Special report: Children tucking into lunchboxes with double their daily sugar intake Children are tucking into lunchboxes containing more than double their daily sugar intake, a study has found. Northamptonshire Telegraph
Monday, 20 March 2017
Whistleblowers 'to be protected' if they apply for NHS job The health secretary says he wants to stop discrimination against those raising safety concerns. BBC News - Health
Hospital food: 'Intolerable' delays improving patient meals Delays in implementing measures to improve patient nutrition are dubbed "intolerable" by an assembly committee. BBC News - Health
Private care contracts for councils 'being cancelled' Private home care companies say councils are not paying enough to cover staff wages and other costs. BBC News - Health
Record numbers of EU nurses quit NHS Staffing crisis worsens as workers fear being unwelcome after Brexit. The number of EU nationals registering as nurses in England has dropped by 92% since the Brexit referendum in June, and a record number are quitting the NHS, it can be revealed.
The shock figures have prompted warnings that Theresa May’s failure to offer assurances to foreigners living in the UK is exacerbating a staffing crisis in the health service. The Guardian
The shock figures have prompted warnings that Theresa May’s failure to offer assurances to foreigners living in the UK is exacerbating a staffing crisis in the health service. The Guardian
Government accused of 'kicking NHS when it's down' with high interest loans
NHS trusts with the deepest levels of debt are being charged high interest rates on Government loans, an investigation has found.
Financial experts last night likened the Department of Health policy to “kicking someone when they’re down” and said it would make it even harder for cash-strapped trusts to recover. The Telegraph
NHS trusts with the deepest levels of debt are being charged high interest rates on Government loans, an investigation has found.
Financial experts last night likened the Department of Health policy to “kicking someone when they’re down” and said it would make it even harder for cash-strapped trusts to recover. The Telegraph
Few foods on track to meet salt reduction targets, survey reveals
Few foods on track to meet salt reduction targets, survey reveals Research by Consensus Action on Salt and Health finds bread and rolls are the only foodstuffs likely to meet 2017 targets
Bread rolls are the only manufactured foodstuff likely to meet stringent 2017 salt-reduction targets, research has revealed.
The food industry will miss almost every salt target set to lower the amount of the “hidden killer” in processed food. The Guardian
Bread rolls are the only manufactured foodstuff likely to meet stringent 2017 salt-reduction targets, research has revealed.
The food industry will miss almost every salt target set to lower the amount of the “hidden killer” in processed food. The Guardian
NHS facing 'mission impossible next year' - BBC News
NHS facing 'mission impossible next year' - BBC News NHS services in England are facing a "mission impossible" to meet the standards required by the government, health bosses say. The warning has been made by NHS Providers, which represents hospital, mental health and ambulance trusts. BBC News - Health
Friday, 17 March 2017
Tackling culture change to transform mental health services
Tackling culture change to transform mental health services I work as a consultant in the leadership and organisational development team at The King’s Fund, and for the past eight months have been on secondment at Forward Thinking Birmingham – an innovative mental health partnership seeking to transform mental health provision for young people. My role has involved supporting the organisation with team integration and culture change.
Traditionally, mental health services are delivered by Children and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) up until the age of 16 or 18 – or when a young person leaves school or college – at which point they’re expected to transition to adult mental health services. It’s long been recognised that this is a poor boundary for service transition, often having a further detrimental effect on mental health.
Traditionally, mental health services are delivered by Children and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) up until the age of 16 or 18 – or when a young person leaves school or college – at which point they’re expected to transition to adult mental health services. It’s long been recognised that this is a poor boundary for service transition, often having a further detrimental effect on mental health.
Enhancing junior doctors' lives
Enhancing junior doctors' lives A comprehensive report highlighting the progress made by Health Education England to enhance juniors doctors’ working lives. Health Education England
Information and digital technologies: clinical requirements 2020
Information and digital technologies: clinical requirements 2020 This report looks at the use of data and technology in healthcare and concludes that uptake has been slow. It finds that there is now an increasing focus on learning how to use technologies to improve delivery of care for patients. This document aims to ensure that clinical priorities are met and reflected at a national level. Academy of Medical Royal Colleges
NHS efficiency map
NHS efficiency map The HFMA and NHS Improvement have worked in partnership to update and revise the NHS efficiency map. The map is a tool that promotes best practice in identifying, delivering and monitoring cost improvement programmes in the NHS. The map contains links to a range of tools and guidance to help NHS bodies improve their efficiency. Healthcare Financial Management Association
Estimating the economic burden of respiratory illness in the UK
Estimating the economic burden of respiratory illness in the UK This report finds that lung disease costs the economy £11 billion every year. Of this, almost £10 billion is spent on direct costs to the NHS: GP appointments, time in hospital, treatments and medication. It calls for the government to support the first ever taskforce for lung health. British Lung Foundation
Should the NHS have its own tax?
Should the NHS have its own tax? The NHS in England is under financial pressure. There is an intensifying debate about whether more money is needed and if so how much.
Among the options being suggested is a dedicated tax for the health service - transparent, easily understandable and less prone to political interference, or so the theory goes. So how realistic might it be?
The ring-fencing of tax for a specific purpose is known as hypothecation. One example, though not technically a tax, is the television licence fee, which is a levy specifically to fund the BBC.
The idea of a hypothecated tax for health has been knocked back and forth between economists for many years. BBC News
Among the options being suggested is a dedicated tax for the health service - transparent, easily understandable and less prone to political interference, or so the theory goes. So how realistic might it be?
The ring-fencing of tax for a specific purpose is known as hypothecation. One example, though not technically a tax, is the television licence fee, which is a levy specifically to fund the BBC.
The idea of a hypothecated tax for health has been knocked back and forth between economists for many years. BBC News
Suicide rescue
Suicide rescue How are local communities helping to prevent suicides?
The eight miles of coastline in Brighton and Hove can be a treacherous place and Roger De Casanove and his seafront team are usually the first to identify someone in distress.
Equipped with quad bikes and a patrol vehicle, complete with basic medical kit, they can be anywhere on the seafront in less than eight minutes - much faster than an ambulance.
Roger has done the job for just a year but admits he has been "astounded" by how much of his time is spent preventing and dealing with suicides.
"Seeing someone in a state of hopelessness and despair is very hard.
"But, for me, it is being able to provide a service that can make a real difference to people in crisis," he says.
The seafront officers, who are responsible for everyone's safety along the coastline, have been trained specifically to respond quickly in these kinds of situations. BBC News
The eight miles of coastline in Brighton and Hove can be a treacherous place and Roger De Casanove and his seafront team are usually the first to identify someone in distress.
Equipped with quad bikes and a patrol vehicle, complete with basic medical kit, they can be anywhere on the seafront in less than eight minutes - much faster than an ambulance.
Roger has done the job for just a year but admits he has been "astounded" by how much of his time is spent preventing and dealing with suicides.
"Seeing someone in a state of hopelessness and despair is very hard.
"But, for me, it is being able to provide a service that can make a real difference to people in crisis," he says.
The seafront officers, who are responsible for everyone's safety along the coastline, have been trained specifically to respond quickly in these kinds of situations. BBC News
All Southern Health non-executive directors resign
All Southern Health non-executive directors resign All the non-executive directors of an NHS trust criticised for failing to properly investigate hundreds of deaths have resigned.
The four board members stood down ahead of a review of services at Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust, which is due to be published next week.
The trust came under fire after Connor Sparrowhawk drowned at its Slade House facility in Oxford.
Its boss Katrina Percy resigned in October amid public pressure.
Previous interim chairman Tim Smart also stood down after he was criticised for creating a new job for Ms Percy. BBC News
The four board members stood down ahead of a review of services at Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust, which is due to be published next week.
The trust came under fire after Connor Sparrowhawk drowned at its Slade House facility in Oxford.
Its boss Katrina Percy resigned in October amid public pressure.
Previous interim chairman Tim Smart also stood down after he was criticised for creating a new job for Ms Percy. BBC News
Prescriptions to rise by 20p in England
Prescriptions to rise by 20p in England The cost of an NHS prescription in England will increase by 20p to £8.60 from the start of April, the government has announced.
Health minister Philip Dunne said prescription charges were expected to rise "broadly in line with inflation".
In other parts of the UK, prescriptions are free.
The price of dental care will also increase, with the lowest-cost band one treatment rising by 90p and band three treatment increasing by £10.60. BBC News
See also:
Health minister Philip Dunne said prescription charges were expected to rise "broadly in line with inflation".
In other parts of the UK, prescriptions are free.
The price of dental care will also increase, with the lowest-cost band one treatment rising by 90p and band three treatment increasing by £10.60. BBC News
See also:
- Statement to Parliament: NHS prescription charges from April 2017 Department of Health
Lack of skin specialists causes delays for acne patients, says dermatologist
Lack of skin specialists causes delays for acne patients, says dermatologist A leading dermatologist says a lack of trained skin specialists is having a huge impact on acne patients. BBC News
Google's Deepmind NHS deal 'inexcusable', says academic paper
Google's Deepmind NHS deal 'inexcusable', says academic paper Google’s DeepMind and the Royal Free London NHS deal to use patient data without explicit consent was "inexcusable", an academic paper has concluded in a damning report today.
In 2016, DeepMind announced its first major health project: a collaboration with the Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust – a large UK hospital organization – to assist in the management of acute kidney injury.
Initially received with great enthusiasm, the collaboration has suffered from a lack of clarity and openness, with issues of privacy and power emerging as potent challenges as the project has unfolded, noted the paper. The Register
See also:
In 2016, DeepMind announced its first major health project: a collaboration with the Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust – a large UK hospital organization – to assist in the management of acute kidney injury.
Initially received with great enthusiasm, the collaboration has suffered from a lack of clarity and openness, with issues of privacy and power emerging as potent challenges as the project has unfolded, noted the paper. The Register
See also:
- Google DeepMind and healthcare in an age of algorithms Health and Technology
Money earmarked for mental health diverted to balance NHS books
Money earmarked for mental health diverted to balance NHS books Letter from finance chief Paul Baumann says contingency of £800m will be used to offset hospital overspends
Ministers have been accused of breaking their promises on mental health after £800m earmarked to improve services was diverted to shore up hospitals’ finances. Continue reading... The Guardian
See also:
Ministers have been accused of breaking their promises on mental health after £800m earmarked to improve services was diverted to shore up hospitals’ finances. Continue reading... The Guardian
See also:
- Yet again, vital funding for general practice being used to shore up hospitals, says RCGP Royal College of General Practitioners
- £800m care fund used to bail out debt-ridden hospitals The Daily Mail
I hate restraining mental health patients but often it's the only option
I hate restraining mental health patients but often it's the only option Sarah needed medication but could not see that she was unwell. Restraint in her case was planned and not some awful mistake
People imagine mental health nurses like me as kind and gentle, as mother figures in uniform. What they don’t see is the harm we do to our patients: we lock them away, we restrain them and we take away their freedom. We do this in line with the law and we firmly believe we are doing the right thing. We are not “nice”, but when I look at my colleagues, I see strong, selfless, determined heroes.
I wish I could offer service users something better: a peaceful outdoor space, their own room, something less clinical than easy wipe armchairs. Most of them do not even agree that they are unwell and this deeply felt sense of injustice permeates the ward. Continue reading... The Guardian
See also:
People imagine mental health nurses like me as kind and gentle, as mother figures in uniform. What they don’t see is the harm we do to our patients: we lock them away, we restrain them and we take away their freedom. We do this in line with the law and we firmly believe we are doing the right thing. We are not “nice”, but when I look at my colleagues, I see strong, selfless, determined heroes.
I wish I could offer service users something better: a peaceful outdoor space, their own room, something less clinical than easy wipe armchairs. Most of them do not even agree that they are unwell and this deeply felt sense of injustice permeates the ward. Continue reading... The Guardian
See also:
Constant restructuring of NHS is demoralising staff, survey finds
Constant restructuring of NHS is demoralising staff, survey finds Nonstop changes – including new STPs from April – partly responsible for difficulty in retaining hospital and clinic workers
The number of NHS reorganisations in recent years is a key reason for the health service’s struggle to retain staff, a poll has found.
The NHS has been struggling to meet rising demand with a chronic shortage of staff and the results of a survey, published on Friday, suggest that a feeling of constant upheaval is at least partially to blame. Continue reading... The Guardian
The number of NHS reorganisations in recent years is a key reason for the health service’s struggle to retain staff, a poll has found.
The NHS has been struggling to meet rising demand with a chronic shortage of staff and the results of a survey, published on Friday, suggest that a feeling of constant upheaval is at least partially to blame. Continue reading... The Guardian
Wellcome Trust announces winners of its 2017 Image Awards
Wellcome Trust announces winners of its 2017 Image Awards The London-based Wellcome Trust has announced the winners of its Image Awards. The winning image shows a skeleton and depicts the experience of Crohn's disease. The Daily Mail
See also:
See also:
- Wellcome Image Awards 2017 Wellcome Trust
Number of patients forced to endure mixed sex wards rises 50 per cent
Number of patients forced to endure mixed sex wards rises 50 per cent The number of patients forced to endure mixed-sex wards has risen by 50 per cent in a year, despite Government manifesto pledges to end the practice, official statistics show.
Hospitals breached rules which are supposed to put men and women on separate wards on 1,750 occasions in January and February - compared to 1,164 breaches in the same period last year.
The official figures follow manifesto pledges in 2010 and 2015 which pledged to eliminate the practice.
Labour accused ministers of presiding over a “catastrophic collapse” of patient standards.
The statistics suggest record levels of hospital crowding in recent months have forced hospitals to place men and women in beds near each other. The Daily Telegraph
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Hospitals breached rules which are supposed to put men and women on separate wards on 1,750 occasions in January and February - compared to 1,164 breaches in the same period last year.
The official figures follow manifesto pledges in 2010 and 2015 which pledged to eliminate the practice.
Labour accused ministers of presiding over a “catastrophic collapse” of patient standards.
The statistics suggest record levels of hospital crowding in recent months have forced hospitals to place men and women in beds near each other. The Daily Telegraph
See also:
- Manifesto vows broken again and again as numbers surge The Daily Mail
Thursday, 16 March 2017
Government's suicide prevention strategy needs greater focus on implementation
Government's suicide prevention strategy needs greater focus on implementation The Government has published a progress report on its suicide prevention strategy but it must take tangible action to ensure effective implementation. So says the Health Select Committee in its final report on suicide prevention.
See also:
See also:
News story: NHS-funded nursing care rate for 2017 to 2018
News story: NHS-funded nursing care rate for 2017 to 2018 The reduction follows a review of agency costs by Mazars LLP in 2017
Registered nursing care for eligible nursing home residents is funded by the NHS, with the standard weekly rate per patient currently set at £156.25. This was a 40% increase on the 2015 to 2016 rate following an earlier review of the overall rate by Mazars in 2016.
In announcing the 40% increase last year, the government committed to further review the contribution of agency staff costs to the rate. In line with Mazars’ latest evidence on agency costs, the government will now reduce the agency cost component of the rate by £3.29 to allow for lower agency costs. This reduction is partially offset by an uplift in the remainder of the rate by 1.7% to reflect overall nursing wage pressures. Department of Health
Registered nursing care for eligible nursing home residents is funded by the NHS, with the standard weekly rate per patient currently set at £156.25. This was a 40% increase on the 2015 to 2016 rate following an earlier review of the overall rate by Mazars in 2016.
In announcing the 40% increase last year, the government committed to further review the contribution of agency staff costs to the rate. In line with Mazars’ latest evidence on agency costs, the government will now reduce the agency cost component of the rate by £3.29 to allow for lower agency costs. This reduction is partially offset by an uplift in the remainder of the rate by 1.7% to reflect overall nursing wage pressures. Department of Health
Sickle cell and thalassaemia: checks and audits to improve quality and reduce risks
Sickle cell and thalassaemia: checks and audits to improve quality and reduce risks Each NHS screening programme has a defined pathway(s). The pathways show how the individual undergoing screening moves form one stage of the pathway to the next. Checks are needed at each stage to ensure the individual moves seamlessly and safely through the pathway unless they chose not to. If these checks are not in place there is risk that an individual does not complete the pathway or the pathway is delayed unnecessarily. Public Health England
Schools must do more on mental health, say School Reporters
Schools must do more on mental health, say School Reporters Grace, 16, has been bullied for the past nine years, has moved schools twice, struggled with suicidal thoughts and taken medication for anxiety and depression.
At one point, she says, "there was no-one to turn to in the school and I felt so low I didn't want to go on".
According to research for BBC School Report, half of teenagers with mental wellbeing issues try to cope alone.
And a third said they were not confident enough to speak to a teacher.
At her lowest point, Grace made a "suicide video", which she posted on YouTube.
"I'd get beaten up every week," she says.
"Teachers wouldn't do anything. I even heard the teachers talking about me behind my back." BBC News
At one point, she says, "there was no-one to turn to in the school and I felt so low I didn't want to go on".
According to research for BBC School Report, half of teenagers with mental wellbeing issues try to cope alone.
And a third said they were not confident enough to speak to a teacher.
At her lowest point, Grace made a "suicide video", which she posted on YouTube.
"I'd get beaten up every week," she says.
"Teachers wouldn't do anything. I even heard the teachers talking about me behind my back." BBC News
Four-hour accident and emergency waits rise 300% at some hospitals
Four-hour accident and emergency waits rise 300% at some hospitals The number of patients waiting four or more hours at A&E has risen more than 300% at some hospitals, it has emerged.
In total, 2.2 million patients were not seen within the target time in 2015-16 - more than double the one million figure in 2013-2014.
The Royal College for Emergency Medicine (RCEM) says there is a "large and systemic problem" caused by a lack of hospital beds.
NHS England said hospitals were under pressure but continuing to cope. BBC News
See also:
In total, 2.2 million patients were not seen within the target time in 2015-16 - more than double the one million figure in 2013-2014.
The Royal College for Emergency Medicine (RCEM) says there is a "large and systemic problem" caused by a lack of hospital beds.
NHS England said hospitals were under pressure but continuing to cope. BBC News
See also:
- Doctors warn of increasing safety risks amid hospital overcrowding The Daily Telegraph
GP practices could merge into 1,500 'super hubs' under NHS reforms
GP practices could merge into 1,500 'super hubs' under NHS reforms Thousands of GP practices across England could be closed as general practice provision shifts into 1,500 super hubs delivering care for populations of around 40,000 patients, a health minister has suggested. GP Online
Not enough GPs for A&E triage plans, says Wollaston
Not enough GPs for A&E triage plans, says Wollaston Government plans to put GPs in every A&E by this winter are not possible with the current primary care workforce, the chair of the House of Commons health select committee has said. GP Online
Greater overdose risk when opioids combined with benzodiazepines
Greater overdose risk when opioids combined with benzodiazepines Taking pain-relieving opioid drugs together with benzodiazepines for anxiety or sleep problems is associated with greater risk of opioid overdose, a study published in The BMJ had found. OnMedica
NHS patients could face wait to access life-saving drugs
NHS patients could face wait to access life-saving drugs New rules mean health bosses in England can delay rollout of expensive treatments after approval by Nice
Patients could face delays accessing drugs on the NHS after health bosses agreed that the most expensive treatments can be stalled.
Even when a drug has been approved by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (Nice) – which already has strict rules on affordability – bosses at NHS England can now slow down its delivery to patients. Continue reading... The Guardian
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Patients could face delays accessing drugs on the NHS after health bosses agreed that the most expensive treatments can be stalled.
Even when a drug has been approved by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (Nice) – which already has strict rules on affordability – bosses at NHS England can now slow down its delivery to patients. Continue reading... The Guardian
See also:
- NICE gets go-ahead to fast-track more drug approvals National Institute for Health and Care Excellence
- NHS to introduce £20m cap on new drugs BBC News
- Patients could face three-year wait for new drugs on NHS The Daily Mail
- Drugs costing 8p a day could be hit by 'devastating' NHS rationing plan The Daily Telegraph
Depression reported in almost half of NHS psychotherapists
Depression reported in almost half of NHS psychotherapists Almost half of all NHS psychotherapists feel depressed, a shocking new survey reveals.
Known to be suffering from one of its worst winters in decades, the ongoing crisis is taking its toll on staff.
Cuts to services, a lack of respect and poor career progression were among the most popular causes. The Daily Mail
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Known to be suffering from one of its worst winters in decades, the ongoing crisis is taking its toll on staff.
Cuts to services, a lack of respect and poor career progression were among the most popular causes. The Daily Mail
See also:
- New Savoy survey shows increasing mental health problems in NHS psychotherapists British Psychological Society
Doctors missed 11 chances to treat chess champion before he died of chronic asthma, inquest hears
Doctors missed 11 chances to treat chess champion before he died of chronic asthma, inquest hears Doctors missed 11 opportunities to treat a nine-year-old chesschampion in the months before he died of chronic asthma, an inquest heard.
Michael Uriely, who was one of the UK's brightest prospects in the game, was taken to the Royal Free Hospital in London twice in the days before his death after he suffered violent coughing and vomiting fits which left him struggling to breathe.
The national chess champion, from St John's Wood, north-west London, died on August 25 2015, five days after being discharged from the hospital for the second time.
In the months before his death the Westminster Under School pupil was also seen by NHS GPs, as well as having private doctor appointments. The Daily Telegraph
Michael Uriely, who was one of the UK's brightest prospects in the game, was taken to the Royal Free Hospital in London twice in the days before his death after he suffered violent coughing and vomiting fits which left him struggling to breathe.
The national chess champion, from St John's Wood, north-west London, died on August 25 2015, five days after being discharged from the hospital for the second time.
In the months before his death the Westminster Under School pupil was also seen by NHS GPs, as well as having private doctor appointments. The Daily Telegraph
Wednesday, 15 March 2017
Guidance: Social work: essential to integration
Guidance: Social work: essential to integration The document should be used to support and inform local and regional health and social care integration initiatives. It explains:
It was developed in collaboration with the Association of Directors of Adult Social Services, the Principal Social Workers’ Network and the Department of Health.
- the critical contribution that social workers make to integrated services
- how social work is essential to the whole system
- the necessity of support to ensure integration succeeds in providing the services people need
It was developed in collaboration with the Association of Directors of Adult Social Services, the Principal Social Workers’ Network and the Department of Health.
Public health working with the voluntary, community and social enterprise sector: new opportunities and sustainable change
Public health working with the voluntary, community and social enterprise sector: new opportunities and sustainable change The case studies in this report show how public health and the voluntary, community and social enterprise sector (VCSE) are working together to make a real difference to people's health and wellbeing. The case studies demonstrate how harnessing the skills, enthusiasm and expertise of VCSE organisations and volunteers can help to improve population health and reduce health inequalities. Local Government Association
Charities' plea over Personal Independence Payments
Charities' plea over Personal Independence Payments The chief executives of more than 30 charities have written to ministers urging them not to restrict access to a disability benefit.
The rules around Personal Independence Payments, which help with the extra costs of a long-term health condition or disability, will change on Thursday.
The charities claim people will be left without vital financial support.
Ministers said they were forced to act after two court judgements made the benefit more generous.
The Disability Benefits Consortium (DBC) said about 160,000 recipients of Personal Independence Payments would be affected if the changes go ahead. BBC News
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The rules around Personal Independence Payments, which help with the extra costs of a long-term health condition or disability, will change on Thursday.
The charities claim people will be left without vital financial support.
Ministers said they were forced to act after two court judgements made the benefit more generous.
The Disability Benefits Consortium (DBC) said about 160,000 recipients of Personal Independence Payments would be affected if the changes go ahead. BBC News
See also:
Superbug drug launched to fight growing threat of antibiotic resistance
Superbug drug launched to fight growing threat of antibiotic resistance A new antibiotic designed to fight drug-resistant ‘superbugs’ has become available to patients in the UK.
Doctors are “running out of options” for treating common infections caused by bacteria which mutate to resist regular antibiotics, said microbiologist Matthew Dryden.
“Resistance is increasing, almost exponentially. It's a problem facing every emergency department in this country,” he told The Independent.
But innovative new drugs like Zavicefta, which combines a traditional antibiotic in the same class as penicillin with a brand new drug that attacks resistance mechanisms, are being introduced to tackle the growing threat of antibiotic resistance.
Doctors are “running out of options” for treating common infections caused by bacteria which mutate to resist regular antibiotics, said microbiologist Matthew Dryden.
“Resistance is increasing, almost exponentially. It's a problem facing every emergency department in this country,” he told The Independent.
But innovative new drugs like Zavicefta, which combines a traditional antibiotic in the same class as penicillin with a brand new drug that attacks resistance mechanisms, are being introduced to tackle the growing threat of antibiotic resistance.
If we hide our mental health issues, we make it easier for society to ignore us
If we hide our mental health issues, we make it easier for society to ignore us People with mental health issues are being expected to “prove it” as never before. Whether, as individuals, being assessed for disability benefits or, collectively, campaigning for services and adequate welfare provision, the pressure to demonstrate genuine need, to prove that one is “really disabled”, to quote the Tory MP George Freeman, is greater than ever. Continue reading... The Guardian
Public sector workers first to face cut in real pay, says thinktank
Public sector workers first to face cut in real pay, says thinktank Public sector workers have become the first group to suffer a cut in real wages since the recovery of 2014 as forecasters predicted that the rest of the working population would follow suit later this year.
The Resolution Foundation said the situation for 5.4 million public sector workersis expected to worsen over the rest of the decade as pay restraint and high inflation eat into their take-home pay and living standards.
The independent thinktank forecast that median real pay for the average public sector worker would fall below 2004-05 levels by the end of the current parliament in 2020.
UK social care sector in crisis due to staff hortages
On current trends, the average pay of public sector workers will be £1,700 lower in 2020 than its peak in 2010, it said. Continue reading... The Guardian
The Resolution Foundation said the situation for 5.4 million public sector workersis expected to worsen over the rest of the decade as pay restraint and high inflation eat into their take-home pay and living standards.
The independent thinktank forecast that median real pay for the average public sector worker would fall below 2004-05 levels by the end of the current parliament in 2020.
UK social care sector in crisis due to staff hortages
On current trends, the average pay of public sector workers will be £1,700 lower in 2020 than its peak in 2010, it said. Continue reading... The Guardian
'Lots of nurses have already left': EU workers head for exit
'Lots of nurses have already left': EU workers head for exit How is the prospect of Brexit affecting different sectors? We asked you whether many EU workers were leaving or had plans to leave. Here are your stories
Since news of the UK’s looming departure from the European Union hit, lots of industries have spoken out about fears of losing European workers. On Monday academics from Oxford University said staff would go if they were not reassured about their future. It comes amid news that EU citizens working in the NHS are thinking of leaving in the next five years.
We asked you about how the loss of European workers may affect, or is already affecting, your sector. We heard from a variety of people, including professors and doctors, who expressed concern that workers are already leaving. Here are a selection of your stories.
European people working for the NHS feel utterly disappointed and disillusioned.
Since then I’ve been taking fewer UK clients knowing I will leave. I just feel sadly unwelcome now.Continue reading... The Guardian
Since news of the UK’s looming departure from the European Union hit, lots of industries have spoken out about fears of losing European workers. On Monday academics from Oxford University said staff would go if they were not reassured about their future. It comes amid news that EU citizens working in the NHS are thinking of leaving in the next five years.
We asked you about how the loss of European workers may affect, or is already affecting, your sector. We heard from a variety of people, including professors and doctors, who expressed concern that workers are already leaving. Here are a selection of your stories.
European people working for the NHS feel utterly disappointed and disillusioned.
Since then I’ve been taking fewer UK clients knowing I will leave. I just feel sadly unwelcome now.Continue reading... The Guardian
Mental health hospital declared unsafe in damning report
Mental health hospital declared unsafe in damning report Britain's leading private rehab hospital The Priory has been declared unsafe in a damning inspection report.
Patients on suicide watch are not properly monitored and there are not enough staff to provide safe care, the Care Quality Commission said.
Children and teenagers with eating disorders are at particular risk, with 95 incidents recorded among this group in the last six months alone, at least some of them during understaffed shifts, inspectors reported.
The private facility in south west London was ordered to make urgent improvements, with inspectors rating the safety of care as 'inadequate' - the lowest possible ranking.
Overall, the hospital was given a grade of 'requires improvement'. The Daily Mail
Patients on suicide watch are not properly monitored and there are not enough staff to provide safe care, the Care Quality Commission said.
Children and teenagers with eating disorders are at particular risk, with 95 incidents recorded among this group in the last six months alone, at least some of them during understaffed shifts, inspectors reported.
The private facility in south west London was ordered to make urgent improvements, with inspectors rating the safety of care as 'inadequate' - the lowest possible ranking.
Overall, the hospital was given a grade of 'requires improvement'. The Daily Mail
Australia to ban children who have not been vaccinated from childcare centres
Australia to ban children who have not been vaccinated from childcare centres Australia plans to ban children who have not been vaccinated from attending preschools and childcare centres following concerns about the influence of the so-called “anti-vax movement”.
In a move that received strong backing from medical experts, Malcolm Turnbull, Australia’s prime minister, said he will push for all states and territories to adopt “no jab, no play” laws.
The laws, which have been adopted in recent years in the states of New South Wales, Victoria and Queensland, ban the enrollment of unvaccinated children in childcare facilities unless they have a medical exemption. The Daily Telegraph
In a move that received strong backing from medical experts, Malcolm Turnbull, Australia’s prime minister, said he will push for all states and territories to adopt “no jab, no play” laws.
The laws, which have been adopted in recent years in the states of New South Wales, Victoria and Queensland, ban the enrollment of unvaccinated children in childcare facilities unless they have a medical exemption. The Daily Telegraph
Tuesday, 14 March 2017
NHS looking for more blood donors in Kettering
NHS looking for more blood donors in Kettering As Mother’s Day approaches, NHS Blood and Transplant is asking Kettering residents to think about mothers and children whose lives have been saved by blood donations as they appeal for more donors. Northamptonshire Telegraph
NHS financial pressures are having a widespread but often unseen impact on patient care
NHS financial pressures are having a widespread but often unseen impact on patient care NHS financial pressures are increasingly affecting patient care, often in ways that go unseen, according to a new report by The King’s Fund.
Understanding NHS financial pressures finds that access to and quality of care are both being affected in different ways across the NHS. While public attention tends to focus on high-profile examples of rationing such as restricting access to some types of treatment, the report authors warn that financial and other pressures are also affecting patient care in ways that often go 'under the radar'.
The authors looked in detail at four services – testing and treatment for sexually transmitted infections, district nursing, elective hip replacement and neonatal care – to explore the impact of financial pressures on patient care.
See also:
Understanding NHS financial pressures finds that access to and quality of care are both being affected in different ways across the NHS. While public attention tends to focus on high-profile examples of rationing such as restricting access to some types of treatment, the report authors warn that financial and other pressures are also affecting patient care in ways that often go 'under the radar'.
The authors looked in detail at four services – testing and treatment for sexually transmitted infections, district nursing, elective hip replacement and neonatal care – to explore the impact of financial pressures on patient care.
See also:
- The impact of NHS financial pressures – a mixed picture The King's Fund
- NHS nursing cuts leave patients dying on their own The Daily Mail
- NHS rationing 'leaving dying patients to suffer in pain' report warns The Daily Telegraph
- Dying patients waiting hours for pain relief in NHS funding shortfall The Guardian
- Rationing of NHS services ‘leaving patients in pain and distress’, says new report The Independent
STPs: a call for ‘extraordinary’ leadership
STPs: a call for ‘extraordinary’ leadership As we highlighted in our recent report, the 44 sustainability and transformation plans (STPs) submitted by areas across England are ambitious visions that now need to evolve into credible plans that address the financial and operational challenges facing the NHS and its partners.
While the detail of each proposal varies - because each plan is designed to meet local needs - they all have something in common. Together, they represent a major transformational change in the delivery of health and social care in England.
The success of STPs will depend on high levels of collaboration across and between organisations that historically have little experience of working together to deliver change at the scale and pace that now seems essential. And with STPs bringing together as many as 32 organisations in an area, this is a real challenge. The King's Fund
While the detail of each proposal varies - because each plan is designed to meet local needs - they all have something in common. Together, they represent a major transformational change in the delivery of health and social care in England.
The success of STPs will depend on high levels of collaboration across and between organisations that historically have little experience of working together to deliver change at the scale and pace that now seems essential. And with STPs bringing together as many as 32 organisations in an area, this is a real challenge. The King's Fund
People with dementia and learning difficulties detained in care without checks due to “failing” law
People with dementia and learning difficulties detained in care without checks due to “failing” law Thousands of vulnerable people with dementia and learning disabilities are being detained in hospitals and care homes without the appropriate checks, due to a law unfit for purpose according to a report from the Law Commission.
Often those who lack the mental capacity to consent – like certain people with dementia or learning disabilities – need to be detained in a place like a hospital or care home when it is in their best interests. For example, a dementia patient may be kept in their care home to prevent them from wandering off, which could put them in danger. This is known as a deprivation of liberty and a proper authorisation process should be in place to ensure that this is done lawfully.
But since a landmark legal case in 2014, which widened the definition of who was subject to the “Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards”, local authorities have been under increased administrative pressures. As a result last year 100,000 people who required the authorisation did not receive it.
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Often those who lack the mental capacity to consent – like certain people with dementia or learning disabilities – need to be detained in a place like a hospital or care home when it is in their best interests. For example, a dementia patient may be kept in their care home to prevent them from wandering off, which could put them in danger. This is known as a deprivation of liberty and a proper authorisation process should be in place to ensure that this is done lawfully.
But since a landmark legal case in 2014, which widened the definition of who was subject to the “Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards”, local authorities have been under increased administrative pressures. As a result last year 100,000 people who required the authorisation did not receive it.
See also:
- Mental Capacity and Deprivation of Liberty Law Commission
- People with dementia 'failed' by deprivation of liberty law BBC News
- Thousands of dementia patients wrongly locked up in homes The Daily Mail
- 50,000 families caring for relatives at home risk breaking the law by locking them in The Daily Telegraph
Understanding devolution: a critical appraisal of the Greater Manchester devolution deal
Understanding devolution: a critical appraisal of the Greater Manchester devolution deal This paper presents an assessment of the devolution process in Greater Manchester so far and highlights key issues for consideration for future devolved local areas. The analysis identifies the integration of health and social care as the service area which will undergo the greatest change in terms of public service reform in devolved regions. New Economics Foundation
Thousands of Welsh NHS staff's data stolen in hack
Thousands of Welsh NHS staff's data stolen in hack Details of thousands of medical staff in Wales have been stolen from a private contractor's computer server.
Names, dates of birth, radiation doses and National Insurance numbers of staff who work with X-rays were copied as hackers accessed Landauer's system.
The Welsh NHS described the data breach as "deeply disappointing" and it has started an investigation.
The Welsh Government and information commissioner have been informed and Landauer has been asked to comment.
Affected staff all use radiation dose meter badges to measure their exposure while working with X-rays. BBC News
Names, dates of birth, radiation doses and National Insurance numbers of staff who work with X-rays were copied as hackers accessed Landauer's system.
The Welsh NHS described the data breach as "deeply disappointing" and it has started an investigation.
The Welsh Government and information commissioner have been informed and Landauer has been asked to comment.
Affected staff all use radiation dose meter badges to measure their exposure while working with X-rays. BBC News
Personal injury discount rate cut may be 'legally flawed'
Personal injury discount rate cut may be 'legally flawed' Medical indemnity experts have written to the Lord Chancellor, Liz Truss, expressing concern that her decision to cut the discount rate applied to personal injury claims may be "legally flawed".
Last month, the Lord Chancellor cut the discount rate from 2.5% to -0.75%. Doctors' indemnity organisations immediately expressed concern that the move will increase the size of compensation payments leading to significant new costs for the NHS and a dramatic increase in the cost of indemnifying its members. OnMedica
Last month, the Lord Chancellor cut the discount rate from 2.5% to -0.75%. Doctors' indemnity organisations immediately expressed concern that the move will increase the size of compensation payments leading to significant new costs for the NHS and a dramatic increase in the cost of indemnifying its members. OnMedica
Why is there so little social diversity in medicine?
Why is there so little social diversity in medicine? Only 7% of students across the UK are privately educated, but 26% of medical students went to fee-paying schools
Medicine in the UK has traditionally been deemed an elite profession that excludes those from low socioeconomic groups. A mere 7% of students are privately educated, but 26% of medical students went to fee-paying schools.
However, when you look closely at the figures, many students leave school at 16, and 18% of 16- to 18-year-olds are in fact privately educated; the proportion is even higher for those studying science subjects. Suddenly, the figure of 26% of privately educated medical students seems to reflect numbers studying sciences at school. It is not surprising that the majority of doctors come from more affluent backgrounds. Continue reading... The Guardian
Medicine in the UK has traditionally been deemed an elite profession that excludes those from low socioeconomic groups. A mere 7% of students are privately educated, but 26% of medical students went to fee-paying schools.
However, when you look closely at the figures, many students leave school at 16, and 18% of 16- to 18-year-olds are in fact privately educated; the proportion is even higher for those studying science subjects. Suddenly, the figure of 26% of privately educated medical students seems to reflect numbers studying sciences at school. It is not surprising that the majority of doctors come from more affluent backgrounds. Continue reading... The Guardian
NHS data loss scandal has prompted five inquiries, ministers say
NHS data loss scandal has prompted five inquiries, ministers say Government accused of ‘huge cover-up’ over its response to outcry over 515,000 lost test results and doctors’ letters
The NHS’s loss of more than half a million pieces of confidential medical correspondence is so serious that it has triggered five separate investigations, ministers have admitted.
The disclosure has prompted claims that the scale of the loss of 515,000 test results and doctors’ letters was hidden in “a huge cover-up”. It raises fresh questions for the health secretary, Jeremy Hunt, who has publicly championed openness in the NHS. Continue reading... The Guardian
The NHS’s loss of more than half a million pieces of confidential medical correspondence is so serious that it has triggered five separate investigations, ministers have admitted.
The disclosure has prompted claims that the scale of the loss of 515,000 test results and doctors’ letters was hidden in “a huge cover-up”. It raises fresh questions for the health secretary, Jeremy Hunt, who has publicly championed openness in the NHS. Continue reading... The Guardian
Doctors could be forced to work for NHS for at least five years under plans for 'home grown' expansion
Doctors could be forced to work for NHS for at least five years under plans for 'home grown' expansion Doctors could be forced to work in the UK for at least five years after completing their training, under plans by Jeremy Hunt to expand the supply of home-grown doctors.
The Health Secretary will today unveil plans for the largest ever expansion in the NHS medical workforce, training an extra 1,500 doctors a year.
The scheme means the number of junior doctors will expand by one quarter, in an effort to ensure Britain is less reliant on overseas doctors, in the years after Brexit.
Today Mr Hunt said the plans were part of efforts to create “the safest healthcare system in the world” while ensuring value for money.
It costs the taxpayer £230,000 to train a doctor, over and above fees paid by individuals. The Daily Telegraph
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The Health Secretary will today unveil plans for the largest ever expansion in the NHS medical workforce, training an extra 1,500 doctors a year.
The scheme means the number of junior doctors will expand by one quarter, in an effort to ensure Britain is less reliant on overseas doctors, in the years after Brexit.
Today Mr Hunt said the plans were part of efforts to create “the safest healthcare system in the world” while ensuring value for money.
It costs the taxpayer £230,000 to train a doctor, over and above fees paid by individuals. The Daily Telegraph
See also:
- News story: More undergraduate medical education places Department of Health
- Doctors could be forced to pay training if they leave NHS The Daily Mail
Monday, 13 March 2017
Cancelled operations in ‘black alert’ cost KGH almost £170,000
Cancelled operations in ‘black alert’ cost KGH almost £170,000 A Freedom of Information request by the Northants Telegraph revealed that 116 operations were cancelled while the hospital was on ‘black alert’ between November 2016 and January 2017.
The cost of cancelling these operations was £169,731, with all of them rearranged to a new date.
Kettering General Hospital’s chief operating officer, Rebecca Brown, said: “The trust would like to apologise to all patients who have had their operations rearranged to a new date because of emergency pressures on the trust this winter.
“We fully appreciate how disruptive and distressing this can be.
“This has been our busiest winter on record. Northamptonshire Telegraph
The cost of cancelling these operations was £169,731, with all of them rearranged to a new date.
Kettering General Hospital’s chief operating officer, Rebecca Brown, said: “The trust would like to apologise to all patients who have had their operations rearranged to a new date because of emergency pressures on the trust this winter.
“We fully appreciate how disruptive and distressing this can be.
“This has been our busiest winter on record. Northamptonshire Telegraph
Developing women’s leadership on the road to gender parity
Developing women’s leadership on the road to gender parity During a routine programme review at The King’s Fund in 2016, questions were raised as to whether we still needed our flagship Athena programme for senior women leaders. Hasn’t the glass ceiling already been broken by a number of women?
In traditionally male-dominated industries women are making progress: Karren Brady is vice-chair of West Ham Football Club, Angela Knight is a former Chief Executive of the British Bankers’ Association and Cressida Dick has just been appointed as Scotland Yard’s Commissioner – the first time a woman has held the post in the Yard’s 188-year history. But while individual women are making progress, a closer look at the statistics reveals there is still a long way to go to achieve true gender balance. The King's Fund
In traditionally male-dominated industries women are making progress: Karren Brady is vice-chair of West Ham Football Club, Angela Knight is a former Chief Executive of the British Bankers’ Association and Cressida Dick has just been appointed as Scotland Yard’s Commissioner – the first time a woman has held the post in the Yard’s 188-year history. But while individual women are making progress, a closer look at the statistics reveals there is still a long way to go to achieve true gender balance. The King's Fund
Let NHS off £1,000 overseas doctors charge, urge unions
Let NHS off £1,000 overseas doctors charge, urge unions Two leading health unions are calling on the home secretary to make the NHS exempt from a new charge which will be payable on overseas doctors and nurses.
The British Medical Association and the Royal College of Nursing say the Immigration Skills Charge, coming into effect in April, threatens NHS budgets.
It will mean the NHS must pay £1,000 per year for any worker coming to the UK from outside the European Union.
The government has said it is committed to building home-grown skills.
Nurses remain on an official list of occupations of which the UK has a shortage. BBC News
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The British Medical Association and the Royal College of Nursing say the Immigration Skills Charge, coming into effect in April, threatens NHS budgets.
It will mean the NHS must pay £1,000 per year for any worker coming to the UK from outside the European Union.
The government has said it is committed to building home-grown skills.
Nurses remain on an official list of occupations of which the UK has a shortage. BBC News
See also:
- Immigration Skills Charge - Impact on the NHS and health and social care workforce (joint letter) British Medical Association and the Royal College of Nursing
- Immigration skills charge British Medical Association
- NHS could lose millions to immigration charge British Medical Association
- Non-EU worker fee risks adding to staffing crisis Royal College of Nursing
- New Immigration Charge ‘Could Cost NHS Millions Of Pounds’ Huffington Post UK
Lesbians wrongly 'told they did not need cervical screening'
Lesbians wrongly 'told they did not need cervical screening' Women who have sex with women are often wrongly told they do not need a cervical screening test, say LGBT groups.
This results in half of all eligible lesbian and bisexual women never having had a smear test, they said.
The human papilloma virus (HPV), which causes most cervical cancers, can be transmitted through lesbian sex.
Cervical cancer charities say all women, no matter their orientation, should have regular cervical screening.
Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) groups say women regularly face barriers to accessing healthcare and can have poor experiences when they do.
For example, in a survey of lesbian, bisexual and other women who have sex with women, 36% said a doctor or nurse had assumed they were heterosexual. BBC News
This results in half of all eligible lesbian and bisexual women never having had a smear test, they said.
The human papilloma virus (HPV), which causes most cervical cancers, can be transmitted through lesbian sex.
Cervical cancer charities say all women, no matter their orientation, should have regular cervical screening.
Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) groups say women regularly face barriers to accessing healthcare and can have poor experiences when they do.
For example, in a survey of lesbian, bisexual and other women who have sex with women, 36% said a doctor or nurse had assumed they were heterosexual. BBC News
Prison psychiatrists warn care is ‘at breaking point’
Prison psychiatrists warn care is ‘at breaking point’ Prison psychiatrists are feeling so frightened at work that many are finding it “impossible” to provide a basic level of care to inmates, according to the latest research to document the deteriorating conditions inside Britain’s jails.
Another instance of the ongoing crisis arrived as dozens of prisoners were evacuated from HMP Guys Marsh after an inmate torched his clothes on the building’s roof, triggering a “large fire”. Although no one was hurt it emerged that during the Dorset jail’s last inspection, investigators concluded it was in “crisis”, that managers and staff had “all but lost control” and violence was so endemic inmates lived in fear.
This follows other prison riots, including one at Winson Green prison in Birmingham last year.
Declining safety levels insde the penal system are underlined by a new survey that found assaults on psychiatrists, and that up to 30 healthcare appointments a day have been cancelled in some jails because there are not enough officers to escort staff between cells and clinics. Continue reading... The Guardian
Another instance of the ongoing crisis arrived as dozens of prisoners were evacuated from HMP Guys Marsh after an inmate torched his clothes on the building’s roof, triggering a “large fire”. Although no one was hurt it emerged that during the Dorset jail’s last inspection, investigators concluded it was in “crisis”, that managers and staff had “all but lost control” and violence was so endemic inmates lived in fear.
This follows other prison riots, including one at Winson Green prison in Birmingham last year.
Declining safety levels insde the penal system are underlined by a new survey that found assaults on psychiatrists, and that up to 30 healthcare appointments a day have been cancelled in some jails because there are not enough officers to escort staff between cells and clinics. Continue reading... The Guardian
Drug addiction isn't going away so why are treatment centres being slashed?
Drug addiction isn't going away so why are treatment centres being slashed? Our most desperate clients lead chaotic lives and this hurts our performance targets - they now have to jump through hoops before getting any help
You may not know that your local authority is responsible for funding drug and alcohol treatment. And unless you, a friend or family member have been personally touched by addiction you might not think that these services should be a funding priority for cash-strapped councils.
We're left to manage a host of intractable problems that we're not qualified or able to deal with. Continue reading... The Guardian
You may not know that your local authority is responsible for funding drug and alcohol treatment. And unless you, a friend or family member have been personally touched by addiction you might not think that these services should be a funding priority for cash-strapped councils.
We're left to manage a host of intractable problems that we're not qualified or able to deal with. Continue reading... The Guardian
Technology could redefine doctor-patient relationship
Technology could redefine doctor-patient relationship Artificial intelligence is already making inroads into the NHS and could have profound effects on the medical workforce
Advances in clinical uses of artificial intelligence (AI) could have two profound effects on the global medical workforce.
AI, which mimics cognitive functions such as learning and problem-solving, is already making inroads into the NHS. In north London it is piloting use of an app aimed at users of the non-emergency 111 service, while the Royal Free London NHS foundation trust has teamed up with Google’s DeepMind AI arm to develop an app aimed at patients with signs of acute kidney injury. The hospital claims the project, which uses information from more than 1.6 million patients a year, could free up more than half a million hours annually spent on paperwork. Continue reading... The Guardian
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Advances in clinical uses of artificial intelligence (AI) could have two profound effects on the global medical workforce.
AI, which mimics cognitive functions such as learning and problem-solving, is already making inroads into the NHS. In north London it is piloting use of an app aimed at users of the non-emergency 111 service, while the Royal Free London NHS foundation trust has teamed up with Google’s DeepMind AI arm to develop an app aimed at patients with signs of acute kidney injury. The hospital claims the project, which uses information from more than 1.6 million patients a year, could free up more than half a million hours annually spent on paperwork. Continue reading... The Guardian
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Brexit threats over hospital food to the cash-strapped NHS
Brexit threats over hospital food to the cash-strapped NHS Ten food firms, including Marmite maker Unilever, claim the fall in sterling since the Brexit referendum has driven up their costs – and they are determined to pass the hit on to the Health Service. The Daily Mail
Diktat for every hospital to change NHS logo ignored objections from chief executives and PR experts
Diktat for every hospital to change NHS logo ignored objections from chief executives and PR experts Hospitals were ordered to change their logo despite warnings from health service executives that the move would “cost an absolute fortune,” a report reveals.
Every hospital has been issued with instructions to alter their publicity materials, moving the “NHS” lozenge so it is above the name of the trust, instead of beside it.
The move - revealed by the Telegraph last month - prompted fury from patients groups, with concern about the use of resources when the NHS is facing the greatest financial crisis in its history.
The measure is being introduced by an “NHS identity team” following a two year review.
Health officials said the changes would reduce “confusion and concern” among the public, claiming that current inconsistencies in use of the format could be fuelling pressure on Accident & Emergency units. The Daily Telegraph
Every hospital has been issued with instructions to alter their publicity materials, moving the “NHS” lozenge so it is above the name of the trust, instead of beside it.
The move - revealed by the Telegraph last month - prompted fury from patients groups, with concern about the use of resources when the NHS is facing the greatest financial crisis in its history.
The measure is being introduced by an “NHS identity team” following a two year review.
Health officials said the changes would reduce “confusion and concern” among the public, claiming that current inconsistencies in use of the format could be fuelling pressure on Accident & Emergency units. The Daily Telegraph
Rationing rules restricting surgery to those in most pain must be axed, NHS officials rule
Rationing rules restricting surgery to those in most pain must be axed, NHS officials rule “Arbitrary” rationing measures restricting NHS surgery to those in most pain must be lifted, health officials have ruled.
NHS England has warned clinical commissioning groups (CCGs) to stop denying hip and knee operations to patients using criteria which only allow surgery to those in the worst discomfort.
Health officials intervened after warnings from the Royal College of Surgeons of “alarming” restrictions on surgery, with patients told they could only have surgery on the NHS if pain left them unable to sleep or carry out daily tasks.
NHS England has now issued advice that such restrictions are not allowed, with local health officials told they should follow guidance from central rationing bodies. The Daily Telegraph
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NHS England has warned clinical commissioning groups (CCGs) to stop denying hip and knee operations to patients using criteria which only allow surgery to those in the worst discomfort.
Health officials intervened after warnings from the Royal College of Surgeons of “alarming” restrictions on surgery, with patients told they could only have surgery on the NHS if pain left them unable to sleep or carry out daily tasks.
NHS England has now issued advice that such restrictions are not allowed, with local health officials told they should follow guidance from central rationing bodies. The Daily Telegraph
See also:
- NHS chiefs call for an end to rationing of hip operations The Daily Mail
Friday, 10 March 2017
Guidance: Smoking cessation in secondary care: acute and maternity settings
Guidance: Smoking cessation in secondary care: acute and maternity settings The self-assessment tool breaks down the NICE guidance into 4 areas:
- systems required to implement the guidance
- communication required
- training that will help staff to successfully implement the recommendations
- treatments that should be available to support staff and service users
Local and national: how the public wants the NHS to be both
Local and national: how the public wants the NHS to be both The research conducted for this report shows that while people may have heard the term ‘devolution’, there is little public understanding of what it entails. It finds that while people believe that local control will improve healthcare and welcome public participation in NHS decisions, they are also deeply committed to the principle that healthcare entitlements and standards should not vary from place to place. It includes analysis of the research findings, and reports on the first experiments in NHS devolution, along with calls from authors for greater public accountability and involvement. Fabian Society
Emergency care and resuscitation plans
Emergency care and resuscitation plans A discussion of the ReSPECT model of planning around do not resuscitate orders. BMJ
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NHS trusts record 15,000 excess deaths
NHS trusts record 15,000 excess deaths "Significantly high" death rates have been recorded at 19 of England's 133 NHS trusts, a BBC investigation has established.
There were 15,396 more deaths than expected at the trusts in the period between 2011 and 2016.
Blackpool Teaching Hospitals Foundation Trust had the highest number of excess deaths - 1,878 over the five years.
The analysis reveals a strong link between high mortality rates in England and lower than average doctor numbers. BBC News
There were 15,396 more deaths than expected at the trusts in the period between 2011 and 2016.
Blackpool Teaching Hospitals Foundation Trust had the highest number of excess deaths - 1,878 over the five years.
The analysis reveals a strong link between high mortality rates in England and lower than average doctor numbers. BBC News
Hunt demands NHS hits target for A&E care
Hunt demands NHS hits target for A&E care Jeremy Hunt has told NHS hospitals they must get back to meeting the target for seeing patients swiftly in A&E.
In a speech on Thursday, the health secretary said it was "critical for patient safety".
The target of seeing 95% of patients in four hours has been missed in England since July 2015. There was a record low of 85.1% in January.
Mr Hunt demanded progress this year and said the target should be hit next year after new funding in the Budget. BBC News
In a speech on Thursday, the health secretary said it was "critical for patient safety".
The target of seeing 95% of patients in four hours has been missed in England since July 2015. There was a record low of 85.1% in January.
Mr Hunt demanded progress this year and said the target should be hit next year after new funding in the Budget. BBC News
Budget ‘does nothing to plug hole in NHS funding’
Budget ‘does nothing to plug hole in NHS funding’ The chancellor’s spring budget has been slammed by doctors, and other stakeholders, for failing to address the “gaping hole in NHS finances”.
While the announcement of £2 billion for social care has been largely welcomed, many feel the budget does not go far enough to boost health finances.
Dr Mark Porter, British Medical Association council chair, said: “This budget does nothing to address the gaping hole in NHS finances. There is a £30 billion gap to fill and we should be increasing the UK’s health spending by at least £10.3 billion to match that of other leading European economies. The NHS and social care are at breaking point and have been failed by party politics for too long. We need politicians from all sides to come together to agree a long-term solution to the challenges facing health and social care.” OnMedica
While the announcement of £2 billion for social care has been largely welcomed, many feel the budget does not go far enough to boost health finances.
Dr Mark Porter, British Medical Association council chair, said: “This budget does nothing to address the gaping hole in NHS finances. There is a £30 billion gap to fill and we should be increasing the UK’s health spending by at least £10.3 billion to match that of other leading European economies. The NHS and social care are at breaking point and have been failed by party politics for too long. We need politicians from all sides to come together to agree a long-term solution to the challenges facing health and social care.” OnMedica
NHS chiefs order hospitals to begin urgent overhaul of A&E care
NHS chiefs order hospitals to begin urgent overhaul of A&E care Plans requiring GPs to assess every patient when they arrive at A&E come as NHS England discloses worst ever performance in January
NHS chiefs have ordered hospitals to push through an urgent overhaul of A&E care, with GPs assessing every patient when they turn up to help the health service avoid another winter crisis.
The move comes as the NHS in England disclosed that it recorded its worst performance to date in January, missing vital treatment targets covering A&E, cancer and planned hospital care. Continue reading... The Guardian
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NHS chiefs have ordered hospitals to push through an urgent overhaul of A&E care, with GPs assessing every patient when they turn up to help the health service avoid another winter crisis.
The move comes as the NHS in England disclosed that it recorded its worst performance to date in January, missing vital treatment targets covering A&E, cancer and planned hospital care. Continue reading... The Guardian
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I went to a death cafe to learn how to talk to dying patients
I went to a death cafe to learn how to talk to dying patients Medical students do not learn how to talk about death. Junior doctors are forced to learn on the job – and that isn’t fair on patients or families
It is taboo in British culture to talk about death. We say someone has “passed away”, “kicked the bucket” or “left us” – anything to avoid even using the word. This has consequences. While 70% of people wish to die at home, half of us will actually die in hospital. Our reluctance to talk about death and make our wishes known is part of the reason for this.
So I didn’t expect to enjoy visiting a death cafe. As soon as I arrived, I knew I had made the right decision, however. The room hummed with a low level of chatter, and I felt prepared to practise talking about death and dying. Continue reading... The Guardian
It is taboo in British culture to talk about death. We say someone has “passed away”, “kicked the bucket” or “left us” – anything to avoid even using the word. This has consequences. While 70% of people wish to die at home, half of us will actually die in hospital. Our reluctance to talk about death and make our wishes known is part of the reason for this.
So I didn’t expect to enjoy visiting a death cafe. As soon as I arrived, I knew I had made the right decision, however. The room hummed with a low level of chatter, and I felt prepared to practise talking about death and dying. Continue reading... The Guardian
Treat sepsis patients within an hour, watchdog tells NHS staff
Treat sepsis patients within an hour, watchdog tells NHS staff NHS staff must begin treating patients suspected of having potentially lethal sepsis within one hour, the watchdog has said in a bid to crack down on avoidable deaths.
The National Institute of Health and Care Excellence today says that anyone showing symptoms, such as increased temperature, heart rate and rashes, must be swiftly examined by a senior doctor and started on life-saving drugs. The Daily Telegraph
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The National Institute of Health and Care Excellence today says that anyone showing symptoms, such as increased temperature, heart rate and rashes, must be swiftly examined by a senior doctor and started on life-saving drugs. The Daily Telegraph
See also:
- Sepsis : Quality Standard consultation National Institute of Health and Care Excellence
- The biggest killer you've never heard of BBC News
- NHS introduce rules after Mail's campaign against sepsis The Daily Mail
- NHS workers urged to be alert for sepsis and treat within an hour The Guardian
Patients promised speedier access to GPs as long waits named and shamed
Patients promised speedier access to GPs as long waits named and shamed Patients will be promised speedier access to GPs with family doctors named and shamed for long waiting times, under new NHS plans.
The new targets come alongside a major overhaul of emergency care, with promises to increase the proportion of 111 calls assessed by medics, amid concern that too many decisions are being made by ill-trained handlers.
The plans come as official figures show record waits in Accident & Emergency departments, and warnings that the number of patients stuck on trolleys is “going through the roof”.
Simon Stevens, head of the NHS, has ordered hospitals to empty up to 3,000 beds as soon as possible, in order to relieve pressure on services. The Daily Telegraph
The new targets come alongside a major overhaul of emergency care, with promises to increase the proportion of 111 calls assessed by medics, amid concern that too many decisions are being made by ill-trained handlers.
The plans come as official figures show record waits in Accident & Emergency departments, and warnings that the number of patients stuck on trolleys is “going through the roof”.
Simon Stevens, head of the NHS, has ordered hospitals to empty up to 3,000 beds as soon as possible, in order to relieve pressure on services. The Daily Telegraph
British doctor 'shocked' after fraudster worked in Australian hospitals using his ID
British doctor 'shocked' after fraudster worked in Australian hospitals using his ID A respected British rheumatologist has expressed “shock” after discovering that his identity was stolen by a fraudster who worked in hospitals in Australia for eleven years despite being unqualified.
In a case that is being investigated by the NHS and Australian health authorities, a fraudster allegedly stole documents in India which belonged to Dr Sarang Chitale, who lives near Manchester and works at Leigh Infirmary in Leigh, near Manchester, and several other clinics in the region.
The fraudster, whose real name is Shyam Acharya, used Dr Chitale’s documents to enter Australia and register with the medical board in the state of New South Wales. The Daily Telegraph
In a case that is being investigated by the NHS and Australian health authorities, a fraudster allegedly stole documents in India which belonged to Dr Sarang Chitale, who lives near Manchester and works at Leigh Infirmary in Leigh, near Manchester, and several other clinics in the region.
The fraudster, whose real name is Shyam Acharya, used Dr Chitale’s documents to enter Australia and register with the medical board in the state of New South Wales. The Daily Telegraph
Thursday, 9 March 2017
KGH car park plan set for approval
KGH car park plan set for approval The car park was the subject of a planning application in January.
The move will almost double the number of spaces available in that particular car park, from 227 to 451.
Car parking has been the subject of much public frustration at the hospital, with patients and relatives often caught in queues and nearby residents frustrated by vehicles parking inconsiderately. Northamptonshire Telegraph
The move will almost double the number of spaces available in that particular car park, from 227 to 451.
Car parking has been the subject of much public frustration at the hospital, with patients and relatives often caught in queues and nearby residents frustrated by vehicles parking inconsiderately. Northamptonshire Telegraph
Guidance: Domestic abuse: a resource for health professionals
Guidance: Domestic abuse: a resource for health professionals This resource looks at how health professionals can support adults and young people over 16 who are experiencing domestic abuse, and dependent children in their households.
It will help health staff to identify potential victims, initiate sensitive routine enquiry and respond effectively to disclosures of abuse. Department of Health
It will help health staff to identify potential victims, initiate sensitive routine enquiry and respond effectively to disclosures of abuse. Department of Health
Report highlights need for early intervention for diabetic foot ulcers
Report highlights need for early intervention for diabetic foot ulcers A report published today finds that early intervention is important in the management of diabetic foot disease, with people who receive expert care most quickly having the best outcomes.
It also reports that the basic framework for effective prevention and management of diabetic foot disease in England and Wales is often missing.
It is estimated that between five and seven cent of people with diabetes will have a diabetic foot ulcer at some point in their lives, at an estimated cost of £935 million to the NHS.9
The National Diabetes Foot Care Audit (NDFA) 2014-2016, published by NHS Digital and Diabetes UK, collected data on 11,000 individuals with acute diabetic foot ulcers.
It also reports that the basic framework for effective prevention and management of diabetic foot disease in England and Wales is often missing.
It is estimated that between five and seven cent of people with diabetes will have a diabetic foot ulcer at some point in their lives, at an estimated cost of £935 million to the NHS.9
The National Diabetes Foot Care Audit (NDFA) 2014-2016, published by NHS Digital and Diabetes UK, collected data on 11,000 individuals with acute diabetic foot ulcers.
Cancer treatments 'not being trialled in children'
Cancer treatments 'not being trialled in children' Children with cancer could be missing out on potentially life-saving drugs because EU regulations allow drug companies to opt out of running trials in children, cancer experts say.
Since 2012, 62% of approved EU cancer drugs were not tested on under-18s.
But cancer scientists say the rules should be changed so that adult cancer drugs have to be tested on children. BBC News
See also:
Since 2012, 62% of approved EU cancer drugs were not tested on under-18s.
But cancer scientists say the rules should be changed so that adult cancer drugs have to be tested on children. BBC News
See also:
NHS to be hit harder than expected by compensation shake-up, Budget reveals
NHS to be hit harder than expected by compensation shake-up, Budget reveals The NHS will be hit harder than expected by a controversial shake-up of personal injury compensation – forcing the Chancellor to borrow an extra £1.2bn a year.
And higher motor insurance premiums because of the shake-up “will be fully passed on to consumers”, the Treasury’s watchdog has acknowledged. The Independent
And higher motor insurance premiums because of the shake-up “will be fully passed on to consumers”, the Treasury’s watchdog has acknowledged. The Independent
Budget 2017: Philip Hammond accused of back-door NHS privatisation by funding 'shady' reform plans
Budget 2017: Philip Hammond accused of back-door NHS privatisation by funding 'shady' reform plans Philip Hammond has promised the NHS will receive £425m in government investment over the next three years – but the way these funds are allocated could in fact lead to further NHS privatisation, campaigners have warned.
Sarah Carpenter, national officer for health at trade union Unite, said she feared the Government was trying to privatise the NHS through the back door by funding “shady” reforms in the guise of giving extra money to the health service.
“What they’re trying to do is potentially be able to say they’re giving money to the health service, but actually giving money to a part of it no one’s heard of,” Ms Carpenter told The Independent.
Sarah Carpenter, national officer for health at trade union Unite, said she feared the Government was trying to privatise the NHS through the back door by funding “shady” reforms in the guise of giving extra money to the health service.
“What they’re trying to do is potentially be able to say they’re giving money to the health service, but actually giving money to a part of it no one’s heard of,” Ms Carpenter told The Independent.
Over half of NHS staff work unpaid overtime every week, survey finds
Over half of NHS staff work unpaid overtime every week, survey finds Annual survey reveals morale is high but workloads, sick rates and overtime highlight challenges
This past year has sent shockwaves through an already challenging working environment in the NHS. From the withdrawal of nursing bursaries and junior doctors’ strikes to the uncertain impact of Brexit on 58,000 EU nationals currently working in the health service, workforce pressures continued to build for an already overstretched service.
So what do the findings of the latest NHS staff survey, released on Tuesday, tell us about how staff are coping? Covering 316 participating NHS organisations, the survey is the biggest in the world, capturing the experiences of more than 423,000 healthcare professionals across the country. Continue reading... The Guardian
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This past year has sent shockwaves through an already challenging working environment in the NHS. From the withdrawal of nursing bursaries and junior doctors’ strikes to the uncertain impact of Brexit on 58,000 EU nationals currently working in the health service, workforce pressures continued to build for an already overstretched service.
So what do the findings of the latest NHS staff survey, released on Tuesday, tell us about how staff are coping? Covering 316 participating NHS organisations, the survey is the biggest in the world, capturing the experiences of more than 423,000 healthcare professionals across the country. Continue reading... The Guardian
See also:
Hammond's budget bows to demands for social care cash injection
Hammond's budget bows to demands for social care cash injection Chancellor responds to crisis in care for older people with £2bn extra, but charities are concerned it will not be enough
Philip Hammond responded to the growing crisis in social care in England by pledging to put £2bn extra into it over the next three years and also produced an unexpected £425m to help the NHS cope better with winter and transform how it works.
Additional money for social care was necessary both to improve the help older people receive as the number of over-75s grows quickly in the coming years and also to ease the huge pressures the NHS is under, the chancellor said in his statement. Continue reading... The Guardian
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Philip Hammond responded to the growing crisis in social care in England by pledging to put £2bn extra into it over the next three years and also produced an unexpected £425m to help the NHS cope better with winter and transform how it works.
Additional money for social care was necessary both to improve the help older people receive as the number of over-75s grows quickly in the coming years and also to ease the huge pressures the NHS is under, the chancellor said in his statement. Continue reading... The Guardian
See also:
- Philip Hammond pledges extra £2 billion to help tackle social care crisis The Daily Telegraph
- The Guardian view on the spring budget: not enough | Editorial The Guardian
- UK social care: staff shortages put sector in crisis The Guardian
- Budget 2017: Philip Hammond says 'we are party of NHS' with £2bn extra to social care The Independent
New app that REPLACES doctors to launch nationally
New app that REPLACES doctors to launch nationally Developed by Babylon Health, it is now hoping to roll the concept of chat-bots for NHS 111 helplines out nationwide. It tells patients which specific service to visit, as close to their home as possible. The Daily Mail
£100m for GPs in A&E to weed out those not seriously ill announced in Budget
£100m for GPs in A&E to weed out those not seriously ill announced in Budget GPs will be placed in A&E departments to turn away people who are not sufficiently ill as part of a £100 million effort to crack down on hospital overcrowding.
The measure, announced by Philip Hammond in the budget, follows a relentless increase in A&E admissions which at one stage this winter saw one in two hospitals issue emergency alerts indicating they were unable to cope. The Daily Telegraph
See also:
The measure, announced by Philip Hammond in the budget, follows a relentless increase in A&E admissions which at one stage this winter saw one in two hospitals issue emergency alerts indicating they were unable to cope. The Daily Telegraph
See also:
- The King’s Fund responds to the Spring Budget The King's Fund
- Budget 2017 NHS Employers
- Best place for GPs is treating patients in their local communities Royal College of General Practitioners
- Budget 2017: Will £100m A&E investment really help NHS? The Daily Mail
- Budget 2017: £100m funding for GP triage in A&E GP Online
- Budget reaction: GP triage in A&E 'could deepen NHS crisis' GP Online
Wednesday, 8 March 2017
Warning over highly-contagious superbug sweeping the nation
Warning over highly-contagious superbug sweeping the nation A new variant of a gene that causes resistance to our strongest antibiotics has been discovered in a healthy person, prompting fears it could be spreading.
The team of investigators discovered a new variant of the well-known gene that causes resistance to polymyxin - currently the toughest antibiotic in our arsenal against bacteria.
The new multidrug-resistant bacteria, which carries the gene variant, was found on a patient with salmonella and could easily be passed on in bacteria.
More troubling, the gene was found in a healthy individual during a routine medical, suggesting that other healthy carriers may be spreading the resistance unknowingly. Northamptonshire Telegraph
The team of investigators discovered a new variant of the well-known gene that causes resistance to polymyxin - currently the toughest antibiotic in our arsenal against bacteria.
The new multidrug-resistant bacteria, which carries the gene variant, was found on a patient with salmonella and could easily be passed on in bacteria.
More troubling, the gene was found in a healthy individual during a routine medical, suggesting that other healthy carriers may be spreading the resistance unknowingly. Northamptonshire Telegraph
An NHS winter that never seems to end?
An NHS winter that never seems to end? No one would ever claim that winter in the NHS is easy. Our most recent Quarterly Monitoring Report (QMR) duly paints a picture of accident and emergency (A&E) departments that are struggling to cope as the health needs of patients become both more complex and more acute. The recent publication of the latest set of daily performance reports for the traditionally busy winter months of 2016/17 now allows us to take a closer look at how the NHS held up this winter. The King's Fund
NHS staff survey 2016
NHS staff survey 2016 This year's NHS staff survey has found that overall staff engagement has reached a peak, indicating that staff felt that they have opportunities to show initiative and contribute to improvements at work. The proportion of staff reporting witnessing errors and adverse incidents is the lowest it has been since 2012. This year's survey data is available in an interactive dashboard format which enable users to benchmark their data against other organisations more easily. Picker Institute
See also:
- NHS England publishes latest staff survey results NHS England
- 2016 Staff Survey results show progress despite pressure NHS Employers
- NHS Staff Survey shows improvements in workplace experience NHS Employers
Only a third of MPs believe that A&E departments are adequately resourced
Only a third of MPs believe that A&E departments are adequately resourced A poll by the Royal College of Emergency Medicine reveals just 33% of MPs believe emergency departments have the resources they need to keep patients safe.
The poll of 92 MPs of all parties and regions of the UK also found strong support for a transformation fund for emergency departments with four times as many saying they would support such an initiative as oppose it.
Over 60% of MPs said they would support Emergency Departments (EDs) receiving more money to help with the retention and recruitment of staff.
Despite government claims that the NHS was getting more than the minimum £8bn by 2020 it had asked for, the poll found that only half of Conservative MPs believe that Emergency Departments are currently being adequately resourced.
The poll of 92 MPs of all parties and regions of the UK also found strong support for a transformation fund for emergency departments with four times as many saying they would support such an initiative as oppose it.
Over 60% of MPs said they would support Emergency Departments (EDs) receiving more money to help with the retention and recruitment of staff.
Despite government claims that the NHS was getting more than the minimum £8bn by 2020 it had asked for, the poll found that only half of Conservative MPs believe that Emergency Departments are currently being adequately resourced.
Collection: Local Alcohol Profiles for England (LAPE)
Collection: Local Alcohol Profiles for England (LAPE) Alcohol use has health and social consequences borne by individuals, their families, and the wider community.
Reducing harmful drinking is one of seven priority areas that Public Health England is focusing efforts on securing improvement.
The Department of Health commissioned PHE to produce an evidence review of the public health burden of alcohol, published in December 2016.
The local alcohol profiles have been designed to provide information for local government, health organisations, commissioners and other agencies to monitor:
the impact of alcohol on local communities
services and initiatives that have been put in place to prevent and reduce the harmful impact of alcohol
The data is updated once per quarter.
View the Local Alcohol Profiles for England. Public Health England
Reducing harmful drinking is one of seven priority areas that Public Health England is focusing efforts on securing improvement.
The Department of Health commissioned PHE to produce an evidence review of the public health burden of alcohol, published in December 2016.
The local alcohol profiles have been designed to provide information for local government, health organisations, commissioners and other agencies to monitor:
the impact of alcohol on local communities
services and initiatives that have been put in place to prevent and reduce the harmful impact of alcohol
The data is updated once per quarter.
View the Local Alcohol Profiles for England. Public Health England
Hospital winter pressures: how did NHS trusts perform in 2016/17?
Hospital winter pressures: how did NHS trusts perform in 2016/17? This briefing examines the performance of the NHS over the three peak winter months covering December 2016 to February 2017. The analysis finds that the number of temporary beds opened to cope with demand on A&E units in the busiest part of this winter was equivalent to eight additional hospitals. The briefing calls for a formal review of how the NHS manages winter pressures, with a focus on the ring-fencing of winter funding and the impact of cancelling non-urgent operations. NHS Providers
Dying from inequality: socioeconomic disadvantage and suicidal behaviour
Dying from inequality: socioeconomic disadvantage and suicidal behaviour This report links higher risk of suicide with inequality calls for greater awareness of the risks of suicide and for direct support to those with unstable employment, insecure housing, low income or in areas of socioeconomic deprivation. Samaritans
Latest experimental statistics about female genital mutilation published
Latest experimental statistics about female genital mutilation published New official figures published provide experimental statistics on female genital mutilation (FGM) in England, from October 2016 to December 2016. NHS Digital
Ebola vaccine tested on humans in UK trials
Ebola vaccine tested on humans in UK trials Researchers in UK are currently part of a worldwide effort to develop a vaccine for Ebola, so that it’s ready should another outbreak occur. BBC News
NHS to revamp 111 helpline after sustained criticism of service
NHS to revamp 111 helpline after sustained criticism of service More callers will get chance to health professionals under changes to be phased in across England from next month
The NHS is to revamp its heavily criticised 111 telephone helpline to ensure that many more people get to discuss their illness with a nurse, doctor or other health professional rather than a call handler.
GPs and mental health health nurses will also start to play key roles after the overhaul, which is intended to improve public confidence in 111 so that fewer patients visit A&E or a GP’s surgery. Continue reading... The Guardian
The NHS is to revamp its heavily criticised 111 telephone helpline to ensure that many more people get to discuss their illness with a nurse, doctor or other health professional rather than a call handler.
GPs and mental health health nurses will also start to play key roles after the overhaul, which is intended to improve public confidence in 111 so that fewer patients visit A&E or a GP’s surgery. Continue reading... The Guardian
Smoking numbers hit new low as Britons turn to vaping to help quit cigarettes
Smoking numbers hit new low as Britons turn to vaping to help quit cigarettes New data reveals a significant decline in number of smokers over last five years, while the daily number of cigarettes consumed has also fallen
The number of smokers in Britain has reached its lowest point since records began in 1974, according to new data, while more than a million people say they are using e-cigarettes to help them quit smoking.
The latest data from the Office for National Statistics shows that 17.2% of adults in the UK smoked in 2015, down from 20.1% in 2010. Continue reading... The Guardian
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The number of smokers in Britain has reached its lowest point since records began in 1974, according to new data, while more than a million people say they are using e-cigarettes to help them quit smoking.
The latest data from the Office for National Statistics shows that 17.2% of adults in the UK smoked in 2015, down from 20.1% in 2010. Continue reading... The Guardian
See also:
Google can detect tumours with a 92% accuracy rate
Google can detect tumours with a 92% accuracy rate DeepMind is on the verge of becoming a much-needed medical breakthrough. Owned by Alphabet, Google's parent company, it claims it can detect 92.4 per cent of tumours it scans for. The Daily Mail
NHS chief 'pushed out' after exposing a sex ring involving consultants and doctors, hospital staff say
NHS chief 'pushed out' after exposing a sex ring involving consultants and doctors, hospital staff say The NHS's longest serving chief executive has been “pushed out” of his job after he suspended senior consultants who used hospital premises to have sex, according to hospital insiders.
Sir Leonard Fenwick, Newcastle and Tyne Hospital Trust's chief executive, was put on "extended leave" from the hospital under mysterious circumstances earlier this year, a decision which angered a number of staff and governors. The Daily Telegraph
Sir Leonard Fenwick, Newcastle and Tyne Hospital Trust's chief executive, was put on "extended leave" from the hospital under mysterious circumstances earlier this year, a decision which angered a number of staff and governors. The Daily Telegraph
Patients are not priority, warn half of staff at scandal ambulance service
Patients are not priority, warn half of staff at scandal ambulance service Almost half of staff at a scandal-hit ambulance trust do not think their patients are put first, with almost one quarter too frightened to raise safety concerns with managers, research shows.
The NHS staff survey shows that South East Coast Ambulance trust is the worst in the country across a host of rankings.
The trust has been at the centre of a string of scandals, with at least two call handlers saying they were driven to attempt suicide as a result of an “endemic culture of bullying”.
Several claimed they were left under such pressure they could not concentrate on emergency calls, impairing their responses to the public. The Daily Telegraph
The NHS staff survey shows that South East Coast Ambulance trust is the worst in the country across a host of rankings.
The trust has been at the centre of a string of scandals, with at least two call handlers saying they were driven to attempt suicide as a result of an “endemic culture of bullying”.
Several claimed they were left under such pressure they could not concentrate on emergency calls, impairing their responses to the public. The Daily Telegraph
Numbers missing two-month cancer treatment target window doubles amid warnings A&E crisis is sucking away resources
Numbers missing two-month cancer treatment target window doubles amid warnings A&E crisis is sucking away resources The number of NHS cancer patients waiting longer than the crucial two-month target window has nearly doubled in the last five years, a new report reveals.
Macmillan Cancer support have warned that patients are dying because overrun A&E departments are draining the hospital resources needed to give them the prompt treatment they need.
One in six people diagnosed with the disease began treatment after the aimed-for 62 days in 2016, according to the charity, making it the third consecutive year in which the health service failed to keep pace with rising demand. The Daily Telegraph
Macmillan Cancer support have warned that patients are dying because overrun A&E departments are draining the hospital resources needed to give them the prompt treatment they need.
One in six people diagnosed with the disease began treatment after the aimed-for 62 days in 2016, according to the charity, making it the third consecutive year in which the health service failed to keep pace with rising demand. The Daily Telegraph
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