Friday, 20 July 2018
The determinants of health care expenditure growth
The determinants of health care expenditure growth This paper considers the detailed breakdown of hospital inpatient expenditures across the period 2007/08 to 2014/15. Decomposition techniques are used to unpick the observed rise in expenditure into a component due to a change in the distribution of characteristics, for example, greater prevalence of morbidity, and a component due to structural changes in the impact of such characteristics on expenditures (coefficient effects, for example, due to technological change). Centre for Health Economics
Low NHS morale is 'heartbreaking', says Matt Hancock
Low NHS morale is 'heartbreaking', says Matt Hancock Seeing how NHS staff feel "undervalued" is "heartbreaking", the new Health Secretary Matt Hancock has said.
In his first speech since taking the job, Mr Hancock also said he was horrified at the level of bullying reported by staff.
The British Medical Association welcomed the sentiment but said it needed to be underpinned by action.
Mr Hancock, the former digital and culture secretary, also said £487m is to be spent on technology for the NHS. BBC News
In his first speech since taking the job, Mr Hancock also said he was horrified at the level of bullying reported by staff.
The British Medical Association welcomed the sentiment but said it needed to be underpinned by action.
Mr Hancock, the former digital and culture secretary, also said £487m is to be spent on technology for the NHS. BBC News
IVF: NHS couples 'face social rationing'
IVF: NHS couples 'face social rationing' Eight out of 10 of CCGs in England do not offer IVF to couples if one partner has previous children.
The parents of the world's first IVF baby - born 40 years ago next week - would not have got the procedure on the NHS in most of England today because of "social rationing", a charity has said.
NHS IVF is unavailable to couples in many areas if either of them has children from a previous relationship.
One mother said not meeting such criteria was "crippling".
Fertility Network UK said action was needed to keep fertility treatment available for all. BBC News
The parents of the world's first IVF baby - born 40 years ago next week - would not have got the procedure on the NHS in most of England today because of "social rationing", a charity has said.
NHS IVF is unavailable to couples in many areas if either of them has children from a previous relationship.
One mother said not meeting such criteria was "crippling".
Fertility Network UK said action was needed to keep fertility treatment available for all. BBC News
MPs in plea for mental health checks for new mothers
MPs in plea for mental health checks for new mothers Women could get regular mental health checks during and after pregnancy if a campaign by two MPs is successful.
Mental illness related to birth issues has been raised by the Labour MP for Stockton South, Dr Paul Williams, and South West Bedfordshire Conservative, Andrew Selous.
In a debate on Wednesday they called for six-weekly checks for all mothers.
Funding could be available after the government said it was investing £365m into the condition from 2015 to 2021. BBC News
Mental illness related to birth issues has been raised by the Labour MP for Stockton South, Dr Paul Williams, and South West Bedfordshire Conservative, Andrew Selous.
In a debate on Wednesday they called for six-weekly checks for all mothers.
Funding could be available after the government said it was investing £365m into the condition from 2015 to 2021. BBC News
'Dangerous complacency' to global HIV epidemic risks resurgence
'Dangerous complacency' to global HIV epidemic risks resurgence A "dangerous complacency" in the response to the global HIV pandemic is risking a resurgence of the disease, according to a report.
Experts said a stalling of HIV funding in recent years was endangering efforts to control the illness.
As things stand, the world is no longer on course to end the pandemic by 2030 - a target agreed by UN member states, say experts in The Lancet.
They call for urgent changes in how the disease is treated and controlled. BBC News
Experts said a stalling of HIV funding in recent years was endangering efforts to control the illness.
As things stand, the world is no longer on course to end the pandemic by 2030 - a target agreed by UN member states, say experts in The Lancet.
They call for urgent changes in how the disease is treated and controlled. BBC News
The NHS is giving £1bn a year away to private companies – this is Jeremy Hunt's legacy
The NHS is giving £1bn a year away to private companies – this is Jeremy Hunt's legacy According to the BBC, the NHS is now spending a staggering £1bn a year buying in care from private companies.
The broadcaster said its data showed that the bill has been racked up by hospitals, ambulances and mental health trusts.
Private firms are sometimes used when operations might otherwise be cancelled because NHS hospitals are swamped with emergencies. Sometimes the money is spent on hospitals buying places in care homes for elderly patients to free up beds. Sometimes private ambulance crews are called upon to transport less serious cases so NHS crews can concentrate on the really serious cases. The Independent
The broadcaster said its data showed that the bill has been racked up by hospitals, ambulances and mental health trusts.
Private firms are sometimes used when operations might otherwise be cancelled because NHS hospitals are swamped with emergencies. Sometimes the money is spent on hospitals buying places in care homes for elderly patients to free up beds. Sometimes private ambulance crews are called upon to transport less serious cases so NHS crews can concentrate on the really serious cases. The Independent
My husband's stroke showed me the best and worst of the NHS
My husband's stroke showed me the best and worst of the NHS Seeing the service from a different perspective forced me to assess my priorities and influenced how I treat my own patients
In March 2012, my husband had a stroke. He was 34. I recognised the signs within seconds, called 999 and had a hospital bag ready by the time the ambulance arrived four minutes later. Sam’s speech was slurred and he had lost 50% of his vision. In A&E, I held the sick bowl as he vomited again and again. As he was rushed off for a scan, I was in complete shock. In true English fashion I went to get a cup of tea. But the restaurant was closed and the vending machine broken; it was then that I cried. Continue reading... The Guardian
In March 2012, my husband had a stroke. He was 34. I recognised the signs within seconds, called 999 and had a hospital bag ready by the time the ambulance arrived four minutes later. Sam’s speech was slurred and he had lost 50% of his vision. In A&E, I held the sick bowl as he vomited again and again. As he was rushed off for a scan, I was in complete shock. In true English fashion I went to get a cup of tea. But the restaurant was closed and the vending machine broken; it was then that I cried. Continue reading... The Guardian
World's biggest tobacco firm under fire over 'disgraceful' PR stunt
World's biggest tobacco firm under fire over 'disgraceful' PR stunt NHS staff told to reject offer by makers of Marlboro cigarettes to help them quit smoking
The world’s biggest tobacco firm has been accused of staging “a digraceful PR stunt” by offering to help NHS staff quit smoking to help mark the service’s 70th birthday.
Philip Morris International (PMI), which makes Marlboro cigarettes, is under fire for apparently trying to breach global rules which stipulate that tobacco manufacturers should be treated as pariahs. Continue reading... The Guardian
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The world’s biggest tobacco firm has been accused of staging “a digraceful PR stunt” by offering to help NHS staff quit smoking to help mark the service’s 70th birthday.
Philip Morris International (PMI), which makes Marlboro cigarettes, is under fire for apparently trying to breach global rules which stipulate that tobacco manufacturers should be treated as pariahs. Continue reading... The Guardian
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Cannabis for medicinal use should be allowed, says Government drugs council
Cannabis for medicinal use should be allowed, says Government drugs council Doctors should be allowed to prescribe medicinal cannabis to patients in the UK, the official body which advises the Government on drugs has said.
The Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs (ACMD) said there is "evidence of medicinal benefit of some of these products in certain circumstances" and recommended they should be able to be prescribed as long as they meet appropriate safety standards. The Daily Telegraph
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The Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs (ACMD) said there is "evidence of medicinal benefit of some of these products in certain circumstances" and recommended they should be able to be prescribed as long as they meet appropriate safety standards. The Daily Telegraph
See also:
- Advice on scheduling of cannabis-derived medicinal products Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs
- Medicinal cannabis 'should be available on prescription' BBC News
- Doctors should be able to prescribe medical cannabis, Home Office adviser concludes The Independent
Thursday, 19 July 2018
Corby celebrates 70th anniversary of the NHS
Corby celebrates 70th anniversary of the NHS A ‘thank you’ card for people to sign and share their thoughts about Corby’s health services was signed at a party celebrating the 70th anniversary of the NHS. Northamptonshire Telegraph
Research and analysis: Prison health: health and justice annual report
Research and analysis: Prison health: health and justice annual report Public Health England annual report on health trends in prisons and other prescribed places of detention (PPDs).
Each baby counts: themed report on anaesthetic care, including lessons identified from Each Baby Counts babies born 2015 to 2017
Each baby counts: themed report on anaesthetic care, including lessons identified from Each Baby Counts babies born 2015 to 2017 Launched in 2014, the Each Baby Counts programme aims to reduce the number of babies who die or are left severely disabled as a result of incidents occurring during term labour by 50 per cent by 2020.
In 2017, the College published a landmark report based on the care of 1,136 babies born in the UK in 2015 and found that 76 per cent of these babies might have had a different outcome with different care. It also included recommendations highlighting critical factors in the care of the many of these babies that may prevent these incidents in the future.
Detailed further analysis of the Each Baby Counts data has now been conducted into the anaesthetic care given to the mothers of 49 babies reported to Each Baby Counts between 2015 and 2017. This special report will form part of a wider set of findings and recommendations from the Each Baby Counts programme, to be published in autumn 2018. Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists
In 2017, the College published a landmark report based on the care of 1,136 babies born in the UK in 2015 and found that 76 per cent of these babies might have had a different outcome with different care. It also included recommendations highlighting critical factors in the care of the many of these babies that may prevent these incidents in the future.
Detailed further analysis of the Each Baby Counts data has now been conducted into the anaesthetic care given to the mothers of 49 babies reported to Each Baby Counts between 2015 and 2017. This special report will form part of a wider set of findings and recommendations from the Each Baby Counts programme, to be published in autumn 2018. Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists
Private sector cashes in on over-stretched NHS
Private sector cashes in on over-stretched NHS Under-pressure NHS services in England are spending over £1bn a year buying care from outside the NHS because they are unable to keep up with demand.
The bill is being racked up by hospitals, ambulances and mental health trusts, data obtained by the BBC shows.
NHS managers said money was being wasted as often it was done at the last minute, and led to the NHS over-paying.
Sending patients to private clinics for care like hip and knee surgery is thought to be the most common purchase. BBC News
The bill is being racked up by hospitals, ambulances and mental health trusts, data obtained by the BBC shows.
NHS managers said money was being wasted as often it was done at the last minute, and led to the NHS over-paying.
Sending patients to private clinics for care like hip and knee surgery is thought to be the most common purchase. BBC News
Delays in radiology results 'affecting patient care'
Delays in radiology results 'affecting patient care' The regulator of heath care services in England is calling for a limit on how long it takes to report the results of patients' x-rays and scans.
The Care Quality Commission's review of radiology practices found that the process could vary from one hour to two working days in hospital A&Es.
This could mean delays in results being shared with doctors and patients receiving timely care.
The review also said there were not enough radiologists to meet demand. BBC News
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The Care Quality Commission's review of radiology practices found that the process could vary from one hour to two working days in hospital A&Es.
This could mean delays in results being shared with doctors and patients receiving timely care.
The review also said there were not enough radiologists to meet demand. BBC News
See also:
- Radiology review: A national review of radiology reporting within the NHS in England Care Quality Commission
Infant mortality in England and Wales rises for first time since 2011
Infant mortality in England and Wales rises for first time since 2011 Infant mortality increased for the first time since 2011 last year amid signs that decades worth of improvements are plateauing, deaths data for England and Wales shows.
Published by the Office of National Statistics (ONS), it reveals four children died before their first birthday for every 1,000 live births - an increase of 2.6 per cent on the rate for the previous three years of 3.9 infant deaths per 1,000 births.
The increase means that improvements in infant mortality have stagnated since 2010, falling from 4.3 per 1,000 births to 4.0. The Independent
Published by the Office of National Statistics (ONS), it reveals four children died before their first birthday for every 1,000 live births - an increase of 2.6 per cent on the rate for the previous three years of 3.9 infant deaths per 1,000 births.
The increase means that improvements in infant mortality have stagnated since 2010, falling from 4.3 per 1,000 births to 4.0. The Independent
Autistic people wait years for diagnosis in some parts of England
Autistic people wait years for diagnosis in some parts of England MP says ‘scandalous waiting times’ affect access to NHS support for those with autism
People with suspected autism are being forced to wait more than two years to be assessed and almost four years to receive their diagnosis, new NHS performance figures have revealed.
The long delays have been criticised as “scandalous” by the former health minister Norman Lamb, who obtained the figures, and “completely unacceptable” by the National Autistic Society.
Between 2010-11 and 2016-17, health spending increased by an average of 1.2% above inflation and increases are due to continue in real terms at a similar rate until the end of this parliament. This is far below the annual inflation-proof growth rate that the NHS enjoyed before 2010 of almost 4% stretching back to the 1950s. As budgets tighten, NHS organisations have been struggling to live within their means. In the financial year 2015-16, acute trusts recorded a deficit of £2.6bn. This was reduced to £800m last year, though only after a £1.8bn bung from the Department of Health, which shows the deficit remained the same year on year. Continue reading... The Guardian
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People with suspected autism are being forced to wait more than two years to be assessed and almost four years to receive their diagnosis, new NHS performance figures have revealed.
The long delays have been criticised as “scandalous” by the former health minister Norman Lamb, who obtained the figures, and “completely unacceptable” by the National Autistic Society.
Between 2010-11 and 2016-17, health spending increased by an average of 1.2% above inflation and increases are due to continue in real terms at a similar rate until the end of this parliament. This is far below the annual inflation-proof growth rate that the NHS enjoyed before 2010 of almost 4% stretching back to the 1950s. As budgets tighten, NHS organisations have been struggling to live within their means. In the financial year 2015-16, acute trusts recorded a deficit of £2.6bn. This was reduced to £800m last year, though only after a £1.8bn bung from the Department of Health, which shows the deficit remained the same year on year. Continue reading... The Guardian
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Government orders Phillip Morris to stop advertising "healthier" tobacco products or face legal action
Government orders Phillip Morris to stop advertising "healthier" tobacco products or face legal action The Government will take one of the world's largest tobacco firms to court unless it stops illegally targeting UK consumers with tobacco adverts, a Minister has said.
Yesterday the Department of Health sent a formal order to Phillip Morris, which makes Marlboro cigarettes, telling it to remove poster adverts for "healthier" tobacco products from shops around the UK.
Speaking to the Daily Telegraph, the public health minister, Steve Brine, warned that the department was prepared to take legal action against Phillip Morris in order to protect UK consumers from being targeted by the adverts.
Yesterday the Department of Health sent a formal order to Phillip Morris, which makes Marlboro cigarettes, telling it to remove poster adverts for "healthier" tobacco products from shops around the UK.
Speaking to the Daily Telegraph, the public health minister, Steve Brine, warned that the department was prepared to take legal action against Phillip Morris in order to protect UK consumers from being targeted by the adverts.
'The money has run out' - health bosses' admission as hip and knee patients denied NHS operations
'The money has run out' - health bosses' admission as hip and knee patients denied NHS operations Hip and knee patients are increasingly being denied operations on the NHS, new figures reveal as health bosses admit “the money has run out”.
A study in the British Medical Journal has found the number of procedures being refused by local NHS chiefs went up 45 per cent last year.
The restrictions have been condemned by the medical community, with the Royal College of Surgeons saying they have left patients having to “beg” for treatment or paying for it themselves. The Daily Telegraph
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A study in the British Medical Journal has found the number of procedures being refused by local NHS chiefs went up 45 per cent last year.
The restrictions have been condemned by the medical community, with the Royal College of Surgeons saying they have left patients having to “beg” for treatment or paying for it themselves. The Daily Telegraph
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HVP vaccine likely to be rolled out for boys as officials call for 'gender-neutral' vaccinations
HVP vaccine likely to be rolled out for boys as officials call for 'gender-neutral' vaccinations A jab which guards mainly against cervical cancer is likely to be given to boys after an influential Government committee called for a “gender neutral” vaccination policy.
The HPV (human papillomavirus) vaccine is currently offered free to all girls aged 12 to 18, however there have been growing demands to also make it available to males.
Experts believe doing so would both increase protection against cervical cancer in girls through “herd immunity”, but also protect against mouth and throat cancers in both sexes. The Daily Telegraph
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The HPV (human papillomavirus) vaccine is currently offered free to all girls aged 12 to 18, however there have been growing demands to also make it available to males.
Experts believe doing so would both increase protection against cervical cancer in girls through “herd immunity”, but also protect against mouth and throat cancers in both sexes. The Daily Telegraph
See also:
- JCVI statement: extending the HPV vaccination programme – conclusions Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation, Department of Health and Social Care
- Boys set to receive HPV jab after JCVI recommendation GPonline
- Boys should get cancer preventing HPV jab, says vaccination body The Independent
Flu vaccines offered no protection against killer 'Aussie' strain
Flu vaccines offered no protection against killer 'Aussie' strain Public Health England today admitted the jab had 'no significant effectiveness’ in stopping people being struck down by H3N2, which was blamed for adding to the pressure on the NHS. The Daily Mail
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See also:
- Flu vaccine effectiveness in 2017 to 2018 season Public Health England
- Research and analysis: Influenza vaccine effectiveness: seasonal estimates Public Health England
Wednesday, 18 July 2018
Rise in teenagers being admitted to hospital due to self harming in Northants
Rise in teenagers being admitted to hospital due to self harming in Northants There has been a sharp rise in the number of 15 to 19-year-olds being admitted to Northamptonshire hospitals due to self harming.
Latest figures revealed in the county’s annual public health report show that 485 young people were admitted to a hospital after harming themselves in 2016/17. The number of hospital admissions has almost doubled in the past five years. Exam stress, social media pressure, bullying and confidence issues have been identified as some of the reasons why more and more of the county’s 15 to 19-year-olds are hurting themselves. Northampton Chronicle & Echo
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Latest figures revealed in the county’s annual public health report show that 485 young people were admitted to a hospital after harming themselves in 2016/17. The number of hospital admissions has almost doubled in the past five years. Exam stress, social media pressure, bullying and confidence issues have been identified as some of the reasons why more and more of the county’s 15 to 19-year-olds are hurting themselves. Northampton Chronicle & Echo
See also:
- Public Health and Board Reports: Director of Public Health Annual Report Northamptonshire County Council
KGH appoints new chief operating officer
KGH appoints new chief operating officer Kettering General Hospital has announced the appointment of its new chief operating officer. Joanna Fawcus brings a wealth of valuable experience from within the NHS. She is currently deputy chief operating Officer at James Paget University Hospital Foundation Trust and has worked for the NHS for over 20 years, holding senior positions both in acute trusts across the East Midlands and in NHS Improvement. Joanna replaces Rebecca Brown who left the trust in June to take up the position of chief operating officer with University Hospitals of Leicester. Northamptonshire Telegraph
Life expectancy gap between rich and poor in Northamptonshire
Life expectancy gap between rich and poor in Northamptonshire Men living in deprived areas of Northamptonshire are dying nine years earlier than those in affluent areas, according to a newly published report.
The life expectancy figures are revealed in the 2017/18 annual public health report written by the county council’s director of public health Lucy Wightman.
The report also records that those living in more deprived areas of the county spend 13 fewer years in good health than those in richer areas. The average life expectancy for a Northamptonshire woman is 83 years and 79 years for a man. Northampton Chronicle & Echo
The life expectancy figures are revealed in the 2017/18 annual public health report written by the county council’s director of public health Lucy Wightman.
The report also records that those living in more deprived areas of the county spend 13 fewer years in good health than those in richer areas. The average life expectancy for a Northamptonshire woman is 83 years and 79 years for a man. Northampton Chronicle & Echo
News story: SACN publishes 'Feeding in the first year of life' report
News story: SACN publishes 'Feeding in the first year of life' report Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition (SACN) has published its report on ‘Feeding in the first year of life’, providing recommendations on infant feeding from birth up to 12 months of age.
The last review of infant feeding was undertaken by SACN’s predecessor Committee on Medical Aspects of Food Policy (COMA) in 1994 and formed the basis for government recommendations in the UK.
SACN recommends babies are exclusively breastfed until around 6 months of age and continue to be breastfed for at least the first year of life. Additionally, solid foods should not be introduced until around 6 months to benefit the child’s overall health. This represents no change to current government recommendations. SACN concludes breastfeeding makes an important contribution to infant and maternal health. This includes the development of the infant immune system, while not breastfeeding is associated with a higher risk of infant hospital admission for infectious illness. Gov.UK
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The last review of infant feeding was undertaken by SACN’s predecessor Committee on Medical Aspects of Food Policy (COMA) in 1994 and formed the basis for government recommendations in the UK.
SACN recommends babies are exclusively breastfed until around 6 months of age and continue to be breastfed for at least the first year of life. Additionally, solid foods should not be introduced until around 6 months to benefit the child’s overall health. This represents no change to current government recommendations. SACN concludes breastfeeding makes an important contribution to infant and maternal health. This includes the development of the infant immune system, while not breastfeeding is associated with a higher risk of infant hospital admission for infectious illness. Gov.UK
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Fish oil for a healthy heart 'nonsense'
Fish oil for a healthy heart 'nonsense' Taking omega-3 fish oil supplements is often touted as a simple way to protect your heart - but experts say the evidence that it does any good is flimsy at best.
Cochrane researchers looked at trials in over 100,000 people and found little proof that it prevented heart disease.
They say the chance of getting any meaningful benefit from taking omega-3 is one in 1,000. Eating oily fish, however, can still be recommended as part of a healthy diet. BBC News - Health
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Cochrane researchers looked at trials in over 100,000 people and found little proof that it prevented heart disease.
They say the chance of getting any meaningful benefit from taking omega-3 is one in 1,000. Eating oily fish, however, can still be recommended as part of a healthy diet. BBC News - Health
See also:
- Scientific expert reaction to Cochrane Review on omega-3 fatty acids Cochrane
- Buy more vegetables instead of omega-3 supplements to improve heart health, report says The Telegraph
- Intervention review: Omega-3 fatty acids for the primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease The Cochrane Library
Veterans in Crisis: ‘We must find out if international suicide rates are reflected in UK’
Veterans in Crisis: ‘We must find out if international suicide rates are reflected in UK’
A psychologist at a leading veterans charity says it is important that more research is carried out in order to find out if a spike in military veteran suicides among the UK’s allies is also reflected among British ex-service personnel.
Dr Dominic Murphy, a senior clinical lecturer at Combat Stress, says that the lack of data on the issue is a “red light” for those concerned about veterans’ welfare. Northampton Chronicle & Echo
A psychologist at a leading veterans charity says it is important that more research is carried out in order to find out if a spike in military veteran suicides among the UK’s allies is also reflected among British ex-service personnel.
Dr Dominic Murphy, a senior clinical lecturer at Combat Stress, says that the lack of data on the issue is a “red light” for those concerned about veterans’ welfare. Northampton Chronicle & Echo
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- Veterans in Crisis: Northamptonshire coroner supports our appeal to log ex-military suicides Northampton Chronicle & Echo
NHS trusts face worryingly high levels of senior vacancies
NHS trusts face worryingly high levels of senior vacancies A near-toxic mix of pressures facing NHS organisations, coupled with a culture of blaming individual leaders for failures beyond their control, means NHS trusts are facing significant difficulties in recruiting and retaining senior leaders, according to a new report from The King's Fund and NHS Providers. King's Fund
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- Leadership in today's NHS:delivering the impossible (report) King's Fund
- NHS trusts facing leadership crisis as senior posts go unfilled On Medica
NHS spending to strain public finances for next 50 years, OBR warns
NHS spending to strain public finances for next 50 years, OBR warns Extra health funding for an ageing population will add to deficit, Treasury forecast says.
Extra health funding and a population that is ageing faster than previously expected will add to the burden of spending over the next 50 years, according to the Treasury’s independent forecaster.
The £20bn boost to the health budget by 2021-22 promised by Theresa May, coupled with falling immigration – which will cut the number of young and working age people – will increase the public deficit unless the government moves to increase taxes or take other measures to reduce spending, the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) said. The Guardian
Extra health funding and a population that is ageing faster than previously expected will add to the burden of spending over the next 50 years, according to the Treasury’s independent forecaster.
The £20bn boost to the health budget by 2021-22 promised by Theresa May, coupled with falling immigration – which will cut the number of young and working age people – will increase the public deficit unless the government moves to increase taxes or take other measures to reduce spending, the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) said. The Guardian
Guidance: Learning disabilities and CQC inspection reports
Guidance: Learning disabilities and CQC inspection reports In 2014 an interim analysis examined the main Care Quality Commission (CQC) inspection reports of 63 trusts and reported relatively little mention of people with learning disabilities within these reports. Subsequently, the CQC has changed their inspection regime to include specific questions and follow up questions regarding the care and treatment of people with learning disabilities in acute hospitals. Gov.UK
Tuesday, 17 July 2018
Perfect Patient Information Journey: 7 steps for health services to improve information for people with long term conditions
Perfect Patient Information Journey: 7 steps for health services to improve information for people with long term conditions Embedding high-quality, accessible healthcare information across all patient pathways will enhance patient experience, improve outcomes and support patients with long-term conditions to manage their health. This will help tackle health inequality by empowering more people to make informed choices about their health and care.
The Patient Information Forum has developed 7 steps to support healthcare services to develop and embed patient information across their pathways.
The Patient Information Forum has developed 7 steps to support healthcare services to develop and embed patient information across their pathways.
Caring for carers: the lives of family carers in the UK
Caring for carers: the lives of family carers in the UK This report focuses on the demographics and experiences of those who provide family care. The current social care system is putting pressure on families to step in and provide care for relatives where the state does not. The report observes that: there are more women with caring responsibilities in the professional and managerial occupations; the number of hours of care that family carers provide is rising overall; and the more hours of care a person provides, the more likely they are to reduce their hours of work or exit the workforce altogether. The report makes a number of recommendations for the forthcoming social care green paper, several of which are aimed at “nudging” employers into offering more support for working carers. It also suggests much greater use of “care navigators” to help family carers guide elderly relatives through the complex system of public sector bodies likely to be involved in their overall package of care. Social Market Foundation
Nine in ten heart patients live with other long-term conditions, increasing their risk of dying
Nine in ten heart patients live with other long-term conditions, increasing their risk of dying Nine in ten people with coronary heart disease in the UK are living with at least one other long-term condition, such as stroke, dementia and high blood pressure, according to new figures
Our analysis reveals that 90% of people living with coronary heart disease have at least one other long-term condition, while six in ten have at least three. Numerous studies have shown that living with multiple conditions significantly increases the risk of early death.
The growing number of people living with inter-related health conditions – or multi-morbidities – represents a grave challenge for our health system, which is focused on treating individual illnesses. British Heart Foundation
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Our analysis reveals that 90% of people living with coronary heart disease have at least one other long-term condition, while six in ten have at least three. Numerous studies have shown that living with multiple conditions significantly increases the risk of early death.
The growing number of people living with inter-related health conditions – or multi-morbidities – represents a grave challenge for our health system, which is focused on treating individual illnesses. British Heart Foundation
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Editing human embryos 'morally permissible'
Editing human embryos 'morally permissible' Should we or shouldn't we be allowed to modify human DNA in future children?
An inquiry into the ethical issues surrounding genetically altering a human embryo has found there is "no absolute reason not to pursue it".
But appropriate measures must be put in place before it becomes UK law, said the report - which calls for further research both medically and socially.
Inquiry chair, Prof Karen Yeung, said: "The implications for society are extensive, profound and long-term." BBC News
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An inquiry into the ethical issues surrounding genetically altering a human embryo has found there is "no absolute reason not to pursue it".
But appropriate measures must be put in place before it becomes UK law, said the report - which calls for further research both medically and socially.
Inquiry chair, Prof Karen Yeung, said: "The implications for society are extensive, profound and long-term." BBC News
See also:
- Genome editing and human reproduction: social and ethical issues (report) Nuffield Council on Bioethics
- Heritable genome editing: action needed to secure responsible way forward Nuffield Council on Bioethics
- Creating 'designer babies' to enhance looks or intelligence could be 'morally permissible' The Daily Mail
- Designer babies: Picking traits for non-medical reasons could be 'morally permissible', says UK ethics group The Independent
Private management consultant spending at Department of Health nearly tripled last year, accounts show
Private management consultant spending at Department of Health nearly tripled last year, accounts show Spending on private management consultants at the Department of Health and Social Care nearly tripled last year, despite a push to cut running costs by a third, official figures show.
The department’s annual report reveals that in 2017/18 it spent £12.4m on consultancy services, up from £4.5m in 2016/17.
This extra spending was needed to secure “specialist support not available with the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC)”, the report said. It comes after it cut hundreds of jobs to meet its pledge on reducing spending by 30 per cent in 2019. The Independent
The department’s annual report reveals that in 2017/18 it spent £12.4m on consultancy services, up from £4.5m in 2016/17.
This extra spending was needed to secure “specialist support not available with the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC)”, the report said. It comes after it cut hundreds of jobs to meet its pledge on reducing spending by 30 per cent in 2019. The Independent
'Brexit dividend' for health service a myth, Government's official spending watchdog confirms
'Brexit dividend' for health service a myth, Government's official spending watchdog confirms The Office for Budget Responsibility, established in 2010 to provide independent forecasts for the Government, confirmed that Brexit is more likely to weaken than strengthen the public finances. The Independent
NHS decision to fund new asthma drug a 'beacon of hope' to thousands
NHS decision to fund new asthma drug a 'beacon of hope' to thousands Around 100,000 people suffering from the worst form of asthma will be given access to a £12,000 treatment that promises the chance of a more normal life.
Health chiefs have said the NHS will pay for injections of Benralizumab for those who cannot be helped by traditional inhalers or steroids.
Patients groups welcomed the decision saying it offers a “beacon of hope” to people suffering from severe eosinophilic asthma, around 1.3 per cent of the 5.4 million living with all forms of the disease. The Daily Telegraph
Health chiefs have said the NHS will pay for injections of Benralizumab for those who cannot be helped by traditional inhalers or steroids.
Patients groups welcomed the decision saying it offers a “beacon of hope” to people suffering from severe eosinophilic asthma, around 1.3 per cent of the 5.4 million living with all forms of the disease. The Daily Telegraph
GPs posting 'fake reviews' online, health chiefs reveal
GPs posting 'fake reviews' online, health chiefs reveal GPs are posing as patients and writing fake positive reviews on the NHS Choices website, health chiefs have claimed, sparking a row with family doctors.
Officials running the patient information service have revealed they are being forced to remove comments they suspect have been posted by practice staff to preserve the “integrity” of the site.
These are among 3,400 posts investigated for a variety of reasons so far this year, 58 per cent of which have since been removed. The Daily Telegraph
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Officials running the patient information service have revealed they are being forced to remove comments they suspect have been posted by practice staff to preserve the “integrity” of the site.
These are among 3,400 posts investigated for a variety of reasons so far this year, 58 per cent of which have since been removed. The Daily Telegraph
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Men are being left in agony as NHS denies them hernia operations
Men are being left in agony as NHS denies them hernia operations More than half the health boards in England refuse NHS funding for the 45-minute procedure unless patients are in enough agony to ‘impede working life’ or ‘everyday activities’. The Daily Mail
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See also:
- A dangerous waiting game?A review of patient access to inguinal hernia surgery in England British Hernia Society and the Royal College of Surgeons
- Thousands of groin hernia patients left in pain and at risk of complications by NHS, warn surgeons Royal College of Surgeons
- Kent and Medway NHS hernia policy 'may be rationing' surgery BBC News
- Hernia patients forced to prove debilitating pain before granted operations on the NHS The Daily Telegraph
- NHS rationing putting hernia patients' lives at risk, say surgeons The Guardian
Monday, 16 July 2018
New advice to help employers deal with domestic abuse and stigma
New advice to help employers deal with domestic abuse and stigma Public Health England and Business in the Community publish new toolkit to help employers support workers affected by domestic abuse.
Mencap wins 'unaffordable' overnight back pay appeal
Mencap wins 'unaffordable' overnight back pay appeal Care workers who had to stay overnight as part of their job will not be entitled to back pay at the minimum wage after a Court of Appeal ruling.
The charity Mencap, who won the appeal, argued that a previous tribunal decision which compelled care providers to fund six years' back pay for overnight carers was unaffordable.
And it said smaller employers could be forced out of business by the decision.
But a union said workers should be paid what they were legally entitled to. BBC News
The charity Mencap, who won the appeal, argued that a previous tribunal decision which compelled care providers to fund six years' back pay for overnight carers was unaffordable.
And it said smaller employers could be forced out of business by the decision.
But a union said workers should be paid what they were legally entitled to. BBC News
Cost of NHS clinical negligence payouts continues to soar
Cost of NHS clinical negligence payouts continues to soar NHS Resolution, which handles legal claims against secondary care providers, spent an extra £404m on clinical negligence payouts last year solely related to the discount rate cut.
The total cost of payouts relating to clinical claims was up by close to one-third to £2.23bn in 2017/18, from £1.71 bn in 2016/17.
According to the report, this comes despite 'clinical claim numbers' having 'stabilised after many years of significant growth' - however payouts have grown in size including some at £20m. Pulse
The total cost of payouts relating to clinical claims was up by close to one-third to £2.23bn in 2017/18, from £1.71 bn in 2016/17.
According to the report, this comes despite 'clinical claim numbers' having 'stabilised after many years of significant growth' - however payouts have grown in size including some at £20m. Pulse
Over 60% of NHS trusts surveyed don't have instant messaging policy
Over 60% of NHS trusts surveyed don't have instant messaging policy Just under two-thirds of NHS Trusts surveyed do not have a policy regarding the use of messaging apps, a freedom of information act (FOI) has revealed.
Hospify, a company that provides a secure mobile messaging service compliant for use in healthcare, sent FOI requests to 152 trusts in England earlier this year, asking a number of questions regarding their instant messaging guidelines.
As part of the request, hospitals were asked whether they had a policy regarding the use of messaging apps by their staff, and whether or not non-compliant apps were actively prohibited from use. Digital Health
Hospify, a company that provides a secure mobile messaging service compliant for use in healthcare, sent FOI requests to 152 trusts in England earlier this year, asking a number of questions regarding their instant messaging guidelines.
As part of the request, hospitals were asked whether they had a policy regarding the use of messaging apps by their staff, and whether or not non-compliant apps were actively prohibited from use. Digital Health
NHS performance figures show ‘the writing is on the wall’
NHS performance figures show ‘the writing is on the wall’ NHS Providers has warned that “the writing is on the wall” as the latest official NHS performance figures show no let-up in the growing demand for NHS services – and its performance slipping against cancer targets, a sharp rise in the number of people waiting more than a year for routine operations, and no year-on-year improvement in accident and emergency performance.
Following his appointment last week as health and social care secretary, Matthew Hancock promised doctors, nurses, NHS managers and leaders and other care workers: “I will work with you, I will back you and I will make sure you have the long-term plan you need.” But the NHS Confederation said the new figures are a “baptism of fire” for him, as he takes on ministerial responsibility for “a system under intolerable strain”. OnMedica
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Following his appointment last week as health and social care secretary, Matthew Hancock promised doctors, nurses, NHS managers and leaders and other care workers: “I will work with you, I will back you and I will make sure you have the long-term plan you need.” But the NHS Confederation said the new figures are a “baptism of fire” for him, as he takes on ministerial responsibility for “a system under intolerable strain”. OnMedica
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- No let up in the growing demand for treatment NHS Providers
Horsefly bites: Drain paddling pools to stop biting insects breeding, say experts as reports soar
Horsefly bites: Drain paddling pools to stop biting insects breeding, say experts as reports soar Families should drain paddling pools to fend off bloodsucking horseflies, experts have said, amid a surge in reports of bites that can lead to potentially deadly infections.
The insects – also known as clegs – are flourishing in Britain’s longest heatwave in 40 years, according to scientists.
Calls to the NHS 111 helpline about insect bites last week were nearly double the average for this time of year, while doctors have reported patients needing hospital treatment for resulting infections. The Independent
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The insects – also known as clegs – are flourishing in Britain’s longest heatwave in 40 years, according to scientists.
Calls to the NHS 111 helpline about insect bites last week were nearly double the average for this time of year, while doctors have reported patients needing hospital treatment for resulting infections. The Independent
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I work at the Suicide Crisis Centre, so I know how much the NHS needs more funding for mental health services
I work at the Suicide Crisis Centre, so I know how much the NHS needs more funding for mental health services A woman calls us; she says she cannot get through to the NHS crisis team. We talk to her and then phone the crisis team for her. It’s on voicemail, and this has happened regularly in recent weeks. They must be inundated, too. The Independent
Nearly 8 million people providing care for family members without pay
Nearly 8 million people providing care for family members without pay Charities call for investment in care system, saying carers are losing out
The number of people caring for a family member has reached 7.6 million, a sharp increase of one million compared with a decade ago.
Data analysis by the Social Market Foundation, an independent thinktank, shows that millions are now giving up their time to for free to look after elderly relatives, a partner or a sick or disabled child – with the number spending 20 hours or more caring for a relative up by 4% between 2005 and 2015. Continue reading... The Guardian
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The number of people caring for a family member has reached 7.6 million, a sharp increase of one million compared with a decade ago.
Data analysis by the Social Market Foundation, an independent thinktank, shows that millions are now giving up their time to for free to look after elderly relatives, a partner or a sick or disabled child – with the number spending 20 hours or more caring for a relative up by 4% between 2005 and 2015. Continue reading... The Guardian
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- UK Census: the toll of being an unpaid carer The Guardian
NHS opt-in transplant policy at risk due to cuts and staff stress
NHS opt-in transplant policy at risk due to cuts and staff stress Report shows transplant service short of necessary skilled staff and equipment
Plans to save hundreds of lives by making everyone in England a potential organ donor could fail because hospitals are so short of transplant surgeons and specialist nurses, the NHS’s own analysis of the policy has revealed.
Lives could be lost because teams of organ retrieval specialists are already under “extreme stress” and understaffed transplant centres are struggling to keep up with existing demand, according to NHS Blood and Transplant’s (NHSBT) impact assessment of switching to a system of presumed consent. Continue reading... The Guardian
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Plans to save hundreds of lives by making everyone in England a potential organ donor could fail because hospitals are so short of transplant surgeons and specialist nurses, the NHS’s own analysis of the policy has revealed.
Lives could be lost because teams of organ retrieval specialists are already under “extreme stress” and understaffed transplant centres are struggling to keep up with existing demand, according to NHS Blood and Transplant’s (NHSBT) impact assessment of switching to a system of presumed consent. Continue reading... The Guardian
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Doctors warn of rise in addiction to prescription drugs bought online
Doctors warn of rise in addiction to prescription drugs bought online Clinic set up for teenagers sees high number of adults seeking treatment after illicitly buying drugs such as Xanax to treat anxiety
A pioneering clinic set up to help teenagers addicted to Xanax and other prescription drugs is being sought out by adults who use pills purchased illicitly on the internet.
At the beginning of the year Dr Owen Bowden-Jones opened the Addiction to Online Medicine (Atom) service in London, a free, easy-to-access NHS clinic that offers one-to-one meetings and group mindfulness sessions. Continue reading... The Guardian
A pioneering clinic set up to help teenagers addicted to Xanax and other prescription drugs is being sought out by adults who use pills purchased illicitly on the internet.
At the beginning of the year Dr Owen Bowden-Jones opened the Addiction to Online Medicine (Atom) service in London, a free, easy-to-access NHS clinic that offers one-to-one meetings and group mindfulness sessions. Continue reading... The Guardian
Smokers forced to quit on their own after funding cuts
Smokers forced to quit on their own after funding cuts Prescriptions for drugs that help kick the habit fall by 75% in England, report says
Thousands of smokers are being left without the support they need to quit after prescriptions of products to help them stop plummeted by 75% over the last decade, according to a report.
GPs are the most common first port of call for smokers who want to beat their addiction in England – 38% of smokers choose this route. Continue reading... The Guardian
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Thousands of smokers are being left without the support they need to quit after prescriptions of products to help them stop plummeted by 75% over the last decade, according to a report.
GPs are the most common first port of call for smokers who want to beat their addiction in England – 38% of smokers choose this route. Continue reading... The Guardian
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Prenatal depression soars 50 per cent in a generation, new study finds
Prenatal depression soars 50 per cent in a generation, new study finds Depression during pregnancy is on the rise due to an an increase in women in work combined with pressure from social media, experts have said.
A new study reveals an “alarming” 50 per cent rise in levels of prenatal depression in a single generation. The Daily Telegraph
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A new study reveals an “alarming” 50 per cent rise in levels of prenatal depression in a single generation. The Daily Telegraph
See also:
- Prevalence of Prenatal Depression Symptoms Among 2 Generations of Pregnant Mothers: The Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (open access) JAMA Network Open
- Depression during pregnancy rises in a generation University of Bristol
- Millennial women more likely to suffer depression during pregnancy The Daily Mail
Friday, 13 July 2018
Northamptonshire: CQC publishes its review of how local health and social care systems work together
Northamptonshire: CQC publishes its review of how local health and social care systems work together The Care Quality Commission has published its findings following a review of health and social care services in Northamptonshire.
This report is one of 20 targeted local system reviews looking specifically at how older people move through the health and social care system, with a focus on how services work together. The reviews look at how hospitals, community health services, GP practices, care homes and homecare agencies work together to provide seamless care for people aged 65 and over living in a local area.
The review found there was a system-wide commitment to serving the people of Northamptonshire but that services had not always worked effectively together. It highlighted a number of areas where improvements are needed to ensure those responsible for providing health and social care services work better together.
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This report is one of 20 targeted local system reviews looking specifically at how older people move through the health and social care system, with a focus on how services work together. The reviews look at how hospitals, community health services, GP practices, care homes and homecare agencies work together to provide seamless care for people aged 65 and over living in a local area.
The review found there was a system-wide commitment to serving the people of Northamptonshire but that services had not always worked effectively together. It highlighted a number of areas where improvements are needed to ensure those responsible for providing health and social care services work better together.
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- Northamptonshire healthcare systems 'not working well together'. BBC Northampton
The NHS 10-year plan: how should the extra funding be spent?
The NHS 10-year plan: how should the extra funding be spent? The government has announced increases in NHS funding and has asked the NHS to come up with a 10-year plan for how this funding will be used. After eight years of austerity, there is now an opportunity to tackle the issues that matter most to patients and communities and to improve health and care. Our new long read explores the priorities and opportunities for the NHS and social care. The King's Fund
Safe medical staffing
Safe medical staffing The RCP's Guidance on safe medical staffing working party report aims to help those planning and organising core hospital medical services to answer the question: ‘How many doctors or their alternatives, with what capabilities, do we need to provide safe, timely and effective care for patients with medical problems?'. Royal College of Physicians
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Removing the student nurse bursary has been a disaster
Removing the student nurse bursary has been a disaster Two years on from the removal of the NHS student bursary, applications to nursing degree courses have plummeted by a third in England.
Numbers applying to begin training in September 2018 have dropped 12% compared to the same time last year, resulting in a total decline of 16,580 since March 2016, the last year students received financial support through the bursary.
The fall in mature student numbers has been even more extreme, with a 16% drop by the June application deadline compared to the same point last year, and a total decline of 40% since June 2016. Royal College of Nursing
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Numbers applying to begin training in September 2018 have dropped 12% compared to the same time last year, resulting in a total decline of 16,580 since March 2016, the last year students received financial support through the bursary.
The fall in mature student numbers has been even more extreme, with a 16% drop by the June application deadline compared to the same point last year, and a total decline of 40% since June 2016. Royal College of Nursing
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Learning from deaths: guidance for NHS trusts on working with bereaved families and carers
Learning from deaths: guidance for NHS trusts on working with bereaved families and carers This guidance advises trusts on how they should support, communicate and engage with families following a death of someone in their care. It sets out different stages following a death and calls on trusts to involve families throughout by providing bereavement support, signposting families to advice and advocacy support along with examples of how trusts are working with families and good practice guidance on specific subjects. NHS England
In good health: a report following the All Party Pharmacy Group's 2018 inquiry into long term conditions
In good health: a report following the All Party Pharmacy Group's 2018 inquiry into long term conditions This report highlights the opportunities for community pharmacies to deliver and improve care for patients with long-term conditions. It outlines four key actions that would enable long-term conditions to be managed in a community setting and argues that these actions should be implemented by 2020. All-Party Pharmacy Group
Public health approaches to reducing family violence
Public health approaches to reducing family violence This report provides an introduction to the subject of family violence and looks at the evidence on using a public health approach to reducing family violence. It examines the evidence on what a public health approach tells us about family violence and which public health interventions are effective in reducing violence. Local Government Association
A sustainable adult social care and support system for the long term: moving the conversation on
A sustainable adult social care and support system for the long term: moving the conversation on Ahead of the green paper on the future of adult social care, this paper outlines the view of sector experts on issues at the heart of the debate to help define what a system fit for future generations might look like. Local Government Association
Polypharmacy: getting our medicines right
Polypharmacy: getting our medicines right This draft guidance outlines the size of the challenge of problematic polypharmacy and highlights the work being done to address it. It makes clear recommendations to organisations and individuals involved with medicines as part of the care of the people they serve. Views are being sought on this draft guidance and responses will be accepted until 28 August 2018. Royal Pharmaceutical Society
Over 400 GPs at risk of deportation as NHS is unable to sponsor their visas
Over 400 GPs at risk of deportation as NHS is unable to sponsor their visas NHS England has reached out to GP practices in an 'urgent' bid to find sponsors for 400 international GPs due to complete their training this month.
It had hoped to be able to act as a ‘proxy sponsor’ itself to secure the visas for the newly-qualified GPs but an email seen by Pulse said NHS England was ‘unlikely’ to be able to do so.
According to the email, there are more than 400 non-EEA students in the GP training system due to qualify at the end of July. Pulse
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It had hoped to be able to act as a ‘proxy sponsor’ itself to secure the visas for the newly-qualified GPs but an email seen by Pulse said NHS England was ‘unlikely’ to be able to do so.
According to the email, there are more than 400 non-EEA students in the GP training system due to qualify at the end of July. Pulse
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- College ‘disappointed’ by reports that plans to cut red-tape on GP recruitment have fallen through Royal College of General Practitioners
- More than 400 overseas trainee GPs could be thrown out of England The Daily Mail
Don't dismiss tech solutions to mental health problems
Don't dismiss tech solutions to mental health problems The words “mental health” and “crisis” now appear to be yoked together. About a quarter of us will suffer from a clinical psychological disorder over the next year, but most people will receive no help at all. The question is no longer about whether we have a problem, but what we are going to do about it.
We don’t lack high-quality, evidence-based psychological treatments for many mental health problems. These treatments have been verified by dozens of clinical trials. What we are short of is the skilled clinicians to deliver them. Continue reading... The Guardian
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We don’t lack high-quality, evidence-based psychological treatments for many mental health problems. These treatments have been verified by dozens of clinical trials. What we are short of is the skilled clinicians to deliver them. Continue reading... The Guardian
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Sharp rise in under-19s being treated by NHS mental health services
Sharp rise in under-19s being treated by NHS mental health services There were a record 389,727 ‘active referrals’ in England in April, NHS figures show
Almost 400,000 children and young people a year in England are being treated for mental health problems, the highest number ever, NHS figures show.
There were a total of 389,727 “active referrals” for people aged 18 or younger in April, a third higher than the same month two years ago, according to the latest statistics published by NHS Digital. Continue reading... The Guardian
Almost 400,000 children and young people a year in England are being treated for mental health problems, the highest number ever, NHS figures show.
There were a total of 389,727 “active referrals” for people aged 18 or younger in April, a third higher than the same month two years ago, according to the latest statistics published by NHS Digital. Continue reading... The Guardian
NHS Trust puts up posters reminding surgeons to check identity of patients before operating
NHS Trust puts up posters reminding surgeons to check identity of patients before operating Two hospitals have put up posters in operating theatres reminding surgeons to make sure they have got the right patients.
Oxford University Trust introduced the posters at John Radcliffe and Churchill hospitals after four patients received the wrong operation from May to June this year. The Daily Telegraph
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Oxford University Trust introduced the posters at John Radcliffe and Churchill hospitals after four patients received the wrong operation from May to June this year. The Daily Telegraph
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211,000 patients have been waiting 6 MONTHS for treatment
211,000 patients have been waiting 6 MONTHS for treatment Some 4.08 million patients in May were waiting to start treatment - the highest total since 4.19 million in August 2007, according to figures released by NHS England. The Daily Mail
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Thursday, 12 July 2018
Study into health and social care needs of Armed Forces veterans published by Northamptonshire Healthcare
Study into health and social care needs of Armed Forces veterans published by Northamptonshire Healthcare A Northamptonshire Healthcare survey into the care needs of Armed Forces veterans has highlighted several recommendations that could shape the future of their treatment in the county.
More than 450 people took part in the study between February and May 2018 and a report on the findings has been published today.
In particular, the report highlights the mental health needs of Armed Forces veterans and their families and some of the difficulties experienced when they leave the Forces and transition back to civilian life. Northamptonshire Telegraph
More than 450 people took part in the study between February and May 2018 and a report on the findings has been published today.
In particular, the report highlights the mental health needs of Armed Forces veterans and their families and some of the difficulties experienced when they leave the Forces and transition back to civilian life. Northamptonshire Telegraph
The NHS 10-year plan: transformation holds the key to sustainability
The NHS 10-year plan: transformation holds the key to sustainability A new analysis by NHS Providers argues that stabilising NHS finances, tackling pressures in mental health and community services, dealing with backlog maintenance, achieving key waiting time standards, and funding other pressing needs would take up much if not most of the additional spending announced by the Prime Minister. In the words of NHS Providers, the NHS 10-year plan ‘will therefore have to make some extremely uncomfortable choices, including over how quickly improvements can realistically be made given the current starting position’. The King's Fund
News story: Measles outbreaks across England
News story: Measles outbreaks across England Public Health England is advising the public to ensure they have had 2 doses of MMR vaccine after outbreaks of measles are confirmed across England.
Supporting line managers to foster engagement
Supporting line managers to foster engagement This briefing explores work that can be done to support and develop line managers to improve staff engagement across NHS organisations. It is based on the issues raised by line managers within the NHS and looks at challenges for staff engagement. It outlines suggestions on how organisations can support line managers to manage in way that supports engagement. NHS Employers
NHS still reliant on 'archaic' fax machines
NHS still reliant on 'archaic' fax machines Hospitals are still reliant on "archaic" fax machines with thousands still in use, a survey shows.
Senior doctors said the continued use of the outdated technology was "ludicrous", and modern forms of communication were urgently needed.
The poll, by the Royal College of Surgeons using freedom of information laws, revealed nearly 9,000 fax machines were in use across England. BBC News
Senior doctors said the continued use of the outdated technology was "ludicrous", and modern forms of communication were urgently needed.
The poll, by the Royal College of Surgeons using freedom of information laws, revealed nearly 9,000 fax machines were in use across England. BBC News
Could artificial intelligence replace doctors?
Could artificial intelligence replace doctors? UK company Babylon Health is testing an artificially intelligent medical chatbot in Rwanda.
A patient's symptoms are entered into the chatbot and it then suggests what needs to be done.
But suggestions that the tech can beat GPs at a medical exam have caused controversy.
BBC Click finds out more.
A patient's symptoms are entered into the chatbot and it then suggests what needs to be done.
But suggestions that the tech can beat GPs at a medical exam have caused controversy.
BBC Click finds out more.
Anti-NHS think-tank with links to new health secretary Matt Hancock under investigation by charity commission
Anti-NHS think-tank with links to new health secretary Matt Hancock under investigation by charity commission An anti-NHS think tank whose chair has donated thousands of pounds to the new health secretary is being investigated on whether it breached rules on political independence by the Charity Commission.
The Independent
Concerns were brought to the watchdog about the Institute of Economic Affairs which is registered as an educational charity but has ties to the Conservative Party and the Brexit movement.
Matt Hancock, who replaced Jeremy Hunt this week, has received £32,000 since 2010 from the chair of the IEA’s board, Neil Record who has also donated to the government. The Independent
The Independent
Concerns were brought to the watchdog about the Institute of Economic Affairs which is registered as an educational charity but has ties to the Conservative Party and the Brexit movement.
Matt Hancock, who replaced Jeremy Hunt this week, has received £32,000 since 2010 from the chair of the IEA’s board, Neil Record who has also donated to the government. The Independent
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In A&E I see children's terror as they choke from polluted air this summer
In A&E I see children's terror as they choke from polluted air this summer The cocktail of pollution and pollen in London kills people. Politicians should spend a night on the wards to see the harm
Summer nights are supposed to be quiet on the children’s unit in A&E. Kids are normally healthy during the warmer months: the risk of colds and flu is low, and their bodies are invigorated by sunshine and exercise. They might suffer the odd scrape or broken bone from playing outside, but nothing that would land them in hospital in the middle of the night.
Not this summer. Something is different. I spent the first week of July working nights in the A&E of a major central London hospital, and it was full of children. Rushing between the emergency room and the ward, I barely had a moment to myself from 8pm when I started my shift to 10am when I handed over to the day team. It’s not normal. Children aren’t supposed to be this sick. Continue reading... The Guardian
Summer nights are supposed to be quiet on the children’s unit in A&E. Kids are normally healthy during the warmer months: the risk of colds and flu is low, and their bodies are invigorated by sunshine and exercise. They might suffer the odd scrape or broken bone from playing outside, but nothing that would land them in hospital in the middle of the night.
Not this summer. Something is different. I spent the first week of July working nights in the A&E of a major central London hospital, and it was full of children. Rushing between the emergency room and the ward, I barely had a moment to myself from 8pm when I started my shift to 10am when I handed over to the day team. It’s not normal. Children aren’t supposed to be this sick. Continue reading... The Guardian
Cases of the 'Victorian' scarlet fever soar to highest levels in 60 years
Cases of the 'Victorian' scarlet fever soar to highest levels in 60 years Public Health England figures show 26,745 have been struck down by scarlet fever already this year, after 27 just weeks. Cases of measles are twice as high as last year. The Daily Mail
Wednesday, 11 July 2018
Health investment needs long-term thinking
Health investment needs long-term thinking Investing in public health pays off down the line. As the government seeks to restore NHS funding it cannot also ignore this vital policy area.
In the year of its 70th birthday the NHS has quite rightly been made the centre of attention. A government commitment to boost NHS funding is a welcome early present, even if, as Health Foundation analysis has shown, the 3.4% increase promised will at best stem the decline in services. The Health Foundation
In the year of its 70th birthday the NHS has quite rightly been made the centre of attention. A government commitment to boost NHS funding is a welcome early present, even if, as Health Foundation analysis has shown, the 3.4% increase promised will at best stem the decline in services. The Health Foundation
Prevention is better than the cure
Prevention is better than the cure In the first of our case study mini series, Mersey Care NHS Foundation Trust share how they reduced sickness absence and presenteeism at work.
The trust placed staff health and wellbeing at the centre of their strategy by implementing core services and additional interventions staff can call upon. They believe that by helping staff identify stressors and giving them access to immediate and appropriate support helps reduce the amount of absence days. NHS Employers
The trust placed staff health and wellbeing at the centre of their strategy by implementing core services and additional interventions staff can call upon. They believe that by helping staff identify stressors and giving them access to immediate and appropriate support helps reduce the amount of absence days. NHS Employers
Homes that help: a personal and professional perspective on home adaptations
Homes that help: a personal and professional perspective on home adaptations This report summarises the findings of a primary research project exploring the lived experiences of individuals who use home adaptations, and practitioners who work alongside them. It shows that people are delaying making vital changes to homes because of the clinical and stigmatising appearance of products like handrails and ramps. Centre for Ageing Better
Emerging sex disease MG 'could become next superbug'
Emerging sex disease MG 'could become next superbug' A little known sexually transmitted infection could become the next superbug unless people become more vigilant, experts are warning.
Mycoplasma genitalium (MG) often has no symptoms but can cause pelvic inflammatory disease, which can leave some women infertile.
MG can be missed - and if it is not treated correctly, it can develop resistance to antibiotics.
The British Association of Sexual Health and HIV is launching new advice.
Its draft guidelines detail how best to spot and treat MG. BBC News
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Mycoplasma genitalium (MG) often has no symptoms but can cause pelvic inflammatory disease, which can leave some women infertile.
MG can be missed - and if it is not treated correctly, it can develop resistance to antibiotics.
The British Association of Sexual Health and HIV is launching new advice.
Its draft guidelines detail how best to spot and treat MG. BBC News
See also:
- 2018 national guideline for the 2 management of infection with Mycoplasma genitalium consultation document British Association of Sexual Health and HIV
- Warning to thousands of women over STI that could lead to infertility The Daily Mail
- Rare STI could turn into superbug, doctors warn The Daily Telegraph
Study links pollution to hospital visits
Study links pollution to hospital visits Scientists have found a direct link between air pollution levels and hospital admissions in Tayside.
A team at the University of Dundee studied the medical records of 450 patients with bronchiectasis against 15 years of pollution data for the study.
They discovered that many had sought medical help on days when pollution levels spiked.
They concluded that a "fairly modest" cut in pollution would have prevented nearly 1,000 medical interventions. BBC News
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A team at the University of Dundee studied the medical records of 450 patients with bronchiectasis against 15 years of pollution data for the study.
They discovered that many had sought medical help on days when pollution levels spiked.
They concluded that a "fairly modest" cut in pollution would have prevented nearly 1,000 medical interventions. BBC News
See also:
- The impact of acute air pollution fluctuations on bronchiectasis pulmonary exacerbation. A case-crossover analysis (abstract) European Respiratory Journal
Matt Hancock: Who is the new health secretary and what is he going to do to the NHS?
Matt Hancock: Who is the new health secretary and what is he going to do to the NHS? Amid the carnage of Theresa May’s emergency cabinet reshuffle, the studied art of political-forecasting-by-NHS-badge fell by the wayside and Jeremy Hunt called time on his run as longest-serving health secretary in history to fill a Boris-shaped hole.
The prime minister wasted no time appointing Matt Hancock, 39,as his successor, moving from Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) secretary to head the Department of Health and Social Care. The Independent
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The prime minister wasted no time appointing Matt Hancock, 39,as his successor, moving from Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) secretary to head the Department of Health and Social Care. The Independent
See also:
- New leadership, same old problems BBC News
- Twitter reacts to Matt Hancock becoming the new Health Secretary The Daily Mail
- NHS crisis: Five problems Jeremy Hunt has left for his successor to deal with The Independent
- NHS 'slipped backwards' under Jeremy Hunt and departure is 'long overdue', health experts say The Independent
Ditch the pills. We’ve found a better medicine for old age
Ditch the pills. We’ve found a better medicine for old age | Stewart Dakers Social prescribing allows GPs to offer activities and support for older people. They just need to know what’s available
We seem rather short of the older generation.” The remark was made by the chair of a meeting I attended last month of an old people’s network, organised by the county council adult care department, where I was indeed the only representative of the older generation. The other 30 or so people were from agencies and charities engaged with the crumbly generation.
The atmosphere was pungent with well-meaningness. The format was presentations followed by questions, culminating in around the table reports, by which time there was a certain restlessness, which put silent pressure on the final few to be brief. There is clearly an art in seat selection on such occasions if you want a decent hearing. The main item was “social prescription”. It takes its format from medical prescription, where you go to the doctor, explain your symptoms and leave with a piece of paper containing the name of a drug. Its “social” sibling would go through the same process, with care as well as health agencies, the piece of paper prescribes an activity, facility, or support group. In theory, an exciting idea but one which, as a potential client, living and working among existing clients, I felt obliged to challenge. Continue reading... The Guardian
We seem rather short of the older generation.” The remark was made by the chair of a meeting I attended last month of an old people’s network, organised by the county council adult care department, where I was indeed the only representative of the older generation. The other 30 or so people were from agencies and charities engaged with the crumbly generation.
The atmosphere was pungent with well-meaningness. The format was presentations followed by questions, culminating in around the table reports, by which time there was a certain restlessness, which put silent pressure on the final few to be brief. There is clearly an art in seat selection on such occasions if you want a decent hearing. The main item was “social prescription”. It takes its format from medical prescription, where you go to the doctor, explain your symptoms and leave with a piece of paper containing the name of a drug. Its “social” sibling would go through the same process, with care as well as health agencies, the piece of paper prescribes an activity, facility, or support group. In theory, an exciting idea but one which, as a potential client, living and working among existing clients, I felt obliged to challenge. Continue reading... The Guardian
CQC head David Behan: ‘Care has got safer and quality has got better’
CQC head David Behan: ‘Care has got safer and quality has got better’ | Denis Campbell The outgoing chief executive of the health and care regulator defends its tougher regime under his watch
“One of my jobs when I came in was to restore political, professional and public confidence in the Care Quality Commission, says David Behan, chief executive of the CQC. “It was shot when I took over and there’s no point in contending that it was anything else”.
Behan is reflecting on the challenge he faced when he took over at the helm of the regulator of health and social care in England in 2012. He succeeded Cynthia Bower, who was forced to resign amid a scandal over the CQC’s failure to uncover the appalling treatment of people with learning disabilities at Winterbourne View hospital in Bristol and a subsequent Department of Health inquiry. Continue reading... The Guardian
“One of my jobs when I came in was to restore political, professional and public confidence in the Care Quality Commission, says David Behan, chief executive of the CQC. “It was shot when I took over and there’s no point in contending that it was anything else”.
Behan is reflecting on the challenge he faced when he took over at the helm of the regulator of health and social care in England in 2012. He succeeded Cynthia Bower, who was forced to resign amid a scandal over the CQC’s failure to uncover the appalling treatment of people with learning disabilities at Winterbourne View hospital in Bristol and a subsequent Department of Health inquiry. Continue reading... The Guardian
Antibiotics frequently supplied without prescription, global review finds
Antibiotics frequently supplied without prescription, global review finds Antibiotics are being doled out without prescriptions in pharmacies around the world, potentially leading to the development and spread of superbugs, a study has found.
Three in four patient requests for antibiotics and three in five consultations at community pharmacies led to the sale of antibiotics without a prescription - often for conditions not needing the drugs.
For the study, the researchers looked at local or country-level studies from 2000 to 2017 on sales of antibiotics by pharmacies around the world. In all but one of the 24 countries in the study (Thailand), providing antibiotic drugs without a prescription is illegal. The Daily Telegraph
Three in four patient requests for antibiotics and three in five consultations at community pharmacies led to the sale of antibiotics without a prescription - often for conditions not needing the drugs.
For the study, the researchers looked at local or country-level studies from 2000 to 2017 on sales of antibiotics by pharmacies around the world. In all but one of the 24 countries in the study (Thailand), providing antibiotic drugs without a prescription is illegal. The Daily Telegraph
Tuesday, 10 July 2018
The changing shape of NHS finances
The changing shape of NHS finances The Prime Minister’s announcement of a multi-year funding offer from April 2019 has understandably taken up most of the oxygen in the room recently when it comes to NHS funding and finance. But we still have the 2018/19 financial year to get through before this funding kicks in. It was originally hoped that the NHS provider sector would be financially balanced this year, but four months into 2018/19, and it is still unclear what level of financial deficits the NHS provider sector is actually planning for. Our recent quarterly monitoring report (QMR) survey of NHS trust finance directors suggests the NHS still has a difficult year ahead. The King's Fund
Burnt out doctors feel exhausted before they start a shift - GMC survey shows
Burnt out doctors feel exhausted before they start a shift - GMC survey shows Nearly a quarter of trainee doctors say their work makes them feel ‘burnt out’, and almost one in three say they are often ‘exhausted’ in the morning at the thought of another shift, according to a General Medical Council (GMC) survey.
The GMC has today (Monday 9 July) published the initial findings from its annual national training surveys, a detailed UK-wide poll of more than 70,000 doctors in training and doctors who act as trainers.
Almost half of trainees reported regularly working beyond their rostered hours, and around one in five say they often feel short of sleep while at work. Forty per cent described the intensity of their work as ‘heavy or very heavy’.
Trainers also reported heavy workloads, with a third of them saying it was hard to find the time they need to fulfil their educational roles.
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The GMC has today (Monday 9 July) published the initial findings from its annual national training surveys, a detailed UK-wide poll of more than 70,000 doctors in training and doctors who act as trainers.
Almost half of trainees reported regularly working beyond their rostered hours, and around one in five say they often feel short of sleep while at work. Forty per cent described the intensity of their work as ‘heavy or very heavy’.
Trainers also reported heavy workloads, with a third of them saying it was hard to find the time they need to fulfil their educational roles.
See also:
- National training surveys initial findings report and training pathways report General Medical Council
- Junior doctors too overworked for essential training, report warns The Daily Telegraph
- Exhausted junior doctors could increase risk of patient mistakes, report warns The Independent
- One in four trainee doctors feel burnt out, GMC survey shows GPonline
HSIB second national investigation report: CAMHS to AMHS
HSIB second national investigation report: CAMHS to AMHS The Healthcare Safety Investigation Branch has published its second full investigation report to support a new learning culture around mistakes in the NHS. The investigation reviewed the transition of care from child and adolescent to adult mental health services to understand how variations in the transition impacts the safe and effective care of young people. As a result of the investigation a number of recommendations have been made to national NHS organisations to make the transition smoother and safer for young people.
See also:
See also:
- Investigation into the transition from child and adolescent mental health services to adult mental health services final report and summary Healthcare Safety Investigation Branch
- Chief Investigator's statement - CAMHS to AMHS Healthcare Safety Investigation Branch
- Mental health: Children failed at vulnerable point BBC News
Financial sustainability of local authorities
Financial sustainability of local authorities This report finds that after seven years of government funding reductions totalling nearly 50 per cent and rising demand for services, local authorities are under real strain. Key services that support vulnerable people, such as social care and housing, are now under enormous pressure. The harsh reality is that more and more local authorities are now showing signs of financial stress such as overspending on services. They now face a period of greater uncertainty as their funding framework beyond 2019–20 is unclear. The report notes that recent announcement about additional money for the NHS did not include anything for social care. Given that social care is the other half of the equation, it is vital that there is a long-term solution. Public Accounts Committee
Immediate stop to NHS mesh operations
Immediate stop to NHS mesh operations NHS England is putting an immediate curb on mesh operations after safety concerns.
It has accepted the advice of a new review looking at harm reported by women who received the treatment for stress urinary incontinence.
The review's chair, Baroness Julia Cumberlege, said she was "appalled at the seriousness and scale of the tragic stories" that her team had heard.
Many women say the implants caused them agony by cutting into tissue.
Some say they have been left with life-changing injuries. BBC News
It has accepted the advice of a new review looking at harm reported by women who received the treatment for stress urinary incontinence.
The review's chair, Baroness Julia Cumberlege, said she was "appalled at the seriousness and scale of the tragic stories" that her team had heard.
Many women say the implants caused them agony by cutting into tissue.
Some say they have been left with life-changing injuries. BBC News
Brexit: UK trade deal with US could trigger 'break-up' of NHS, leading expert warns
Brexit: UK trade deal with US could trigger 'break-up' of NHS, leading expert warns Britain leaving the European Union could lead to the “break-up” of the NHS, one of the world’s leading Brexit experts has told The Independent.
Professor Alex de Ruyter, director of the Centre for Brexit Studies at Birmingham City University (BCU), warned any future trade deal with the US would mean American pharmaceutical companies looking to access the health service.
His warning comes just months after Theresa May stoked fears of an NHS “for sale” in a future trade deal with the US, after she refused to say it would be excluded from talks. The Independent
Professor Alex de Ruyter, director of the Centre for Brexit Studies at Birmingham City University (BCU), warned any future trade deal with the US would mean American pharmaceutical companies looking to access the health service.
His warning comes just months after Theresa May stoked fears of an NHS “for sale” in a future trade deal with the US, after she refused to say it would be excluded from talks. The Independent
Matt Hancock is new health secretary following Jeremy Hunt's appointment as foreign secretary
Matt Hancock is new health secretary following Jeremy Hunt's appointment as foreign secretary Theresa May has appointed Matt Hancock as the new health secretary following Jeremy Hunt's promotion to foreign secretary.
The changes to Ms May's cabinet were forced upon the prime minister after cabinet Eurosceptics Boris Johnson and David Davis both dramatically resigned in protest at the government's new Brexit strategy.
Mr Hancock was only appointed as culture secretary six months ago but he threw himself into the role with aplomb, posting videos of himself learning how to moonwalk and doing parkour, as well as becoming the first MP to create his own smartphone app - called "Matt Hancock". The Independent
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The changes to Ms May's cabinet were forced upon the prime minister after cabinet Eurosceptics Boris Johnson and David Davis both dramatically resigned in protest at the government's new Brexit strategy.
Mr Hancock was only appointed as culture secretary six months ago but he threw himself into the role with aplomb, posting videos of himself learning how to moonwalk and doing parkour, as well as becoming the first MP to create his own smartphone app - called "Matt Hancock". The Independent
See also:
- Jeremy Hunt replaces Boris Johnson amid Brexit turmoil BBC News
- Matt Hancock: What do we know about the new health secretary? GPonline
- The Rt Hon Matt Hancock MP biography Gov.UK
- Jeremy Hunt becomes new Foreign Secretary following resignation of Boris Johnson The Independent
- Jeremy Hunt out, Matt Hancock in as Health Secretary iNews
- Who is the new Health Secretary Matt Hancock? ITV News
- What we know about new health secretary Matt Hancock Pulse
The NHS relies on its BME staff – so why do they still face discrimination?
The NHS relies on its BME staff – so why do they still face discrimination? | Kailash Chand I arrived from India in 1978 – and became part of a rich history of BME staff in the NHS. Yet so many still face prejudice
The NHS depends on black and minority ethnic staff to provide high quality, reliable and safe care to patients – and has done since its inception in 1948. They enrich the NHS with their skills, enthusiasm and diverse perspectives.
I would often compete for jobs with UK graduates who had less experience, but I would still lose out to them Continue reading... The Guardian
The NHS depends on black and minority ethnic staff to provide high quality, reliable and safe care to patients – and has done since its inception in 1948. They enrich the NHS with their skills, enthusiasm and diverse perspectives.
I would often compete for jobs with UK graduates who had less experience, but I would still lose out to them Continue reading... The Guardian
'The right care at the right time': the team helping patients leave hospital
'The right care at the right time': the team helping patients leave hospital Health staff are working with colleagues in social care and the voluntary sector to tackle the problem of delayed discharges
“From the minute a patient comes through the door – be that via A&E or one of our admission wards – we’re starting to think about how we can get [them] home,” says Rachel Blackmore, an operational manager at University hospital of North Tees in the north-east of England.
It’s making a difference to patients as it provides joined up care Continue reading... The Guardian
“From the minute a patient comes through the door – be that via A&E or one of our admission wards – we’re starting to think about how we can get [them] home,” says Rachel Blackmore, an operational manager at University hospital of North Tees in the north-east of England.
It’s making a difference to patients as it provides joined up care Continue reading... The Guardian
Sex addiction could be treated on NHS after health chiefs recognise it as mental health condition
Sex addiction could be treated on NHS after health chiefs recognise it as mental health condition Sex addicts may be given treatment on the NHS after global health chiefs formally recognised the addiction as a mental health condition.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has said people who suffer from the disorder for at least six months and experience substantial distress should be entitled to medical treatment.
Up to four per cent of people in the UK are believed to suffer from sex addiction, however the NHS currently does not recognise it as an illness. The Daily Telegraph
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The World Health Organization (WHO) has said people who suffer from the disorder for at least six months and experience substantial distress should be entitled to medical treatment.
Up to four per cent of people in the UK are believed to suffer from sex addiction, however the NHS currently does not recognise it as an illness. The Daily Telegraph
See also:
- ICD-11: Classifying disease to map the way we live and die World Health Organization
Prestigious medical journal retracts 2 papers
Prestigious medical journal retracts 2 papers The Lancet - considered one of the most-well known journals - made the rare step of taking down both studies authored by the 59-year-old Italian Paolo Macchiarini. The Daily Mail
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