Monday, 14 November 2016
Delivering adult social care in challenging times
Delivering adult social care in challenging times This report outlines the issues and funding pressures facing county authorities in delivering adult social care. The results of a survey of county directors of adult social care reveals that 88 per cent believe their budgets to be 'severe' or 'critical' and 12 per cent report their current funding levels as 'manageable'. The report argues that social care pressures are most acute in county areas due to the fastest-growing elderly populations and the proportionately reduced funding in county authorities. City Councils Network
Dementia now leading cause of death
Dementia now leading cause of death Dementia, including Alzheimer's Disease, has overtaken heart disease as the leading cause of death in England and Wales, latest figures reveal. BBC News
Cancer screening in the community
Cancer screening in the community Health services are attempting to reach deprived communities by offering them mobile cancer screening. BBC News
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See also:
- Breaking the link BBC News
Virgin Care wins £700m contract to run 200 NHS and social care services
Virgin Care wins £700m contract to run 200 NHS and social care services Deal for Bath and north-east Somerset area sparks new fears about private firms’ role in providing publicly funded healthcare
Sir Richard Branson’s health firm Virgin Care has won a £700m contract to deliver 200 types of NHS and social care services to more than 200,000 people in Bath and north-east Somerset.
The contract, which was approved on Thursday, has sparked new fears about private health firms expanding their role in the provision of publicly funded health services. Continue reading... The Guardian
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Sir Richard Branson’s health firm Virgin Care has won a £700m contract to deliver 200 types of NHS and social care services to more than 200,000 people in Bath and north-east Somerset.
The contract, which was approved on Thursday, has sparked new fears about private health firms expanding their role in the provision of publicly funded health services. Continue reading... The Guardian
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Revealed: dozens of children still treated on adult psychiatric wards
Revealed: dozens of children still treated on adult psychiatric wards Despite ‘scandalous’ practice being outlawed six years ago, vulnerable minors are still being treated in adult settings
Dozens of children and young people with mental health problems are still being treated on wards containing adults with sometimes severe psychiatric problems despite ministers having supposedly outlawed the practice in 2010, the Guardian can reveal.
Mental health campaigners condemned the persistence of the problem and said it was completely unacceptable for vulnerable minors to be subjected to what many find a “terrifying” experience. The Liberal Democrat health spokesman Norman Lamb, who had responsibility for mental health care in the coalition government, said putting children on adult wards was scandalous and must be ended at once. Continue reading... The Guardian
Dozens of children and young people with mental health problems are still being treated on wards containing adults with sometimes severe psychiatric problems despite ministers having supposedly outlawed the practice in 2010, the Guardian can reveal.
Mental health campaigners condemned the persistence of the problem and said it was completely unacceptable for vulnerable minors to be subjected to what many find a “terrifying” experience. The Liberal Democrat health spokesman Norman Lamb, who had responsibility for mental health care in the coalition government, said putting children on adult wards was scandalous and must be ended at once. Continue reading... The Guardian
One in three NHS hospitals are failing their stroke patients
One in three NHS hospitals are failing their stroke patients Thirty-two per cent of hospitals in England, Wales and Northern Ireland were given the bottom two grades of D or E for their stroke care between April and July this year. The Daily Mail
Patients to get instant tests at chemists to see if they need antibiotics under NHS plans
Patients to get instant tests at chemists to see if they need antibiotics under NHS plans Anyone with a sore throat should go to see their pharmacist instead of their GP to get an instant test to see whether they need antibiotics, the head of the NHS is to announce.
The plan, designed to stop antibiotic resistance and to alleviate pressure on family doctors, will ensure far quicker treatment for common ailments, Simon Stevens will say.
The revolution in “smart innovation” is part of a national plan to modernise the health service in the face of "unprecedented demand" and amid warnings that the health service is facing its toughest winter yet. The Daily Telegraph
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The plan, designed to stop antibiotic resistance and to alleviate pressure on family doctors, will ensure far quicker treatment for common ailments, Simon Stevens will say.
The revolution in “smart innovation” is part of a national plan to modernise the health service in the face of "unprecedented demand" and amid warnings that the health service is facing its toughest winter yet. The Daily Telegraph
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Friday, 11 November 2016
‘I never imagined I could be run down wearing the uniform’ : Northampton paramedic
‘I never imagined I could be run down wearing the uniform’ : Northampton paramedic A paramedic whose leg was broken by a hit and run driver in Northampton has expressed amazement that he could have been mown down by someone who knew what he did for a living. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Reducing infections in the NHS
Reducing infections in the NHS Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt has launched new plans to reduce infections in the NHS. He announced government plans to halve the number of gram-negative bloodstream infections by 2020 at an infection control summit.
E. coli infections – which represent 65% of what are called gram-negative infections – killed more than 5,500 NHS patients last year and are set to cost the NHS £2.3 billion by 2018. There is also large variation in hospital infection rates, with the worst performers having more than 5 times the number of cases than the best performing hospitals.
Infection rates can be cut with better hygiene and improved patient care in hospitals, surgeries and care homes, such as ensuring staff, patients and visitors regularly wash their hands. People using insertion devices such as catheters, which are often used following surgery, can develop infections like E. coli if they are not inserted properly, left in too long or if patients are not properly hydrated and going to the toilet regularly.
These new plans build on the progress made in infection control since 2010 – the number of MRSA cases has been reduced by 57% and C. difficile by 45%. Department of Health
E. coli infections – which represent 65% of what are called gram-negative infections – killed more than 5,500 NHS patients last year and are set to cost the NHS £2.3 billion by 2018. There is also large variation in hospital infection rates, with the worst performers having more than 5 times the number of cases than the best performing hospitals.
Infection rates can be cut with better hygiene and improved patient care in hospitals, surgeries and care homes, such as ensuring staff, patients and visitors regularly wash their hands. People using insertion devices such as catheters, which are often used following surgery, can develop infections like E. coli if they are not inserted properly, left in too long or if patients are not properly hydrated and going to the toilet regularly.
These new plans build on the progress made in infection control since 2010 – the number of MRSA cases has been reduced by 57% and C. difficile by 45%. Department of Health
Further guidance on managing complaints and incidents within homecare services
Further guidance on managing complaints and incidents within homecare services As home care is often a shared care arrangement involving multiple organisations, it is important that complaints processes which allow the sharing, reporting and learning from complaints is in place and integrated between all parties involved in order to ensure that complaints are received, recorded, investigated, acted upon and reviewed in order to support patient care. This guidance provides detailed practical advice on how reporting and learning systems should operate in home care services in order to meet the requirements of patients, carers, regulators and other stakeholders. Royal Pharmaceutical Society
25% rise in complaints about home care
25% rise in complaints about home care The number of complaints received by the Local Government Ombudsman (LGO) about care provided to vulnerable people at home in England has increased by 25% over the last year.
The complaints about home care include care workers being late, missing appointments, not staying long enough and not doing what they should, including not treating people with the dignity they deserve, says the LGO’s Review of Adult Social Care Complaints 2015/16. OnMedica
The complaints about home care include care workers being late, missing appointments, not staying long enough and not doing what they should, including not treating people with the dignity they deserve, says the LGO’s Review of Adult Social Care Complaints 2015/16. OnMedica
NHS loses court appeal over 'game-changing' HIV drugs
NHS loses court appeal over 'game-changing' HIV drugs Health service in England fails to overturn high court verdict that it can pay for PrEP treatments, which can prevent infection
NHS England does have the power to pay for drugs to protect thousands of people against HIV, the appeal court has ruled, but they may still miss out if it decides it does not have enough money to prioritise them over treatments for other conditions.
The court upheld an earlier judgment that it is within the power of NHS England to fund treatment known as PrEP – pre-exposure prophylaxis – which can protect the partners of people with HIV from infection. The case was brought by the National Aids Trust (NAT) after NHS England said responsibility for public health, including HIV prevention, had been passed to local authorities. Continue reading... The Guardian
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NHS England does have the power to pay for drugs to protect thousands of people against HIV, the appeal court has ruled, but they may still miss out if it decides it does not have enough money to prioritise them over treatments for other conditions.
The court upheld an earlier judgment that it is within the power of NHS England to fund treatment known as PrEP – pre-exposure prophylaxis – which can protect the partners of people with HIV from infection. The case was brought by the National Aids Trust (NAT) after NHS England said responsibility for public health, including HIV prevention, had been passed to local authorities. Continue reading... The Guardian
See also:
- Update on PrEP NHS England
- NHS England has power to fund Prep HIV drug, court decides BBC News
- The 13 NHS treatments at risk because of a controversial HIV drug PrEP The Daily Mail
- NHS to consider funding 'game-changer' HIV drugs as High Court dismisses appeal The Daily Telegraph
- PrEP ruling: NHS can provide HIV prevention drug after it loses High Court case The Independent
NHS 'bedblocking' rises for sixth month in a row
NHS 'bedblocking' rises for sixth month in a row More patients are fit to leave hospital, but cannot be safely discharged, increasing pressure on government to tackle crisis
The number of patients in England who were medically fit to leave hospital but unable to be safely discharged has reached a new high for the sixth month in a row, increasing pressure on the government to tackle the social care shortage.
NHS and council leaders, and the Care Quality Commission (CQC), have recently called for action to prop up social care, and the chancellor, Philip Hammond, has been urged to increase funding in the autumn statement on 23 November. Continue reading... The Guardian
The number of patients in England who were medically fit to leave hospital but unable to be safely discharged has reached a new high for the sixth month in a row, increasing pressure on the government to tackle the social care shortage.
NHS and council leaders, and the Care Quality Commission (CQC), have recently called for action to prop up social care, and the chancellor, Philip Hammond, has been urged to increase funding in the autumn statement on 23 November. Continue reading... The Guardian
NHS hospital machines attacked by hackers who demand ransom cash
NHS hospital machines attacked by hackers who demand ransom cash All non-urgent operations and appointments were cancelled at Northern Lincolnshire and Goole NHS Foundation Trust for two days last month, after a malicious virus infected the IT system. The Daily Mail
Junior doctors lift strike threat and pledge to work with Government
Junior doctors lift strike threat and pledge to work with Government Junior doctors have lifted all threat of strike action and pledged to work with the Government to help introduce a controversial new contract.
The union made the climb down after a series of debacles and warring between medics who oppose the new deal.
It follows the resignation of the head of the union’s junior doctors’ committee (JDC) last weekend, after only being in the post for four months.
The BMA had already cancelled a string of strikes planned this winter, amid warnings from medics that the plans were too dangerous. The Daily Telegraph
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The union made the climb down after a series of debacles and warring between medics who oppose the new deal.
It follows the resignation of the head of the union’s junior doctors’ committee (JDC) last weekend, after only being in the post for four months.
The BMA had already cancelled a string of strikes planned this winter, amid warnings from medics that the plans were too dangerous. The Daily Telegraph
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Thursday, 10 November 2016
New resources help nursing staff identify victims of domestic abuse
New resources help nursing staff identify victims of domestic abuse The RCN has developed new support to help nurses and midwives identify and care for patients who have experienced domestic abuse.
The resources are designed to assist nurses and midwives in supporting their patients and clients, but also recognise that nurses and midwives may themselves be victims of domestic abuse, with information about ways to seek help and tips for staying safe online.
The resources have been compiled by a panel of experts, including RCN members, and have information for nursing staff who may be the perpetrators of domestic abuse.
They also include the key indicators for identifying cases of domestic abuse, using NICE standards and links to UK-wide guidance and publications. Royal College of Nursing
The resources are designed to assist nurses and midwives in supporting their patients and clients, but also recognise that nurses and midwives may themselves be victims of domestic abuse, with information about ways to seek help and tips for staying safe online.
The resources have been compiled by a panel of experts, including RCN members, and have information for nursing staff who may be the perpetrators of domestic abuse.
They also include the key indicators for identifying cases of domestic abuse, using NICE standards and links to UK-wide guidance and publications. Royal College of Nursing
WHO recommendations on antenatal care for a positive pregnancy experience
WHO recommendations on antenatal care for a positive pregnancy experience WHO has issued a new series of recommendations to improve quality of antenatal care in order to reduce the risk of stillbirths and pregnancy complications and give women a positive pregnancy experience.
Last year, an estimated 303 000 women died from pregnancy-related causes, 2.7 million babies died during the first 28 days of life and 2.6 million babies were stillborn. Quality health care during pregnancy and childbirth can prevent many of these deaths, yet globally only 64% of women receive antenatal (prenatal) care four or more times throughout their pregnancy.
Antenatal care is a critical opportunity for health providers to deliver care, support and information to pregnant women. This includes promoting a healthy lifestyle, including good nutrition; detecting and preventing diseases; providing family planning counselling and supporting women who may be experiencing intimate partner violence. World Health Organization
Last year, an estimated 303 000 women died from pregnancy-related causes, 2.7 million babies died during the first 28 days of life and 2.6 million babies were stillborn. Quality health care during pregnancy and childbirth can prevent many of these deaths, yet globally only 64% of women receive antenatal (prenatal) care four or more times throughout their pregnancy.
Antenatal care is a critical opportunity for health providers to deliver care, support and information to pregnant women. This includes promoting a healthy lifestyle, including good nutrition; detecting and preventing diseases; providing family planning counselling and supporting women who may be experiencing intimate partner violence. World Health Organization
Hospital admissions hit record high as population ages
Hospital admissions hit record high as population ages Hospital admissions in England rose to record levels last year, with 16.2 million admissions during 2015-16 - up from 12.7 million ten years ago.
Patients aged 65 to 69 - so called "baby boomers" - made up the single largest group of patientsa, with some 1.3 million admissions in 2015-16, according to figures released by NHS Digital.
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Patients aged 65 to 69 - so called "baby boomers" - made up the single largest group of patientsa, with some 1.3 million admissions in 2015-16, according to figures released by NHS Digital.
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STPs 'vital' for future of NHS, Jeremy Hunt tells health leaders
STPs 'vital' for future of NHS, Jeremy Hunt tells health leaders It is ‘vital’, said the health secretary, that ‘we stick with’ the plans to implement the NHS’ Five Year Forward View to move the service ‘towards accountable care organisations’ and a more preventative approach.
Mr Hunt’s comments to health leaders at the annual conference of the King’s Fund thinktank on Wednesday came amid mounting criticism of the STP process. GP Online
Mr Hunt’s comments to health leaders at the annual conference of the King’s Fund thinktank on Wednesday came amid mounting criticism of the STP process. GP Online
Plan launched to standardise mortality review in hospitals
Plan launched to standardise mortality review in hospitals A new programme has been launched to standardised the way hospitals review adult deaths.
The Royal College of Physicians’ National Mortality Case Record Review Programme will focus on investigating adult deaths in hospitals to understand where the weaknesses might be in particular systems, and to identify areas for quality improvement.
Most people who die in hospital have had good care, but research shows that between 10% and 15% have some sort of problem in their care, and around 3% of deaths might have been avoided.
The aim will be to replace the current varied systems with a single, standardised, national, evidence-based method, for mortality review in every acute hospital. OnMedica
The Royal College of Physicians’ National Mortality Case Record Review Programme will focus on investigating adult deaths in hospitals to understand where the weaknesses might be in particular systems, and to identify areas for quality improvement.
Most people who die in hospital have had good care, but research shows that between 10% and 15% have some sort of problem in their care, and around 3% of deaths might have been avoided.
The aim will be to replace the current varied systems with a single, standardised, national, evidence-based method, for mortality review in every acute hospital. OnMedica
NHS trusts on course to overshoot budgets by £850m, figures suggest
NHS trusts on course to overshoot budgets by £850m, figures suggest Overspend is projected to be more than three times the sum health bosses have deemed acceptable, according to the Health Service Journal
NHS hospital trusts are on course to overshoot their budgets by £850m this year, more than three times the deficit health service bosses said was acceptable, research has shown.
Such an overspend would be a setback for NHS England’s chief executive, Simon Stevens, and Jeremy Hunt, the health secretary, as they have pledged to ensure that trusts end the year no more than £250m in the red. 'Continue reading... The Guardian
NHS hospital trusts are on course to overshoot their budgets by £850m this year, more than three times the deficit health service bosses said was acceptable, research has shown.
Such an overspend would be a setback for NHS England’s chief executive, Simon Stevens, and Jeremy Hunt, the health secretary, as they have pledged to ensure that trusts end the year no more than £250m in the red. 'Continue reading... The Guardian
How apps can help patients take care of themselves
How apps can help patients take care of themselves Digital tech allowing patients to manage long-term health conditions is saving the NHS cash and transforming lives
In a shed next to his Portsmouth home, former soldier Paul Quinn plugs into state-of-the-art technology, costing only £20 and operated through his iPad, to manage his chronic, life-threatening respiratory disease. He exercises there with his wife Elizabeth, guided by printouts of routines he has pasted to the walls.
Since the 64-year-old started using the chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) management app he has lost weight, his depression has lifted, he sees his GP once a year (compared with twice-monthly visits previously) and he has not needed hospital treatment for 18 months. Quinn says he has his life back. This is not what he expected three years ago after developing acute breathing problems and being diagnosed with COPD. At that time he was handed an end-of-life pamphlet. Continue reading... The Guardian
In a shed next to his Portsmouth home, former soldier Paul Quinn plugs into state-of-the-art technology, costing only £20 and operated through his iPad, to manage his chronic, life-threatening respiratory disease. He exercises there with his wife Elizabeth, guided by printouts of routines he has pasted to the walls.
Since the 64-year-old started using the chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) management app he has lost weight, his depression has lifted, he sees his GP once a year (compared with twice-monthly visits previously) and he has not needed hospital treatment for 18 months. Quinn says he has his life back. This is not what he expected three years ago after developing acute breathing problems and being diagnosed with COPD. At that time he was handed an end-of-life pamphlet. Continue reading... The Guardian
One in ten NHS doctors in London turn to alcohol and drugs in bid to battle burnout
One in ten NHS doctors in London turn to alcohol and drugs in bid to battle burnout Thousands of doctors have turned to alcohol and drugs to cope with burnout and bullying at work, one of Britain’s leading GPs has revealed.
A unit set up to help medics with job-related mental health problems found more than a quarter were relying on drinking and prescription medication in order to deal with stress.
Dr Clare Gerada, head of the Practitioner Health Programme and former Chair of the Royal College of GPs, warned that working in the NHS is currently “an occupational hazard”, and that without action there “won’t be the staff to work in it”. The Daily Telegraph
A unit set up to help medics with job-related mental health problems found more than a quarter were relying on drinking and prescription medication in order to deal with stress.
Dr Clare Gerada, head of the Practitioner Health Programme and former Chair of the Royal College of GPs, warned that working in the NHS is currently “an occupational hazard”, and that without action there “won’t be the staff to work in it”. The Daily Telegraph
Wednesday, 9 November 2016
NHS England takes new steps to improve learning disability employment
NHS England takes new steps to improve learning disability employment As Mencap’s Learning Disability Work Experience Week kicks off, the number of NHS organisations pledging to employ more people with learning disabilities has hit 100, with NHS England calling on more trusts and hospitals to join the growing list.
The pledges have already led to ten new work experience placements which will begin this week across NHS trusts, hospitals and in the NHS England main London office, including in the Chief Executive’s and Chair’s office, with plans for more and longer term employment opportunities already in the pipeline. NHS England
The pledges have already led to ten new work experience placements which will begin this week across NHS trusts, hospitals and in the NHS England main London office, including in the Chief Executive’s and Chair’s office, with plans for more and longer term employment opportunities already in the pipeline. NHS England
How will the NHS cope this winter?
How will the NHS cope this winter? The headlines may be dominated by Washington politics and the Brexit debate, but NHS managers are focusing on one issue above others - the winter and what it will mean for already stretched services.
Temperatures have dropped this week, and the Met Office has warned of an increased risk of cold snaps between now and Christmas.
That has certainly been concentrating minds in the upper reaches of the NHS. BBC News
Temperatures have dropped this week, and the Met Office has warned of an increased risk of cold snaps between now and Christmas.
That has certainly been concentrating minds in the upper reaches of the NHS. BBC News
Medical training must give equal status to general practice, warns landmark report
Medical training must give equal status to general practice, warns landmark report The DH must urgently review medical school funding to improve training in primary care and tackle the perception of general practice being a 'less valued' career option, according to a landmark report. GP Online
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See also:
- By choice – not by chance: Supporting medical students towards careers in general practice Health Education England
- New report shines spotlight on denigration of general practice in medical schools, says RCGP Royal College of General Practitioners
Watchdog reports rise in medical radiation incidents
Watchdog reports rise in medical radiation incidents An increase in the number of medical-related radiation incidents have been reported in England, according to the health watchdog.
In its annual report on activity relating to the enforcement of The Ionising Radiation (Medical Exposure) Regulations, the Care Quality Commission (CQC) notes an increase of 16% (1,277 notification) during 2015, on the previous year’s total (1,103).
The CQC says the rise is partly due to an increase in activity taking place, and more clinicians recognising the importance of reporting incidents of over-exposure. OnMedica
In its annual report on activity relating to the enforcement of The Ionising Radiation (Medical Exposure) Regulations, the Care Quality Commission (CQC) notes an increase of 16% (1,277 notification) during 2015, on the previous year’s total (1,103).
The CQC says the rise is partly due to an increase in activity taking place, and more clinicians recognising the importance of reporting incidents of over-exposure. OnMedica
NHS England proposes hospital ban on sugar-sweetened drinks
NHS England proposes hospital ban on sugar-sweetened drinks Chief executive calls for ban on sugar-sweetened drinks or vendor levy on sales to protect patients and staff
NHS England is proposing to ban sugar-sweetened drinks from hospital vending machines and restaurants, in a dramatic attempt to curb obesity that goes beyond the government’s plans for a sugar levy.
The chief executive, Simon Stevens, who has previously spoken out about junk food being sold in hospitals and the risk that health problems caused by weight gain could bankrupt the NHS, unveiled two radical proposals to cut obesity. The first is to reduce the amount of high-sugar soft drinks consumed in hospitals. The alternative to the outright ban is to impose a fee on vendors of sugar-sweetened drinks, which would amount to 20% of their sales. Continue reading... The Guardian
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NHS England is proposing to ban sugar-sweetened drinks from hospital vending machines and restaurants, in a dramatic attempt to curb obesity that goes beyond the government’s plans for a sugar levy.
The chief executive, Simon Stevens, who has previously spoken out about junk food being sold in hospitals and the risk that health problems caused by weight gain could bankrupt the NHS, unveiled two radical proposals to cut obesity. The first is to reduce the amount of high-sugar soft drinks consumed in hospitals. The alternative to the outright ban is to impose a fee on vendors of sugar-sweetened drinks, which would amount to 20% of their sales. Continue reading... The Guardian
See also:
- NHS in England ponders sugary drinks ban BBC News
- Hospitals face ban on selling sugary drinks from canteens and vending machines The Daily Mail
- NHS may ban sale of all sugary drinks The Daily Telegraph
Slipping Through the Cracks, Mental Health and Homelessness
Slipping Through the Cracks, Mental Health and Homelessness I remember, where I used to live, there was a homeless man who slept at night in an alcove opposite a Tesco Metro. Once he stopped me, randomly, and spent ten minutes talking about some recent trouble he had been involved in; he had been removed from a shelter and suffered abuse there and was looking to move to another. The reasons for his removal were clear. Alcoholism had done its work on him, and likely, many other things too. Perhaps he, like countless others who live in homeless shelters, or on the street, suffer with severe mental illnesses. Illnesses, that if untreated can chip away at a person’s life until there is little left. Huffington Post UK
Trainee midwife makes heartfelt plea with the Prime Minister to save student bursaries and not replace them with £50,000 loans
Trainee midwife makes heartfelt plea with the Prime Minister to save student bursaries and not replace them with £50,000 loans Alison Brindle, 38, from Bolton, wrote to Prime Minister Theresa May after working 50 hours in four days. Her message, which was posted on Facebook, has been shared more than 7,000 times. The Daily Mail
NHS discrimination warning as study finds those beyond screening age limits more likely to have cancer
NHS discrimination warning as study finds those beyond screening age limits more likely to have cancer Those at greatest risk for one of the most common cancers are being denied screening amid widespread age discrimination by the NHS, a major study suggests.
Research on more than 30,000 patients found that those over the age of 75 were 65 per cent more likely than younger patients to be suffering from bowel cancer.
Britain’s poor record on diagnosis has been blamed for its“shameful” place in international league tables, with one third of cancer sufferers dead within a year of disease being found.
Last night charities called for the NHS to review its practices, to improve the survival chances of thousands of elderly patients. The Daily Telegraph
Research on more than 30,000 patients found that those over the age of 75 were 65 per cent more likely than younger patients to be suffering from bowel cancer.
Britain’s poor record on diagnosis has been blamed for its“shameful” place in international league tables, with one third of cancer sufferers dead within a year of disease being found.
Last night charities called for the NHS to review its practices, to improve the survival chances of thousands of elderly patients. The Daily Telegraph
Tuesday, 8 November 2016
Northampton charity bids to reduce number of diabetes-related amputations
Northampton charity bids to reduce number of diabetes-related amputations A Northampton-based charity has vowed to “drive down” the increasing number of easily avoided diabetes-related amputations. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Domestic violence revealed as main reason Northamptonshire children are referred to social services
Domestic violence revealed as main reason Northamptonshire children are referred to social services The number of children known to social services in Northamptonshire has reached more than 11,000, according to new figures from the NSPCC. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Health charities warn of £1.9bn social care funding gap
Health charities warn of £1.9bn social care funding gap Three leading health charities have issued a call for the government to address a £1.9 billion social care funding gap through the Autumn Statement.
In a new briefing published today ahead of the Autumn Statement on 23 November, the Health Foundation, The King’s Fund and the Nuffield Trust analyse the state of health and social care finances, concluding that cuts and rising demand will leave adult social care facing a £1.9 billion funding gap next year.
The three organisations conclude that despite mounting pressures on the NHS, finding money to plug this gap is the most urgent priority. They urge the government to bring forward increases in social care funding planned for later in the parliament through the Better Care Fund to next year, warning that without this, thousands more older and disabled people will be denied access to the care they need, with severe consequences for the NHS.
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In a new briefing published today ahead of the Autumn Statement on 23 November, the Health Foundation, The King’s Fund and the Nuffield Trust analyse the state of health and social care finances, concluding that cuts and rising demand will leave adult social care facing a £1.9 billion funding gap next year.
The three organisations conclude that despite mounting pressures on the NHS, finding money to plug this gap is the most urgent priority. They urge the government to bring forward increases in social care funding planned for later in the parliament through the Better Care Fund to next year, warning that without this, thousands more older and disabled people will be denied access to the care they need, with severe consequences for the NHS.
See also:
- The Autumn Statement: Joint statement on health and social care Health Foundation, King's Fund and Nuffield Trust
- Listening to the chorus of concern around social care The King's Fund
- Councils 'risk legal action' over care cuts BBC News
- Raft of legal claims against councils feared over cuts to home care The Daily Telegraph
Should local business rates fund local public health? There’s not a simple answer
Should local business rates fund local public health? There’s not a simple answerBack in March I suggested that the then Chancellor’s surprise announcement of a sugar levy in the budget drew attention away from what might turn out to be a far bigger – if seemingly more obscure – issue: the potential switch of the Department of Health local government public health grant to business rate funding, as part of a wider Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG) consultation on how to increase the share of local government funding from local business rates rather than central government grants.
The principle of stronger reliance on local funding, as opposed to government grants, is one that local government has long argued for, given the UK is one of the developed world’s most fiscally centralised states. The argument goes that a government serious about devolution needs to devolve the means of raising revenue alongside the responsibilities for spending it. And moving more central government grant funding streams into business rates will create the incentive for local areas to focus on economic growth and the benefits that brings. The King's Fund
The principle of stronger reliance on local funding, as opposed to government grants, is one that local government has long argued for, given the UK is one of the developed world’s most fiscally centralised states. The argument goes that a government serious about devolution needs to devolve the means of raising revenue alongside the responsibilities for spending it. And moving more central government grant funding streams into business rates will create the incentive for local areas to focus on economic growth and the benefits that brings. The King's Fund
Mapping UK mental health research funding and its contribution to global funding
Mapping UK mental health research funding and its contribution to global funding This briefing provides an analysis across the UK of government support for mental health research, with a particular emphasis on the UK Department of Health. Rand Corporation
Helping people look after themselves: a guide on self-care
Helping people look after themselves: a guide on self-care This report calls for a new culture of care to reduce the pressures on doctors and hospitals. It highlights the role that GPs can play in educating the public on self-care and how they can treat themselves without visting the doctor or managing long-term conditions by taking preventative measures to stay fit. Local Government Association
Missing GP records in Essex, Norfolk and Suffolk 'total 9,000'
Missing GP records in Essex, Norfolk and Suffolk 'total 9,000' More than 9,000 patients' records have gone missing since private firm Capita took over NHS file transferring services, a BBC survey shows. BBC News
NHS trust saves £40k buying bread and milk from Asda instead of traditional supplier
NHS trust saves £40k buying bread and milk from Asda instead of traditional supplier A health trust has saved £40,000 by buying bread and milk from Asda instead of the traditional NHS supplier.
Staff at Humber NHS Foundation Trust, which runs a chain of community hospitals, psychiatric wards and mental health wards around Hull and East Yorkshire, revealed last week that they switched grocery providers.
NHS trusts have run up a £2.45bn overspend this year. The Independent
Staff at Humber NHS Foundation Trust, which runs a chain of community hospitals, psychiatric wards and mental health wards around Hull and East Yorkshire, revealed last week that they switched grocery providers.
NHS trusts have run up a £2.45bn overspend this year. The Independent
Lack of NHS radiologists 'could cause delays to breast cancer diagnoses'
Lack of NHS radiologists 'could cause delays to breast cancer diagnoses' Experts fear service will not cope with demand for mammograms, with 8% of breast radiology consultant posts unfilled
Women may suffer a delay in finding out that they have breast cancer because the NHS is struggling with a serious and worsening lack of radiologists and radiographers, according to health experts.
There are fears that the NHS’s breast cancer screening programme will not be able to cope with the growing numbers of women who will require mammograms in coming years when the age of eligibility is extended from 50-70 to 43-73. Continue reading... The Guardian
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Women may suffer a delay in finding out that they have breast cancer because the NHS is struggling with a serious and worsening lack of radiologists and radiographers, according to health experts.
There are fears that the NHS’s breast cancer screening programme will not be able to cope with the growing numbers of women who will require mammograms in coming years when the age of eligibility is extended from 50-70 to 43-73. Continue reading... The Guardian
See also:
- NHS breast screening programme: national radiographic workforce survey 2016 Public Health England
Why is heart disease still killing millions every year?
Why is heart disease still killing millions every year? Better policymaking could significantly reduce premature deaths from cardiovascular disease, the UK’s biggest killer
The heart is a remarkable muscle. It sits behind the rib cage, pumping 100,000 times a day to carry nutrients to the furthest extremities of the body.
But it is also a vulnerable organ, prey to the excesses of a modern western lifestyle – and as excessive lifestyles have spread around the globe, they have had a predictable effect. Continue reading... The Guardian
The heart is a remarkable muscle. It sits behind the rib cage, pumping 100,000 times a day to carry nutrients to the furthest extremities of the body.
But it is also a vulnerable organ, prey to the excesses of a modern western lifestyle – and as excessive lifestyles have spread around the globe, they have had a predictable effect. Continue reading... The Guardian
Over 130,000 cancer patients are waiting too long to receive crucial NHS treatment
Over 130,000 cancer patients are waiting too long to receive crucial NHS treatment Last year 132,138 patients in England did not see a cancer specialist within the 14-day target. It comes as cancer diagnoses are set to rise from unhealthy lifestyle choices including smoking and drinking. The Daily Mail
See also:
See also:
Monday, 7 November 2016
Winter vomiting bug warning from Northampton hospital after outbreak in neighbouring county
Winter vomiting bug warning from Northampton hospital after outbreak in neighbouring county Health chiefs at Northampton General Hospital have issued a warning about the winter vomiting bug after reports of an outbreak in a nearby town. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
New report highlights gaps in healthcare for increasing number of patients living with multiple conditions
New report highlights gaps in healthcare for increasing number of patients living with multiple conditions This report reviews how effectively the current health system serves patients living with multiple long-term conditions and explores the experiences of these patients. It highlights the barriers that prevent the quality of their care improving such as lack of time and resources for GPs and provides recommendations to overcome these barriers. The report also recommends improving communication between primary and secondary care; increasing exposure of delivering care for those with multimorbidity in GP training; and developing improved decision making tools. Royal College of General Practitioners
The missing million: a practical guide to identifying and talking about loneliness
The missing million: a practical guide to identifying and talking about loneliness There are an estimated 1,100,000 people who are 65 and over who are chronically lonely and difficult to reach. This guide aims to support commissioners, service providers, front line staff and volunteers in identifying people who experience or are at risk of experience loneliness. It also provides recommendations on how best to engage in a dialogue about loneliness and offers examples of effective approaches to supporting older people. Campaign to End Loneliness
In the red: student nurse debt
In the red: student nurse debt This report finds that two thirds of NHS students have had to take on work on top of their studies in order to supplement their income. The proportion of medical and health students taking on extra jobs has risen from 61 per cent to 68 per cent in the last decade and 64 per cent of those surveyed say that working these extra hours is affecting their ability to study. Unison
'War on superbugs' like E.coli announced by government
'War on superbugs' like E.coli announced by government The government has announced a new war against superbugs like E.coli, which are increasing in number. BBC News
Thousands of NHS staff may have paid too much tax
Thousands of NHS staff may have paid too much tax Thousands of NHS workers could have overpaid thousands in income tax and National Insurance, the BBC's Victoria Derbyshire programme understands.
The error, which dates back to 1999, applies to certain NHS employees who did Widening Access Training (WAT).
Some workers have received rebates of up to £24,000, but others complain they have struggled to get any response from tax authority HMRC or their NHS trust.
HMRC said it was working closely with NHS trusts to get refunds paid. BBC News
The error, which dates back to 1999, applies to certain NHS employees who did Widening Access Training (WAT).
Some workers have received rebates of up to £24,000, but others complain they have struggled to get any response from tax authority HMRC or their NHS trust.
HMRC said it was working closely with NHS trusts to get refunds paid. BBC News
NHS seeks to reduce winter deaths as sub-zero weather looms across UK
NHS seeks to reduce winter deaths as sub-zero weather looms across UK Campaign urges people with long-term health conditions and over-65s to take preventive steps as protection against freezing temperatures
Sub-zero temperatures are expected to sweep across Britain this week after the first cold snap of the year, prompting warnings that vulnerable people should prepare for a freezing winter.
The chilly weather coincides with the launch of a major NHS campaign urging people with long-term health conditions and the over-65s to take action in an effort to reduce the 25,000 extra deaths that occur each winter. Continue reading... The Guardian
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Sub-zero temperatures are expected to sweep across Britain this week after the first cold snap of the year, prompting warnings that vulnerable people should prepare for a freezing winter.
The chilly weather coincides with the launch of a major NHS campaign urging people with long-term health conditions and the over-65s to take action in an effort to reduce the 25,000 extra deaths that occur each winter. Continue reading... The Guardian
See also:
- Over-65s advised to eat hot meals to cope with winter BBC News
- Self-care could cut need for millions of GP visits BBC News
- NHS is ridiculed for its 'patronising' advice as it aims to avoid a winter crisis The Daily Mail
- Millions of patients putting strain on NHS with minor ailments The Guardian
- Millions seek treatment for ‘minor conditions’ putting strain on NHS The Independent
Will the cultural chasm between NHS and local government threaten plans?
Will the cultural chasm between NHS and local government threaten plans? Tensions and conflicts are emerging between health bosses and their town hall counterparts over STPs
Serious tensions are emerging between the health service and local government.
There are three sources of conflict – centrally-imposed secrecy over the sustainability and transformation plan (STP) process, whether the aim of STPs is to fix the NHS or develop an integrated health and care system, and disputes over whether the financial plans being sent to NHS England are fact or fantasy. Continue reading... The Guardian
Serious tensions are emerging between the health service and local government.
There are three sources of conflict – centrally-imposed secrecy over the sustainability and transformation plan (STP) process, whether the aim of STPs is to fix the NHS or develop an integrated health and care system, and disputes over whether the financial plans being sent to NHS England are fact or fantasy. Continue reading... The Guardian
Health secretary says problems with NHS are 'not just about money'
Health secretary says problems with NHS are 'not just about money' Jeremy Hunt plays down row over government’s disputed claim that health service will get £10bn extra funding
Jeremy Hunt has sought to play down a row about the amount of new funding available for the NHS, saying the health service’s challenges are not just about money.
The health secretary was challenged by the BBC’s Andrew Marr over the gulf between the government’s claim that the NHS had been awarded an additional £10bn of funding, and estimates by independent organisations that have put the “true” figure at about £4.5bn. Continue reading... The Guardian
Jeremy Hunt has sought to play down a row about the amount of new funding available for the NHS, saying the health service’s challenges are not just about money.
The health secretary was challenged by the BBC’s Andrew Marr over the gulf between the government’s claim that the NHS had been awarded an additional £10bn of funding, and estimates by independent organisations that have put the “true” figure at about £4.5bn. Continue reading... The Guardian
Dangerous truth about nursing on the cheap
Dangerous truth about nursing on the cheap Handing out a pill is easy, writes Dr Max Pemberton. The tricky part is realising when the dose is wrong or understanding when it’s vital that drugs are given at a certain time. The Daily Mail
A&E units left in the hands of junior doctors with a year's experience, investigation finds
A&E units left in the hands of junior doctors with a year's experience, investigation finds NHS Accident & Emergency departments are being run with no consultants present for more than 40 per cent of the time, an audit has found.
At some units, the most senior person on duty is a junior doctor who finished medical school the previous year, the figures show.
Others have relied on GPs to stand in for hospital consultants, the Daily Telegraph investigation reveals.
At some units, the most senior person on duty is a junior doctor who finished medical school the previous year, the figures show.
Others have relied on GPs to stand in for hospital consultants, the Daily Telegraph investigation reveals.
Friday, 4 November 2016
Redrawing the health and social care architecture: exploring the role of national bodies in enabling and supporting the delivery of local health and care services
Redrawing the health and social care architecture: exploring the role of national bodies in enabling and supporting the delivery of local health and care services
This research finds that 70 per cent of NHS staff in England do not understand the role of the national bodies in the healthcare system. The report calls for the government to clarify the roles of these bodies and move to a more devolved system where local areas are given more accountability and responsibility. It also suggests that local areas should be given the power to raise funds for their regional health service. PricewaterhouseCoopers
Report
PricewaterhouseCoopers - press release
This research finds that 70 per cent of NHS staff in England do not understand the role of the national bodies in the healthcare system. The report calls for the government to clarify the roles of these bodies and move to a more devolved system where local areas are given more accountability and responsibility. It also suggests that local areas should be given the power to raise funds for their regional health service. PricewaterhouseCoopers
Report
PricewaterhouseCoopers - press release
National Child Measurement Programme shows increased obesity prevalence in primary schools
National Child Measurement Programme shows increased obesity prevalence in primary schools
The prevalence of obesity has risen from 9.1 per cent in 2014-15 to 9.3 per cent in 2015-16 for children in reception (2) and from 19.1 per cent to 19.8 per cent for those in year 6.
IC QOF
The prevalence of obesity has risen from 9.1 per cent in 2014-15 to 9.3 per cent in 2015-16 for children in reception (2) and from 19.1 per cent to 19.8 per cent for those in year 6.
IC QOF
Making personal budgets dementia friendly: a guide for local authorities
Making personal budgets dementia friendly: a guide for local authorities
Alzheimer’s Society has produced a personal budgets guide of easy and cost-effective actions councils can take to improve the personal budgets process for people with dementia and their carers. The aim of this is to help local authorities deliver person-centred care.
Alzheimer's Society
Guide
Charter
Alzheimer's Society - news
Alzheimer’s Society has produced a personal budgets guide of easy and cost-effective actions councils can take to improve the personal budgets process for people with dementia and their carers. The aim of this is to help local authorities deliver person-centred care.
Alzheimer's Society
Guide
Charter
Alzheimer's Society - news
Managing workload
Managing workload
We all work in fast-paced environments, where there are tight deadlines that regularly need to be met. Do your to-do piles only ever seem to get bigger, your inbox only ever become fuller and do you seem to have an ever decreasing amount of time to complete your work in?
We all work in fast-paced environments, where there are tight deadlines that regularly need to be met. Do your to-do piles only ever seem to get bigger, your inbox only ever become fuller and do you seem to have an ever decreasing amount of time to complete your work in?
NHS Networks
Health is more than NHS doctors, nurses and hospitals
Health is more than NHS doctors, nurses and hospitals
Are we in danger of seeing our health too much in terms of ambulances, hospitals and GP surgeries and not the bigger picture of how we live?
Are we in danger of seeing our health too much in terms of ambulances, hospitals and GP surgeries and not the bigger picture of how we live?
BBC News
Health scare
Health scare
Given the complexity of antibiotics resistance, what should we do to tackle the problem?
Given the complexity of antibiotics resistance, what should we do to tackle the problem?
BBC News
Ebola adapted to easily infect people
Ebola adapted to easily infect people
Ebola dramatically adapted to infect human tissues with ease in the first few months of the Ebola outbreak.
Ebola dramatically adapted to infect human tissues with ease in the first few months of the Ebola outbreak.
BBC News
Researchers discover new method of spotting tumour cells in blood
Researchers discover new method of spotting tumour cells in blood
The new method of spotting tumour cells in the blood, discovered by researchers at Queen Mary University of London, is still in its early stages but could soon revolutionise treatment.
The new method of spotting tumour cells in the blood, discovered by researchers at Queen Mary University of London, is still in its early stages but could soon revolutionise treatment.
Mail
Thursday, 3 November 2016
What if NHS leaders were more representative of their patients?
What if NHS leaders were more representative of their patients? The NHS if is a collection of essays that explores hypothetical scenarios and their impact on the future of health and care. Our aim is to encourage new thinking and debate about possible future scenarios that could fundamentally change health and care. This essay, by Vijaya Nath, looks at the current leadership structure of the NHS and discusses how increased diversity could improve performance. The King's Fund
STPs: where are we now and what happens next?
STPs: where are we now and what happens next? Sustainability and transformation plans (STPs) have now been produced by NHS and (sometimes) local government leaders in 44 parts of England. The plans are important, setting out the proposed direction for health and care services over the next five years. But they been developed at significant speed and, for the most part, without the involvement of frontline staff or patients. They also propose major changes to services that will be unpopular with politicians. The King's Fund
Winter pressure in accident and emergency departments
Winter pressure in accident and emergency departments Accident and Emergency departments in England are managing unprecedented levels of demand. On average, over 40,000 people attended a major, or type 1, accident and emergency department each day across the NHS in 2015–16. Over the same period only 88.2% of patients were admitted, transferred or discharged within four hours—well short of the Government’s target of 95%. The variation in performance between providers was also striking, ranging from 64% to 99% in one survey from July 2016.
Achieving safe and timely performance in urgent and emergency care is an increasing challenge primarily as a result of growing and rapidly evolving demand as patients attend with more complex conditions but also as a result of system-wide pressures affecting the ability of the NHS and social care to cope. Health Select Committee
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Achieving safe and timely performance in urgent and emergency care is an increasing challenge primarily as a result of growing and rapidly evolving demand as patients attend with more complex conditions but also as a result of system-wide pressures affecting the ability of the NHS and social care to cope. Health Select Committee
See also:
- The King’s Fund comments on the Health Select Committee’s Winter Pressures in Accident and Emergency report The King's Fund
- A&Es are refusing to take patients parked outside in ambulances The Daily Mail
- Shortage of 3,000 A&E doctors revealed amid warnings NHS faces 'toughest winter yet' The Daily Telegraph
How blurring the lines between health and social care can benefit local communities
How blurring the lines between health and social care can benefit local communities Hertfordshire has a proud record of working in partnership across health and social care. It’s not something new, and they have been doing it for over a decade as Iain Macbeath, Director of Health and Community Services Hertfordshire County Council and part of the East and North Hertfordshire vanguard explains in this blog. NHS England
Adult social care funding: 2016 state of the nation report
Adult social care funding: 2016 state of the nation report This report looks at the state of funding for adult social care and current pressures. It contains a series of short essays by senior figures in the care sector offering personal views and expert perspectives. Local Government Association
NHS structures 'complex and confused'
NHS structures 'complex and confused' The way the NHS in England is organised is hindering its ability to meet its challenges, a review led by former Health Secretary Alan Milburn says.
Mr Milburn said the current system was "confused and complex".
The review, for consultants PwC, called for a gradual evolution of the structures, saying those who worked in the health service supported reform.
But the Department of Health said its plan for the future would be "delivered within the NHS's existing structures". BBC News
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Mr Milburn said the current system was "confused and complex".
The review, for consultants PwC, called for a gradual evolution of the structures, saying those who worked in the health service supported reform.
But the Department of Health said its plan for the future would be "delivered within the NHS's existing structures". BBC News
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Care homes will have to reveal patient eviction numbers
Care homes will have to reveal patient eviction numbers Care homes will have to reveal how many patients they have evicted against their wishes, the regulator says. BBC News
Exclusive: GP practices serving more than 5m patients could close in the next year
Exclusive: GP practices serving more than 5m patients could close in the next year More than 5m patients in England could be forced to look for a new GP over the next year as surgery closures hit record levels, a poll suggests. GP Online
MPs to debate Capita’s failures to deliver on contract
MPs to debate Capita’s failures to deliver on contract Doctors’ leaders have welcomed the announcement that MPs will hold an end of day adjournment debate next week on Capita’s multiple failures to deliver on its Primary Care Support Services contract. They have called for urgent action to correct shortcomings, which they said have left GPs unable to provide safe, effective care to their patients.
NHS England revealed last month that in the first seven months after Capita took over primary care support services, hundreds of GP practices were not paid on time for services such as dispensing; dozens of patients received incorrect screening results; thousands of duplicate screening invitations were sent out; and telephone problems meant that customer support was unavailable during crucial pilot periods. OnMedica
NHS England revealed last month that in the first seven months after Capita took over primary care support services, hundreds of GP practices were not paid on time for services such as dispensing; dozens of patients received incorrect screening results; thousands of duplicate screening invitations were sent out; and telephone problems meant that customer support was unavailable during crucial pilot periods. OnMedica
'Just say death!' Plays teach healthcare workers about end-of-life care
'Just say death!' Plays teach healthcare workers about end-of-life care Dying is taboo among health and care professionals who sometimes prioritise medical initiatives over individuals and families
Seth Goodburn seemed fit and well until two weeks before he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. He died just 33 days after diagnosis, spending much of that short time in hospital. In the emotional whirlwind of coping with the poor prognosis his wife, Lesley, felt their hopes for Seth’s end-of-life care were sidelined by medical professionals trying to do their job.
“The NHS focuses on the medicine and trying to fix people even when that’s not possible,” she says. “A lot of the conversations and decisions that we might have made were overshadowed by dealing with what was the next medical treatment and intervention.” Continue reading.. The Guardian
Seth Goodburn seemed fit and well until two weeks before he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. He died just 33 days after diagnosis, spending much of that short time in hospital. In the emotional whirlwind of coping with the poor prognosis his wife, Lesley, felt their hopes for Seth’s end-of-life care were sidelined by medical professionals trying to do their job.
“The NHS focuses on the medicine and trying to fix people even when that’s not possible,” she says. “A lot of the conversations and decisions that we might have made were overshadowed by dealing with what was the next medical treatment and intervention.” Continue reading.. The Guardian
UK regulator approves drug that could extend lives of breast cancer patients
UK regulator approves drug that could extend lives of breast cancer patients National Institute for Health and Care Excellence gives NHS go-ahead to prescribe eribulin after new evidence shows drug may have ‘substantial’ benefits
Women with later-stage breast cancer may gain up to three months of extra life after health regulators gave the NHS the green light to prescribe the first new drug to treat the disease in almost a decade.
About 1,500 women a year in England who have locally advanced breast cancer, or whose disease has spread despite two rounds of chemotherapy, will be eligible to receive the life-extending drug. On average, they usually only have two years to live after they have been diagnosed. Continue reading... The Guardian
Women with later-stage breast cancer may gain up to three months of extra life after health regulators gave the NHS the green light to prescribe the first new drug to treat the disease in almost a decade.
About 1,500 women a year in England who have locally advanced breast cancer, or whose disease has spread despite two rounds of chemotherapy, will be eligible to receive the life-extending drug. On average, they usually only have two years to live after they have been diagnosed. Continue reading... The Guardian
Patients wait two months to have hair washed after nurses said not their job to help the sick bathe
Patients wait two months to have hair washed after nurses said not their job to help the sick bathe Patients were forced to wait two months to have their hair washed because nurses said it was not their job to help the sick bathe or shower, a damning report says.
Queen Elizabeth Hospital in south London has been ordered to make urgent improvements after watchdogs found A&E staff failing to monitor patients’ vital signs, with sick patients treated in chairs and corridors due to overcrowding.
Inspectors from the Care Quality Commission (CQC) intervened after hospital staff failed to notice that a patient with blood poisoning was deteriorating badly. The Daily Telegraph
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Queen Elizabeth Hospital in south London has been ordered to make urgent improvements after watchdogs found A&E staff failing to monitor patients’ vital signs, with sick patients treated in chairs and corridors due to overcrowding.
Inspectors from the Care Quality Commission (CQC) intervened after hospital staff failed to notice that a patient with blood poisoning was deteriorating badly. The Daily Telegraph
See also:
Wednesday, 2 November 2016
Care home nurse from Northampton suspended after getting junior to do training session for her
Care home nurse from Northampton suspended after getting junior to do training session for her A nurse who was a home manager at a care home in Northampton has been suspended by the Nursing and Midwifery Council. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
The role of clinical leadership in the evolving NHS
The role of clinical leadership in the evolving NHS As a doctor who was recently Group Director responsible for medicine and emergency care across three sites in an inner city trust, I was keen to take up the opportunity of joining The King’s Fund.
One reason for this was to learn about best practice outside my own organisation. For a national health service, it seems strange that the benefits of having a single health care system do not always seem to be evident; examples include variations in clinical practice, procurement of devices and the engagement of staff across different parts of the NHS. The King's Fund
One reason for this was to learn about best practice outside my own organisation. For a national health service, it seems strange that the benefits of having a single health care system do not always seem to be evident; examples include variations in clinical practice, procurement of devices and the engagement of staff across different parts of the NHS. The King's Fund
Take me to your leader: hospital collaboration in the NHS
Take me to your leader: hospital collaboration in the NHS This report discusses the need for collaboration born out of the arrival of the Sustainability and Transformation Plans and a new two year planning guidance. It looks at what makes collaboration successful and what prevents it. KPMG
Treatments of low clinical value
Treatments of low clinical value As part of the “choosing wisely” campaign, the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges listed 40 treatments and procedures that have limited clinical value or impact.
Efficiency through health and social care integration
Efficiency through health and social care integration This report finds that 45% of decisions about patients' care could be improved which could lead to efficiency savings for health and social care services. Local Government Association
See also:
See also:
- The King’s Fund comments on the LGA’s new social care report The King's Fund
Lincolnshire operations cancelled after network attack
Lincolnshire operations cancelled after network attack Hundreds of planned operations and outpatient appointments have been cancelled across Lincolnshire after an NHS computer network was attacked.
Northern Lincolnshire and Goole NHS Foundation Trust (NLAG) said systems were infected with a virus on Sunday, with it treated as a "major incident".
The trust, which runs hospitals in Goole, Grimsby and Scunthorpe, said the measures would remain into Tuesday.
United Lincolnshire Hospitals NHS Trust (ULHT) also had to cancel operations.
Dr Karen Dunderdale, NLAG deputy chief executive, said: "A virus infected our electronic systems yesterday, and we have taken the decision, following expert advice, to shut down the majority of our systems so we can isolate and destroy it.
"Our main priority is patient safety. All adult patients should presume their appointment/procedure has been cancelled unless they are contacted. Those who turn up will be turned away." BBC News
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Northern Lincolnshire and Goole NHS Foundation Trust (NLAG) said systems were infected with a virus on Sunday, with it treated as a "major incident".
The trust, which runs hospitals in Goole, Grimsby and Scunthorpe, said the measures would remain into Tuesday.
United Lincolnshire Hospitals NHS Trust (ULHT) also had to cancel operations.
Dr Karen Dunderdale, NLAG deputy chief executive, said: "A virus infected our electronic systems yesterday, and we have taken the decision, following expert advice, to shut down the majority of our systems so we can isolate and destroy it.
"Our main priority is patient safety. All adult patients should presume their appointment/procedure has been cancelled unless they are contacted. Those who turn up will be turned away." BBC News
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Care homes ban relatives who complain
Care homes ban relatives who complain Some care homes are banning relatives who make a complaint about the quality of care from visiting elderly residents. BBC News
UK team launched to tackle disease outbreaks
UK team launched to tackle disease outbreaksThe UK has set up a “public health rapid support team”, to respond to global requests for help to control disease outbreaks.
Consisting of clinicians, scientists and academics, the team can be deployed to tackle outbreaks of disease anywhere in the world within 48 hours.
The government has made £20 million available from the UK development assistance budget to fund the team over five years. It will be jointly run by Public Health England and the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine. OnMedica
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Consisting of clinicians, scientists and academics, the team can be deployed to tackle outbreaks of disease anywhere in the world within 48 hours.
The government has made £20 million available from the UK development assistance budget to fund the team over five years. It will be jointly run by Public Health England and the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine. OnMedica
See also:
- UK team of health experts to tackle global disease outbreaks Public Health England
GPs and practice nurses inadequately trained in mental health
GPs and practice nurses inadequately trained in mental health GPs and practice nurses are inadequately trained in mental health.
This is the finding from new statistics published today by the mental health charity Mind.
Data obtained by the charity shows that in England, on average, less than half (46%) of trainee GPs undertook a training placement in a mental health setting.
Furthermore, the only mental health-related option offered to trainee GPs was in psychiatry, which is hospital-based and secondary care-focussed.
Once qualified, none of the hours GPs spend on Continued Professional Development (CPD) need to have a mental-health component. This is despite an estimated one in three GP appointments being related to mental health. OnMedica
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This is the finding from new statistics published today by the mental health charity Mind.
Data obtained by the charity shows that in England, on average, less than half (46%) of trainee GPs undertook a training placement in a mental health setting.
Furthermore, the only mental health-related option offered to trainee GPs was in psychiatry, which is hospital-based and secondary care-focussed.
Once qualified, none of the hours GPs spend on Continued Professional Development (CPD) need to have a mental-health component. This is despite an estimated one in three GP appointments being related to mental health. OnMedica
See also:
- Better equipped, better care: Improving mental health training for GPs and practice nurses Mind
- Mental health is key in the GP training curriculum, says RCGP Royal College of General Practitioners
- Most GP trainees miss out on mental health training placements GP Online
- Depression 'fastest growing condition' as GPs record 470,000 new cases in 2015/16 GP Online
Almost half of hospital authorities to cut bed numbers and a third of A&Es facing closure to cope with funding crisis
Almost half of hospital authorities to cut bed numbers and a third of A&Es facing closure to cope with funding crisis Almost half of NHS authorities are drafting plans to cut hospital beds and a third are planning on closing Accident and Emergency facilities, it has been reported.
The figures suggest mounting pressure on healthcare resources as the NHS faces unprecedented funding pressure. They have come to light following a poll of clinical commissioning groups and relate to projected or planned cuts for the next 18 months. The Independent
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The figures suggest mounting pressure on healthcare resources as the NHS faces unprecedented funding pressure. They have come to light following a poll of clinical commissioning groups and relate to projected or planned cuts for the next 18 months. The Independent
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Why are those in charge of the NHS blinded by delusional optimism?
Why are those in charge of the NHS blinded by delusional optimism? Shortfalls in money, staff and social care are being ignored, while A&E waits and trust deficits rise steadily
A year ago I predicted that the deficits, shortfalls, waits and safety concerns that were growing fast at the time would keep growing, putting the NHS under insurmountable strain.
Broadcasters and thinktanks were unwilling to make similar forecasts, despite the evidence, because they either believed the government’s reassurances or were afraid to be seen as negative speculators. Continue reading... The Guardian
A year ago I predicted that the deficits, shortfalls, waits and safety concerns that were growing fast at the time would keep growing, putting the NHS under insurmountable strain.
Broadcasters and thinktanks were unwilling to make similar forecasts, despite the evidence, because they either believed the government’s reassurances or were afraid to be seen as negative speculators. Continue reading... The Guardian
Number of NHS mental health nurses drops by 15% under Tories
Number of NHS mental health nurses drops by 15% under Tories Since Conservatives came to power in 2010, number of specialist nurses has fallen from 45,384 to 38,774
The number of mental health nurses working in the NHS has dropped by almost a sixth since the Conservatives came to power in 2010, figures show.
The revelation has sparked fresh doubt that government pledges to improve mental health services are being matched by progress at the NHS frontline. Continue reading... The Guardian
The number of mental health nurses working in the NHS has dropped by almost a sixth since the Conservatives came to power in 2010, figures show.
The revelation has sparked fresh doubt that government pledges to improve mental health services are being matched by progress at the NHS frontline. Continue reading... The Guardian
One in four care home beds at risk without funding increase, providers say
One in four care home beds at risk without funding increase, providers say Care home companies pressing health department for bailout of sector in chancellor’s autumn statement
As many as 100,000 care home beds – one in four of the total – in England will be at risk of closure unless the government bails out the social care sector in the chancellor’s autumn statement this month, leading care sector companies have told the Department of Health.
Half of all care homes are losing money because fees paid by local councils for state-funded residents have fallen below break-even levels, the companies say. Continue reading... The Guardian
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As many as 100,000 care home beds – one in four of the total – in England will be at risk of closure unless the government bails out the social care sector in the chancellor’s autumn statement this month, leading care sector companies have told the Department of Health.
Half of all care homes are losing money because fees paid by local councils for state-funded residents have fallen below break-even levels, the companies say. Continue reading... The Guardian
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FSA slams over 400 hospitals that meet standard hygiene standards
FSA slams over 400 hospitals that meet standard hygiene standards Analysis reveals 401 hospitals, care homes, schools and hospices that the Foods Standards Agency rated as two or lower out of five, meaning they were failing to take basic hygiene measures. The Daily Mail
Of course the NHS is underfunded - taxation alone will never provide enough cash
Of course the NHS is underfunded - taxation alone will never provide enough cash Warning: the following may give readers a disconcerting sense of déjà vu. You may feel that you have previously read about this in years gone by. Indeed, if you are old enough, you may feel you have read about this repeatedly for decades. Do not be alarmed. It is not déjà vu. This story really has happened over and over again. The Daily Telegraph
See also:
See also:
- The NHS needs more money. We need to start asking who it will come from The Daily Telegraph
- STP plans at risk without extra NHS funding, warns GP/MP GP Online
- How much extra money is the government really giving the NHS? The Guardian
- Theresa May denies that £10bn NHS funding pledge is misleading The Guardian
Fears as apprentice nurses allowed to dispense drugs
Fears as apprentice nurses allowed to dispense drugs Apprentice nurses will be allowed to administer controlled drugs to NHS patients, under plans criticised by experts as a “recipe for confusion”.
Leaked documents reveal that a new tier of “nursing associates” with as little as two years’ experience will be entitled to measure out doses of medicine and carry out invasive procedures without direct supervision.
The first cohort of 1,000 is due to begin training in December, part of a series of Government measures to plug a widespread shortage of staff. The Daily Telegraph
Leaked documents reveal that a new tier of “nursing associates” with as little as two years’ experience will be entitled to measure out doses of medicine and carry out invasive procedures without direct supervision.
The first cohort of 1,000 is due to begin training in December, part of a series of Government measures to plug a widespread shortage of staff. The Daily Telegraph
Monday, 31 October 2016
A recent report has rated a Northampton surgery as ‘outstanding’
A recent report has rated a Northampton surgery as ‘outstanding’ A report published by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) has found the calibre of care provided at a Northampton surgery to be “outstanding” following an inspection carried out in January 2016. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Co-production: an inconvenient truth?
Co-production: an inconvenient truth? As chief executive officer of West London Collaborative (WLC), a community-led and owned community interest company, I was lucky enough to have a place in the first cohort of The King’s Fund programme Leading collaboratively with patients and communities, together with the chief pharmacist at West London Mental Health NHS trust, Michele Sie.
This gave us the opportunity to reflect on our working relationships and our personal styles of handling conflict and disagreement. We learnt about ‘appreciative enquiry’ – a model seeking to encourage self-determined change – and some useful theories around organisational politics. This has been really helpful, as WLC works in partnership with the NHS to co-produce with patients around complex and difficult issues. As such I regularly have to challenge very senior people and we often get stuck at some point during the process. This usually revolves around denial of one consistent and very inconvenient truth: patient involvement is not co-production. The King's Fund
This gave us the opportunity to reflect on our working relationships and our personal styles of handling conflict and disagreement. We learnt about ‘appreciative enquiry’ – a model seeking to encourage self-determined change – and some useful theories around organisational politics. This has been really helpful, as WLC works in partnership with the NHS to co-produce with patients around complex and difficult issues. As such I regularly have to challenge very senior people and we often get stuck at some point during the process. This usually revolves around denial of one consistent and very inconvenient truth: patient involvement is not co-production. The King's Fund
Recovering the cost of NHS treatment for overseas patients
Recovering the cost of NHS treatment for overseas patients This report has found that the Department of Health and the NHS, working with other parts of government, have made progress to recover more of the cost of treating overseas visitors who are not entitled to free hospital treatment but, if current trends continue and the charging rules remain the same, will not achieve the government’s ambition of recovering up to £500 million a year by 2017-18. National Audit Office
NHS funds need urgent boost, say MPs
NHS funds need urgent boost, say MPs MPs on Parliament's Health Committee question the government's claim the NHS in England will receive £10bn extra by the end of the decade. BBC News
See also:
See also:
- The King’s Fund comments on Health Committee Chair’s letter to the Chancellor The King's Fund
- Theresa May and Jeremy Hunt misled the public on NHS money, says Tory MP Sarah Wollaston The Daily Mail
- Almost half of NHS authorities to cut hospital beds and third to close A&E The Daily Telegraph
- Health select committee chair asks chancellor to consider extra funding for NHS GP Online
- Theresa May’s claim on health funding not true, say MPs The Guardian
- GP politician makes direct plea to Chancellor on NHS funding OnMedica
Number of young seeking help for anxiety rises
Number of young seeking help for anxiety rises The number of young people in the UK seeking help for anxiety has increased by 35% in just a year, the NSPCC says. BBC News
GMC warns of 'state of unease' amongst doctors
GMC warns of 'state of unease' amongst doctors Its annual report highlights 'dangerous levels of alienation' felt by trainees. OnMedica
Health visitors aren't valued but we do more than just weigh babies
Health visitors aren't valued but we do more than just weigh babies Amid drastic cuts to health visiting services, I’m struggling to help the vulnerable families I see every day
Health visitors don’t always get good press at the school gates or toddler groups. Among my fellow nursing friends, the standing joke is that I spend my day simply weighing babies. I guess as a result it’s not hard to see why in some areas the value placed on health visiting has fallen so far that the service will be cut completely.
At the moment most councils are reviewing the funding for health visiting amid drastic cuts to public health budgets. Cumbria and Staffordshire are planning on cutting health visiting posts and a number of other NHS trusts have job freezes and have discussed redundancies. NHS Digitalreported this year that the number of health visitors dropped in UK by 433 posts.
Within an hour of taking a seat I’m asking personal questions. I won’t pretend that it doesn’t sometimes feel intrusive Continue reading... The Guardian
Health visitors don’t always get good press at the school gates or toddler groups. Among my fellow nursing friends, the standing joke is that I spend my day simply weighing babies. I guess as a result it’s not hard to see why in some areas the value placed on health visiting has fallen so far that the service will be cut completely.
At the moment most councils are reviewing the funding for health visiting amid drastic cuts to public health budgets. Cumbria and Staffordshire are planning on cutting health visiting posts and a number of other NHS trusts have job freezes and have discussed redundancies. NHS Digitalreported this year that the number of health visitors dropped in UK by 433 posts.
Within an hour of taking a seat I’m asking personal questions. I won’t pretend that it doesn’t sometimes feel intrusive Continue reading... The Guardian
Sick pay and work assessments to be reviewed, Jeremy Hunt reveals
Sick pay and work assessments to be reviewed, Jeremy Hunt reveals Consultation to be carried out as cost of treating long-term health conditions that prevent people from working reaches £7bn
The system of sick pay and GP “fit notes” is to be reviewed by the government, as Jeremy Hunt, the health secretary, highlighted the growing cost of long-term sickness to the NHS and suggested getting people back to work had major benefits for health.
The review will be announced in a draft consultation document published by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) on Monday, which will also examine changes to the controversial work capability assessments (WCA) undergone by disabled people in order to obtain welfare. Continue reading... The Guardian
The system of sick pay and GP “fit notes” is to be reviewed by the government, as Jeremy Hunt, the health secretary, highlighted the growing cost of long-term sickness to the NHS and suggested getting people back to work had major benefits for health.
The review will be announced in a draft consultation document published by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) on Monday, which will also examine changes to the controversial work capability assessments (WCA) undergone by disabled people in order to obtain welfare. Continue reading... The Guardian
How 6,000 patients waited more than 12 hours at hospital for crucial treatment in one year
How 6,000 patients waited more than 12 hours at hospital for crucial treatment in one year One in 12 stroke victims admitted to English hospitals last year had at least a 12 hour wait before they had even been given their first scan and in some hospitals the figure soared to more than a third. The Daily Mail
Mental health services must improve at 127 NHS groups, figures show
Mental health services must improve at 127 NHS groups, figures show Of 209 Clinical Commissioning Groups in England, 106 'need improvement', while 21 have the 'greatest need for improvement', NHS England figures reveal. The Daily Mail
Drug addicts to be given heroin in UK's first state shooting gallery
Drug addicts to be given heroin in UK's first state shooting gallery Drug addicts are to be given medical-grade heroin under plans to open the UK’s first state-approved 'shooting gallery' in Glasgow, which are expected to be given the green light today.
The local health board, city council and police are expected to approve the idea in principle in the hope it will help address the problems caused by an estimated 500 users who currently inject themselves on Glasgow’s streets.
Under the plan for so-called “fix rooms”, addicts will be given medical-grade heroin to inject under supervision of a medical professional with clean needles. The Daily Telegraph
The local health board, city council and police are expected to approve the idea in principle in the hope it will help address the problems caused by an estimated 500 users who currently inject themselves on Glasgow’s streets.
Under the plan for so-called “fix rooms”, addicts will be given medical-grade heroin to inject under supervision of a medical professional with clean needles. The Daily Telegraph
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