Tuesday, 5 April 2016
Galvanising the NHS to adopt innovation
Galvanising the NHS to adopt innovation The Department of Health and the Wellcome Trust, in co-operation with NHS England, asked RAND Europe to conduct a limited consultation with key stakeholders about the practicality of measures and incentives proposed as part of the NHS Accelerated Access Review (AAR), which aims to assess the pathways for the development, assessment, and adoption of innovative medicines and medical technology. Through a focused engagement exercise with key healthcare stakeholders this project explored the implications of selected interim AAR propositions and feasibility of implementation for key actors, in primary and secondary care as well as commissioners and academia. Rand Corporation
Britain's top psychiatrist Simon Wessely challenges Government to ring-fence mental health spending
Britain's top psychiatrist Simon Wessely challenges Government to ring-fence mental health spending Britain’s top psychiatrist has challenged the Government to ring-fence spending for a comprehensive set of new waiting times targets that experts believe could finally achieve equality for mental health patients in the NHS.
Professor Sir Simon Wessely, president of the Royal College of Psychiatrists (RCPsych), said that claims from a former health minister that the new standards – the core recommendation of a recent landmark report – have no funding to back them up, were “crushingly disappointing”. The Independent
Professor Sir Simon Wessely, president of the Royal College of Psychiatrists (RCPsych), said that claims from a former health minister that the new standards – the core recommendation of a recent landmark report – have no funding to back them up, were “crushingly disappointing”. The Independent
Seeing how the NHS handles attempted child suicide scares me
Seeing how the NHS handles attempted child suicide scares me The attitude of medical staff is a big problem, but it’s the system and lack of adolescent mental health beds that causes me the greatest stress.
Sometimes when I look into a child’s eyes I see anxiety as they decide to tell me they want to kill themselves. They might be worried at my possible reaction; will I show disapproval, be upset? Instead, I feel a deep sadness; how can somebody so young have reached the point in their lives when they think this is the only option left?
I am an outreach child and adolescent mental health nurse in the north of England. I act as the first response following a suicide attempt in a young person. I carry out a risk assessment, arrange follow up support, then decide if a young person is safe to go home, or needs a place of safety. Continue reading... The Guardian
Sometimes when I look into a child’s eyes I see anxiety as they decide to tell me they want to kill themselves. They might be worried at my possible reaction; will I show disapproval, be upset? Instead, I feel a deep sadness; how can somebody so young have reached the point in their lives when they think this is the only option left?
I am an outreach child and adolescent mental health nurse in the north of England. I act as the first response following a suicide attempt in a young person. I carry out a risk assessment, arrange follow up support, then decide if a young person is safe to go home, or needs a place of safety. Continue reading... The Guardian
Health charities urge talks to halt junior doctors' strikes
Health charities urge talks to halt junior doctors' strikes Coalition of 36 charities says contract dispute could cause long-term damage to public trust and confidence in NHS
Health charities have made a last-ditch appeal to Jeremy Hunt and the doctors’ union to resume peace talks in order to halt this week’s strike by junior medics.
A coalition of 36 charities have written to the health secretary and the British Medical Association warning that walkouts by junior doctors are now so common that they are becoming “normalised”. Continue reading... The Guardian
See also:
Health charities have made a last-ditch appeal to Jeremy Hunt and the doctors’ union to resume peace talks in order to halt this week’s strike by junior medics.
A coalition of 36 charities have written to the health secretary and the British Medical Association warning that walkouts by junior doctors are now so common that they are becoming “normalised”. Continue reading... The Guardian
See also:
- Junior doctors' contract: equality analysis and family test Department of Health
- Terms and conditions of service for NHS doctors and dentists in training 2016 NHS Employers
- Doctors' new legal bid over contracts BBC News
- Junior doctors launch legal proceedings over imposed contract GP Online
- In this junior doctors row, both sides have lost sight of the patient | Sarah Wollaston The Guardian
- Female doctors may be forced to quit over new contract, experts say The Guardian
- If Cameron wants to stop women becoming doctors, he’s going the right way | Roshana Mehdian The Guardian
- "Patients used a pawns in toxic contract dispute" Wollaston OnMedica
- Psychiatrists fear new contract will harm recruitment of women OnMedica
Patients going blind - because the NHS delays vital follow-up appointments
Patients going blind - because the NHS delays vital follow-up appointments Malcolm Johnson, 70, from Shropshire began seeing the first signs of an eye condition which, if not treated quickly, can permanently destroy central vision in the affected eye. The Daily Mail
Friday, 1 April 2016
More beds 'would save hospital money'
More beds 'would save hospital money'
Northampton Hospital chief executive Sonia Swart says more beds will address deficit and help staff facing a 'battle every single day'.
Northampton Hospital chief executive Sonia Swart says more beds will address deficit and help staff facing a 'battle every single day'.
BBC News
Temporary changes to access at KGH to allow for extension to A&E department
Temporary changes to access at KGH to allow for extension to A&E department
Kettering General Hospital is putting in place a new extension to its A&E department to improve urgent care facilities.
Kettering General Hospital is putting in place a new extension to its A&E department to improve urgent care facilities.
Northampton Telegraph
Fit for purpose: workforce policy in the English NHS
Fit for purpose: workforce policy in the English NHS
As modern health care becomes ever more complex, designing effective ‘workforce policy’ - how the health service plans, trains, regulates, pays and supports its people to ensure affordable, good quality care - is one of the central challenges facing the system today. This report gives an overview of the components of workforce policy in the English NHS and the bodies which shape it. It argues that government and national leaders need a radical new approach to inspire an NHS workforce that is too often stressed, stretched and disaffected. Health Foundation
Report
Press release
As modern health care becomes ever more complex, designing effective ‘workforce policy’ - how the health service plans, trains, regulates, pays and supports its people to ensure affordable, good quality care - is one of the central challenges facing the system today. This report gives an overview of the components of workforce policy in the English NHS and the bodies which shape it. It argues that government and national leaders need a radical new approach to inspire an NHS workforce that is too often stressed, stretched and disaffected. Health Foundation
Report
Press release
NHS England publishes Business Plan 2016/17
NHS England publishes Business Plan 2016/17
Today (31 March) we published our Business Plan for 2016/17 which builds on three guiding principles which will shape our work in the year ahead:
Constancy of purpose and priorities
Coherent national support for locally led improvement
Solve today’s issues by accelerating tomorrow’s solutions
Today (31 March) we published our Business Plan for 2016/17 which builds on three guiding principles which will shape our work in the year ahead:
Constancy of purpose and priorities
Coherent national support for locally led improvement
Solve today’s issues by accelerating tomorrow’s solutions
NHS Commissioning
Bringing together physical and mental health: A new frontier for integrated care
Bringing together physical and mental health: A new frontier for integrated care
The report identifies 10 areas where there is particular scope for improvement. These span the full range of health system activities, illustrating that change is needed across the system. Commissioners and providers can use these 10 areas as a guide to identify where some of the most significant opportunities for quality improvement and cost control lie. QIPP Alert
Bringing together physical and mental health: A new frontier for integrated care
C Naylor, P Das, S Ross, M Honeyman, J Thompson, H GilburtThe King's Fund March 2016 Read more here.
The report identifies 10 areas where there is particular scope for improvement. These span the full range of health system activities, illustrating that change is needed across the system. Commissioners and providers can use these 10 areas as a guide to identify where some of the most significant opportunities for quality improvement and cost control lie. QIPP Alert
Bringing together physical and mental health: A new frontier for integrated care
C Naylor, P Das, S Ross, M Honeyman, J Thompson, H GilburtThe King's Fund March 2016 Read more here.
Ministers 'letting down mentally ill people' by not collecting data
Ministers 'letting down mentally ill people' by not collecting data
Shadow mental health minister accuses government of negligence in failing to record waiting times, suicides and deaths
Ministers have been accused of letting down mentally ill people by failing to collect basic data about waiting times, suicides and deaths, which would allow them to secure more funding to tackle the crisis in mental health.
Luciana Berger, the shadow mental health minister, has accused the government of “negligence” after having more than 50 freedom of information requests dismissed with the response that the data is “not collected centrally”.
The number of questions ministers cannot answer is staggering.
Shadow mental health minister accuses government of negligence in failing to record waiting times, suicides and deaths
Ministers have been accused of letting down mentally ill people by failing to collect basic data about waiting times, suicides and deaths, which would allow them to secure more funding to tackle the crisis in mental health.
Luciana Berger, the shadow mental health minister, has accused the government of “negligence” after having more than 50 freedom of information requests dismissed with the response that the data is “not collected centrally”.
The number of questions ministers cannot answer is staggering.
BMA launches legal action against junior doctors' contract
BMA launches legal action against junior doctors' contract
Doctors are challenging legality of decision by Jeremy Hunt to impose new terms and conditions on 45,000 medics
Junior doctors have begun legal action against the government to try and stop it imposing its unpopular new contract on 45,000 medics working in the NHS.
The British Medical Association (BMA) has launched a judicial review which challenges the legality of the decision by the health secretary, Jeremy Hunt, to force the new terms and conditions on all junior doctors in England.
Doctors are challenging legality of decision by Jeremy Hunt to impose new terms and conditions on 45,000 medics
Junior doctors have begun legal action against the government to try and stop it imposing its unpopular new contract on 45,000 medics working in the NHS.
The British Medical Association (BMA) has launched a judicial review which challenges the legality of the decision by the health secretary, Jeremy Hunt, to force the new terms and conditions on all junior doctors in England.
GPs should write up individual care plans for patients with multimorbidity, says NICE
GPs should write up individual care plans for patients with multimorbidity, says NICE
GPs should establish the 'treatment burden' of patients with multimorbidity and draw up a tailored approach to their care that takes their preferences and priorities into account, NICE guidelines on treating multiple conditions say.
GPs should establish the 'treatment burden' of patients with multimorbidity and draw up a tailored approach to their care that takes their preferences and priorities into account, NICE guidelines on treating multiple conditions say.
GP Online
NHS Improvement publishes agency rules
NHS Improvement publishes agency rules
Consolidated guidance has been published by NHS Improvement setting out the rules around the procurement of agency staff, the use of approved framework agreements and introduction of maximum hourly wage rates.
Consolidated guidance has been published by NHS Improvement setting out the rules around the procurement of agency staff, the use of approved framework agreements and introduction of maximum hourly wage rates.
Latest NHS Employers News
Health and social care staff: share your views on training in our survey
Health and social care staff: share your views on training in our survey
What can leaders do to create a culture of lifelong learning in the two sectors and offer training in the most convenient and accessible formats?
Excellence in the education, training and development of NHS employees is one of the guiding principles of the health service, as set out in its Constitution.
Leaders across health and social care want to create a culture of lifelong learning in their sectors.
Guardian
What can leaders do to create a culture of lifelong learning in the two sectors and offer training in the most convenient and accessible formats?
Excellence in the education, training and development of NHS employees is one of the guiding principles of the health service, as set out in its Constitution.
Leaders across health and social care want to create a culture of lifelong learning in their sectors.
Guardian
NHS bosses promise crackdown on conflicts of interest following scandals
NHS bosses promise crackdown on conflicts of interest following scandals
NHS England chairman, Sir Malcolm Grant, will draw up rules to be adopted across the healthcare system.
NHS England chairman, Sir Malcolm Grant, will draw up rules to be adopted across the healthcare system.
Independent
How are NHS financial pressures affecting patient care?
How are NHS financial pressures affecting patient care?
The NHS is experiencing increasing financial pressure, but what does this mean for patients? This is a difficult question to answer because, while evidence on the extent of the NHS’s financial problems is piling up, information on the impact on patients remains scarce for a number of reasons.
First, across the country patient care varies for many reasons beyond the size of the local NHS budget: decisions about the care available to individuals are influenced by national bodies, local commissioners and providers, and clinicians at the bedside. Unlike health services in some other countries, the NHS does not specify a list of treatments that it will provide. Instead, patients have a series of broad legal rights (laid out in the NHS Constitution) and their care is influenced by a wide range of factors such as national policy initiatives, clinical guidelines, what’s been available locally in the past and current local priorities and needs. While decisions made by national bodies, commissioners and providers play an important role, clinicians’ decisions ‘at the bedside’ and the discussions they have with patients ultimately determine the care that each individual receives. So if an individual’s care differs from recommended practice or from the care someone else received, it may not necessarily be the result of financial factors.
The NHS is experiencing increasing financial pressure, but what does this mean for patients? This is a difficult question to answer because, while evidence on the extent of the NHS’s financial problems is piling up, information on the impact on patients remains scarce for a number of reasons.
First, across the country patient care varies for many reasons beyond the size of the local NHS budget: decisions about the care available to individuals are influenced by national bodies, local commissioners and providers, and clinicians at the bedside. Unlike health services in some other countries, the NHS does not specify a list of treatments that it will provide. Instead, patients have a series of broad legal rights (laid out in the NHS Constitution) and their care is influenced by a wide range of factors such as national policy initiatives, clinical guidelines, what’s been available locally in the past and current local priorities and needs. While decisions made by national bodies, commissioners and providers play an important role, clinicians’ decisions ‘at the bedside’ and the discussions they have with patients ultimately determine the care that each individual receives. So if an individual’s care differs from recommended practice or from the care someone else received, it may not necessarily be the result of financial factors.
More obese than underweight, says study
More obese than underweight, says study
There are now more adults in the world classified as obese than underweight, a major study suggests.
There are now more adults in the world classified as obese than underweight, a major study suggests.
BBC News
Health spending devolved in Manchester
Health spending devolved in Manchester
Greater Manchester's £6bn health and social care budget is to be taken over by regional leaders on Friday, as part of an extension of devolved powers.
Greater Manchester's £6bn health and social care budget is to be taken over by regional leaders on Friday, as part of an extension of devolved powers.
BBC News
Public awareness of link between alcohol and cancer 'worryingly low'
Public awareness of link between alcohol and cancer 'worryingly low'
Nine out of ten Britons do not associate drinking with cancer, according to research by Cancer UK
Only around one in 10 Britons knows that drinking too much can cause cancer, according to new research that has provoked calls for cans and bottles of alcohol to carry health warnings.
Nine out of ten Britons do not associate drinking with cancer, according to research by Cancer UK
Only around one in 10 Britons knows that drinking too much can cause cancer, according to new research that has provoked calls for cans and bottles of alcohol to carry health warnings.
Confirmation of the national tariff payment system 2016/17
Confirmation of the national tariff payment system 2016/17
Following the conclusion of the statutory consultation, NHS England and Monitor have published the 2016/17 national tariff payment system in final form.
Following the conclusion of the statutory consultation, NHS England and Monitor have published the 2016/17 national tariff payment system in final form.
NHS Networks
Thursday, 31 March 2016
NHS workforce: new analysis shows NHS workforce figures over time
NHS workforce: new analysis shows NHS workforce figures over time
New methodology and analysis reflects the way health and care now delivered.
IC QOF
New methodology and analysis reflects the way health and care now delivered.
IC QOF
'Major gaps' in end-of-life care
'Major gaps' in end-of-life care
A national review of end-of-life care has found many hospitals are failing to provide face-to-face palliative care specialists around the clock.
BBC News
A national review of end-of-life care has found many hospitals are failing to provide face-to-face palliative care specialists around the clock.
BBC News
- End-of-life care in NHS still not good enough, report finds Guardian
- Hospitals still not informing family members that loved ones are about to die Telegraph
The price of health: the cost of developing new medicines
The price of health: the cost of developing new medicines
Drug development is highly resource-intensive and expensive with only one in 5,000 medicines making it to the market – this is how it works
Drug development is highly resource-intensive and expensive with only one in 5,000 medicines making it to the market – this is how it works
When it comes to pharmaceutical companies, two accusations crop up time and again. One is thatthey charge too much for drugs and the other is that they focus research on diseases they can profit from. That means they concentrate on chronic diseases, rather than less profitable infectious ones.
GuardianContinue reading...
Drug development is highly resource-intensive and expensive with only one in 5,000 medicines making it to the market – this is how it works
Drug development is highly resource-intensive and expensive with only one in 5,000 medicines making it to the market – this is how it works
When it comes to pharmaceutical companies, two accusations crop up time and again. One is thatthey charge too much for drugs and the other is that they focus research on diseases they can profit from. That means they concentrate on chronic diseases, rather than less profitable infectious ones.
GuardianContinue reading...
200,000 people trained to seek medical advice online
200,000 people trained to seek medical advice online
200,000 homeless, older and vulnerable people have had lessons to get online and contact their doctor reducing GP visits and costs to the NHS.
NHS Networks
200,000 homeless, older and vulnerable people have had lessons to get online and contact their doctor reducing GP visits and costs to the NHS.
NHS Networks
Electronic health records (EHR): guidance for community pharmacists and pharmacy technicians
Electronic health records (EHR): guidance for community pharmacists and pharmacy technicians
This guidance which aims to support pharmacists and pharmacy technicians who have access to patient EHRs has been updated. As well as covering general principles about how EHRs should be kept, maintained and accessed, the guidance provides specific support to the national NHS electronic record services used in the devolved administrations, tailored to the initiatives in those countries.
Royal Pharmaceutical Society (RPS)
Guidance
Press release
This guidance which aims to support pharmacists and pharmacy technicians who have access to patient EHRs has been updated. As well as covering general principles about how EHRs should be kept, maintained and accessed, the guidance provides specific support to the national NHS electronic record services used in the devolved administrations, tailored to the initiatives in those countries.
Royal Pharmaceutical Society (RPS)
Guidance
Press release
Wednesday, 30 March 2016
Woman from Northampton called NHS crisis line...and had to wait two days to see a doctor
Woman from Northampton called NHS crisis line...and had to wait two days to see a doctor
A woman from Northamptonshire claims she was unable to find help on a mental health crisis line for two days.
Northampton Chronicle & Echo
A woman from Northamptonshire claims she was unable to find help on a mental health crisis line for two days.
Northampton Chronicle & Echo
Strictly Northampton smashes event record to raise £45,000 for Cynthia Spencer Hospice
Strictly Northampton smashes event record to raise £45,000 for Cynthia Spencer Hospice
A record-breaking cheque for more than £45,000 was handed over to Cynthia Spencer Hospice at a special event hosted the event’s sponsor, Aspers Casino last week.
Northampton Chronicle & Echo
A record-breaking cheque for more than £45,000 was handed over to Cynthia Spencer Hospice at a special event hosted the event’s sponsor, Aspers Casino last week.
Northampton Chronicle & Echo
Concern over 'all-out' doctors' strike
Concern over 'all-out' doctors' strike
Medical leaders say the planned all-out strike by junior doctors in England at the end of April could be damaging to patients and should be suspended.
BBC News
Medical leaders say the planned all-out strike by junior doctors in England at the end of April could be damaging to patients and should be suspended.
BBC News
WHO downgrades Ebola health risk
WHO downgrades Ebola health risk
Ebola is no longer an "extraordinary health event" and the risk of the virus spreading is low, the World Health Organization says.
BBC News
Ebola is no longer an "extraordinary health event" and the risk of the virus spreading is low, the World Health Organization says.
BBC News
Guidance: Prostate cancer risk management programme: PSA test benefits and risks
Guidance: Prostate cancer risk management programme: PSA test benefits and risks
The Prostate cancer risk management programme (PCRMP) aims to help primary care give clear and balanced information to asymptomatic men who ask about testing for prostate cancer.
The prostate specific antigen (PSA) test is available free to any man aged 50 or over who requests it, after careful consideration of the implications.
Men concerned about the risk of prostate cancer should receive clear and balanced information about the advantages and disadvantages of the PSA test, biopsy and treatments for prostate cancer. This means men can make informed decisions about whether or not to have a PSA test.
Public Health England
The Prostate cancer risk management programme (PCRMP) aims to help primary care give clear and balanced information to asymptomatic men who ask about testing for prostate cancer.
The prostate specific antigen (PSA) test is available free to any man aged 50 or over who requests it, after careful consideration of the implications.
Men concerned about the risk of prostate cancer should receive clear and balanced information about the advantages and disadvantages of the PSA test, biopsy and treatments for prostate cancer. This means men can make informed decisions about whether or not to have a PSA test.
Public Health England
Anorexia: Stimulating brain with magnetic fields reduces symptoms of eating disorder
Anorexia: Stimulating brain with magnetic fields reduces symptoms of eating disorder
Anorexia is characterised by an intense fear of being overweight.
Independent
Anorexia is characterised by an intense fear of being overweight.
Independent
Can concussion be tested for with a 'simple' blood test?
Can concussion be tested for with a 'simple' blood test?
"A new blood test can detect a concussion up to a week after a head injury," the Daily Mail reports. The test involved checking for biomarkers, which are substances created by a specific biological condition or state.
In this case researchers looked at two biomarkers – proteins called glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and ubiquitin C-terminal hydrolase L1 (UCH-L1).
These proteins are known to be associated with mild to moderate traumatic brain injury. These types of injury can result in concussion, which is short-lived loss of mental function.
The study included more than 500 people with suspected brain injury. Researchers found both proteins were sometimes present in the blood.
There were higher levels of UCH-L1 in the early stages after injury, while GFAP was found to be a relatively good indicator for up to a week after injury.
However, the two biomarkers were not always detectable in people with a brain injury. One in five people assessed by researchers did not have GFAP and 1 in 10 did not have UCH-L1.
As the tests were not able to correctly identify all people with and without a brain injury, these two biomarkers would not meet the requirements for a stand-alone diagnostic test.
Concussion ideally needs to be diagnosed by a health professional trained in assessing patients with head injury. You should visit your nearest accident and emergency (A&E) department if you or someone in your care has a head injury.
"A new blood test can detect a concussion up to a week after a head injury," the Daily Mail reports. The test involved checking for biomarkers, which are substances created by a specific biological condition or state.
In this case researchers looked at two biomarkers – proteins called glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and ubiquitin C-terminal hydrolase L1 (UCH-L1).
These proteins are known to be associated with mild to moderate traumatic brain injury. These types of injury can result in concussion, which is short-lived loss of mental function.
The study included more than 500 people with suspected brain injury. Researchers found both proteins were sometimes present in the blood.
There were higher levels of UCH-L1 in the early stages after injury, while GFAP was found to be a relatively good indicator for up to a week after injury.
However, the two biomarkers were not always detectable in people with a brain injury. One in five people assessed by researchers did not have GFAP and 1 in 10 did not have UCH-L1.
As the tests were not able to correctly identify all people with and without a brain injury, these two biomarkers would not meet the requirements for a stand-alone diagnostic test.
Concussion ideally needs to be diagnosed by a health professional trained in assessing patients with head injury. You should visit your nearest accident and emergency (A&E) department if you or someone in your care has a head injury.
Tuesday, 29 March 2016
Blood test to detect concussion could prevent use of radiation-exposing scans
Blood test to detect concussion could prevent use of radiation-exposing scans
The test will minimise the need for computerised tomography (CT) scans, which emit radiation.
Independent
The test will minimise the need for computerised tomography (CT) scans, which emit radiation.
Independent
Retention of nurses on the shortage occupation list
Retention of nurses on the shortage occupation list
The government has accepted a recommendation made by the Migration Advisory Committee to retain nurses on the shortage occupation list.
Latest NHS Employers News
The government has accepted a recommendation made by the Migration Advisory Committee to retain nurses on the shortage occupation list.
Latest NHS Employers News
Britain hit by worst spring flu outbreak in five years
Britain hit by worst spring flu outbreak in five years
In the last two weeks, reports of flu have been four times the normal figure.
Independent
In the last two weeks, reports of flu have been four times the normal figure.
Independent
New online test predicts skin cancer risk
New online test predicts skin cancer risk
Experts have created a simple quiz to identify a person's chance of developing the disease.
Independent
Experts have created a simple quiz to identify a person's chance of developing the disease.
Independent
Campaign credited with fall in antibiotic prescribing
Campaign credited with fall in antibiotic prescribing
The number of prescriptions for antibiotics made by GPs and others in primary care fell by nearly 8% last year, following a national campaign to reduce avoidable prescribing.
NHS Networks
The number of prescriptions for antibiotics made by GPs and others in primary care fell by nearly 8% last year, following a national campaign to reduce avoidable prescribing.
NHS Networks
Cash for faster mental health training
Cash for faster mental health training
The Department of Health is giving £10m to a fast-track scheme training graduates to become social workers in community mental health teams.
BBC News
The Department of Health is giving £10m to a fast-track scheme training graduates to become social workers in community mental health teams.
BBC News
Countdown to lift-off begins for Britain’s first space doctors
Countdown to lift-off begins for Britain’s first space doctors
The first generation of UK doctors specially-trained to work as part of the space programme has moved a step closer, with the General Medical Council (GMC) set to approve the curriculum later this year.
General Medical Council
The first generation of UK doctors specially-trained to work as part of the space programme has moved a step closer, with the General Medical Council (GMC) set to approve the curriculum later this year.
General Medical Council
Ministers and NHS bosses criticised over use of overseas nurses
Ministers and NHS bosses criticised over use of overseas nurses
Chief of government’s migration advisory committee says there is ‘no good reason’ why nurses cannot be found in UK
Health ministers and NHS bosses have been criticised for using overseas nurses as a “get out of jailfree” card to ease hospitals’ recruitment crisis.
The government’s migration advisory committee (MAC) says it has “reluctantly” recommended to the home secretary that up to 5,000 overseas nurses from outside of the European economic area (EEA) be given visas each year for the next three years.
Guardian
Continue reading...
Chief of government’s migration advisory committee says there is ‘no good reason’ why nurses cannot be found in UK
Health ministers and NHS bosses have been criticised for using overseas nurses as a “get out of jailfree” card to ease hospitals’ recruitment crisis.
The government’s migration advisory committee (MAC) says it has “reluctantly” recommended to the home secretary that up to 5,000 overseas nurses from outside of the European economic area (EEA) be given visas each year for the next three years.
Guardian
Continue reading...
Acupuncture for low back pain no longer recommended for NHS patients
Acupuncture for low back pain no longer recommended for NHS patients
New advice represents a u-turn in treatment for back pain, which affects one in 10 people, after evidence review showed acupuncture no better than a placebo
Acupuncture is no longer recommended as a treatment for low back pain on the NHS, according to new draft guidelines released today by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (Nice).
The u-turn comes after a review of scientific evidence found that the practice was no better than a placebo in treating those living with low back pain and sciatica.
New advice represents a u-turn in treatment for back pain, which affects one in 10 people, after evidence review showed acupuncture no better than a placebo
Acupuncture is no longer recommended as a treatment for low back pain on the NHS, according to new draft guidelines released today by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (Nice).
The u-turn comes after a review of scientific evidence found that the practice was no better than a placebo in treating those living with low back pain and sciatica.
Thursday, 24 March 2016
Northamptonshire families speak of anguish after drastic disability benefit cuts
Northamptonshire families speak of anguish after drastic disability benefit cuts Families in the north of the county have spoken of their anguish after their disability benefits suffered drastic cutbacks following medical assessments. Northamptonshire Telegraph
Medics admit causing death of Northampton man after missing blocked artery
Medics admit causing death of Northampton man after missing blocked artery A Northampton woman whose partner died after medics at Kettering General Hospital failed to diagnose a blocked artery has been awarded a six-figure settlement. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Northampton school failed to report signs of neglect in siblings, inquiry into death of baby boy finds
Northampton school failed to report signs of neglect in siblings, inquiry into death of baby boy finds A damning report into the death of a nine-week-old baby from co-sleeping with his Northampton mother has criticised professionals for not spotting signs of neglect in the family. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
What has the impact been of recent caps on NHS agency staff spend?
What has the impact been of recent caps on NHS agency staff spend? Almost four months to the day since the first caps on agency spending were introduced by Monitor and the NHS Trust Development Authority – and with new framework agreements due to come into force next week – what do we know about the impact of these measures so far? The King's Fund
Junior doctors to stage A&E walkout
Junior doctors to stage A&E walkout Junior doctors in England are escalating strike action next month to include a walkout of emergency care.
It will be the first time doctors have refused to provide cover in areas such as A&E and intensive care - the strikes so far have hit routine care.
The British Medical Association said it had been left with "no choice" in its fight against the government's plan to impose a new contract.
The all-out stoppages will take place from 08:00 to 17:00 on 26 and 27 April. BBC News
See also:
It will be the first time doctors have refused to provide cover in areas such as A&E and intensive care - the strikes so far have hit routine care.
The British Medical Association said it had been left with "no choice" in its fight against the government's plan to impose a new contract.
The all-out stoppages will take place from 08:00 to 17:00 on 26 and 27 April. BBC News
See also:
- Escalation of industrial action: Junior doctors forced to escalate action as Government refuses to end dispute through talks British Medical Association
- Junior doctor contract negotiations Department of Health
- BMA announces escalated industrial action for junior doctors NHS Employers
- Junior doctors' industrial action resources for employers NHS Employers
- Junior doctors call an all-out strike that could close A&E departments The Daily Mail
- The BMA's latest strike goes too far The Daily Telegraph
- Junior doctor strikes escalate as BMA plans full walkout GP Online
- Junior doctors escalate industrial action to all-out strike next month The Guardian
- Junior doctors' strike: BMA confirms plans for first full walkout in NHS history The Independent
- Full walkout strike of junior doctors scheduled OnMedica
New figures released on hospital admissions for eating disorders
New figures released on hospital admissions for eating disorders Latest analysis of hospital admissions for eating disorders is released by the Health and Social Care Information Centre
Zika: World Health Organisation waiting for $4m from members to tackle virus
Zika: World Health Organisation waiting for $4m from members to tackle virus Zika has been linked to microcephaly, which can cause babys to be born with smaller than normal heads. The Independent
See also:
See also:
The shocking 'postcode lottery' of cancer care: Patients in some areas up to 12% less likely to survive the disease
The shocking 'postcode lottery' of cancer care: Patients in some areas up to 12% less likely to survive the disease Survival rates for cancer have improved - 70 per cent of people now live for one year after being diagnosed. However, wide variations exist the country, Office for National Statistics figures show. The Daily Mail
See also:
See also:
- Cancer Registration Statistics, England Office for National Statistics
Investing in social care is essential to balance the NHS books
Investing in social care is essential to balance the NHS books Mental health and social care are the poor relations to the health service.
News that Simon Stevens originally asked the Treasury for £16bn goes some way to explaining why the NHS is under such strain. After the longest period of financial constraint in its history, with three quarters of NHS providers reporting deficits amounting to £2.3bn by the end of quarter three, balancing the books is looking tricky to say the least.
So the NHS is faced over the next 12 months with balancing the books while simultaneously transforming the way it does business. Yet, fundamental to that transformation are two things: mental health and social care.
It is easy to fall into the trap of seeing social care as just an adjunct to the NHS Continue reading... The Guardian
News that Simon Stevens originally asked the Treasury for £16bn goes some way to explaining why the NHS is under such strain. After the longest period of financial constraint in its history, with three quarters of NHS providers reporting deficits amounting to £2.3bn by the end of quarter three, balancing the books is looking tricky to say the least.
So the NHS is faced over the next 12 months with balancing the books while simultaneously transforming the way it does business. Yet, fundamental to that transformation are two things: mental health and social care.
It is easy to fall into the trap of seeing social care as just an adjunct to the NHS Continue reading... The Guardian
Sexual health and cancer support: libraries in Coventry "reach people that the NHS won't"
Sexual health and cancer support: libraries in Coventry "reach people that the NHS won't" Coventry’s Central Library runs health-related events and a mental health drop-in service, reaching people that the NHS can’t.
You expect to see books in a library. You might not expect free sperm keyrings – available in classic white or translucent with red sparkles – along with the offer of sexual health advice and 60-second HIV tests.
That is why staff from the Coventry and Warwickshire partnership NHS trust’s integrated sexual health service set up a stand in Coventry’s Central Library every Thursday. “Being here, we get to the people who can’t get to us,” says Steven Clay, a senior sexual health nurse.
Libraries are about the general health and wellbeing of the population Continue reading... The Guardian
You expect to see books in a library. You might not expect free sperm keyrings – available in classic white or translucent with red sparkles – along with the offer of sexual health advice and 60-second HIV tests.
That is why staff from the Coventry and Warwickshire partnership NHS trust’s integrated sexual health service set up a stand in Coventry’s Central Library every Thursday. “Being here, we get to the people who can’t get to us,” says Steven Clay, a senior sexual health nurse.
Libraries are about the general health and wellbeing of the population Continue reading... The Guardian
GPs should prescribe a walk in a national park for obese patients, say ministers
GPs should prescribe a walk in a national park for obese patients, say ministersThe Government is backing a scheme being trialled in Dartmoor and Exmoor under which GPs are encouraged to hand out prescriptions for more exercise, rather than more drugs, to combat ailments. The Daily Telegraph
Wednesday, 23 March 2016
Equal pay claim for women working at six Northamptonshire care homes
Equal pay claim for women working at six Northamptonshire care homes A number of female care staff in Northamptonshire could be granted thousands of pounds in back pay if a High Court battle against their company succeeds. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Medical spending and hospital inpatient care in England: an analysis over time
Medical spending and hospital inpatient care in England: an analysis over time This paper presents a summary of the trends in medical expenditure in England and then using detailed administrative data presents analysis of the growth over 15 years of expenditure and activity in hospital inpatient health care, which represents around 20-25 per cent of all NHS expenditure. Centre for Health Economics
Report highlights variation in maternity care across England
Report highlights variation in maternity care across England Differences in the care received by women giving birth in hospitals across England are highlighted in a state of the nation report published by the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists.
The report, carried out in collaboration with the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, gives a national perspective on patterns of care during labour and delivery, enabling NHS trusts to examine their own practice in context and ensure their services meet the needs of women and their families.
See also:
The report, carried out in collaboration with the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, gives a national perspective on patterns of care during labour and delivery, enabling NHS trusts to examine their own practice in context and ensure their services meet the needs of women and their families.
See also:
- Patterns of maternity care in English NHS trusts 2013/14 Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists
- 'Concerning' variation in birth care BBC News
- Too many mothers having early caesareans, report warns The Guardian
NHS England announces new action to cut stillbirths
NHS England announces new action to cut stillbirths There are currently around 665,000 babies born in England each year, but there are over 3,000 stillbirths. Despite falling to its lowest rate in 20 years, one in every 200 babies is stillborn in the UK, more than double the rate of nations with the lowest rates.
The new guidance – called Saving Babies’ Lives Care Bundle – is part of a drive to halve the rate of stillbirths from 4.7 per thousand to 2.3 per thousand by 2030, potentially avoiding the tragedy of stillbirth for more than 1500 families every year. While the majority of women receive high quality care, there is around a 25 per cent variation in stillbirth rates across England. NHS England
The new guidance – called Saving Babies’ Lives Care Bundle – is part of a drive to halve the rate of stillbirths from 4.7 per thousand to 2.3 per thousand by 2030, potentially avoiding the tragedy of stillbirth for more than 1500 families every year. While the majority of women receive high quality care, there is around a 25 per cent variation in stillbirth rates across England. NHS England
Healthy weight, healthy futures: local government action to tackle childhood obesity
Healthy weight, healthy futures: local government action to tackle childhood obesity This report uses a series of case studies to outline how the transfer of responsibility for public health in 2013 to councils has sparked a surge in innovative programmes for tackling childhood obesity. From working with children who are obese and overweight to encouraging children to cut their consumption of sugary drinks, local authorities are showing how child obesity can be tackled. Local Government Association
Putting Doctors and Patients on the Same Page
Putting Doctors and Patients on the Same Page More than 6 million Americans have unrestricted online access to their medical records, thanks to "OpenNotes," an initiative launched in 2010. Early research suggests that letting patients read their doctors' clinical notes holds promise for engaging patients in their care, strengthening patient-provider relationships, and even improving adherence to care regimens. The Commonwealth Fund
Junior doctors will realise contract imposition was right, says Jeremy Hunt
Junior doctors will realise contract imposition was right, says Jeremy Hunt Junior doctors will realise the government 'was right' to impose a new contract after the collapse of negotiations with the BMA, health secretary Jeremy Hunt has told MPs. GP Online
Multi-million pound GP compensation claims rising
Multi-million pound GP compensation claims rising 12 compensation claims worth more than £1m paid last year. OnMedica
Liverpool Community Heath NHS trust 'had oppressive culture'
Liverpool Community Heath NHS trust 'had oppressive culture' An "oppressive" culture at an NHS trust led to poor services, bullying of staff and may even have contributed to some deaths, a report has found.
The review highlighted "failures at multiple levels" at Liverpool Community Health NHS Trust since 2011. BBC News
The review highlighted "failures at multiple levels" at Liverpool Community Health NHS Trust since 2011. BBC News
Tens of thousands of care workers still paid below minimum wage despite new regulations
Tens of thousands of care workers still paid below minimum wage despite new regulations; Tens of thousands of care workers are still being paid below the national minimum wage despite new regulation designed to ensure they are paid fairly, a new study says.
Despite a change in the law and a major HMRC investigation, care firms are still failing to pay staff for travel between clients according to the research from Unison, based on Freedom of Information responses from more than 150 councils in England and Wales. The Independent
Despite a change in the law and a major HMRC investigation, care firms are still failing to pay staff for travel between clients according to the research from Unison, based on Freedom of Information responses from more than 150 councils in England and Wales. The Independent
Dementia sufferers test-drive revolutionary rehabilitation system which puts patients at the helm of interactive games and activities
Dementia sufferers test-drive revolutionary rehabilitation system which puts patients at the helm of interactive games and activities First developed to rehabilitate wounded Israeli soldiers, the virtual reality CAREN machine has also helped hundreds of injured Chinese earthquake victims to take their first steps to recovery.
Now those with dementia in northern England have begun test-driving the same revolutionary rehabilitation system to help with their condition – throwing them into a futuristic world where they can fight sharks, drive high-speed cars and try downhill skiing. The Independent
Now those with dementia in northern England have begun test-driving the same revolutionary rehabilitation system to help with their condition – throwing them into a futuristic world where they can fight sharks, drive high-speed cars and try downhill skiing. The Independent
Meningitis B vaccine cost analysis 'underestimates' impact on families
Meningitis B vaccine cost analysis 'underestimates' impact on families Campaigners and experts calling for older children to receive MenB vaccine say current cost-benefit analysis does not take into account the true impacts of the illness. The Daily Telegraph
See also:
See also:
Tuesday, 22 March 2016
Gynaecologist who worked at Northamptonshire hospital demonstrated sex act to female colleague
Gynaecologist who worked at Northamptonshire hospital demonstrated sex act to female colleague A doctor has been suspended for 12 months after working at Kettering General Hospital without telling them he was suspected of sexual misconduct. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Health matters promotes midlife approaches to reduce dementia risk
Health matters promotes midlife approaches to reduce dementia risk Following the recent launch of Public Health England’s One You, a ground-breaking campaign to help adults across the country make simple changes to improve their health today and in the future, PHE has launched the fourth edition of Health matters: midlife approaches to reduce dementia risk. Public Health England
Diabetes at-risk offered lifestyle help
Diabetes at-risk offered lifestyle help People in England at risk of type-2 diabetes are to be offered healthy-lifestyle support by the NHS to help them prevent the condition developing. BBC News
See also:
See also:
- Thousands to benefit as first wave of NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme national rollout is announced NHS England
- RCGP response to NHS England diabetes prevention programme rollout Royal College of General Practitioners
- Personal trainers on the NHS in war on diabetes The Daily Telegraph
- GPs to refer patients to large-scale diabetes prevention scheme OnMedica
U-turn over prostate cancer drug
U-turn over prostate cancer drug Patients with prostate cancer in England will now have early access to a drug that can delay the need for chemotherapy. BBC News
See also:
See also:
World Down Syndrome Day: 'How Do You See Me?' video highlights prejudice surrounding condition
World Down Syndrome Day: 'How Do You See Me?' video highlights prejudice surrounding condition "I see myself as an ordinary person with an important, meaningful, and beautiful life. How do you see me?" The Independent
The NHS is in the midst of a financial hurricane
The NHS is in the midst of a financial hurricane The forecast from the budget shows no let-up in the weather for the struggling health service, but a plan for the future must be put in place this year
A hurricane is characterised by severe storms, surrounding an area of relative calm known as the eye of the storm. The NHS is in the midst of a financial hurricane. Costs are rising faster than funding, creating a perfect storm for NHS providers. Next year will be one of relative calm, similar to the eye of a hurricane, with the largest planned funding increase for 2016-17. This is followed by flat or falling real-terms funding per head until 2020-21.
The forecast from the budget shows no let-up in the weather; in fact the forecast looks worse for three reasons. Continue reading... The Guardian
A hurricane is characterised by severe storms, surrounding an area of relative calm known as the eye of the storm. The NHS is in the midst of a financial hurricane. Costs are rising faster than funding, creating a perfect storm for NHS providers. Next year will be one of relative calm, similar to the eye of a hurricane, with the largest planned funding increase for 2016-17. This is followed by flat or falling real-terms funding per head until 2020-21.
The forecast from the budget shows no let-up in the weather; in fact the forecast looks worse for three reasons. Continue reading... The Guardian
NHS England stalls plans for HIV prevention drug
NHS England stalls plans for HIV prevention drug Consultation on Truvada will now be shelved, in move sexual health charities have described as ‘shameful’ and ‘failing those at risk’ of HIV.
Charities and campaigners have reacted with anger and disbelief that plans to roll out a widely anticipated HIV prevention drug have been stalled by NHS England.
The sector had been waiting for the announcement of the first ever public consultation on the use of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) in the UK, now overdue by a month. Instead today NHS England announced it was not their responsibility to commission the drug. Continue reading... The Guardian
See also:
Charities and campaigners have reacted with anger and disbelief that plans to roll out a widely anticipated HIV prevention drug have been stalled by NHS England.
The sector had been waiting for the announcement of the first ever public consultation on the use of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) in the UK, now overdue by a month. Instead today NHS England announced it was not their responsibility to commission the drug. Continue reading... The Guardian
See also:
- Update on commissioning and provision of Pre Exposure Prophylaxsis (PREP) for HIV prevention NHS England
- Could a monthly injection prevent HIV? Single shot of PrEP drugs is 'as effective as taking pills twice a day' The Daily Mail
- Daily pill Truvada cuts spread of HIV by 86%, study shows The Guardian
- NHS England slammed for 'u-turn' on new HIV treatment ITV News
Zika outbreak: Where is the virus spreading?
Zika outbreak: Where is the virus spreading? The World Health Organisation has declared a global emergency in response to the spread of Zika - but which countries are currently affected by the virus? The Daily Telegraph
See also:
See also:
- South Korea confirms first Zika case BBC News
George Osborne must U-turn on his ludicrous sugar tax
George Osborne must U-turn on his ludicrous sugar tax After climbing down on so much, like disability cuts, the Chancellor must do it again over his buzzkilling fizzy drinks tax. The Daily Telegraph
Monday, 21 March 2016
Northants children’s centre consultation begins as Corby charity says cuts will have ‘devastating impact’
Northants children’s centre consultation begins as Corby charity says cuts will have ‘devastating impact’ Northamptonshire County Council has launched a consultation into proposed changes to children’s centre services in the county. Northamptonshire Telegraph
See also:
See also:
- Eight children's centres set to close BBC Northampton
Ambulance service for Northamptonshire had to take out a loan to pay staff wages
Ambulance service for Northamptonshire had to take out a loan to pay staff wages A cash-strapped ambulance service has had to borrow money from the Government to pay basic monthly expenses. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Corby child dies from swine flu and three other youngsters are infected
Corby child dies from swine flu and three other youngsters are infected The youngster, from Corby, Northamptonshire, died last week and is thought to have attended a private nursery. Health officials are now giving advice to concerned parents. The Daily Mail
See also:
See also:
- Parents warned after Corby child dies from possible swine flu Northamptonshire Telegraph
The Budget: sugaring a bitter pill for public health?
The Budget: sugaring a bitter pill for public health? The stand-out headline of the Budget was the slimline rabbit the Chancellor pulled out of the hat in the form of a future sugar levy. This is a victory for many public health campaigners, for Public Health England and the Health Select Committee who all championed a tax on sugary drinks. The King's Fund
Open consultation: Carers strategy: call for evidence
Open consultation: Carers strategy: call for evidence We think that we need a new strategy for carers that sets out how more can be done to support them. It needs to reflect their lives now, their health and financial concerns, and give them the support they need to live well while caring for a family member or friend.
To help us develop the strategy, we want to hear from carers, those who have someone who care for them, business, social workers, NHS staff and other professionals that support carers. Department of Health
To help us develop the strategy, we want to hear from carers, those who have someone who care for them, business, social workers, NHS staff and other professionals that support carers. Department of Health
Board briefing on apprenticeship policy changes
Board briefing on apprenticeship policy changes NHS Employers have produced a briefing for board members which highlights the financial implications of the policy changes being introduced surrounding apprenticeships.
NHS study shows 9 in 10 hospitals now deemed unsafe over lack of beds
NHS study shows 9 in 10 hospitals now deemed unsafe over lack of beds Shocking figures show that 143 out of 154 hospital trusts in England are currently more than 85 per cent occupied – the maximum level considered to be safe. The Daily Mail
Jenny Foote: Report on care worker's murder to be withheld, health bosses say
Jenny Foote: Report on care worker's murder to be withheld, health bosses say A controversial report into how a violent, mentally disturbed patient was released from NHS care to a charity-run housing project where he battered a care worker to death with a fire extinguisher should be kept secret, health service bosses have said. The Independent
Scarlet fever: Once-feared Victorian disease infecting hundreds of children a week
Scarlet fever: Once-feared Victorian disease infecting hundreds of children a week Illness associated with the Victorian era now infects hundreds of children a week, with no apparent reason for its return. The Independent
See also:
See also:
Junior doctors' strike: BMA announces planned 'escalation' of action
Junior doctors' strike: BMA announces planned 'escalation' of action Doctors’ union the British Medical Association (BMA) announced plans for an “escalation” of strike action last night over the Government’s decision to impose a new contract on junior doctors. The Independent
Doctors accuse Tories of deception over 'extra £10bn for NHS' claim
Doctors accuse Tories of deception over 'extra £10bn for NHS' claim Government used accounting tricks to give impression of support but budget will only be up by £4.5bn by 2020-21, BMA claims.
Doctors’ leaders have accused the Conservatives of deceiving the public by giving the NHS less than half the extra £10bn ministers regularly cite as proof of their support for the service.
The government has used a series of accounting tricks to wrongly give the impression of generous backing when in reality it is leaving patient care underfunded and refusing to face up to the NHS’s deepening financial crisis, a report from the British Medical Association claims. Continue reading... The Guardian
See also:
Doctors’ leaders have accused the Conservatives of deceiving the public by giving the NHS less than half the extra £10bn ministers regularly cite as proof of their support for the service.
The government has used a series of accounting tricks to wrongly give the impression of generous backing when in reality it is leaving patient care underfunded and refusing to face up to the NHS’s deepening financial crisis, a report from the British Medical Association claims. Continue reading... The Guardian
See also:
- The curious tale of £22bn NHS efficiency savings BBC News
- Conservatives' pledge to protect NHS 'entirely disingenuous' The Guardian
- There is little hope that the NHS can avoid a financial crash The Guardian
- NHS officials deny they were pressured to downgrade estimates of how extra much cash health service needed The Independent
George Osborne cut NHS repairs fund by £1.1bn, claims Labour
George Osborne cut NHS repairs fund by £1.1bn, claims Labour Rising backlog of repairs and non-replacement of out-of-date scanners is endangering patients, says shadow health secretary.
Hospitals are facing a rising backlog of repairs and out-of-date equipment because NHS funds are being used to shore up frontline services.
The cost of outstanding maintenance work that hospitals in England need to do has reached £4.3bn, including £458m of “high-risk” repairs, which if left unaddressed could threaten patient safety. They include leaking roofs and out-of-date scanners. Continue reading... The Guardian
Hospitals are facing a rising backlog of repairs and out-of-date equipment because NHS funds are being used to shore up frontline services.
The cost of outstanding maintenance work that hospitals in England need to do has reached £4.3bn, including £458m of “high-risk” repairs, which if left unaddressed could threaten patient safety. They include leaking roofs and out-of-date scanners. Continue reading... The Guardian
'NHS spent £81,000 treating just one illegal immigrant'
'NHS spent £181,000 treating just one illegal immigrant' A hospital spent £181,000 treating a single illegal immigrant, it was reported on Sunday night.
Details of the patient’s bill emerged amid claims that the NHS was failing to collect millions of pounds from foreign nationals using its services.
And a leading cancer specialist said no healthcare system could cope with the strain the NHS was put under by treating migrants, saying it was "absolutely unsustainable". The Daily Telegraph
Details of the patient’s bill emerged amid claims that the NHS was failing to collect millions of pounds from foreign nationals using its services.
And a leading cancer specialist said no healthcare system could cope with the strain the NHS was put under by treating migrants, saying it was "absolutely unsustainable". The Daily Telegraph
Friday, 18 March 2016
REVEALED: Northamptonshire’s best and worst GP’s surgeries as rated by you
REVEALED: Northamptonshire’s best and worst GP’s surgeries as rated by you Today we can reveal the north of the county’s best and worst GP surgeries, as rated by their own patients. Northamptonshire Telegraph
Investigations underway after death of young child who had suspected swine flu in Northamptonshire
Investigations underway after death of young child who had suspected swine flu in Northamptonshire A public health investigation has been launched after the death of a young child who had suspected swine flu in Northamptonshire. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Bonus payments for nurses who join Northampton General Hospital’s bank staff
Bonus payments for nurses who join Northampton General Hospital’s bank staff New incentives are being offered to nurses who agree to join Northampton General Hospital’s pool of bank staff. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Personal tragedies, public crisis The urgent need for a national response to early death in autism
Personal tragedies, public crisis The urgent need for a national response to early death in autism (download) A report into the high levels of early mortality in people with autism. Based on a large Swedish study published in the British Journal of Psychiatry, it shows a 16 year difference in life expectancy, compared to the general population. The report calls for an immediate national mortality review by the NHS and an increase in research funding. Autistica
See also:
See also:
- Premature mortality in autism spectrum disorder British Journal of Psychiatry (OpenAthens password required)
- RCGP response to Autistica report on premature death in autism Royal College of General Practitioners
- People with autism 'die younger' BBC News
- £10m study by charity will probe why autistic adults die decades prematurely The Daily Mail
- People with autism die 16 years earlier than expected, study finds The Daily Telegraph
- Premature autism deaths are 'hidden crisis' says charity The Guardian
- Autism: Why do many autistic people die before the age of 40? The Independent
Helping drive multispecialty community provider (MCP) vanguards forward
Helping drive multispecialty community provider (MCP) vanguards forward As the New Care Models Programme marks its first anniversary, National Care Model Lead, Louise Watson, reflects on how their work is already paying dividends. NHS England
Get well soon: reimagining place-based health
Get well soon: reimagining place-based health This report argues that the NHS must construct a 15 year plan to shift money out of hospitals and into investment in communities. It demonstrates that the health service in its current form is not sustainable, and sets out a new plan for shifting the system to focus on preventing illness, shorten stays in hospitals and help people live independently for longer. Place-Based Health Commission.
Public sector pensions change in Budget criticised
Public sector pensions change in Budget criticised Health and education will be squeezed by more than £1bn because of changes to the way public sector pensions are funded, figures seen by the BBC show.
It comes after George Osborne announced in the Budget that employers would have to contribute more to pensions for NHS staff, teachers and the police. BBC News
It comes after George Osborne announced in the Budget that employers would have to contribute more to pensions for NHS staff, teachers and the police. BBC News
Inside Bethlem Royal Hospital
Inside Bethlem Royal Hospital Convicted criminals receiving treatment at Bethlem Royal Hospital are being reintroduced into the community, under supervision.
The men, who have committed violent crimes when suffering from a mental illness, are considered for release if they get better.
Consultant psychiatrist Dr Tim McInerny explains how doctors judge whether someone is safe to re-engage with society. BBC News
The men, who have committed violent crimes when suffering from a mental illness, are considered for release if they get better.
Consultant psychiatrist Dr Tim McInerny explains how doctors judge whether someone is safe to re-engage with society. BBC News
Physios 'can take pressure off GPs'
Physios 'can take pressure off GPs' GPs could spend longer with their patients if physiotherapists worked alongside them at their surgery, says the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy. BBC News
Austerity measures linked to increased pensioner death rates
Austerity measures linked to increased pensioner death rates Cuts to pension credits were followed by rising mortality rates of pensioners aged 85 plus. OnMedica
Sugar tax on its own will fail to combat childhood obesity, says Government's own health department
Sugar tax on its own will fail to combat childhood obesity, says Government's own health department Introducing a sugar tax on its own will fail to combat childhood obesity, according to the Government’s own department responsible for the nation’s health. The Independent
See also:
See also:
- What is the UK's most sugary drink? BBC News
- Sugar tax: How bold is it? BBC News
Six months trapped in a secure mental health unit – how the system failed one autistic 15-year-old | Frances Ryan
Six months trapped in a secure mental health unit – how the system failed one autistic 15-year-old | Frances Ryan Matthew Garnett was sent to a secure unit for six weeks. He stayed there for half a year as mental health services struggled to cope.
“Matthew’s bed at home’s been empty for six months,” Isabelle Garnett says from the family house in south London as she tells me about her son. “I can’t walk by his bedroom.”
Since September 2015, 15-year-old Matthew Garnett – who has autism, ADHD and anxiety – has been held two hours’ drive away from his home in a secure mental health treatment unit in Woking, Surrey. Or as his mum puts it to me, “the equivalent of being left on an A&E trolley for six months”.
Held long-term in the unit, Matthew is regressing Continue reading... The Guardian
“Matthew’s bed at home’s been empty for six months,” Isabelle Garnett says from the family house in south London as she tells me about her son. “I can’t walk by his bedroom.”
Since September 2015, 15-year-old Matthew Garnett – who has autism, ADHD and anxiety – has been held two hours’ drive away from his home in a secure mental health treatment unit in Woking, Surrey. Or as his mum puts it to me, “the equivalent of being left on an A&E trolley for six months”.
Held long-term in the unit, Matthew is regressing Continue reading... The Guardian
Thursday, 17 March 2016
New plans for extra wards at Northampton General Hospital to ease pressure on staff
New plans for extra wards at Northampton General Hospital to ease pressure on staff Two new wards look set to be built in a Northampton General Hospital car park in order to relieve overrun staff. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)