by laboratory research showing the promising results of a cancer drug being used to treat HIV.
In the early stages of HIV infection, some of the virus effectively goes into hiding in so-called HIV "reservoirs". These viruses are not "active", so standard anti-HIV drug treatments do not kill them.
In this study, researchers found viruses in blood samples from people with HIV infection could be reactivated using a cancer drug. They believe this would mean the viruses could then be identified by standard drug treatments, and killed. The drug did not appear to be toxic to other blood cells, although it wasn't tested on living humans.
While these are promising results, the experiments are at an early stage and it is not known if it would be safe to use the drug in this way for people infected with HIV.
The drug is currently used on the skin to treat a condition called actinic keratoses, which makes it unclear what effects the drug would have if used internally.
In the early stages of HIV infection, some of the virus effectively goes into hiding in so-called HIV "reservoirs". These viruses are not "active", so standard anti-HIV drug treatments do not kill them.
In this study, researchers found viruses in blood samples from people with HIV infection could be reactivated using a cancer drug. They believe this would mean the viruses could then be identified by standard drug treatments, and killed. The drug did not appear to be toxic to other blood cells, although it wasn't tested on living humans.
While these are promising results, the experiments are at an early stage and it is not known if it would be safe to use the drug in this way for people infected with HIV.
The drug is currently used on the skin to treat a condition called actinic keratoses, which makes it unclear what effects the drug would have if used internally.
NHS trusts told to 'redo finances'
NHS trusts told to 'redo finances' Health regulator Monitor tells hospitals and health trusts in England to "look again" at their financial plans as current proposals are unaffordable. BBC News
See also:
See also:
- NHS trusts urged to fill only 'essential' vacancies amid finances warning The Daily Mail
- NHS told to fill vacancies 'only where essential' due to looming funding crisis The Guardian
- 'Fundamental change to how the NHS is run': reaction to the letter Health Service Journal
- NHS hospitals told not to fill vacancies as cash crisis bites The Independent
Up to 10,000 patients face 'being stripped of cancer drugs'
Up to 10,000 patients face 'being stripped of cancer drugs' In meetings held behind closed doors last week, officials discussed removing up to 37 treatments from the Cancer Drugs Fund list because it is running out of money. The Daily Mail
Hospital food: from kitchen to ward – in pictures
Hospital food: from kitchen to ward – in pictures Behind the scenes at the award-winning Musgrove Park hospital in Somerset. The Guardian
Jeremy Hunt has broken his promise on the elderly care cap
Jeremy Hunt has broken his promise on the elderly care cap The government said it was capping the bill faced by savers, but it's been kicked into the long grass. The Daily Telegraph
Government target for 5,000 more family doctors by 2020 jeopardised as training places for new GPs left unfilled
Government target for 5,000 more family doctors by 2020 jeopardised as training places for new GPs left unfilled Many training places for new GPs, who begin work this week, may have been left unfilled, jeopardising a Government target to have 5,000 more family doctors working in the NHS by 2020. The Independent
See also:
See also:
Less than one per cent of NHS consultants use control loophole to 'opt out' of weekend work
Less than one per cent of NHS consultants use control loophole to 'opt out' of weekend work Jeremy Hunt’s justification for reforming NHS working practices has been called into question, after it was revealed that less than one per cent of consultants actually use a contract loophole to “opt-out” of weekend work. The Independent
Monday, 3 August 2015
New initiatives at Kettering Hospital to help get patients home sooner
New initiatives at Kettering Hospital to help get patients home sooner Kettering General Hospital has launched a number of initiatives to improve the way in which it discharges patients. Northamptonshire Telegraph
Dementia patients set to double to 16,000 by 2030 in Northamptonshire
Dementia patients set to double to 16,000 by 2030 in Northamptonshire More than 16,000 people in Northamptonshire are expected to be living with dementia by 2030, double the number now, according to the county council. Northamptonshire Telegraph
Almost a fifth of patients at NGH were fit but unable to go home, figures show
Almost a fifth of patients at NGH were fit but unable to go home, figures show A shared bed-blocking target for Northampton General Hospital, the wider NHS and the county council could help free up beds more quickly, the boss of NGH has said. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Mental health services to get £143m
Mental health services to get £143m The government is to invest £143m improving children's mental health services in England this year, BBC News learns.
Government defeat highlights the limits of NHS devolution plans
Government defeat highlights the limits of NHS devolution plans Lords amendment stops the transfer of regulation to major cities – at a time when the health and social care systems need new ways of thinking and working
A little reported Lords defeat for the government over its plans to devolve powers to major cities has major implications for local control of the NHS.
Last week an amendment was moved successfully by Labour peer Lord Warner to the cities and local government devolution bill which stops the transfer of NHS regulatory functions held by national bodies. Crucially, if the amendment is not reversed in the Commons, it will ensure any devolved services adhere to national service standards and are still nationally accountable. Continue reading... The Guardian
See also:
A little reported Lords defeat for the government over its plans to devolve powers to major cities has major implications for local control of the NHS.
Last week an amendment was moved successfully by Labour peer Lord Warner to the cities and local government devolution bill which stops the transfer of NHS regulatory functions held by national bodies. Crucially, if the amendment is not reversed in the Commons, it will ensure any devolved services adhere to national service standards and are still nationally accountable. Continue reading... The Guardian
See also:
- Manchester’s plan has implications for the whole NHS The Guardian
Sweeping cuts will harm efforts to improve public health, councils warn
Sweeping cuts will harm efforts to improve public health, councils warn LGA says proposed 6.2% cut in public health grants across England threatens attempts to reduce levels of obesity, drinking and smoking.
A 6.2% across the board cut in public health grants to local authorities threatens to undermine attempts to reduce levels of obesity, drinking and smoking in England, councils have warned.
The Department of Health plans to achieve £200m savings demanded by the Treasury this year through one flat rate measure. Continue reading... The Guardian
See also:
A 6.2% across the board cut in public health grants to local authorities threatens to undermine attempts to reduce levels of obesity, drinking and smoking in England, councils have warned.
The Department of Health plans to achieve £200m savings demanded by the Treasury this year through one flat rate measure. Continue reading... The Guardian
See also:
British hospitals near bottom of league tables for botched ops
British hospitals near bottom of league tables for botched ops Research shows that hospitals in the UK have one of the worst records in the industrialised world for leaving surgical instruments in patients after surgery. The Daily Telegraph
See also:
See also:
Medicines watchdog calls for whistleblowers
Medicines watchdog calls for whistleblowers The authority which enforces the pharmaceutical industry's code of practice urges insiders to bring them evidence of wrongdoing following Telegraph investigation. The Daily Telegraph
Doctors declare war on Jeremy Hunt over weekend working 'myths' amid plan for seven day NHS
Doctors declare war on Jeremy Hunt over weekend working 'myths' amid plan for seven day NHS Jeremy Hunt has “peddled myths” about doctors’ workloads and demoralised the NHS workforce over plans for more seven-day services, the leader of Britain’s doctors has claimed, as a survey reveals nine out of 10 consultants are already on evening and weekend rotas. The Independent
Ebola vaccine success offers hope after trial shows 100 per cent success rate
Ebola vaccine success offers hope after trial shows 100 per cent success rate The world is for the first time on the verge of being able to protect humans against Ebola, the World Health Organization (WHO) said on 31 July, as data from a trial in Guinea showed a vaccine was 100 per cent effective. The Independent
See also:
See also:
- Ebola jab 'potential game-changer' BBC News
- 'Remarkable' Ebola vaccine created with 100% success rate The Independent
Friday, 31 July 2015
New initiatives at Kettering Hospital to help get patients home sooner
New initiatives at Kettering Hospital to help get patients home sooner Kettering General Hospital has launched a number of initiatives to improve the way in which it discharges patients. Northamptonshire Telegraph
Northampton hospital ward set to close, NHS staff told
Northampton hospital ward set to close, NHS staff told A ward at Berrywood Hospital in Northampton is set to close as the NHS seeks to make treatment “more efficient”. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Hepatitis C in the UK: annual report
Hepatitis C in the UK: annual report The annual hepatitis C report for 2015 has been published, showing an increase in end stage liver disease. Public Health England
GMC sets new standards for medical education and training
GMC sets new standards for medical education and training A new single set of standards promoting excellence and patient safety has been launched by the General Medical Council.
See also:
See also:
- Promoting excellence: standards for medical education and training General Medical Council
Cancer patients lose faith in healthcare system if referred late by GP
Cancer patients lose faith in healthcare system if referred late by GP If it takes more than three trips to the GP to be referred for cancer tests, patients are more likely to be dissatisfied with their overall care, eroding confidence in the doctors and nurses who go on to treat and monitor them.
These worrying levels of dissatisfaction are based on further analysis of survey data from more than 70,000 cancer patients, by Cancer Research UK scientists at UCL (University College London) and the University of Cambridge, published in the European Journal of Cancer Care. Cancer Research UK
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These worrying levels of dissatisfaction are based on further analysis of survey data from more than 70,000 cancer patients, by Cancer Research UK scientists at UCL (University College London) and the University of Cambridge, published in the European Journal of Cancer Care. Cancer Research UK
See also:
- Pre-referral general practitioner consultations and subsequent experience of cancer care: evidence from the English Cancer Patient Experience Survey (open access) European Journal of Cancer Care
- Quarter of NHS cancer patients had to see GP THREE times to get a diagnosis The Daily Mail
- Quarter of cancer patients losing faith in NHS because of late diagnosis The Daily Telegraph
Can the so-called 'male menopause' be treated with HRT?
Can the so-called 'male menopause' be treated with HRT? "New research suggests that testosterone deficiency in older men is much more prevalent than current screening methods suggest, and that more men would benefit from hormone treatment," The Daily Telegraph reports.
The male menopause, which remains controversial, is said to be a syndrome of associated symptoms linked to the fall of testosterone, which include:
The research behind the headlines involved more than 2,000 men given trials of testosterone therapy after attending private Men's Health clinics in the UK.
The men had an average age of 54, though some were aged 90. All the men reported symptoms associated with the so-called male menopause. Most (83%) had testosterone levels that would be considered to be in the normal range, but all were given trials of testosterone therapy.
The men reported a reduction in symptoms with treatment. However, there are risks associated with testosterone therapy, including an increased risk of prostate cancer and blood clots.
The male menopause, which remains controversial, is said to be a syndrome of associated symptoms linked to the fall of testosterone, which include:
The research behind the headlines involved more than 2,000 men given trials of testosterone therapy after attending private Men's Health clinics in the UK.
The men had an average age of 54, though some were aged 90. All the men reported symptoms associated with the so-called male menopause. Most (83%) had testosterone levels that would be considered to be in the normal range, but all were given trials of testosterone therapy.
The men reported a reduction in symptoms with treatment. However, there are risks associated with testosterone therapy, including an increased risk of prostate cancer and blood clots.
NHS recruitment from EU 'aggressive'
NHS recruitment from EU 'aggressive' Nursing leaders in Portugal, Spain and Italy say "aggressive strategies" are being used to "fool" a growing number of their staff into working in the NHS. BBC News
Surge in doctors' days off for stress
Surge in doctors' days off for stress Days lost to stress-related sickness by doctors at a hospital trust increases by more than 430% in five years, it is revealed. BBC News
Exclusive: CCG plans handover to 'accountable care organisation'
Exclusive: CCG plans handover to 'accountable care organisation' A clinical commissioning group is proposing to hand its budget and nearly all its functions to a provider led ‘accountable care organisation’, in what could be a first in the NHS. Health Service Journal
Viewpoint: The high cost of the BMA blocking the drive to a seven-day NHS
Viewpoint: The high cost of the BMA blocking the drive to a seven-day NHS There are two main reasons why health secretary Jeremy Hunt is pushing for a seven-day NHS right now, writes Paul Corrigan. GP Online
About 27% of Europeans are likely to experience a mental health problem in a year
About 27% of Europeans are likely to experience a mental health problem in a year A 2011 update to the 2005 research once again found that 27% of Europeans experience a mental health condition in a given year, although because the population of the EU has grown and because the study covered a wider age range the estimate for the number affected went up from 83 million to 118 million. Given that more time has elapsed since then, and the EU’s population continues to grow, the number affected will now likely be even higher. Full Fact
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Care workers must respond to needs of the first generation to grow old with HIV
Care workers must respond to needs of the first generation to grow old with HIV Like the public, the sector still remains largely unaware of this condition and is unready for the unique challenges it presents.
The most recent data from Public Health England shows that one in four people living with HIV are over 50, a marked increase from one in eight a decade ago. This is partly due to an increase in the number of older people being diagnosed, but also because people who were diagnosed years ago are now doing well on treatment – if you are found to have HIV today, you can expect to live into your 70s. While care for this group once fell to specialists it is now a concern for generic social care services. Continue reading.. The Guardian
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The most recent data from Public Health England shows that one in four people living with HIV are over 50, a marked increase from one in eight a decade ago. This is partly due to an increase in the number of older people being diagnosed, but also because people who were diagnosed years ago are now doing well on treatment – if you are found to have HIV today, you can expect to live into your 70s. While care for this group once fell to specialists it is now a concern for generic social care services. Continue reading.. The Guardian
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Bowel cancer patients will be 'thrown into dark ages' if drugs denied
Bowel cancer patients will be 'thrown into dark ages' if drugs denied Fifteen leading cancer experts have expressed fear that patients with advanced bowel cancer will have their lives cut short if life-extending treatments suffer further cuts. The Daily Telegraph
Simply spending more on the NHS is not the answer
Simply spending more on the NHS is not the answer Telegraph View: The National Health Service needs to be more efficient, and a national debate about how to do it is overdue. The Daily Telegraph
Thursday, 30 July 2015
Revamp of children’s ward is priority at Northampton General Hospital says chief executive
Revamp of children’s ward is priority at Northampton General Hospital says chief executive A unit for children and premature babies will be the first to be constructed by Northampton General Hospital under its expansion plans. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Day case surgery: a good news story for the NHS
Day case surgery: a good news story for the NHS Over the past 40 years there has been a revolution in surgery. A combination of new surgical techniques, advances in anaesthesia, the collection and publication of comparative data, and deliberate policy – including financial incentives for hospitals – has led to a large switch to day case surgery. The King's Fund
Antibiotic resistance poorly communicated and widely misunderstood by UK public
Antibiotic resistance poorly communicated and widely misunderstood by UK public People in the UK have little awareness of what ‘antibiotic resistance’ means and how it might affect their health, according to new research commissioned by the Wellcome Trust.
See also:
See also:
- Exploring the consumer perspective on antimicrobial resistance Wellcome Trust.
- RCGP response to Wellcome Trust research into antibiotic resistance Royal College of General Practitioners
- Antibiotic resistance 'could end modern medicine': UK's chief doctor issues stark warning as study reveals most of us don't even know what the term really means The Daily Mail
How are you feeling NHS? Emotional wellbeing toolkit launched
How are you feeling NHS? Emotional wellbeing toolkit launched Our new toolkit aims to encourage NHS managers and staff to talk about their emotional wellbeing and the impact this has on performance, colleagues and patient care. NHS Employers
Supporting people with a learning disability and/or autism who have a mental health condition or display behaviour that challenges
Supporting people with a learning disability and/or autism who have a mental health condition or display behaviour that challenges This draft national framework designed to improve the care of people with learning disabilities, shifting services away from hospital care and towards community-based settings. It sets out nine overarching principles which define what ‘good’ services for people with learning disabilities and/or autism whose behaviour challenges should look like. NHS England
NICE produces new draft guidelines on caring for the dying
NICE produces new draft guidelines on caring for the dying "England's health watchdog has put forward new draft guidance to improve the care of adults in their last few days of life," BBC News reports.
The guidelines, produced by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), have been proposed as an alternative to the controversial Liverpool Care Pathway, which was phased out in 2014.
The guidelines, produced by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), have been proposed as an alternative to the controversial Liverpool Care Pathway, which was phased out in 2014.
A good death: Can guidelines help?
A good death: Can guidelines help? Can guidelines from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence improve our final moments, asks Smitha Mundasad. BBC News
Do the latest wave of health apps really improve patient care?
Do the latest wave of health apps really improve patient care? There are tens of thousands of health apps on the market but healthcare professionals remain cautious about the benefits they can offer
At the offer of a play on the iPad in the anaesthetics nurse’s hand, five-year-old William Deans instantly forgot his panic triggered by the sight of the operating theatre at Chelsea and Westminster hospital, calmly climbed onto the table and within a minute was being anaesthetised as he played a game chosen for him by the Relax anaesthetics app.
The effect of the electronic tablet loaded with personalised games was, according to his mother Rachel, “like magic” – in less than a minute the situation went from a question mark over whether William’s operation could proceed, to peaceful cooperation and a happy boy with an exciting story to tell at school about the successful operation on his trapped finger. Continue reading... The Guardian
At the offer of a play on the iPad in the anaesthetics nurse’s hand, five-year-old William Deans instantly forgot his panic triggered by the sight of the operating theatre at Chelsea and Westminster hospital, calmly climbed onto the table and within a minute was being anaesthetised as he played a game chosen for him by the Relax anaesthetics app.
The effect of the electronic tablet loaded with personalised games was, according to his mother Rachel, “like magic” – in less than a minute the situation went from a question mark over whether William’s operation could proceed, to peaceful cooperation and a happy boy with an exciting story to tell at school about the successful operation on his trapped finger. Continue reading... The Guardian
NHS treatments such as vasectomies and hip operations to be rationed due to cost-cutting
NHS treatments such as vasectomies and hip operations to be rationed due to cost-cutting More patients could be denied NHS treatments as a result of cost-cutting by health authorities, with hearing aids, vasectomies and knee and hip operations among services set to be rationed in some areas. The Independent
Manchester NHS devolution plans fatally flawed as voluntary organisations not involved, say charity leaders
Manchester NHS devolution plans fatally flawed as voluntary organisations not involved, say charity leaders Charity leaders are warning that the Government’s moves to give Greater Manchester power over health and social care spending could be fatally flawed because voluntary organisations appear to have been forgotten in the plans. The Independent
Wednesday, 29 July 2015
Pensioner from Northamptonshire had NHS treatment withdrawn after cutbacks saw criteria change
Pensioner from Northamptonshire had NHS treatment withdrawn after cutbacks saw criteria change A diabetic man who had been receiving essential NHS foot treatment for three years has had it withdrawn because of changes in the criteria in Northamptonshire. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
A new way of measuring hospital productivity: what does it add?
A new way of measuring hospital productivity: what does it add?Following a barrage of policy announcements in recent weeks from the Department of Health and national bodies, it is clear that the focus is firmly on creating an NHS that uses its money more wisely.
Lord Carter’s interim report on the productivity of NHS providers was one of these announcements, aiming to set out how £5 billion worth of savings can be made by the NHS. The report includes a new method of comparing operating costs: the Adjusted Treatment Index (ATI). This will be an important tool for identifying opportunities to improve productivity and, according to the report, bring the NHS into line with best practice in other countries. So how will it work? The King's Fund
Lord Carter’s interim report on the productivity of NHS providers was one of these announcements, aiming to set out how £5 billion worth of savings can be made by the NHS. The report includes a new method of comparing operating costs: the Adjusted Treatment Index (ATI). This will be an important tool for identifying opportunities to improve productivity and, according to the report, bring the NHS into line with best practice in other countries. So how will it work? The King's Fund
National audit of children’s X-ray services indicates UK hospitals failing to meet recommended standards
National audit of children’s X-ray services indicates UK hospitals failing to meet recommended standards An audit of children’s X-ray services conducted by The Royal College of Radiologists has revealed the extent to which UK hospitals are failing to meet recommendations to reduce the risk of missed or mistaken diagnoses of illness, disease or child abuse.
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See also:
- Shortage of X ray expertise putting children at risk The Daily Telegraph
New draft guidelines to help transform the care of people with learning disabilities
New draft guidelines to help transform the care of people with learning disabilities NHS England, the Local Government Association (LGA), and the Association of Directors of Adult Social Sevices (ADASS) have today published a new draft national framework designed to improve the care of people with learning disabilities, shifting services away from hospital care and towards community-based settings.
The new draft service model is the latest piece of work to emerge from the Transforming Care for People with Learning Disabilities programme, which is a joint piece of work between the NHS England, the LGA, ADASS, the Care Quality Commission (CQC), Health Education England (HEE) and the Department of Health (DH).
The new draft service model is the latest piece of work to emerge from the Transforming Care for People with Learning Disabilities programme, which is a joint piece of work between the NHS England, the LGA, ADASS, the Care Quality Commission (CQC), Health Education England (HEE) and the Department of Health (DH).
Dementia: statistics on prevalence and improving diagnosis, care and research
Dementia: statistics on prevalence and improving diagnosis, care and research This briefing outlines government, NHS and other statutory bodies’ work to improve dementia diagnosis, care and support and research. It also provides statistics on rates and expected rises of dementia prevalence, including prevalence rates for each English parliamentary constituency. House of Commons Library
The association between patient and family engagement practices and patient experience
The association between patient and family engagement practices and patient experience This slide presentation covers the findings of a 2013-2014 survey conducted by the Health Research & Educational Trust and Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation. The survey examined patient and family engagement practices and their association with patient experiences. Hospitals in Pursuit of Excellence
Dying care: New guidelines proposed
Dying care: New guidelines proposed England's health watchdog puts forward new draft guidance to improve the care of adults in their last few days of life. BBC News
See also:
See also:
- Care of the dying adult (draft guideline) NICE
- RCGP response to NICE draft guidance on End of Life Care Royal College of General Practitioners
- NHS is forced to tell doctors: Give water to the dying as watchdog fears banned care pathway is still in use The Daily Mail
- Drugs to prevent 'death rattle' of dying patients not justifiable if intention is only to reduce distress of relatives, says new guidelines The Independent
Manchester patients test negative for Mers virus
Manchester patients test negative for Mers virusA&E unit at Manchester Royal infirmary was closed for more than two hours on Monday over fears two patients could be infected with respiratory disease
Tests on two patients suspected of having the Middle East respiratory virus syndrome (Mers) have proved negative, Public Health England has said.
The A&E department at Manchester Royal infirmary was closed for more than two hours on Monday due to fears of a possible outbreak of the disease, which has killed at least 449 people globally since it was first identified in Saudi Arabia in 2012. Continue reading... The Guardian
Tests on two patients suspected of having the Middle East respiratory virus syndrome (Mers) have proved negative, Public Health England has said.
The A&E department at Manchester Royal infirmary was closed for more than two hours on Monday due to fears of a possible outbreak of the disease, which has killed at least 449 people globally since it was first identified in Saudi Arabia in 2012. Continue reading... The Guardian
GPs so overworked they risk causing harm, says head of profession
GPs so overworked they risk causing harm, says head of profession Dr Maureen Baker, chair of Royal College of GPs, recommends measures to relieve strain on NHS family doctors, whom she compares to overtired pilots
Britain’s GPs are so tired and overloaded that they are at risk of harming patients’ health by misdiagnosing illness or giving them the wrong drugs, the head of the profession has warned.
In a stark description of the potential consequences to patients’ safety of “GP fatigue”, Dr Maureen Baker says that “persistent and excessive workload” faced by family doctors puts them at the same risk of inadvertently causing harm or even death as overtired pilots or lorry drivers.
We have no strategies in place to reduce the risk of patient harm that might arise from having tired, overworked doctors Continue reading... The Guardian
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Britain’s GPs are so tired and overloaded that they are at risk of harming patients’ health by misdiagnosing illness or giving them the wrong drugs, the head of the profession has warned.
In a stark description of the potential consequences to patients’ safety of “GP fatigue”, Dr Maureen Baker says that “persistent and excessive workload” faced by family doctors puts them at the same risk of inadvertently causing harm or even death as overtired pilots or lorry drivers.
We have no strategies in place to reduce the risk of patient harm that might arise from having tired, overworked doctors Continue reading... The Guardian
See also:
- GP fatigue a 'risk' to patient safety, warns RCGP Royal College of General Practitioners
- GP workloads 'put patients at risk' BBC News
- Tired GPs 'pose threat to patients' health' says Medical Chief Maureen Baker The Daily Mail
- Awkward patients aren't to blame for GP workloads, we really are getting sicker The Guardian
Cost of obesity, drug abuse and alcoholism to be revealed
Cost of obesity, drug abuse and alcoholism to be revealed Drain on the economy of obese people, drug addicts and alcoholics will be calculated under plans to be announced by David Cameron. The Daily Telegraph
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Tuesday, 28 July 2015
NGH to bring back doctors’ white coats after patients did not realise they had seen a consultant
NGH to bring back doctors’ white coats after patients did not realise they had seen a consultant Some doctors at Northampton General Hospital will be asked to don their white coats again after worries that they cause infections were dismissed. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
£35M cut from children and young people's mental health services
£35M cut from children and young people's mental health services Research undertaken by YoungMinds into the responses of 165 Clinical Commissioning Groups, 97 local authorities and 37 Mental Health Trusts from Freedom of Information requests has revealed that there has been an actual cut of £35 million across the board for Children and Adolescent Mental Health Services.
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See also:
Crunch time: annual report on hospital waiting times
Crunch time: annual report on hospital waiting times This report is the fifth in a series of annual reviews of hospital waiting times for elective surgical procedures in England. It finds that NHS patients are waiting longer than ever for surgical procedures such as hip replacements and cataracts. The report looks at seven key surgical procedures and finds that the mean average waiting time for all is 13 weeks. Patients Association
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RCN responds to NHS £1.8bn redundancy bill
RCN responds to NHS £1.8bn redundancy bill Dr Peter Carter, Chief Executive & General Secretary of the RCN yesterday responded to figures which show the NHS has spent £1.8bn on redundancy payments. Royal College of Nursing
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See also:
Recruiting foreign nurses 'expensive'
Recruiting foreign nurses 'expensive' It is "distracting, frustrating and expensive" to have to recruit large numbers of nurses from overseas, the head of a leading NHS hospital says. BBC News
A&E unit closed over virus outbreak
A&E unit closed over virus outbreak Manchester Royal Infirmary temporarily shuts its A&E unit after a suspected outbreak of Middle Eastern Respiratory Syndrome. BBC News
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See also:
The GMC responds to The Guardian’s article about language testing for European doctors
The GMC responds to The Guardian’s article about language testing for European doctors A response to The Guardian’s article about European doctors being prevented from obtaining a licence due to language checks. General Medical Council
Cost of national living wage could trigger 'catastrophic failure' in homecare
Cost of national living wage could trigger 'catastrophic failure' in homecare UK HomeCare Association, representing firms supporting 880,000 older and disabled people, says increases in staff costs could see businesses go bust
Firms supporting 880,000 older and disabled people have warned that the costs of introducing a “national living wage” could trigger “catastrophic failure” in the homecare market.
Without increased funding to meet the increased staff costs of the national living wage (NLW), businesses caring for people in their own homes could go bust, the UK HomeCare Association(UKHCA) warns in a letter to the chancellor George Osborne. Continue reading... The Guardian
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Firms supporting 880,000 older and disabled people have warned that the costs of introducing a “national living wage” could trigger “catastrophic failure” in the homecare market.
Without increased funding to meet the increased staff costs of the national living wage (NLW), businesses caring for people in their own homes could go bust, the UK HomeCare Association(UKHCA) warns in a letter to the chancellor George Osborne. Continue reading... The Guardian
See also:
- Living Wage 'could cripple home care' BBC News
- Life as a care worker: my time is worth less than £5 an hour The Guardian
- Why do so few care homes pay staff the living wage? The Guardian
'Anti-abortion protesters are holding the NHS hostage. The government must act now'
'Anti-abortion protesters are holding the NHS hostage. The government must act now' Open letter: A letter signed by MPs has called on health secretary Jeremy Hunt to take action after protesters forced a British abortion clinic to shut. The Daily Telegraph
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