Thursday, 10 December 2015
Britain should lead way on genetically engineered babies, says Chief Scientific Adviser
Britain should lead way on genetically engineered babies, says Chief Scientific Adviser Sir Mark Walport, who advises the government on scientific matters, said it could be acceptable to genetically edit human embryos. The Daily Telegraph
Wednesday, 9 December 2015
Two care homes to close and 343 jobs at risk in Northamptonshire County Council cuts
Two care homes to close and 343 jobs at risk in Northamptonshire County Council cuts A total of 343 jobs could be lost at Northamptonshire County Council after the authority announced proposals to cut £77 million from its budget next year. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
See also:
See also:
- Plans by Northamptonshire County Council to cut £77 million off budget are ‘unrealistic’, claims opposition Northampton Chronicle and Echo
New trust could take over Northamptonshire County Council’s children’s services by September 2016
New trust could take over Northamptonshire County Council’s children’s services by September 2016 Children’s services at Northamptonshire County Council could be outsourced to a new not-for-profit organisation within a year as part of multi-million pound cost saving plans announced today. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Burton Latimer GP practice requires improvement, say inspectors
Burton Latimer GP practice requires improvement, say inspectors A doctors surgery in Burton Latimer has been told it must improve after an out-of-date medicine was found in its medicine cupboard. Northamptonshire Telegraph
NHS vanguards: redesigning the aeroplane in flight
NHS vanguards: redesigning the aeroplane in flight Last month, the 50 vanguard sites in the New Care Models programme met for a series of events in London to take stock of progress. The majority of the sites – those announced in March 2015 – have now been running for 200 days.
As at previous meetings, the enthusiasm was palpable – this is a group of people who believe their projects can make a difference – but so was the weight of expectation. The intention is for the vanguards to make a major contribution to addressing the NHS’s financial challenges – both through improvements in their local systems and blueprints that can be adopted across the rest of the NHS.
As others have argued, the vanguards face the challenge of ‘redesigning the aeroplane in flight’ – making significant changes to the configuration of local health and care systems, all the while sustaining existing services in a difficult environment, with limited spare cash and growing service pressures. The King's Fund
As at previous meetings, the enthusiasm was palpable – this is a group of people who believe their projects can make a difference – but so was the weight of expectation. The intention is for the vanguards to make a major contribution to addressing the NHS’s financial challenges – both through improvements in their local systems and blueprints that can be adopted across the rest of the NHS.
As others have argued, the vanguards face the challenge of ‘redesigning the aeroplane in flight’ – making significant changes to the configuration of local health and care systems, all the while sustaining existing services in a difficult environment, with limited spare cash and growing service pressures. The King's Fund
Research and analysis: Allied health professionals: interventions that improve public health
Research and analysis: Allied health professionals: interventions that improve public health Public Health England commissioned a team of academics led by Sheffield Hallam University to undertake an initial review to:
- identify examples where there is good evidence of impact on public health by Allied Health Professionals (AHPs)and therefore an opportunity to broaden practice
- identify areas which require more focus to demonstrate impact by AHPs on public health
Cancer cash crisis
Cancer cash crisis This report finds that NHS in England spends more than £500 million a year on emergency care for people diagnosed with the four most common cancers alone. Of this, more than £130m is spent treating people more than six months after their diagnosis, when initial treatment has usually finished. The report warns that a lack of post-diagnosis support for people living with cancer is putting increased pressure on overstretched A&E departments as the health service faces another winter of high demand. Macmillan Cancer Support
The socioeconomic and demographic characteristics of United Kingdom junior doctors in training across specialities
The socioeconomic and demographic characteristics of United Kingdom junior doctors in training across specialities This study finds that junior doctors who opt to become surgeons in the NHS are more likely to be male, white and from a better-off background. It also found that in general, junior doctors from better-off socioeconomic backgrounds are less likely to go into general practice than other specialties. The research also confirmed a persistent gender gap - more surgeons are male and more GPs are female. Centre for Health Economics
Girls are twice as likely as boys to experience cyber-bullying
Girls are twice as likely as boys to experience cyber-bullying Findings reported in new survey of 120,000 15-year olds, alongside information about body image, wellbeing and diet. Health and Social Care Information Centre
Flavouring found in e-cigarettes linked to 'popcorn lung'
Flavouring found in e-cigarettes linked to 'popcorn lung' "Smokers who use e-cigs 'are risking harm to their lungs'," the Daily Mail reports after US researchers discovered some brands contained diacetyl, a buttery flavouring linked to lung disease in people who worked in microwave popcorn factories.
Two other chemicals linked to lung damage were also found in the cigarette alternatives, calling their safety into question.
Diacetyl was detected in 39 of the 51 flavours tested, ranging from barely measurable levels to concentrations of 239 micrograms per e-cigarette.
Diacetyl, a safe food flavouring, has been used to give microwave popcorn its buttery taste. But it has also been implicated in the case of eight popcorn factory workers who developed a lung condition called severe bronchiolitis obliterans after breathing it in.
Nicknamed "popcorn lung", bronchiolitis obliterans causes scarring of the lungs and loss of function that can become so severe the only treatment option may be a lung transplant.
Much of the alarm caused by this study hangs on the strength of evidence from previous reports linking these chemicals to lung damage.
However, this study didn't look at this issue directly, so whether there is a link between e-cigarettes and "popcorn lung" is currently unknown. NHS Choices
Two other chemicals linked to lung damage were also found in the cigarette alternatives, calling their safety into question.
Diacetyl was detected in 39 of the 51 flavours tested, ranging from barely measurable levels to concentrations of 239 micrograms per e-cigarette.
Diacetyl, a safe food flavouring, has been used to give microwave popcorn its buttery taste. But it has also been implicated in the case of eight popcorn factory workers who developed a lung condition called severe bronchiolitis obliterans after breathing it in.
Nicknamed "popcorn lung", bronchiolitis obliterans causes scarring of the lungs and loss of function that can become so severe the only treatment option may be a lung transplant.
Much of the alarm caused by this study hangs on the strength of evidence from previous reports linking these chemicals to lung damage.
However, this study didn't look at this issue directly, so whether there is a link between e-cigarettes and "popcorn lung" is currently unknown. NHS Choices
Share of life in good health 'rising'
Share of life in good health 'rising' The proportion of life spent in good health is increasing in England, even as life expectancy continues to rise, a study suggests. BBC News
Lariam: Medical experts condemn MoD for giving soldiers anti-malarial drug with psychiatric side effects
Lariam: Medical experts condemn MoD for giving soldiers anti-malarial drug with psychiatric side effects The Commons Defence Select Committee recently announced an inquiry into the MoD's use of the drug. The Independent
Care bodies demand crisis talks with Osborne over support shortfall
Care bodies demand crisis talks with Osborne over support shortfall Care homes will close, say four health bodies in letter to ministers, and ask what has happened to £6bn from care-cap savings
Leading care and health bodies are demanding crisis talks with ministers over the unravelling of measures in George Osborne’s spending review that were supposed to prop up the tottering social care system.
Four groups representing care and health organisations are warning of an accelerating rate of closures of care homes and companies providing homecare. Their warnings follow analysis by the two most respected NHS thinktanks which declared Osborne’s support package “another setback for people who need social care”. Continue reading... The Guardian
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Leading care and health bodies are demanding crisis talks with ministers over the unravelling of measures in George Osborne’s spending review that were supposed to prop up the tottering social care system.
Four groups representing care and health organisations are warning of an accelerating rate of closures of care homes and companies providing homecare. Their warnings follow analysis by the two most respected NHS thinktanks which declared Osborne’s support package “another setback for people who need social care”. Continue reading... The Guardian
See also:
- Vital care services 'remain at risk' BBC News
NHS rationing 'is denying patients care' as cash crisis deepens
NHS rationing 'is denying patients care' as cash crisis deepens Survey of doctors reveals concern about adults and children being denied treatment, resulting in emergency care or worsening of long-term conditions.
Patients are being denied mental health care, new hips and knees, and drugs to boost their recovery from illnesses including cancer as the NHS increasingly rations treatments to try to overcome its growing cash crisis.
A survey of doctors reveals that three-quarters said they had seen care rationed in their area over the last year – including treatments such as speech therapy, operations to remove varicose veins, Botox to help children with cerebral palsy move better and even potentially life-saving stem cell transplant surgery. Continue reading... The Guardian
Patients are being denied mental health care, new hips and knees, and drugs to boost their recovery from illnesses including cancer as the NHS increasingly rations treatments to try to overcome its growing cash crisis.
A survey of doctors reveals that three-quarters said they had seen care rationed in their area over the last year – including treatments such as speech therapy, operations to remove varicose veins, Botox to help children with cerebral palsy move better and even potentially life-saving stem cell transplant surgery. Continue reading... The Guardian
Tuesday, 8 December 2015
Praise for caring NHS staff by mum of young baby goes viral on social media with support for Northampton General Hospital
Praise for caring NHS staff by mum of young baby goes viral on social media with support for Northampton General Hospital A post on the Chronicle & Echo’s Facebook page praising the work of NHS has gone viral reaching 80,000 people and getting positive support for staff at Northampton General Hospital. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Devastated families left without answers as avoidable death and harm incidents aren’t being investigated properly by hospitals across England
Devastated families left without answers as avoidable death and harm incidents aren’t being investigated properly by hospitals across England Nearly three quarters of hospital investigations into complaints about avoidable harm and death claimed there were no failings in the care given, despite the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman's investigations of the same incidents uncovering serious failings.
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Do the public still trust doctors and nurses?
Do the public still trust doctors and nurses? Do the public still trust doctors and nurses to deliver high-quality care and put patients’ interests first, or could high-profile failings in hospital care, such as those at Mid Staffordshire NHS Foundation Trust, and the outcomes of Care Quality Commission inspections have contributed to a change in public opinion? The King's Fund
New report reveals value to nurses and patients of SPQ in district nursing
New report reveals value to nurses and patients of SPQ in district nursing The Queen’s Nursing Institute has published a report on the value of the specialist practitioner qualification (SPQ) in district nursing.
Apology over 'do not resuscitate' order
Apology over 'do not resuscitate' order A hospital trust apologises for placing a "do not resuscitate" order on a patient with Down's Syndrome, and listing his learning difficulties among the reasons. BBC News
GPs should urge patients 'to go online'
GPs should urge patients 'to go online' GPs should actively encourage patients to go online for booking appointments and ordering repeat prescriptions, suggests a review of NHS digital services. BBC News
Cutting antibiotic prescribing lowers GP satisfaction scores, study shows
Cutting antibiotic prescribing lowers GP satisfaction scores, study shows Antibiotic prescribing volume is a positive predictor of doctor and practice satisfaction, with practices that prescribe fewer antibiotics receiving lower satisfaction scores in the GP Patient Survey, research reveals. GP Online
GPs are not ‘immigration control’, warns lead doctor
GPs are not ‘immigration control’, warns lead doctor Consultation launched on fees for non-EU patients. OnMedica
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Will scrapping nurse bursaries help or worsen NHS staffing crisis?
Will scrapping nurse bursaries help or worsen NHS staffing crisis? Plans to axe bursaries and replace them with loans have been condemned by unions, but universities say they will lead to more training places for nurses, midwives and allied health professionals
Plans to scrap bursaries for student nurses, midwives and allied health professionals and replace them with loans were announced by the chancellor, George Osborne, in his spending review.
The measures will allow the cap on the number of student places to be lifted and the government claims this will enable the NHS to provide up to 10,000 extra training places this parliament. The move has been condemned by unions, but could making students pay for training be the medicine the health service needs to cure its chronic nursing shortage? Continue reading... The Guardian
Plans to scrap bursaries for student nurses, midwives and allied health professionals and replace them with loans were announced by the chancellor, George Osborne, in his spending review.
The measures will allow the cap on the number of student places to be lifted and the government claims this will enable the NHS to provide up to 10,000 extra training places this parliament. The move has been condemned by unions, but could making students pay for training be the medicine the health service needs to cure its chronic nursing shortage? Continue reading... The Guardian
Half of perinatal suicides by women 'could be prevented by better care'
Half of perinatal suicides by women 'could be prevented by better care' Study finds those who suffer severe mental health problems during or after pregnancy are let down by poor resources and failures to spot warning signs
Around half of suicides by women while pregnant or after giving birth could be prevented by better standards of care, experts have said.
The Confidential Enquiry into Maternal Deaths, based at the University of Oxford and partially funded by NHS England, found that women who suffer serious mental health problems during or after pregnancy are being let down by a lack of resources and failures to spot warning signs. Continue reading... The Guardian
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Around half of suicides by women while pregnant or after giving birth could be prevented by better standards of care, experts have said.
The Confidential Enquiry into Maternal Deaths, based at the University of Oxford and partially funded by NHS England, found that women who suffer serious mental health problems during or after pregnancy are being let down by a lack of resources and failures to spot warning signs. Continue reading... The Guardian
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Monday, 7 December 2015
MRSA fears as patients put GPs under pressure to prescribe antibiotics
MRSA fears as patients put GPs under pressure to prescribe antibiotics
Overuse of antibiotics has resulted in the evolution of new strains of immune bacteria. Independent
Overuse of antibiotics has resulted in the evolution of new strains of immune bacteria. Independent
Prescriptions affecting GP ratings
Prescriptions affecting GP ratings
GPs who prescribe fewer antibiotics have less satisfied patients, according to a new study by researchers at King's College London. BBC News
GPs who prescribe fewer antibiotics have less satisfied patients, according to a new study by researchers at King's College London. BBC News
Almost half of junior doctors left NHS after foundation training
Almost half of junior doctors left NHS after foundation training
Official figures reveal sharp fall in number of young medics opting to work towards becoming GP or specialist after first two years in NHS
Almost half of all junior doctors are opting not to continue their training in the NHS, threatening a “disaster” that senior medics fear will worsen the service’s shortage of frontline clinicians.
This year only 52% of junior doctors who finished the two-year foundation training after medical school chose to stay in the NHS and work towards becoming a GP or specialist – the lowest proportion in the health service’s history and down from 71.3% as recently as 2011. Guardian
Related: Hundreds of operations cancelled despite doctors' strike being called off
These are disturbing figures. All this is very worrying.
Continue reading...
Official figures reveal sharp fall in number of young medics opting to work towards becoming GP or specialist after first two years in NHS
Almost half of all junior doctors are opting not to continue their training in the NHS, threatening a “disaster” that senior medics fear will worsen the service’s shortage of frontline clinicians.
This year only 52% of junior doctors who finished the two-year foundation training after medical school chose to stay in the NHS and work towards becoming a GP or specialist – the lowest proportion in the health service’s history and down from 71.3% as recently as 2011. Guardian
Related: Hundreds of operations cancelled despite doctors' strike being called off
These are disturbing figures. All this is very worrying.
Continue reading...
Ailing NHS leadership needs urgent treatment
Ailing NHS leadership needs urgent treatment
There needs to be the same sense of urgency to improve health service management as there is to sort out budgets
There are too few NHS staff willing to take on the toughest leadership roles, and too few of those that do survive. Successive reviews have exposed the failures in NHS leadership development, but progress in addressing them is a long way from matching the scale of the problem.
The review of NHS leadership by former Marks & Spencer executive chairman Lord Rose, published in June, pinpointed one of the central difficulties facing the health service – the organisation is committed to a vast range of changes but does not have sufficient management and leadership capability to deliver them. GuardianContinue reading...
There needs to be the same sense of urgency to improve health service management as there is to sort out budgets
There are too few NHS staff willing to take on the toughest leadership roles, and too few of those that do survive. Successive reviews have exposed the failures in NHS leadership development, but progress in addressing them is a long way from matching the scale of the problem.
The review of NHS leadership by former Marks & Spencer executive chairman Lord Rose, published in June, pinpointed one of the central difficulties facing the health service – the organisation is committed to a vast range of changes but does not have sufficient management and leadership capability to deliver them. GuardianContinue reading...
Government accused of trying to 'cover up' scale of looming NHS winter crisis
Government accused of trying to 'cover up' scale of looming NHS winter crisis
Health service confirms scaled-back bulletins will no longer include A&E waiting times or cancelled-operation figures. Independent
Health service confirms scaled-back bulletins will no longer include A&E waiting times or cancelled-operation figures. Independent
New healthcare watchdog boss 'needs experience on NHS frontline'
New healthcare watchdog boss 'needs experience on NHS frontline'
Exclusive: Health select committee MPs worry Peter Wyman is not yet qualified to chair the health and social care regulator. Independent
Exclusive: Health select committee MPs worry Peter Wyman is not yet qualified to chair the health and social care regulator. Independent
GP charges 'for non-EU patients'
GP charges 'for non-EU patients'
Overseas visitors should be forced to pay for using some GP services as well as ambulances and A&E care, the government announces as a consultation begins. BBC News
Overseas visitors should be forced to pay for using some GP services as well as ambulances and A&E care, the government announces as a consultation begins. BBC News
NHS challenged over new treatments
NHS challenged over new treatments
Leading doctors say the NHS must prepare for much greater use of medicines to prevent rather than just treat disease. BBC News
Leading doctors say the NHS must prepare for much greater use of medicines to prevent rather than just treat disease. BBC News
How well do over-the-counter painkillers work?
How well do over-the-counter painkillers work?
Which over-the-counter painkillers work best for acute pain? Evidently Cochrane
Which over-the-counter painkillers work best for acute pain? Evidently Cochrane
GMC appoints former mental health tsar to improve its support for vulnerable doctors
GMC appoints former mental health tsar to improve its support for vulnerable doctors
The General Medical Council (GMC) has appointed one of the UK’s leading mental health experts to provide independent advice on how it can support vulnerable doctors. General Medical Council
The General Medical Council (GMC) has appointed one of the UK’s leading mental health experts to provide independent advice on how it can support vulnerable doctors. General Medical Council
News story: Declining Ebola case numbers, new control methods prompt PHE screening scale-back
News story: Declining Ebola case numbers, new control methods prompt PHE screening scale-back
Other factors influencing the decision include the introduction of new control methods such as a highly-effective Ebola vaccination, the WHO declaring Sierra Leone Ebola transmission free and the continued low risk presented to the UK by the disease.
Under the scaled back operations, from 5 December 2015 screening will stop for travellers from Sierra Leone, Guinea and Liberia. PHE will maintain its monitoring system for high-risk returning workers until the outbreak has been declared over in the affected countries.
The latest risk assessment assessed the likelihood of further Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) cases being imported into the UK as very low and the risk of transmission occurring within the community in the UK as negligible due to the range of robust measures that have been put in place.
Other factors influencing the decision include the introduction of new control methods such as a highly-effective Ebola vaccination, the WHO declaring Sierra Leone Ebola transmission free and the continued low risk presented to the UK by the disease.
Under the scaled back operations, from 5 December 2015 screening will stop for travellers from Sierra Leone, Guinea and Liberia. PHE will maintain its monitoring system for high-risk returning workers until the outbreak has been declared over in the affected countries.
The latest risk assessment assessed the likelihood of further Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) cases being imported into the UK as very low and the risk of transmission occurring within the community in the UK as negligible due to the range of robust measures that have been put in place.
Public Health England
Diagnosis: overrated - an analysis of the structural flaws in the NHS
Diagnosis: overrated - an analysis of the structural flaws in the NHS
This report looks at NHS performance and discusses the funding structure, patient choice and how health outcomes compare with other countries.
This report looks at NHS performance and discusses the funding structure, patient choice and how health outcomes compare with other countries.
Improving diagnosis of bipolar disorder: can blood-based diagnostic panels help?
Improving diagnosis of bipolar disorder: can blood-based diagnostic panels help?
Can blood-based diagnostic panels help us reduce the misdiagnosis and inappropriate treatment often experienced by people with bipolar disorder? Murtada Alsaif reviews a recent retrospective study that has some encouraging findings for biologically identifying the disease. The Mental Elf
Can blood-based diagnostic panels help us reduce the misdiagnosis and inappropriate treatment often experienced by people with bipolar disorder? Murtada Alsaif reviews a recent retrospective study that has some encouraging findings for biologically identifying the disease. The Mental Elf
E-cigarettes for millions on the NHS - Express.co.uk
E-cigarettes for millions on the NHS - Express.co.uk
E-cigarettes for millions on the NHS
They are now the number one quitting aid in Britain, outranking other products like nicotine gum and patches. In England in 2013-14 there were nearly 1.8 million items issued on prescription to help patients stop smoking. The cost to the NHS in that ...Express.co.uk
E-cigarettes will be prescribed on the NHS - but the Government didn't want
E-cigarettes for millions on the NHS
They are now the number one quitting aid in Britain, outranking other products like nicotine gum and patches. In England in 2013-14 there were nearly 1.8 million items issued on prescription to help patients stop smoking. The cost to the NHS in that ...Express.co.uk
E-cigarettes will be prescribed on the NHS - but the Government didn't want
Can overweight men pass obesity risk to their children?
Can overweight men pass obesity risk to their children?
"Are you fat because of your dad?" is the Mail Online's bold question to its readers, explaining that "Men's weight directly affects genes in sperm linked to appetite and brain development".
This was based on a new study that found a man's weight influences the genes in his sperm.
This small study showed that DNA in the sperm of obese men differed from that of healthy weight men. The DNA itself wasn't changed, but modifications affecting how it's used by the body were.
These differences raised the possibility that children of overweight men could inherit genetic traits that make them more likely to be overweight themselves. Health News from NHS Choices
"Are you fat because of your dad?" is the Mail Online's bold question to its readers, explaining that "Men's weight directly affects genes in sperm linked to appetite and brain development".
This was based on a new study that found a man's weight influences the genes in his sperm.
This small study showed that DNA in the sperm of obese men differed from that of healthy weight men. The DNA itself wasn't changed, but modifications affecting how it's used by the body were.
These differences raised the possibility that children of overweight men could inherit genetic traits that make them more likely to be overweight themselves. Health News from NHS Choices
Friday, 4 December 2015
NICE wants people with type 2 diabetes more involved in their own care
NICE wants people with type 2 diabetes more involved in their own care
Healthcare professionals should involve people with type 2 diabetes in decisions about their care such as managing blood glucose levels, NICE says. NHS Networks
Healthcare professionals should involve people with type 2 diabetes in decisions about their care such as managing blood glucose levels, NICE says. NHS Networks
NHS England appoints three new senior leaders
NHS England appoints three new senior leaders
NHS England is today announcing three senior appointments to lead key aspects of its work implementing the NHS Five Year Forward View. All three posts were publicly advertised and filled following open competition. NHS Commissioning
NHS England is today announcing three senior appointments to lead key aspects of its work implementing the NHS Five Year Forward View. All three posts were publicly advertised and filled following open competition. NHS Commissioning
Hundreds of schools to benefit from £3 million investment in mental health in schools
Hundreds of schools to benefit from £3 million investment in mental health in schools
NHS England and the Department of Education have joined forces to launch a multimillion pound joint mental health pilot scheme for hundreds of schools. NHS Commissioning
NHS England and the Department of Education have joined forces to launch a multimillion pound joint mental health pilot scheme for hundreds of schools. NHS Commissioning
UK pays 'low price' for cancer drugs
UK pays 'low price' for cancer drugs
The UK is paying less for new cancer drugs than a number of other high-income countries, according to a report in The Lancet Oncology. BBC News
The UK is paying less for new cancer drugs than a number of other high-income countries, according to a report in The Lancet Oncology. BBC News
Patients less happy with foreign-educated nurses, says report
Patients less happy with foreign-educated nurses, says report
Experts behind the research said recruiting more nurses from overseas may 'negatively' affect the quality of care. Independent
Experts behind the research said recruiting more nurses from overseas may 'negatively' affect the quality of care. Independent
Debt and health: a briefing
Debt and health: a briefing
This briefing focuses on the relationship between debt and health, including the health related consequences of debt, the impact it can have on individual mental health and recommendations for implication prevention. Picker Institute Europe
This briefing focuses on the relationship between debt and health, including the health related consequences of debt, the impact it can have on individual mental health and recommendations for implication prevention. Picker Institute Europe
Unhealthy lifestyles of men are written into their sperm, study finds
Unhealthy lifestyles of men are written into their sperm, study finds
Scientists at the University of Copenhagen at the sperm of obese and thin men and noticed significant differences in parts of the gene associated with appetite. Telegraph
Scientists at the University of Copenhagen at the sperm of obese and thin men and noticed significant differences in parts of the gene associated with appetite. Telegraph
Thursday, 3 December 2015
Assessing demand and supply in general practice
Assessing demand and supply in general practice It seems that hardly a week goes by without a new story in the press about general practice under pressure. Anecdotal evidence is that people are finding it increasingly difficult to get GP appointments. This is backed up, to an extent, by the most recent national patient survey, which suggests that general practice is becoming so pressured it cannot meet demand.
So what is causing this pressure on general practice? How many consultations are carried out each week? Do people have more complicated health issues? Or are people more demanding? The King's Fund
So what is causing this pressure on general practice? How many consultations are carried out each week? Do people have more complicated health issues? Or are people more demanding? The King's Fund
Care Act first-phase reforms and local government new burdens
Care Act first-phase reforms and local government new burdens The Department of Health has taken a collaborative approach to the first phase of the Care Act, working with local authorities to plan its implementation. However, this report raises concerns that carers and the people they care for may not get the services they need because of continuing reductions to local authority budgets and demand for care being so uncertain. House of Commons Committee of Public Accounts
Female Genital Mutilation: Quarterly statistics published
Female Genital Mutilation: Quarterly statistics published Experimental statistics showing the number of women and girls identified by the NHS in England as having Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), have been published. Health and Social Care Information Centre
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Patients set to book 10m GP appointments online this year
Patients set to book 10m GP appointments online this year Patients are set to arrange 10m appointments with their GPs and order 15m prescriptions online by the end of this financial year, NHS England has revealed. GP Online
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Stroke patients still not getting care they need
Stroke patients still not getting care they need Stroke care has improved steadily in some respects, and age discrimination has been vastly reduced, but patients are still missing out on important interventions and assessments on hospital admission so further improvements are needed, according to the latest official audit. OnMedica
OECD analyst says Britons 'aren't healthy enough to work into their late 60s'
OECD analyst says Britons 'aren't healthy enough to work into their late 60s' Mark Pearson, a senior analyst at the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), claimed that raising the UK state pension age to 68 may ‘not be viable’ unless public health is improved. The Daily Mail
Better solutions needed to support older people leaving hospital care
Better solutions needed to support older people leaving hospital care Many older adults do not have a strong family network to fall back on after they are discharged from hospital
In last week’s autumn statement, George Osborne announced that councils across Britain will be allowed to increase council tax by up to 2% to fund adult social care, as well as a top up of £1.5bn to the Better Care Fund. This funding for the struggling care sector is, of course, very welcome.
However, the obvious fact remains that vast numbers of older people with non-critical needs won’t qualify for formal care but will still need support after a hospital stay. The situation we face is there simply isn't sufficient provision of care to go around when older people leave hospital. Continue reading... The Guardian
In last week’s autumn statement, George Osborne announced that councils across Britain will be allowed to increase council tax by up to 2% to fund adult social care, as well as a top up of £1.5bn to the Better Care Fund. This funding for the struggling care sector is, of course, very welcome.
However, the obvious fact remains that vast numbers of older people with non-critical needs won’t qualify for formal care but will still need support after a hospital stay. The situation we face is there simply isn't sufficient provision of care to go around when older people leave hospital. Continue reading... The Guardian
Woman, 50, who won legal fight to refuse life-saving dialysis after losing her 'sparkle' dies
Woman, 50, who won legal fight to refuse life-saving dialysis after losing her 'sparkle' dies Mother of three who refused treatment as she did not want to grow old dies as daughter says she will 'raise a glass' to 'the life, soul and sparkle of any party'. The Daily Telegraph
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See also:
- Woman who lost 'sparkle' dies BBC News
- Socialite who lost her 'sparkle' has the right to die, court rules The Independent
Hospitals with more overseas nurses get worse rated
Hospitals with more overseas nurses get worse rated Hospitals with a high proportion of nurses who trained abroad fare far worse in patient ratings, a major study finds, with concerns raised about difficulties understanding staff. The Daily Telegraph
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Wednesday, 2 December 2015
Aborted doctor’s strike saw 350 cancelled operations at Northampton General Hospital
Aborted doctor’s strike saw 350 cancelled operations at Northampton General Hospital Despite calling off their strike action at NGH, junior doctors still caused 350 operations to be cancelled yesterday. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Allied health professionals are critical to new models of care
Allied health professionals are critical to new models of care Allied health professionals (AHPs) make up 6 per cent of the NHS workforce – the third largest professional group – and still more work in social care, housing, local government, and the voluntary and private sectors. They are highly trained and professionally autonomous practitioners, yet too often their vital contribution is marginalised in a public discourse that tends to refer only to ‘doctors and nurses’. This needs to change. The King's Fund
Filling the gap: Tax and fiscal options for a sustainable UK health and social care system
Filling the gap: Tax and fiscal options for a sustainable UK health and social care system The NHS and publicly funded adult social care will account for £157bn of public spending across the UK in 2015/16 – equivalent to 8.4% of gross domestic product (GDP) and accounting for around £1 in every £5 of government spending.
In this report, economists at the Health Foundation and the Institute for Public Policy Research have worked together to explore:
In this report, economists at the Health Foundation and the Institute for Public Policy Research have worked together to explore:
- how spending pressures on health and social care might increase
- the scope for public funding to match these pressures within current fiscal policy to quantify whether there is a potential funding gap for health and social care
- the potential revenue that might be raised by different taxes to fill a health and social care funding gap
- the distributional impact of the different tax options and how they compare to the profile of the ‘beneficiaries’ of additional health and social care spending.
Safer way to do gene editing
Safer way to do gene editing Scientists say they have fine tuned a gene editing method to make it safer and more accurate - vital if it is to be used in humans to cure inherited diseases or inborn errors. BBC News
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- VIDEO: How gene editing works BBC News
Junior doctor strikes could still go ahead in January, BMA warns
Junior doctor strikes could still go ahead in January, BMA warns Junior doctors' leaders have said they remain prepared to take strike action if negotiations with the government and NHS Employers do not work out, after action was suspended last night. GP Online
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Late-night cafe can keep people with mental health problems out of A&E | Nicola Slawson
Late-night cafe can keep people with mental health problems out of A&E | Nicola Slawson Safe Haven project that offers out of hours coffee and support is helping to prevent emergency psychiatric admissions.
It’s nearly 10pm at Aldershot’s Safe Haven cafe and there is a knock at the door. It’s quickly opened and a young man rushes in. He takes a seat in the corner of the bright room and a friendly member of staff joins him. Nearby a young woman is playing cards. She’s laughing softly with her companions, aware that the man is clearly upset.
She knows what it’s like. At age 25, Kimberley Russell (not her real name), who has borderline personality disorder as well as an eating disorder and depression, has had her share of crises. The cafe, which is open every evening to anyone who needs mental health support out-of-hours, has become a lifeline.
In the first six months after its launch, psychiatric admissions from the cafe’s catchment area fell by 33%. Continue reading... The Guardian
It’s nearly 10pm at Aldershot’s Safe Haven cafe and there is a knock at the door. It’s quickly opened and a young man rushes in. He takes a seat in the corner of the bright room and a friendly member of staff joins him. Nearby a young woman is playing cards. She’s laughing softly with her companions, aware that the man is clearly upset.
She knows what it’s like. At age 25, Kimberley Russell (not her real name), who has borderline personality disorder as well as an eating disorder and depression, has had her share of crises. The cafe, which is open every evening to anyone who needs mental health support out-of-hours, has become a lifeline.
In the first six months after its launch, psychiatric admissions from the cafe’s catchment area fell by 33%. Continue reading... The Guardian
How much healthcare policy is based on evidence?
How much healthcare policy is based on evidence? New medicines prescribed by the NHS must pass clinical trials and cost-benefit tests, but not all health policies go through such a rigorous process
The NHS relies on scientific evidence to assess new medicines: drugs are only authorised if they pass clinical trials, and offered only if they pass a cost-benefit test. But similar research into healthcare policy is often used to fuel arguments rather than guide decisions.
The dispute between the health secretary, Jeremy Hunt, and the British Medical Association over junior doctors’ contracts is tied to the government’s plan to introduce seven-day working in the English NHS. Hunt justified this with a BMJ paper [registration] that found around 11,000 more people die within 30 days of being admitted to hospital on Friday, Saturday, Sunday or Monday, compared with admissions on other days of the week. (Friday and Monday were included as many hospital services close on Friday afternoon and do not reopen until Monday morning.) Continue reading... The Guardian
The NHS relies on scientific evidence to assess new medicines: drugs are only authorised if they pass clinical trials, and offered only if they pass a cost-benefit test. But similar research into healthcare policy is often used to fuel arguments rather than guide decisions.
The dispute between the health secretary, Jeremy Hunt, and the British Medical Association over junior doctors’ contracts is tied to the government’s plan to introduce seven-day working in the English NHS. Hunt justified this with a BMJ paper [registration] that found around 11,000 more people die within 30 days of being admitted to hospital on Friday, Saturday, Sunday or Monday, compared with admissions on other days of the week. (Friday and Monday were included as many hospital services close on Friday afternoon and do not reopen until Monday morning.) Continue reading... The Guardian
Woman, 50, wins right to refuse life-saving treatment because her 'sparkle' has gone
Woman, 50, wins right to refuse life-saving treatment because her 'sparkle' has gone Mr Justice MacDonald said although many would be horrified by the woman's decision, she had the mental capacity to refuse treatment. The Daily Telegraph
Organ donation: Groundbreaking law change in Wales means all adults become donors
Organ donation: Groundbreaking law change in Wales means all adults become donors Revolutionary new system will 'save hundreds of lives' in dramatic departure from current 'opt-in' process and will be closely watched by rest of UK. The Daily Telegraph
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Tuesday, 1 December 2015
Campaign calls for more people in Northamptonshire to test themselves for HIV
Campaign calls for more people in Northamptonshire to test themselves for HIV A fifth of people living with HIV are unaware of their infection, according to figures published by health authorities in Northamptonshire. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Guidance: Disability and domestic abuse: risk, impacts and response
Guidance: Disability and domestic abuse: risk, impacts and response This document improves understanding of the complexities of disabled people’s experiences of domestic abuse and promotes consideration of these complexities within the public health system. It also supports local and national action, and provides guidance to improve response across local authorities; health and social care services; clinical commissioners; domestic abuse services; disability services; police and crime commissioners; and the wider public health system. Public Health England
Collaboration in general practice: surveys of GPs and CCGs
Collaboration in general practice: surveys of GPs and CCGs Primary care is facing unprecedented demand to find new ways to deliver care – with an increased emphasis on managing population out-of-hospital through a focus on improved prevention, access and quality of care. All the while, spending on general practice has fallen or flat-lined for the past five years. Collaborative working – including the formation of federations and networks within general practice – is at the heart of overcoming these challenges.
The Royal College of General Practitioners and the Nuffield Trust were commissioned by NHS England to examine the landscape of scaled-up general practice and to develop an online network to support new and emerging collaborations.
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The Royal College of General Practitioners and the Nuffield Trust were commissioned by NHS England to examine the landscape of scaled-up general practice and to develop an online network to support new and emerging collaborations.
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Child obesity - brave and bold action
Child obesity - brave and bold action This report argues that the scale and consequences of childhood obesity demand bold and urgent action from government and it highlights areas for improvement including greater regulation of the marketing of unhealthy snacks; implementing a sugar tax; and greater powers awarded to local authorities to tackle the environment leading to childhood obesity. House of Commons Health Select Committee
Disruption expected as junior doctors' strike called off
Disruption expected as junior doctors' strike called off Hospitals across England are facing major disruption with the cancellation of thousands of operations, despite a 24-hour strike by junior doctors being called off. BBC News
See also:
See also:
- Contract negotiations British Medical Association
- Statement to Parliament: Statement on junior doctors' contract Department of Health
- BMA industrial action suspended NHS Employers
- The junior doctors' contract dispute: lessons from history Nuffield Trust
- RCGP response to suspension of industrial action Royal College of General Practitioners
- VIDEO: Junior doctors' row in 70 seconds BBC News
- My operation was cancelled due to strike plans BBC News
- Hundreds of operations cancelled despite doctors' strike being called off The Guardian
- Junior doctors' strike called off but disruption still widespread The Guardian
- Doctors' strike: Jeremy Hunt announces 'potential agreement' with BMA The Guardian
- Junior doctors strike called off after last-minute deal The Independent
NHS choir aims for Christmas Number 1
NHS choir aims for Christmas Number 1 NHS staff have released a charity single that they hope will be this year's Christmas Number 1. BBC News
The UN says dating apps increase HIV
The UN says dating apps increase HIV More than 220,000 adolescents are thought to have HIV in Asia and the Pacific, but fewer than half is receiving treatment. The Independent
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See also:
- 'Explosion' of dating apps like Grindr is responsible for a 'hidden HIV epidemic in young people', UN warns The Daily Mail
- Dating apps driving 'hidden epidemic' of HIV infections among young Asian males, says UN The Daily Telegraph
- Mobile dating apps spur HIV epidemic among Asia’s teenagers, says UN The Guardian
- ‘Hidden epidemic’ of HIV hitting adolescents in Asia-Pacific region, UN agencies warn United Nations
'I challenge Jeremy Hunt to keep this medical equipment going for an hour': Nurse's angry post blasting lack of pay rise goes is shared more than 50,000 times
'I challenge Jeremy Hunt to keep this medical equipment going for an hour': Nurse's angry post blasting lack of pay rise goes is shared more than 50,000 times Critical care nurse Nicola Kitchin, 37, of Worcester, has been 'overwhelmed' after her angry post went viral and has now racked up almost 75,000 likes and 52,000 shares on Facebook. The Daily Mail
How can the health and social care workforce meet the challenge of integrating services?
How can the health and social care workforce meet the challenge of integrating services? Meeting the integration commitments laid out by the NHS Five Year Forward View won’t be easy. Here are three of the main challenges
What are the ingredients for a truly clear integrated health and social care service model? To help drive this agenda, Skills for Health and Skills for Care gathered experts from both sectors to discuss how integrated services can be realised and what barriers need to be broken down to achieve this. The outcomes of the discussions will surprise you.
Among the many improvements stipulated in NHS England’s Five Year Forward View – particularly when considered alongside the Care Act 2014 – is a new model enabling health and social care services to work cohesively together. The concept of integration will mean something different depending on the type of service provider you are. One of the issues discussed was how organisations can seamlessly integrate their workforces to meet the demands of long-term integration and ultimately deliver better outcomes for citizens. Continue reading... The Guardian
What are the ingredients for a truly clear integrated health and social care service model? To help drive this agenda, Skills for Health and Skills for Care gathered experts from both sectors to discuss how integrated services can be realised and what barriers need to be broken down to achieve this. The outcomes of the discussions will surprise you.
Among the many improvements stipulated in NHS England’s Five Year Forward View – particularly when considered alongside the Care Act 2014 – is a new model enabling health and social care services to work cohesively together. The concept of integration will mean something different depending on the type of service provider you are. One of the issues discussed was how organisations can seamlessly integrate their workforces to meet the demands of long-term integration and ultimately deliver better outcomes for citizens. Continue reading... The Guardian
Nurse and midwife revalidation: five key questions
Nurse and midwife revalidation: five key questions New process is fast approaching, but some areas still require clarity.
The Nursing and Midwifery Council’s (NMC) new revalidation process begins in April 2016. Its aim is for all nurses and midwifes to regularly demonstrate that they “practise safely and effectively”.
Since our first article on revalidation for nurses in July 2015, the process has moved on, but questions about it remain. Continue reading... The Guardian
The Nursing and Midwifery Council’s (NMC) new revalidation process begins in April 2016. Its aim is for all nurses and midwifes to regularly demonstrate that they “practise safely and effectively”.
Since our first article on revalidation for nurses in July 2015, the process has moved on, but questions about it remain. Continue reading... The Guardian
Rapid response: a fear of litigation means I often treat patients I shouldn't
Rapid response: a fear of litigation means I often treat patients I shouldn't Inappropriate referrals are the symptom of a culture of risk aversion in the NHS. Consequently everyone receives a diluted service
Ken is lying on the sofa. He’s only just got up and is still a little tousled in his PJs, but despite all that, he’s as bright and poised as any of the paintings or ceramics that surround him. “Thank you so much for coming,” he says. “I’m sorry to be a pain.”
Ken is 62, still in full-time work, goes to yoga classes and on trips abroad. He is perfectly independent. This has been a bad week, though. His sciatica has flared up and put him out of commission again. His doctor has referred him to us, the rapid response team. Continue reading... The Guardian
Ken is lying on the sofa. He’s only just got up and is still a little tousled in his PJs, but despite all that, he’s as bright and poised as any of the paintings or ceramics that surround him. “Thank you so much for coming,” he says. “I’m sorry to be a pain.”
Ken is 62, still in full-time work, goes to yoga classes and on trips abroad. He is perfectly independent. This has been a bad week, though. His sciatica has flared up and put him out of commission again. His doctor has referred him to us, the rapid response team. Continue reading... The Guardian
Why don't doctors ever see you on time?
Why don't doctors ever see you on time? Surely by now, doctors and nurses at the clinics must have a rough idea how long appointments will take and so offer only a fair number of slots. The Daily Telegraph
Monday, 30 November 2015
Junior Doctors Strike In Northants
Junior Doctors Strike In Northants NHS Nene and NHS Corby Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs) are urging residents in Northamptonshire to help reduce pressure on local NHS services following an announcement that junior doctors will take part in strike action during December. About My Area
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See also:
- Junior Doctors' industrial action: information for patients Northampton General Hospital
- NHFT response and preparedness for junior doctors strike activity Northamptonshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust
- KGH: Don't use A&E unless necessary during doctors's strike Northamptonshire Telegraph
Kettering General Hospital staff win national award for use of new technology
Kettering General Hospital staff win national award for use of new technology A new system introduced to free-up time taken form filling by nursing staff at Kettering General Hospital has won a top, national prize. Northamptonshire Telegraph
Collection: Femal genital mutilation (FGM): guidance for healthcare staff
Collection: Femal genital mutilation (FGM): guidance for healthcare staff Guidance and resources about FGM for healthcare professionals. Department of Health
Jimmy Savile NHS investigations: update on the themes and lessons learnt from NHS investigations into matters relating to Jimmy Savile
Jimmy Savile NHS investigations: update on the themes and lessons learnt from NHS investigations into matters relating to Jimmy Savile In February 2015, the government accepted in principle 13 of the 14 recommendations in Kate Lampard’s lessons learnt report following the investigations into the activities of Jimmy Savile relating to the NHS. This report provides a summary of actions taken in response to the 13 recommendations for the NHS, Department of Health and wider government. Department of Health
Parents 'avoid mental health talks'
Parents 'avoid mental health talks' More than half of parents in England have never spoken to their children about stress, anxiety and depression, a survey suggests. BBC News
Tax on sugary drinks backed by MPs
Tax on sugary drinks backed by MPs A tax on sugary drinks should be introduced as part of a "bold and urgent" set of measures to tackle child obesity in England, MPs say. BBC News
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NHS patients sent for treatment at smaller private hospitals put at risk due to unsafe staffing and facilities
NHS patients sent for treatment at smaller private hospitals put at risk due to unsafe staffing and facilities Serious problems found even in private hospitals rated 'good' by the regulator. The Independent
Most people told to go to hospital after calling NHS 111 did not need emergency treatment
Most people told to go to hospital after calling NHS 111 did not need emergency treatment NHS 111 uses call handlers who are not medically trained and they rely on a computer to offer advice. The helpline that it replaced, NHS Direct, used nurses. The Independent
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Urgent talks set to resume to head off junior doctors' strikes
Urgent talks set to resume to head off junior doctors' strikes Two-thirds of maternity doctors would emigrate or quit if government’s contract is implemented, report warns
Government officials and the British Medical Association are due to resume urgent talks to avert a series of strikes by junior doctors starting on Tuesday, as a report warned that many maternity doctors were expected to quit or work abroad if a new government contract at the heart of the dispute comes into force.
Behind-the-scenes discussions were held on Sunday between the parties and an official from the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service. Continue reading... The Guardian
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Government officials and the British Medical Association are due to resume urgent talks to avert a series of strikes by junior doctors starting on Tuesday, as a report warned that many maternity doctors were expected to quit or work abroad if a new government contract at the heart of the dispute comes into force.
Behind-the-scenes discussions were held on Sunday between the parties and an official from the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service. Continue reading... The Guardian
See also:
- Doctors must talk (editorial) The Daily Telegraph
- As leaders of the future NHS, junior doctors must come back from the brink The Daily Telegraph
- Junior doctors’ leader Johann Malawana on NHS strikes: ‘No doctor wants to do what we are being pushed into’ The Guardian
What does it take to become a junior doctor?
What does it take to become a junior doctor? As the junior doctors' strike comes nearer, The Telegraph examines what it takes to become a junior doctor. The Daily Telegraph
Friday, 27 November 2015
Good care needs to be a co-production
Good care needs to be a co-production The National Clinical Director for Long Term Conditions looks at what co-production means to the Long Term Conditions Unit and how it is essential to supporting person-centred care, addressing such difficult issues as personalised care and support planning, information-sharing and workforce skills. NHS England
Stocktake of access to general practice in England
Stocktake of access to general practice in England People’s experience of accessing general practice remains positive, with almost 9 in 10 patients reporting in 2014-15 that they could get an appointment. Patient satisfaction with access is, however, gradually and consistently declining, and a fifth of patients report opening hours are not convenient, according to today’s report from the National Audit Office.
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Multiple-birth care 'postcode lottery'
Multiple-birth care 'postcode lottery' Women expecting twins or triplets are experiencing poor antenatal care in some areas of England, a report suggests. BBC News
See also:
See also:
- Postcode lottery of NHS maternity care for twins, triplets and higher multiples puts babies’ lives at risk across the country Twins and Multiple Births Association
- Tamba and NCT Maternity Services Report: Multiple births Twins and Multiple Births Association & NCT
A&E waiting times 'getting worse'
A&E waiting times 'getting worse' Waiting times in A&E departments across the UK are worsening as pressures grow in hospitals, figures suggest. BBC News
One in five children obese in Year 6
One in five children obese in Year 6 One in 10 children were obese when they started primary school in England last year and one in five were obese when they left, according to new figures. BBC News
HIV infections hit record level across Europe
HIV infections hit record level across Europe This increase is primarily attributed to heterosexual transmission in Eastern Europe. The Independent
Cautious optimism after nine hours of talks to resolve junior doctors dispute
Cautious optimism after nine hours of talks to resolve junior doctors dispute Both sides set to continue talks on Friday in an effort to avoid strike action over government’s threat to impose new working contracts
Both sides in the junior doctors dispute held nine hours of conciliatory talks on Thursday and will resume face to face discussions on Friday in a bid to prevent a planned a series of walkouts over the government’s threat to impose new working contracts.
Representatives of the British Medical Association, NHS Employers and the Department of Health met under the auspices of the independent Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service (Acas) at un undisclosed London venue in an attempt to end the increasingly bitter dispute before the first strike due next Tuesday, 1 December. Continue reading... The Guardian
Both sides in the junior doctors dispute held nine hours of conciliatory talks on Thursday and will resume face to face discussions on Friday in a bid to prevent a planned a series of walkouts over the government’s threat to impose new working contracts.
Representatives of the British Medical Association, NHS Employers and the Department of Health met under the auspices of the independent Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service (Acas) at un undisclosed London venue in an attempt to end the increasingly bitter dispute before the first strike due next Tuesday, 1 December. Continue reading... The Guardian
NHS trusts told to ensure criminal record checks on staff up to date
NHS trusts told to ensure criminal record checks on staff up to date Many trusts are not carrying out regular reviews of personnel despite key recommendation in wake of Savile scandal
NHS trusts in England have been told to ensure that criminal records checks are up to date on their staff and, where necessary, on volunteers, after a survey of trusts revealed that many did not undertake three-yearly reviews.
The measure was a key recommendation of former barrister Kate Lampard’s report on improvements needed to protect patients in the wake of the Jimmy Savile scandal. She raised concerns in February about lack of management and oversight over an estimated 78,000 volunteers, highlighting 14 areas where improvements were needed. Continue reading... The Guardian
NHS trusts in England have been told to ensure that criminal records checks are up to date on their staff and, where necessary, on volunteers, after a survey of trusts revealed that many did not undertake three-yearly reviews.
The measure was a key recommendation of former barrister Kate Lampard’s report on improvements needed to protect patients in the wake of the Jimmy Savile scandal. She raised concerns in February about lack of management and oversight over an estimated 78,000 volunteers, highlighting 14 areas where improvements were needed. Continue reading... The Guardian
Rules banning gay and bisexual men from giving blood to be reviewed
Rules banning gay and bisexual men from giving blood to be reviewed Government will ‘look again’ at year-long prohibition imposed on men who have sex with men, says public health minister
The government will conduct a review of the rules prohibiting gay and bisexual men from donating blood, the public health minister Jane Ellison has announced.
Under current legislation, men who have sex with men (MSM) are banned from giving blood for 12 months after having sexual intercourse. Continue reading... The Guardian
The government will conduct a review of the rules prohibiting gay and bisexual men from donating blood, the public health minister Jane Ellison has announced.
Under current legislation, men who have sex with men (MSM) are banned from giving blood for 12 months after having sexual intercourse. Continue reading... The Guardian
Hedge funder who pledged to cut cost of Aids pill sold with 5,000pc mark-up reneges on promise
Hedge funder who pledged to cut cost of Aids pill sold with 5,000pc mark-up reneges on promise Martin Shkreli, who once wrote that he grieves "every time a drug goes generic", has not cut the cost of the pills, as promised. The Daily Telegraph
Thursday, 26 November 2015
Junior doctors' strike forces Northampton General Hospital to cancel appointments
Junior doctors' strike forces Northampton General Hospital to cancel appointments Northampton General Hospital is preparing for a staff walk-out after almost 100 per cent of junior doctors voted in favour of striking. Northampton Herald and Post
Hospital inpatient care: over 10,000 more admissions a day than 10 years ago
Hospital inpatient care: over 10,000 more admissions a day than 10 years ago Latest figures show that there were 15.9 million admissions to NHS hospitals in England in 2014-15 - the equivalent of 43,500 per day. This is 1,200 more per day on average than in 2013-145 and 10,400 more per day on average than 10 years ago in 2004-05. Health and Social Care Information Centre
Babies born on the weekend have slightly higher death risk
Babies born on the weekend have slightly higher death risk "Babies delivered at the weekend are significantly more likely to die or suffer serious injury," the Daily Mail reports.
However, while the increase in risk is both significant and an obvious cause for concern, it should be noted that it is a very small increase.
Researchers looked at the outcomes of 1,349,599 births in the two years from April 1 2010, and found that an estimated 770 extra deaths occurred each year above what would occur if all babies were born on weekdays.
Obviously, 770 extra deaths is 770 too many, but it is important to put the figure into a larger context. When we look at the actual numbers, 0.73% of babies born at the weekend died, compared to 0.64% of babies born on weekdays.
While it may be tempting to assume that the extra deaths are all down to staffing issues (e.g. consultants not working at weekends) other factors may be involved. For example, most women giving birth by planned caesarean section did so during the week. Babies born this way may be lower risk, which could make the weekday births appear safer. NHS Choices
However, while the increase in risk is both significant and an obvious cause for concern, it should be noted that it is a very small increase.
Researchers looked at the outcomes of 1,349,599 births in the two years from April 1 2010, and found that an estimated 770 extra deaths occurred each year above what would occur if all babies were born on weekdays.
Obviously, 770 extra deaths is 770 too many, but it is important to put the figure into a larger context. When we look at the actual numbers, 0.73% of babies born at the weekend died, compared to 0.64% of babies born on weekdays.
While it may be tempting to assume that the extra deaths are all down to staffing issues (e.g. consultants not working at weekends) other factors may be involved. For example, most women giving birth by planned caesarean section did so during the week. Babies born this way may be lower risk, which could make the weekday births appear safer. NHS Choices
Junior doctor dispute 'to go to Acas'
Junior doctor dispute 'to go to Acas' The government has agreed to talks at Acas in the dispute with junior doctors - and is now urging the British Medical Association to call off the three days of strikes planned for December. BBC News
See also:
See also:
- Imposition threat must be removed to defer juniors' action British Medical Association
- Correspondence: Health Secretary writes to Dr Mark Porter, Chair of the BMA Department of Health
- NHS Employers begins talks with ACAS NHS Employers
- Junior doctors row: A nightmare for the NHS and patients? BBC News
- Jeremy Hunt agrees to talks with junior doctors in bid to halt strikes The Daily Mail
- Junior doctors' strike: Government agrees to talks at Acas in bid to avoid walkout The Daily Telegraph
- Doctors 'naive' to think no harm will come to patients during strikes, says Harvard The Daily Telegraph
- Junior doctors' strike: what should patients do? The Daily Telegraph
- Junior doctor strikes will go ahead unless government drops imposition threat, warns BMA GP Online
- Doctors strike: Analysis finds that NHS patients will not be more likely to die during action period The Independent
- Junior doctor dispute to go to talks at Acas OnMedica
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