Monday, 11 April 2016
Huge leap to mass produced platelets
Huge leap to mass produced platelets Scientists have made a significant leap towards mass producing platelets - the part of the blood that forms clots. BBC News
English language requirements for foreign doctors are not fit for purpose
English language requirements for foreign doctors are not fit for purpose The International English Language Testing System does not prepare overseas doctors for different dialects and colloquialisms, or a busy A&E
I had been teaching English to medical professionals for over a decade before Dr Ubani – theGerman-trained doctor whose patient died during his first shift in the UK – hit the headlines. The GMC doubted not only Ubani’s clinical competency, but also his English language skills, and he was struck off.
Until June 2014, when the GMC revised its criteria, those certified in the EU had been virtually exempt from control either clinically or linguistically. Today, the International English Language Testing System (Ielts) is used as a means of ensuring fitness to practice for all overseas doctors. Much has changed since 2008 when Ubani was practising, but as I help prepare a group of overseas recruits as part of an NHS induction programme, I can’t help wondering to what extent the Ielts is actually fit for purpose. Continue reading... The Guardian
I had been teaching English to medical professionals for over a decade before Dr Ubani – theGerman-trained doctor whose patient died during his first shift in the UK – hit the headlines. The GMC doubted not only Ubani’s clinical competency, but also his English language skills, and he was struck off.
Until June 2014, when the GMC revised its criteria, those certified in the EU had been virtually exempt from control either clinically or linguistically. Today, the International English Language Testing System (Ielts) is used as a means of ensuring fitness to practice for all overseas doctors. Much has changed since 2008 when Ubani was practising, but as I help prepare a group of overseas recruits as part of an NHS induction programme, I can’t help wondering to what extent the Ielts is actually fit for purpose. Continue reading... The Guardian
Millions being spent each year on prescriptions for widely available items
Millions being spent each year on prescriptions for widely available items More than 1.1million prescriptions were written for toothpaste. There were another 4.7million prescriptions for Rennie, Gaviscon and similar indigestion remedies, costing £26.4million. The Daily Mail
Zika Virus can now be transmitted sexually and vaccine development continues
Zika Virus can now be transmitted sexually and vaccine development continues Washington University School of Medicine in St Louis experts developed Zika mice models and found the male sexual organs had higher levels of the virus than the brain or spinal cord. The Daily Mail
Friday, 8 April 2016
Kettering Hospital doctors’ picket line gains public support
Kettering Hospital doctors’ picket line gains public support Junior doctors staging a strike outside Kettering General Hospital say support from the public has been overwhelming. Northamptonshire Telegraph
Almost a third of NGH staff have been bullied harassed or abused by a colleague in last 12 months
Almost a third of NGH staff have been bullied harassed or abused by a colleague in last 12 months A total of 29 per cent of Northampton General Hospital staff have been bullied abused or harassed by a work colleague, a survey suggests. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Tackling the growing crisis in the NHS: an agenda for action
Tackling the growing crisis in the NHS: an agenda for action This briefing identifies three big challenges for the NHS in England: sustaining existing services and standards of care; developing new and better models of care; and tackling these challenges by reforming the NHS ‘from within’. It aims to offer some practical solutions to help the NHS address one of the biggest crises in its history. The King's Fund
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Are opportunities still limited for black and minority ethnic staff in health care leadership?
Are opportunities still limited for black and minority ethnic staff in health care leadership? I was recently asked to chair a round-table event for the Health Service Journal on ethnic diversity and equality in health care leadership.
Out of interest I researched the origin of the term ‘round-table’ and discovered that it came from a speech made by HRH Prince Edward, Prince of Wales, to the British Industries Fair in 1927. He urged ‘young business and professional men… to get together round the table and adopt methods that have proved sound in the past, adapt them to changing needs and wherever possible, improve them’. Setting aside the gender focus of the original use, I would like to reflect on issues that were discussed at this particular round-table event in 2016 – namely what leaders in the NHS can adopt, adapt and improve to enable black and minority ethnic (BME) staff to achieve their potential as leaders. The King's Fund
Out of interest I researched the origin of the term ‘round-table’ and discovered that it came from a speech made by HRH Prince Edward, Prince of Wales, to the British Industries Fair in 1927. He urged ‘young business and professional men… to get together round the table and adopt methods that have proved sound in the past, adapt them to changing needs and wherever possible, improve them’. Setting aside the gender focus of the original use, I would like to reflect on issues that were discussed at this particular round-table event in 2016 – namely what leaders in the NHS can adopt, adapt and improve to enable black and minority ethnic (BME) staff to achieve their potential as leaders. The King's Fund
Open consultation: Changing how healthcare education is funded
Open consultation: Changing how healthcare education is funded The government has proposed that from 1 August 2017, all new nursing, midwifery and allied health professional students on pre-registration undergraduate and post-graduate courses will receive their tuition funding and financial support through the standard student support system, rather than NHS bursaries and tuition funded by Health Education England.
This consultation seeks views on how these reforms can be successfully implemented.
Further guidance about the NHS bursary reforms is available. Department of Health
This consultation seeks views on how these reforms can be successfully implemented.
Further guidance about the NHS bursary reforms is available. Department of Health
Our ageing population presents the NHS with its greatest challenge – Dr Martin Vernon
Our ageing population presents the NHS with its greatest challenge – Dr Martin Vernon In the latest of a series of blogs introducing a number of senior appointments within NHS England, the newly appointed National Clinical Director for Older People and Integrated Care looks at what he sees as his main challenges. NHS England
Sustainability and transformation plans: a major new development in commissioning health and care
Sustainability and transformation plans: a major new development in commissioning health and care July 2016 sees the deadline for the production of Sustainability and Transformation Plans - joint plans produced by NHS providers, CCGs, Local Authorities, and other health and care services (including VCSE partners) for 44 ‘footprint’ geographical areas across England. These will form the basis for long term, place based planning and commissioning of services. This briefing provides more details and provides guidance on how to get involved in your area. Regional Voices
Fresh junior doctor talks 'ruled out'
Fresh junior doctor talks 'ruled out' Fresh talks to break the deadlock in the junior doctor dispute in England have been ruled out by the government as the latest strike nears its end. BBC News
See also:
See also:
- Junior doctors join 140 pickets as BMA demands talks to end contract dispute GP Online
- Exclusive: Pay cuts under imposed junior doctor contract 'a disaster' for GP training, says BMA GP Online
- Hunt insists he will impose new contract on NHS doctors The Guardian
- Junior doctors' strike continues as ministers urged to resume talks The Guardian
Alcohol related deaths likely to rise, warn experts
Alcohol related deaths likely to rise, warn experts England’s alcohol deaths will rise in contrast to rest of UK. OnMedica
Death rate rise blamed on increase in people suffering from flu and dementia
Death rate rise blamed on increase in people suffering from flu and dementia A flu jab blunder, which left elderly people exposed due to an unexpected mutation of the main influenza strain, contributed to the massive spike last year. The Independent
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See also:
Jeremy Hunt is in trouble. This is his IDS moment | Chris Ham
Jeremy Hunt is in trouble. This is his IDS moment | Chris Ham The health system cannot survive under these financial pressures. The health secretary will struggle too.
The NHS in England is facing the biggest crisis in its history. Hospitals are running up large and growing financial deficits, missing targets for waiting times, and under pressure from rising demand at a time of constrained resources.
The government’s immediate priority is to restore stability to finances and performance. A large part of the additional funding announced in last autumn’s spending review will be used to reduce deficits in hospitals and support hard-pressed NHS providers trying to hit patient-care targets.
The unwillingness to recognise publicly what is well understood privately is storing up much bigger problems Continue reading... The Guardian
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The NHS in England is facing the biggest crisis in its history. Hospitals are running up large and growing financial deficits, missing targets for waiting times, and under pressure from rising demand at a time of constrained resources.
The government’s immediate priority is to restore stability to finances and performance. A large part of the additional funding announced in last autumn’s spending review will be used to reduce deficits in hospitals and support hard-pressed NHS providers trying to hit patient-care targets.
The unwillingness to recognise publicly what is well understood privately is storing up much bigger problems Continue reading... The Guardian
See also:
- Health chief tears into Jeremy Hunt's NHS policies The Guardian
Eating disorders: people 'wait up to 182 days for treatment' in England
Eating disorders: people 'wait up to 182 days for treatment' in England Average waiting times at mental health services for adults vary dramatically across the country, according to NHS figures.
People with eating disorders in England can wait for up to 182 days for mental health treatment, according to new NHS figures.
The average waiting time for adults in England can vary from 20 to 182 days depending on the mental health trust, BBC Breakfast found after making freedom of information requests. Continue reading... The Guardian
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People with eating disorders in England can wait for up to 182 days for mental health treatment, according to new NHS figures.
The average waiting time for adults in England can vary from 20 to 182 days depending on the mental health trust, BBC Breakfast found after making freedom of information requests. Continue reading... The Guardian
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NHS looks to India for GPs in attempt to make up shortfall
NHS looks to India for GPs in attempt to make up shortfall Health Education England and Apollo Hospitals chain sign memorandum of understanding to share clinical staff
The NHS is looking at recruiting GPs from India in an attempt to tackle the serious shortage of family doctors.
Health Education England, the NHS’s training and recruitment agency, has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Apollo Hospitals chain in India about lending clinical staff between them. Continue reading... The Guardian
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The NHS is looking at recruiting GPs from India in an attempt to tackle the serious shortage of family doctors.
Health Education England, the NHS’s training and recruitment agency, has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Apollo Hospitals chain in India about lending clinical staff between them. Continue reading... The Guardian
See also:
- RCGP response to Pulse story on recruiting doctors from overseas Royal College of General Practitioners
- NHS to recruit 400 doctors from India in desperate bid to plug staffing crisis The Daily Mail
- NHS to recruit Indian doctors to plug gaps in GP services The Daily Telegraph
- Hundreds of GPs recruited from India to help Government meet pledge to add 5,000 family doctors by 2020 The Independent
Thursday, 7 April 2016
Midlands ambulance services 'in merger talks'
Midlands ambulance services 'in merger talks' Troubled East Midlands Ambulance Service (EMAS) is struggling financially and has some of the worst response times in England.
It is thought the trust's non-executive directors want to merge with West Midlands Ambulance Service.
Both trusts said discussions on a "range of options" had taken place but talks were at an early stage. BBC News
It is thought the trust's non-executive directors want to merge with West Midlands Ambulance Service.
Both trusts said discussions on a "range of options" had taken place but talks were at an early stage. BBC News
Invisible and In Distress: Prioritising the Mental Health of England’s Young Carers
Invisible and In Distress: Prioritising the Mental Health of England’s Young Carers Caring roles taken on by children and young people can be a risk factor for their mental health. We know from the 2011 Census that for young carers doing more than 50 hours of care a week they are five times more likely to report that their health is ‘not good’ and there is evidence that they have significant levels of mental health need that are not being addressed.
This report sets out recommendations based on discussions with young carers, sector leaders and young carers services in the Carers Trust network.
See also:
This report sets out recommendations based on discussions with young carers, sector leaders and young carers services in the Carers Trust network.
See also:
- The lives of young carers in England Department for Education
National congenital heart disease audit
National congenital heart disease audit The NHS is achieving very good outcomes for congenital heart surgical operations as well as improvements in antenatal detection of infant heart problems, according to the national congenital heart disease audit. NHS England
Mental Health: times they are a changing – Professor Tim Kendall
Mental Health: times they are a changing – Professor Tim Kendall In the latest of a series of blogs introducing a number of senior appointments within NHS England, the newly appointed National Clinical Director for Mental Health looks at what he sees as his main challenges. NHS England
CQC tells Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust to take urgent action to improve governance arrangements to ensure patient safety
CQC tells Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust to take urgent action to improve governance arrangements to ensure patient safety Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust has been told that it must make significant improvements to protect patients who are at risk of harm while in the care of its mental health and learning disability services. Care Quality Commission
See also:
See also:
- Southern Health inspection reports Care Quality Commission
- NHS Improvement intends to take further action at Southern Health Monitor
- Criticised NHS trust 'must improve' BBC News
- VIDEO: Southern Health boss 'won't resign' BBC News
- NHS trust bosses worried patients are exposed to 'longstanding risks' The Daily Mail
- Inspectors warn Southern Health Trust to make "urgent improvements" ITV News
NHS eating disorder care waits revealed
NHS eating disorder care waits revealed Wide discrepancies exist in waiting times for mental health treatment for eating disorders in England, a BBC investigation finds. BBC News
Deadly diabetes in 'unrelenting march'
Deadly diabetes in 'unrelenting march' The world is facing an "unrelenting march" of diabetes which now affects one-in-11 people, the World Health Organization has warned. BBC News
See also:
See also:
- Global Report on Diabetes World Health Organization
- World Health Day 2016: WHO calls for global action to halt rise in and improve care for people with diabetes World Health Organization
- Soaring obesity sees to see people with diabetes QUADRUPLE to 422m in 35 years The Daily Mail
Warning over DIY teeth whitening kits
Warning over DIY teeth whitening kits Councils in England and Wales are calling for tougher penalties for "rogue" beauticians who offer teeth whitening using dangerous kits. BBC News
UK toddlers’ diet cause for concern’
UK toddlers’ diet cause for concern’ Young kids getting too much energy, protein and salt, but not enough iron or vitamin D. OnMedica
NHS expects 'difficult' second day of doctors' strike
NHS expects 'difficult' second day of doctors' strike Hospitals are readying themselves for challenges as the walkout over seven-day working continues.
NHS officials are bracing themselves for a “difficult” second day of strike action by junior doctors.
Junior doctors are on strike in a bitter dispute with the government over a new contract. Continue reading... The Guardian
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NHS officials are bracing themselves for a “difficult” second day of strike action by junior doctors.
Junior doctors are on strike in a bitter dispute with the government over a new contract. Continue reading... The Guardian
See also:
- NHS England update on industrial action by junior doctors NHS England
- NHS braced for 'difficult' strike day BBC News
- Junior doctors go on strike AGAIN forcing another 5,000 operations to be cancelled The Daily Mail
- Junior doctors' strike: fourth 48-hour walk out leaves 5,100 procedures postponed The Daily Telegraph
- Junior doctor contract 'worse than feared', say GP trainees behind £100,000 legal action GP Online
- Junior doctors strike for fourth time around the UK – video The Guardian
- Junior doctors strike again as government analysis stokes anger The Guardian
- Junior doctors make legal challenge to Jeremy Hunt's 'misconceived' contract The Guardian
- Green Wing cast join latest junior doctors' strike The Guardian
- Get back round negotiating table, junior doctors urge government OnMedica
Birth defect and paralysis may just be tip of the Zika iceberg
Birth defect and paralysis may just be tip of the Zika iceberg Top global Zika experts have now linked the mosquito-borne virus to encephalitis, meningitis and myelitis, as well - serious infections that can cause paralysis and permanent disability. The Daily Mail
NHS spends £15m a year on TAXIS to ferry patients to and from hospital appointments
NHS spends £15m a year on TAXIS to ferry patients to and from hospital appointments Some trusts are spending more than £700,000 annually - £2,000 a day - figures from the Health and Social Care Information Centre show. The Daily Mail
Wednesday, 6 April 2016
Ambulance staff 'can't take breaks'
Ambulance staff 'can't take breaks' East Midlands Ambulance Service (EMAS) overspends by almost £12m - with staff reported to be under pressure and unable to take scheduled breaks. BBC News
NHS ‘will bid to take Northamptonshire ambulance contract from criticised private firm’
NHS ‘will bid to take Northamptonshire ambulance contract from criticised private firm’ East Midlands Ambulance Service will try to take patient transport services back from much-criticised NSL, the trust has confirmed. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Improving patient experience through the physical environment
Improving patient experience through the physical environment This guide draws on the experience of the American health system about the impact of the physical environment on patient experience. Hospitals in Pursuit of Excellence
NHS braced for fourth doctor strike
NHS braced for fourth doctor strike Junior doctors in England are preparing to take part in their fourth walkout in their long-running contract dispute. BBC News
See also:
See also:
- Junior doctor and consultant contract negotiations British Medical Association
- Junior doctor contract negotiations Department of Health
- Junior doctors' 2016 contract NHS Employers
- NHS England statement in advance of industrial action on Wednesday April 6 NHS England
- Junior doctors strike: why are they taking action and how will it affect you? The Daily Telegraph
- Junior doctors begin fourth strike in contract dispute The Guardian
- Junior doctors' strike: Patients Association says it is 'glad to see contract imposition being challenged' The Independent
Asthma 'over-diagnosed and trivialised'
Asthma 'over-diagnosed and trivialised' Too many children are being incorrectly diagnosed with asthma, with inhalers becoming almost "fashion accessories", two specialists say. BBC News
See also:
See also:
- Is asthma overdiagnosed? Archives of Diseases in Childhood (open access)
- RCGP response to BMJ research on asthma diagnosis in children Royal College of General Practitioners
- Asthma: Overdiagnosis in children sees inhalers dished out like 'fashion accessories' claim health experts The Independent
GP workloads hit 'unsustainable' levels as study shows doctors dealing with more consultations than ever
GP workloads hit 'unsustainable' levels as study shows doctors dealing with more consultations than ever GP workloads have reached “unsustainable” levels researchers have said after a major study showed doctors are dealing with more consultations than ever.
Workloads in general practice increased by 16 per cent over the last seven years as family doctors in England deal with more frequent and longer consultations while the rate of GPs has decreased. The Independent
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Workloads in general practice increased by 16 per cent over the last seven years as family doctors in England deal with more frequent and longer consultations while the rate of GPs has decreased. The Independent
See also:
- Clinical workload in UK primary care: a retrospective analysis of 100 million consultations in England, 2007–14 The Lancet (abstract)
- RCGP response to The Lancet study showing that general practice in England is reaching ‘saturation point’ Royal College of General Practioners
- Immigration and lack of doctors behind huge waiting times at GP surgeries The Daily Mail
- GPs at crisis point as new figures reveal 'unsustainable' pressures from immigration and ageing population The Daily Telegraph
- Mounting workload pressures forcing GPs to 'saturation point', study warns GP Online
- NHS loses £700m a year on treating EU citizens, Brexit campaign claims The Guardian
- GPs "struggling" to find locum cover OnMedica
'Soaring' numbers of under-16s admitted to hospital for self-harming
'Soaring' numbers of under-16s admitted to hospital for self-harming The number of under-16s admitted to hospital in England for self-harming has increased by 76 per cent in the last five years, according to new statistics.
Data from the Health and Social Care Information Centre obtained by The New Day shows that the number has soared from 6,882 in 2009/10 to 12,119 in 2014/15. The Independent
Data from the Health and Social Care Information Centre obtained by The New Day shows that the number has soared from 6,882 in 2009/10 to 12,119 in 2014/15. The Independent
Researchers turn to crowdfunding to develop Alzheimer's drug
Researchers turn to crowdfunding to develop Alzheimer's drug With money for basic and clinical research squeezed, some health researchers – including the UK team behind a dementia drug – are trying crowdfunding
Tests on a drug with the potential to stop Alzheimer’s in its tracks are being funded by raffles, pensioners’ donations and a sponsored walk – because the research team cannot find money for pre-clinical safety tests any other way.
The team of researchers led by Dr David Allsop at Lancaster University’s division of biomedicine and life sciences is running a crowdfunding campaign, Defying Dementia, to carry out the necessary preparatory testing on their drug in the belief they may be looking at a cure for the progressive brain disease. So far they have raised £52,000 towards their target of £165,000. Continue reading... The Guardian
Tests on a drug with the potential to stop Alzheimer’s in its tracks are being funded by raffles, pensioners’ donations and a sponsored walk – because the research team cannot find money for pre-clinical safety tests any other way.
The team of researchers led by Dr David Allsop at Lancaster University’s division of biomedicine and life sciences is running a crowdfunding campaign, Defying Dementia, to carry out the necessary preparatory testing on their drug in the belief they may be looking at a cure for the progressive brain disease. So far they have raised £52,000 towards their target of £165,000. Continue reading... The Guardian
What can the NHS learn from the 1940s fashion industry?
What can the NHS learn from the 1940s fashion industry? What can the NHS learn from the fashion industry? Quite a lot it turns out. Just as the NHS is going through a period of unparalleled austerity today, the clothing industry experienced its own era of austerity during the second world war in the 1940s. The Guardian (Ara Darzi)
Scarlet fever and TB have doctors worried as new cases are being reported in UK
Scarlet fever and TB have doctors worried as new cases are being reported in UK Since 2010, the number of people in the UK falling ill with whooping cough, cholera and scurvy has been rising steadily. The Daily Mail
Tuesday, 5 April 2016
New social enterprise will be ‘a first’ for Northamptonshire
New social enterprise will be ‘a first’ for Northamptonshire New social enterprise First for Wellbeing has been officially launched in the county and it aims to bring an integrated health and wellbeing service to Northamptonshire.
The company is a partnership between Northamptonshire County Council, Northamptonshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust and the University of Northampton, and is considered to be the first of its kind for delivering such a diverse range of services for an entire county. Northants Herald and Post
The company is a partnership between Northamptonshire County Council, Northamptonshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust and the University of Northampton, and is considered to be the first of its kind for delivering such a diverse range of services for an entire county. Northants Herald and Post
Funding worth £9m agreed for three scanners and two tumour-destroying devices at Northampton General Hospital
Funding worth £9m agreed for three scanners and two tumour-destroying devices at Northampton General Hospital The Government has agreed to pay for upgrades to expensive cancer treatment and diagnosis machines at Northampton General Hospital. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Campaign launch calls for more people to donate blood in Northamptonshire
Campaign launch calls for more people to donate blood in Northamptonshire A new campaign to urge people to sign up as blood donors has been launched in Northamptonshire.
NHS Blood and Transplant says it needs first-time donors and, in particular, more donors from black and Asian communities. Northamptonshire Telegraph
NHS Blood and Transplant says it needs first-time donors and, in particular, more donors from black and Asian communities. Northamptonshire Telegraph
Terminally ill Northampton woman denied benefits to have case reviewed by the Government
Terminally ill Northampton woman denied benefits to have case reviewed by the Government A terminally ill cancer patient from Northampton who was refused a disability benefit is to have her case reviewed by the Department for Work and Pensions. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Co-commissioning one year on: any progress?
Co-commissioning one year on: any progress? It is a year since most clinical commissioning groups (CCGs) took on a greater role in commissioning primary care services. NHS England reports that over this time, co-commissioning arrangements have helped to support local decision-making, enabled a more joined-up vision for primary care, increased clinical leadership and improved relationships between CCGs and local GP practices. The King's Fund
Challenges ahead for the newly established NHS Improvement
Challenges ahead for the newly established NHS Improvement The creation of NHS Improvement comes at a critical time for the NHS. In the next few months the service in general – and providers in particular – will be attempting to reverse the steep rise in deficits and, at the same time, stop the downward drift in performance in key areas such as A&E.
Beyond this, the NHS and its partners are also busy re-designing care through the vanguards and other initiatives, and re-thinking how the health and care systems work together as areas create their place-based sustainability and transformation plans – all working towards the vision of theNHS five year forward view. The King's Fund
Beyond this, the NHS and its partners are also busy re-designing care through the vanguards and other initiatives, and re-thinking how the health and care systems work together as areas create their place-based sustainability and transformation plans – all working towards the vision of theNHS five year forward view. The King's Fund
Independent report: Dementia advisers survey
Independent report: Dementia advisers survey The report, from Age UK and IpsosMORI, contains findings from a survey into the provision of dementia adviser services throughout England.
Dementia advisers provide a single identifiable point of contact for people with dementia and their carers following a diagnosis. They have knowledge of and direct access to the whole range of available local services, providing advice, information about where to get care and enabling contact with other services.
Having a single point of contact was highlighted as being an essential element of effective post-diagnostic care in the Prime Minister’s challenge on dementia 2020. Department of Health
Dementia advisers provide a single identifiable point of contact for people with dementia and their carers following a diagnosis. They have knowledge of and direct access to the whole range of available local services, providing advice, information about where to get care and enabling contact with other services.
Having a single point of contact was highlighted as being an essential element of effective post-diagnostic care in the Prime Minister’s challenge on dementia 2020. Department of Health
Statutory guidance: Multi-agency statutory guidance on female genital mutilation
Statutory guidance: Multi-agency statutory guidance on female genital mutilation This multi-agency guidance on female genital mutilation (FGM) should be read and followed by all persons and bodies in England and Wales who are under statutory duties to safeguard and promote the welfare of children and vulnerable adults. It replaces female genital mutilation: guidelines to protect children and women (2014). Department of Health
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
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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
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