Disabled children waiting too long for NHS wheelchairs NHS England misses target for delivery of wheelchairs to more than 5,000 children
Thousands of disabled children in England who need a wheelchair are waiting more than the four-month target for the equipment to be delivered, analysis has revealed.
The NHS standard is for children to receive a wheelchair within 18 weeks from the time of referral, but in 2017-18 it was missed for more than 5,100 children, according to analysis published on Tuesday in the Health Service Journal (HSJ). Continue reading... The Guardian
Wednesday, 15 August 2018
NHS chiefs block plans to expand controversial ‘GP at Hand’ app
NHS chiefs block plans to expand controversial ‘GP at Hand’ app Attempts by private firm Babylon Health to expand its 'GP at Hand' app into Birmingham have so far been thwarted by NHS England, who fear it could lead to patients missing vital tests. The Daily Mail
Closing A&E departments lengthens a patient's ambulance journey by nine minutes
Closing A&E departments lengthens a patient's ambulance journey by nine minutes Paramedics take an extra nine minutes to get patients to hospital in areas where A&E departments have been shut or downgraded.
That's the finding of new research, which says NHS cut-backs are causing 'disruption' and 'anxiety' for people who are forced to travel longer distances to get urgent care.
The study, published in Health Services and Delivery Research on Tuesday, is the first of its kind to look into the impact of closures on both patients and emergency services. The Daily Mail
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That's the finding of new research, which says NHS cut-backs are causing 'disruption' and 'anxiety' for people who are forced to travel longer distances to get urgent care.
The study, published in Health Services and Delivery Research on Tuesday, is the first of its kind to look into the impact of closures on both patients and emergency services. The Daily Mail
See also:
- Closing five Emergency Departments in England between 2009 and 2011: the closED controlled interrupted time-series analysis (open access) Health Services and Delivery Research
Tuesday, 14 August 2018
NHS patient data at risk after hack exposed passwords of hospital staff
NHS patient data at risk after hack exposed passwords of hospital staff THE MEDICAL RECORDS of 'millions' of NHS patients could be at risk after a hack exposed the passwords of 10,000 care home and hospital staff.
An investigation by The Sunday Telegraph found that Embrace Learning, a Cheshire-based online training business that claims to offer "cost-efficient, engaging and effective" e-learning to healthcare workers, was hacked in 2016.
This attack exposed the email addresses and passwords of registered NHS staff, details that were then flogged on the dark web for "ten times more" than credit card details.
An as-yet-unknown hacker also published 500 email addresses and passwords were also online in December 2016, likely to provide a sample to prospective customers looking to purchase the full database
19 NHS trusts and organisations were affected by the breach, including the Royal Free Hospital in London and Northampton General Hospital. The INQUIRER
An investigation by The Sunday Telegraph found that Embrace Learning, a Cheshire-based online training business that claims to offer "cost-efficient, engaging and effective" e-learning to healthcare workers, was hacked in 2016.
This attack exposed the email addresses and passwords of registered NHS staff, details that were then flogged on the dark web for "ten times more" than credit card details.
An as-yet-unknown hacker also published 500 email addresses and passwords were also online in December 2016, likely to provide a sample to prospective customers looking to purchase the full database
19 NHS trusts and organisations were affected by the breach, including the Royal Free Hospital in London and Northampton General Hospital. The INQUIRER
Promising practices for health and wellbeing at work: A review of the evidence landscape: (RAND RR2409)
Promising practices for health and wellbeing at work: A review of the evidence landscape: (RAND RR2409) Research demonstrates that the support of wellbeing in the workplace has a positive impact on staff, business and organisations. It includes benefits in terms of reduced absenteeism and presenteeism as well as improved productivity. Whilst the landscape of health and wellbeing interventions is a broad one, it can be difficult to understand ‘what works’: or rather, the confidence which can be placed in a particular intervention that it will have a positive impact on staff health and wellbeing outcomes. Rand Corporation
Your future nurses: the different routes to recruiting your workforce
Your future nurses: the different routes to recruiting your workforce This infographic explores the different routes into nursing for employers. Until recently, the routes to developing registered nurses within the workforce have been limited, with the university degree being the main way to train this group of staff. The introduction of the nursing degree apprenticeship gives a new opportunity for employers to train nurses, while the creation of the new nursing associate role can help to be a bridge between healthcare assistants and graduate registered nurses. NHS Employers
Assessment of delirium in hospital for people with dementia
Assessment of delirium in hospital for people with dementia The National Audit of Dementia (NAD) is commissioned by the Healthcare Quality Improvement Partnership to examine aspects of care received by people with dementia in general hospitals in England and Wales. In addition, NAD provides national and local reports to support hospitals to identify areas for quality improvement and share good practice, helping to improve outcomes for patients. This spotlight audit on delirium has been carried out to look in more detail at an area where hospitals have seemed to be underperforming and to clarify inconsistencies in the data. Healthcare Quality Improvement Partnership
Norfolk hospital plans 'in-patient' care at home
Norfolk hospital plans 'in-patient' care at home A hospital preparing for forthcoming winter bed pressures has confirmed plans to treat dozens of people classed as "in patients" at their own homes.
Norfolk and Norwich Hospital has approved plans to trial its "virtual ward" later this year.
A hospital spokesman said the idea was in response to "very high levels of demand last winter". BBC News
Norfolk and Norwich Hospital has approved plans to trial its "virtual ward" later this year.
A hospital spokesman said the idea was in response to "very high levels of demand last winter". BBC News
NHS under pressure over fresh patient record error
NHS under pressure over fresh patient record error The government is facing another NHS IT scandal, as it scrambles to confirm whether discrepancies between two databases have affected patient care.
NHS England confirmed The Register that it was working to establish the impact of thousands of mismatches, which saw patient records present on one database and absent from another. There are concerns that the error could mean patients have missed appointments for disease screening and vaccinations. The Register
NHS England confirmed The Register that it was working to establish the impact of thousands of mismatches, which saw patient records present on one database and absent from another. There are concerns that the error could mean patients have missed appointments for disease screening and vaccinations. The Register
Hadiza Bawa-Garba: Doctor at centre of sepsis death case should be able to return to work, Court of Appeal rules
Hadiza Bawa-Garba: Doctor at centre of sepsis death case should be able to return to work, Court of Appeal rules The doctor struck off over mistakes that led to the death of six-year-old Jack Adcock in 2011 could return to work after the Court of Appeal upheld her challenge against the decision.
On Monday, Dr Hadiza Bawa-Garba won her appeal against a High Court ruling earlier in 2018 which said erasing her from the medical register was the only way to maintain confidence in the profession.
But the Court of Appeal found the earlier judgement was “wrong” and overturned its decision that Dr Bawa-Garba should be erased, reinstating a 12-month suspension. The General Medical Council (GMC) has said it will not challenge the Court of Appeal judgement further. The Independent
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On Monday, Dr Hadiza Bawa-Garba won her appeal against a High Court ruling earlier in 2018 which said erasing her from the medical register was the only way to maintain confidence in the profession.
But the Court of Appeal found the earlier judgement was “wrong” and overturned its decision that Dr Bawa-Garba should be erased, reinstating a 12-month suspension. The General Medical Council (GMC) has said it will not challenge the Court of Appeal judgement further. The Independent
See also:
- Bawa-Garba's removal from Medical Register overturned BMA
- Statement on Court of Appeal’s judgment on the Bawa-Garba case General Medical Council
- Dr Bawa-Garba case: RCGP response Royal College of General Practitioners
- RCPCH response to Court of Appeal ruling on Hadiza Bawa-Garba case Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health
- RCP statement following the court of appeal ruling on the case of Dr Bawa-Garba Royal College of Physicians
- Struck-off Dr Hadiza Bawa-Garba wins appeal to work again BBC News
- Doctor convicted of gross negligence manslaughter after death of boy, six, wins appeal over decision to strike her off The Daily Telegraph
- Dr Hadiza Bawa-Garba wins appeal against decision to strike her off The Guardian
Long journeys caused by A&E closures 'will not lead to more deaths'
Long journeys caused by A&E closures 'will not lead to more deaths' Patients may face longer journey times but will get improved care quality, says study
Shutting A&E units does not lead to more patients dying because they have to travel further for life-saving treatment, according to the first British research into the impact of closures of emergency departments.
The study also found that even if journey times to hospital become longer after an A&E shuts, the improved quality of care patients receive at the alternative hospital means their health does not suffer. Continue reading... The Guardian
Shutting A&E units does not lead to more patients dying because they have to travel further for life-saving treatment, according to the first British research into the impact of closures of emergency departments.
The study also found that even if journey times to hospital become longer after an A&E shuts, the improved quality of care patients receive at the alternative hospital means their health does not suffer. Continue reading... The Guardian
More than 200 suicides recorded at mental health units over seven years
More than 200 suicides recorded at mental health units over seven years Care Quality Commission figures show overall number falling but more women have begun taking their own lives than men
More than 200 patients killed themselves in mental health units over seven years, new figures have revealed, prompting concern about the safety and quality of care.
Data collected by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) shows that 224 people died of self-inflicted injuries between 2010 and 2016 in mental health hospitals in England. Continue reading... The Guardian
More than 200 patients killed themselves in mental health units over seven years, new figures have revealed, prompting concern about the safety and quality of care.
Data collected by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) shows that 224 people died of self-inflicted injuries between 2010 and 2016 in mental health hospitals in England. Continue reading... The Guardian
Patients suffered 'severe harm' after NHS hospital lost track of them
Patients suffered 'severe harm' after NHS hospital lost track of them Patients suffered “severe harm” after a hospital lost track of its waiting lists, a report has found.
St George’s Hospitals Foundation trust has reviewed millions of files after discovering that its records did not determine whether patients had completed treatment or were in need of further checks.
As a result, a clinical harm review examined 646 cases in detail - and has now found that 15 patients have been found to have suffered “severe harm” - meaning “permanent or long-term” damage - with a further four suffering moderate harm. The Daily Telegraph
St George’s Hospitals Foundation trust has reviewed millions of files after discovering that its records did not determine whether patients had completed treatment or were in need of further checks.
As a result, a clinical harm review examined 646 cases in detail - and has now found that 15 patients have been found to have suffered “severe harm” - meaning “permanent or long-term” damage - with a further four suffering moderate harm. The Daily Telegraph
AI programme can spot diseases as well as world's top consultants
AI programme can spot diseases as well as world's top consultants Eye diseases that cause blindness in millions can now be rapidly detected by computer thanks to a 'revolutionary' breakthrough.
The new artificial intelligence system is just as good at detecting eye diseases as the very best consultants - with a 94 per cent accuracy.
The technique now promises to slash the time needed to be seen by a consultant from weeks to days.
Early results from tests of the scanning technology are so promising researchers believe it could be rolled out across 30 UK hospitals in less than three years.
The research is a collaboration between Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, UK-based Google DeepMind, UCL and Southampton University. The Daily Mail
The new artificial intelligence system is just as good at detecting eye diseases as the very best consultants - with a 94 per cent accuracy.
The technique now promises to slash the time needed to be seen by a consultant from weeks to days.
Early results from tests of the scanning technology are so promising researchers believe it could be rolled out across 30 UK hospitals in less than three years.
The research is a collaboration between Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, UK-based Google DeepMind, UCL and Southampton University. The Daily Mail
Monday, 13 August 2018
Fears for the future of Northamptonshire's respite centres prompts 14,000-strong petition
Fears for the future of Northamptonshire's respite centres prompts 14,000-strong petition More than 14,000 people have now signed a petition calling on the county council to protect children with special educational needs and disabilities as a £70 million cut looms.
Users of respite centres across the county, such as the John Greenwood Shipman Centre in Northampton, feared the vital facilities would shut down in March when Nene and Corby Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs) reduced their share of funding towards them by 32 per cent. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Users of respite centres across the county, such as the John Greenwood Shipman Centre in Northampton, feared the vital facilities would shut down in March when Nene and Corby Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs) reduced their share of funding towards them by 32 per cent. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
MP won’t rule out asking for Northants County Council government bail-out
MP won’t rule out asking for Northants County Council government bail-out Corby’s MP has committed himself to helping the county steer away from its economic apocalypse.
Northamptonshire County Council is facing the most monumental crisis in its 129-year history after it stared down the barrel of bankruptcy twice in the past six months.
The county’s MPs have pulled no punches over the economic disaster - placing the blame squarely at the feet of those who have been in charge of the authority during the past few years. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
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Northamptonshire County Council is facing the most monumental crisis in its 129-year history after it stared down the barrel of bankruptcy twice in the past six months.
The county’s MPs have pulled no punches over the economic disaster - placing the blame squarely at the feet of those who have been in charge of the authority during the past few years. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
See also:
- Northants County Council CAN live within its means - commissioner Northamptonshire Telegraph
Council pledges support to new home bid for health and rehabilitation trust in Daventry
Council pledges support to new home bid for health and rehabilitation trust in Daventry A bid to find a new home for a health and rehabilitation trust has won the backing of councillors, after Daventry District Council pledged to help in any way it can.
Reach for Health, which is the operating name of Daventry Health Rehabilitation Trust, provides health rehabilitation for people who have suffered a major health trauma or are living with long-term or life-long illness. Daventry Express
Reach for Health, which is the operating name of Daventry Health Rehabilitation Trust, provides health rehabilitation for people who have suffered a major health trauma or are living with long-term or life-long illness. Daventry Express
UK National Screening Committee recommendations: annual report
UK National Screening Committee recommendations: annual report This report summarises the work of the UK National Screening Committee (UK NSC) to review screening recommendations. Public Health England
ACAS framework for positive mental health at work
ACAS framework for positive mental health at work Have a look at the mental health framework from ACAS and see how it can help your organisation promote positive mental health. NHS Employers
Bowel screening to start earlier at age 50 in England
Bowel screening to start earlier at age 50 in England Bowel cancer screening in England is to start earlier, at age 50, Public Health England has announced.
It said evidence showed that screening people at a younger age would allow more bowel cancers to be picked up at an earlier stage.
Currently, men and women in England are first invited for screening at the age of 60 and sent a home testing kit.
The change brings England in line with Scotland where bowel screening is automatically offered from 50. BBC News
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It said evidence showed that screening people at a younger age would allow more bowel cancers to be picked up at an earlier stage.
Currently, men and women in England are first invited for screening at the age of 60 and sent a home testing kit.
The change brings England in line with Scotland where bowel screening is automatically offered from 50. BBC News
See also:
- Bowel screening to start at 50 Public Health England
Majority of GPs intend to retire before the age of 60
Majority of GPs intend to retire before the age of 60 The majority of GPs are intending to retire before the age of 60, Pulse can reveal.
The average GP will retire at the age of 59, according to a Pulse survey of 759 doctors.
GPs told Pulse that the work ‘burden’ has become too great, they were overwhelmed by ‘bureaucracy’ and their ‘standard of living has deteriorated rapidly’. GP leaders said the flux of doctors was a ‘genuine tragedy and waste’.
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The average GP will retire at the age of 59, according to a Pulse survey of 759 doctors.
GPs told Pulse that the work ‘burden’ has become too great, they were overwhelmed by ‘bureaucracy’ and their ‘standard of living has deteriorated rapidly’. GP leaders said the flux of doctors was a ‘genuine tragedy and waste’.
See also:
Norway to give hundreds of drug addicts free heroin to 'improve quality of life'
Norway to give hundreds of drug addicts free heroin to 'improve quality of life' Norway will trial an experimental scheme to provide drug addicts with free heroin in a bid to combat the country’s overdose epidemic.
The government announced that the Norwegian Directorate for Health and Social Affairs was asked to propose a program that would improve the quality of life for those struggling with substance abuse.
Health Minister Bente Hoie said in a statement posted to Facebook that they hoped the initiative would “provide a solution that will give... a better quality of life to some addicts who are today out of our reach and whom current programmes do not help enough”. The Independent
The government announced that the Norwegian Directorate for Health and Social Affairs was asked to propose a program that would improve the quality of life for those struggling with substance abuse.
Health Minister Bente Hoie said in a statement posted to Facebook that they hoped the initiative would “provide a solution that will give... a better quality of life to some addicts who are today out of our reach and whom current programmes do not help enough”. The Independent
Court of appeal to rule on struck-off doctor Hadiza Bawa-Garba
Court of appeal to rule on struck-off doctor Hadiza Bawa-Garba The court of appeal is due to rule on whether a doctor who made errors that contributed to the death of a boy can remain in the profession.
The court’s decision on Monday will have implications for the medical profession, say doctors who have campaigned for trainee paediatrician Hadiza Bawa-Garba to be allowed to continue to work. They say she was working long hours under extreme pressure, covering too many wards without supervision and has been penalised for acknowledging that she made a misjudgment. Continue reading... The Guardian
The court’s decision on Monday will have implications for the medical profession, say doctors who have campaigned for trainee paediatrician Hadiza Bawa-Garba to be allowed to continue to work. They say she was working long hours under extreme pressure, covering too many wards without supervision and has been penalised for acknowledging that she made a misjudgment. Continue reading... The Guardian
Sex is the last taboo for health workers – and it's putting patients in danger
Sex is the last taboo for health workers – and it's putting patients in danger We’re good at talking about death and mental health, but sex is a conversational hurdle we have yet to overcome
As a junior doctor working in psychiatry, I’m always struck by the honest answers and insight my patients share with me, offering a glimpse into how their mental health affects every aspect of their lives – from their finances and their diets to their sleeping patterns, careers and even dog-walking routines. Continue reading... The Guardian
As a junior doctor working in psychiatry, I’m always struck by the honest answers and insight my patients share with me, offering a glimpse into how their mental health affects every aspect of their lives – from their finances and their diets to their sleeping patterns, careers and even dog-walking routines. Continue reading... The Guardian
Numbers 'going private' for surgery soaring as NHS rationing deepens
Numbers 'going private' for surgery soaring as NHS rationing deepens The number of patients paying for operations privately is soaring amid rising waiting lists and deepening rationing across the NHS, new figures show.
Private companies have seen a 53 per cent rise in the “self-pay” market in four years, the data reveals.
Analysts said the market for operations such as hip surgery and cataract operations was being fuelled by “very high waits for NHS diagnosis and treatment”. The Daily Telegraph
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Private companies have seen a 53 per cent rise in the “self-pay” market in four years, the data reveals.
Analysts said the market for operations such as hip surgery and cataract operations was being fuelled by “very high waits for NHS diagnosis and treatment”. The Daily Telegraph
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Friday, 10 August 2018
Northamptonshire council backs 'radical' cuts to services
Northamptonshire council backs 'radical' cuts to services A cash-strapped council has approved massive cuts to jobs and services in a bid to tackle a £70m funding shortfall.
Northamptonshire County Council backed the action plan to reduce spendingduring a crisis meeting.
Children's services, road maintenance and waste management are among the areas facing "radical" cuts. BBC Northampton
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Northamptonshire County Council backed the action plan to reduce spendingduring a crisis meeting.
Children's services, road maintenance and waste management are among the areas facing "radical" cuts. BBC Northampton
See also:
- Northamptonshire County Council: The story behind the cash crisis BBC Northampton
- Northants County Council cuts ‘hierarchy’ voted through at passionate county hall meeting Northampton Chronicle and Echo
These are Northampton’s best and worst rated GP practices
These are Northampton’s best and worst rated GP practices The Northampton Chronicle and Echo can today reveal a list of the town's best and worst GP surgeries, based on ratings provided by patients.
Here is the list of the best and worst surgeries in Northampton, based on the percentage of people who said they would recommend their GP surgery to others on the NHS Choices website.
Here is the list of the best and worst surgeries in Northampton, based on the percentage of people who said they would recommend their GP surgery to others on the NHS Choices website.
How the NHS charges overseas visitors for NHS hospital care
How the NHS charges overseas visitors for NHS hospital care This summary sets out the changes that were made to the way the NHS charges overseas visitors for NHS hospital care following the NHS (Charges to Overseas Visitors) Regulations 2015. Department of Health and Social Care
It's okay to ask for HELP
It's okay to ask for HELP Read how Brighton and Sussex Hospitals NHS Trust embedded a new staff offer to help staff members get the help and therapy they needed. NHS Employers
Science and stigma: the parents who lost sons to suicide
Science and stigma: the parents who lost sons to suicide The parents of young men who died by suicide discuss mental health and what it is like to lose someone you love.
While the director of Scotland’s only dedicated suicidal behaviour research lab explains how science is guiding prevention strategies. BBC News
While the director of Scotland’s only dedicated suicidal behaviour research lab explains how science is guiding prevention strategies. BBC News
Medical hack poses pacemaker risk
Medical hack poses pacemaker risk Hackers from all over the world have descended on Las Vegas for two major security conferences.
BBC North America technology reporter Dave Lee met researcher Billy Rios who claims his company has uncovered a major vulnerability in a medical device that could have serious consequences. BBC News
BBC North America technology reporter Dave Lee met researcher Billy Rios who claims his company has uncovered a major vulnerability in a medical device that could have serious consequences. BBC News
96% patient trust in GPs, NHS England survey reveals - Pulse
96% patient trust in GPs, NHS England survey reveals Patient confidence in GPs has remained high with nearly 96% of patients saying they trust their GP, according to the latest NHS England GP Patient Survey.
The annual survey, of nearly 760,000 patients across England, was re-designed for 2018 to reflect changes in primary care and now includes answers 16 and 17 year olds. Pulse
The annual survey, of nearly 760,000 patients across England, was re-designed for 2018 to reflect changes in primary care and now includes answers 16 and 17 year olds. Pulse
How deadly was this year's heatwave and how has it hit the NHS?
How deadly was this year's heatwave and how has it hit the NHS? Britain has baked in its warmest and driest summer in over a decade and led to reports of hundreds of extra deaths at the hands of the deadly heatwave.
Does the data support this and how has the heatwave hit the NHS? The Independent
Does the data support this and how has the heatwave hit the NHS? The Independent
Criminals suffering from mental illness, alcoholism and drug addiction to be diverted away from prison into compulsory treatment
Criminals suffering from mental illness, alcoholism and drug addiction to be diverted away from prison into compulsory treatment Criminals suffering from mental illness, alcoholism and drug addiction will be diverted away from prison and into compulsory treatment under a government pilot.
The Ministry of Justice aims to reduce reoffending by replacing “ineffective” short prison sentences with programmes that “will tackle the root causes of criminality”.
A judge said the scheme could help “nip in the bud” some of the major causes of crime, as statistics show significant proportions of offenders have mental health problems, or are affected by drug and alcohol addictions. The Independent
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The Ministry of Justice aims to reduce reoffending by replacing “ineffective” short prison sentences with programmes that “will tackle the root causes of criminality”.
A judge said the scheme could help “nip in the bud” some of the major causes of crime, as statistics show significant proportions of offenders have mental health problems, or are affected by drug and alcohol addictions. The Independent
See also:
Thousands of cancer patients face NHS treatment delays
Thousands of cancer patients face NHS treatment delays Nearly 10% of patients forced to wait more than two weeks for first appointment with specialist
Record numbers of suspected cancer patients are facing delays before starting their treatment amid growing pressure on increasingly overstretched NHS services for the disease.
In the 12 months to June, 130,553 people in England had to wait more than two weeks for their first appointment with a cancer specialist after being urgently referred by a GP. Continue reading... The Guardian
Record numbers of suspected cancer patients are facing delays before starting their treatment amid growing pressure on increasingly overstretched NHS services for the disease.
In the 12 months to June, 130,553 people in England had to wait more than two weeks for their first appointment with a cancer specialist after being urgently referred by a GP. Continue reading... The Guardian
NHS trusts relying on the same agency workers for years on end
NHS trusts relying on the same agency workers for years on end NHS trusts are hiring “temporary” agency workers for as long as 13 years at a time, an investigation reveals.
Health officials have repeatedly vowed to clamp down on use of such workers, who can expect higher rates of pay and greater flexibility about when they work.
But the new figures show that trusts are routinely using the placement - which are supposed to be used as a short-term measure, to plug staffing gaps - for years on end.
In total the NHS has spent £16.9bn on agency staff since 2012/13 – an average of £2.8bn a year, the statistics show. The Daily Telegraph
Health officials have repeatedly vowed to clamp down on use of such workers, who can expect higher rates of pay and greater flexibility about when they work.
But the new figures show that trusts are routinely using the placement - which are supposed to be used as a short-term measure, to plug staffing gaps - for years on end.
In total the NHS has spent £16.9bn on agency staff since 2012/13 – an average of £2.8bn a year, the statistics show. The Daily Telegraph
Doubling in long waits to see GP and record pressures on A&E
Doubling in long waits to see GP and record pressures on A&E One in four patients are waiting at least a week to see their GP, amid mounting pressures in Accident and Emergency departments, new figures show.
The survey of 760,000 patients also shows rising numbers of patients struggling to even get through to their family doctor. The figures show 27.9 per cent of those polled found it difficult to get through to their GP surgery - a rise from 18.6 per cent in 2012.
It comes as new data reveals record pressures on A&E. The Daily Telegraph
See also:
The survey of 760,000 patients also shows rising numbers of patients struggling to even get through to their family doctor. The figures show 27.9 per cent of those polled found it difficult to get through to their GP surgery - a rise from 18.6 per cent in 2012.
It comes as new data reveals record pressures on A&E. The Daily Telegraph
See also:
- The King's Fund responds to new NHS figures The King's Fund
- Record 2.2m people required emergency NHS care in July The Guardian
Thursday, 9 August 2018
Northamptonshire council meets to vote on huge cuts
Northamptonshire council meets to vote on huge cuts Massive cuts to jobs and services are expected to be approved by councillors in Northamptonshire later.
The county council, which is facing a funding shortfall of £70m, will discuss an action plan on Thursday that would see budgets for services slashed.
Children's services, road maintenance and waste management are among the areas in line for "radical" cuts. BBC Northampton
See also:
The county council, which is facing a funding shortfall of £70m, will discuss an action plan on Thursday that would see budgets for services slashed.
Children's services, road maintenance and waste management are among the areas in line for "radical" cuts. BBC Northampton
See also:
- Tory MP breaks ranks on Northamptonshire council crisis The Guardian
- Cuts expected as cash-strapped Northamptonshire council attempts to tackle £70 million budget shortfall ITV News
- What is Northamptonshire County Council's former chief executive up to now? Northampton Chronicle and Echo
- What will be decided at key Northamptonshire County Council meeting on Thursday? Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Will a robot replace me as a GP?
Will a robot replace me as a GP? Rebecca Rosen gives a GP’s perspective on adapting to new technologies, and explains why the professional judgement of the doctor is still vital. Nuffield Trust
Issues surrounding the estimation of the opportunity cost of adopting a new health care technology: areas for further research
Issues surrounding the estimation of the opportunity cost of adopting a new health care technology: areas for further research This research paper sets out a research agenda proposing new approaches in three areas to improve understanding of supply side opportunity costs for the NHS. It explores improving efficiency, production functions and purchaser priorities. Office of Health Economics
The mentally ill 29-year-old helped to die by Dutch doctors
The mentally ill 29-year-old helped to die by Dutch doctors In January a young Dutch woman drank poison supplied by a doctor and lay down to die. Euthanasia is legal in Holland, so hers was a death sanctioned by the state. But Aurelia Brouwers was not terminally ill - she was allowed to end her life on account of her psychiatric illness. BBC News
Waits for non-urgent surgery in England rise sharply
Waits for non-urgent surgery in England rise sharply The number of patients waiting more than a year for non-urgent surgery in England has risen sharply to the highest level in more than six years.
The figure reached 3,517 in June - an increase of more than 400 from May - and the highest since April 2012. BBC News
The figure reached 3,517 in June - an increase of more than 400 from May - and the highest since April 2012. BBC News
HIV tests for sale on High Street for first time
HIV tests for sale on High Street for first time HIV self-testing kits are now available to buy on the High Street for the first time, a retailer has announced.
Superdrug said it is now selling the BioSURE test, which provides a result in 15 minutes, in all of its 200 pharmacy stores in the UK for £33.95.
It had previously been available to buy online after becoming the first legally approved self-testing kit in 2015.
An HIV charity welcomed the announcement but added that many people would be unable to afford the test. BBC News
Superdrug said it is now selling the BioSURE test, which provides a result in 15 minutes, in all of its 200 pharmacy stores in the UK for £33.95.
It had previously been available to buy online after becoming the first legally approved self-testing kit in 2015.
An HIV charity welcomed the announcement but added that many people would be unable to afford the test. BBC News
QOF mental health indicators have no impact on suicide rates, says study
QOF mental health indicators have no impact on suicide rates, says study Incentivising GPs to improve care for patients with a mental illness through QOF has had no affect on suicide rates, according to new research.
The study from the University of Manchester and University of York investigated the relationship between severe mental illness (SMI) and depression QOF indicators and the suicide rates in England from 2006 to 2014.
The paper, published in The British Journal of Psychiatry, concluded that while 38,511 suicides were recorded in England during that time, there was no association between QOF indicator performance and local suicide rates. Pulse
The study from the University of Manchester and University of York investigated the relationship between severe mental illness (SMI) and depression QOF indicators and the suicide rates in England from 2006 to 2014.
The paper, published in The British Journal of Psychiatry, concluded that while 38,511 suicides were recorded in England during that time, there was no association between QOF indicator performance and local suicide rates. Pulse
More than 100,000 demand Richard Branson 'stop dragging NHS through courts'
More than 100,000 demand Richard Branson 'stop dragging NHS through courts' More than 100,000 people have backed a petition calling on Richard Branson’s Virgin Care to stop “dragging the NHS through the courts”.
Campaigners opposed to the privatisation of NHS services launched the campaign after it was revealed that the Virgin Grouphas accrued more than £2bn in health services contracts in the past five years.
In response to previous criticism, the billionaire said that he had not taken a dividend from Virgin Care’s activities. When it does turn a profit for him, he pledged to invest 100 per cent of it into the NHS. The Independent
Campaigners opposed to the privatisation of NHS services launched the campaign after it was revealed that the Virgin Grouphas accrued more than £2bn in health services contracts in the past five years.
In response to previous criticism, the billionaire said that he had not taken a dividend from Virgin Care’s activities. When it does turn a profit for him, he pledged to invest 100 per cent of it into the NHS. The Independent
New UK defibrillator map aims to save thousands more lives each year
New UK defibrillator map aims to save thousands more lives each year Project hopes to end patchy information about the location of lifesaving equipment
Bystanders who see someone going into cardiac arrest could soon become lifesavers thanks to a new project to map Britain’s public defibrillators.
Information about the availability of devices – which deliver a high-energy electric shock to the heart – is patchy and not all are known to ambulance services. Continue reading... The Guardian
See also:
Bystanders who see someone going into cardiac arrest could soon become lifesavers thanks to a new project to map Britain’s public defibrillators.
Information about the availability of devices – which deliver a high-energy electric shock to the heart – is patchy and not all are known to ambulance services. Continue reading... The Guardian
See also:
- How to use a defibrillator and save a life BBC News
- The BHF joins forces with Microsoft and the NHS to save thousands more lives from cardiac arrests British Heart Foundation
Record-breaking heatwave pushing hospitals into emergency measures
Record-breaking heatwave pushing hospitals into emergency measures Unprecedented “summer crisis” leaves ambulances queuing outside hospitals
Hospitals are having to adopt winter-style emergency measures, including turning away patients through being busy, as the NHS struggles to cope with illnesses caused by the heatwave in the UK.
Patients are being treated in corridors, and queues of ambulances are building up outside A&E units in what hospital bosses say are unprecedented scenes for the summer which is usually the quietest time of year for the NHS. Continue reading... The Guardian
Hospitals are having to adopt winter-style emergency measures, including turning away patients through being busy, as the NHS struggles to cope with illnesses caused by the heatwave in the UK.
Patients are being treated in corridors, and queues of ambulances are building up outside A&E units in what hospital bosses say are unprecedented scenes for the summer which is usually the quietest time of year for the NHS. Continue reading... The Guardian
Nurse set fire to himself after being unfairly dismissed, probe finds
Nurse set fire to himself after being unfairly dismissed, probe finds An NHS nurse who set himself alight after being sacked was “treated unfairly” and wrongly accused of dishonesty, an independent review has found.
Amin Abdullah, 41, died on February 9, 2016, close to Kensington Palace in London, weeks after being dismissed from Charing Cross Hospital.
The review criticises the trust's handling of disciplinary procedures which occurred after the nurse signed a petition backing a colleague who had received a complaint from a patient. The Daily Telegraph
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Amin Abdullah, 41, died on February 9, 2016, close to Kensington Palace in London, weeks after being dismissed from Charing Cross Hospital.
The review criticises the trust's handling of disciplinary procedures which occurred after the nurse signed a petition backing a colleague who had received a complaint from a patient. The Daily Telegraph
See also:
- Amin Abdullah: Nurse who set himself on fire 'unfairly dismissed' BBC London
- Amin Abdullah: Man who set himself on fire outside Kensington Palace was nurse sacked from London hospital The Independent
- Nurse who set himself on fire outside Kensington Palace after losing job was 'treated unfairly', report finds The Independent
NHS needs thousands of overseas doctors to plug GP shortage
NHS needs thousands of overseas doctors to plug GP shortage Thousands of foreign medics must be fast-tracked to plug GP vacancies, amid a “haemorrhaging” of existing staff, the leader of Britain’s family doctors has said.
Prof Helen Stokes-Lampard warned that waiting times for GP appointments were already at a “an all-time high” with new data today expected to show a further deterioration in many parts of the country.
The chairman of the Royal College of GPs urged health officials to lift barriers slowing down recruitment from overseas. The Daily Telegraph
Prof Helen Stokes-Lampard warned that waiting times for GP appointments were already at a “an all-time high” with new data today expected to show a further deterioration in many parts of the country.
The chairman of the Royal College of GPs urged health officials to lift barriers slowing down recruitment from overseas. The Daily Telegraph
Wednesday, 8 August 2018
Guidance: Evaluation in health and well being: overview
Guidance: Evaluation in health and well being: overview Guide to evaluation and the different types and methods available, to help healthcare professionals choose the most appropriate option. Public Health England
Social prescribing schemes to receive funding from the Health and Wellbeing Fund: 2018
Social prescribing schemes to receive funding from the Health and Wellbeing Fund: 2018 This guidance sets out the details of the 23 social prescribing schemes across England which will receive funding from the Health and Wellbeing Fund. Department of Health and Social Care
Publication of trainee nursing associates evaluation
Publication of trainee nursing associates evaluation An independent evaluation of the first cohort of trainee nursing associate (TNA) pilot sites has been published.
Commissioned by Health Education England, the evaluation report is primarily focused on evaluating the training and development of TNAs. It provides insights into challenges and benefits of the new role, emerging impacts of the TNA training, and reflections on the approaches to academic and work-based learning settings. It also provides recommendations about how to support TNAs while in training. NHS Employers
Commissioned by Health Education England, the evaluation report is primarily focused on evaluating the training and development of TNAs. It provides insights into challenges and benefits of the new role, emerging impacts of the TNA training, and reflections on the approaches to academic and work-based learning settings. It also provides recommendations about how to support TNAs while in training. NHS Employers
'I saved my teenage son's life with a defibrillator'
'I saved my teenage son's life with a defibrillator' When 15-year-old Ethan Askew started to feel ill in a sports class, he went to tell his teacher and collapsed into his arms - he'd stopped breathing. And it was his Dad who used the school's newly installed defibrillator to help save his life. BBC News
ADHD treatment may be needed by hundreds of thousands more children, experts suggest
ADHD treatment may be needed by hundreds of thousands more children, experts suggest Hundreds of thousands more schoolchildren should be treated for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), say leading experts.
A major study led by University of Oxford academics suggests ADHD is seriously underdiagnosed and says more children should be given medication such as Ritalin, which it found is highly effective.
Concerns have been raised about the number of youngsters overmedicated for the disorder – but the evidence suggests just 10 per cent of those with ADHD are on any form of medication. The Independent
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A major study led by University of Oxford academics suggests ADHD is seriously underdiagnosed and says more children should be given medication such as Ritalin, which it found is highly effective.
Concerns have been raised about the number of youngsters overmedicated for the disorder – but the evidence suggests just 10 per cent of those with ADHD are on any form of medication. The Independent
See also:
- Comparative efficacy and tolerability of medications for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder in children, adolescents, and adults: a systematic review and network meta-analysis (open access) Lancet Psychiatry
- ADHD experts say more children with condition should be given drugs as only one in ten currently are The Daily Mail
No-deal Brexit could see EU patients miss out on cancer medication, says drugs firm AstraZeneca
No-deal Brexit could see EU patients miss out on cancer medication, says drugs firm AstraZeneca A no-deal Brexit could mean patients in the EU will not be able to receive medicines from the UK, a pharmaceutical giant has said.
AstraZeneca warned patients might miss out on drugs if the company does not “prepare well” for the possibility of a no deal.
The company, which has its research headquarters in Cambridge, manufactures medicines for treating cancer, heart and lung problems. The Independent
AstraZeneca warned patients might miss out on drugs if the company does not “prepare well” for the possibility of a no deal.
The company, which has its research headquarters in Cambridge, manufactures medicines for treating cancer, heart and lung problems. The Independent
Women need more realistic data on egg-freezing success, say experts
Women need more realistic data on egg-freezing success, say experts Clinics should release information on pregnancy rates based on age, says the RCOG
Women who opt to freeze their eggs need to be made aware of how realistic their chances of pregnancy are, experts have warned, as more turn to the procedure.
Egg freezing in the UK is funded by the NHS for girls and women for medical reasons, such as undergoing cancer treatments. However, women can elect to freeze their eggs privately for non-medical reasons. Currently the standard for elected freezing is that eggs can be stored for a maximum of 10 years. Continue reading... The Guardian
Women who opt to freeze their eggs need to be made aware of how realistic their chances of pregnancy are, experts have warned, as more turn to the procedure.
Egg freezing in the UK is funded by the NHS for girls and women for medical reasons, such as undergoing cancer treatments. However, women can elect to freeze their eggs privately for non-medical reasons. Currently the standard for elected freezing is that eggs can be stored for a maximum of 10 years. Continue reading... The Guardian
Patients may walk away from NHS because of long GP waits, Britain's leading family doctor warns
Patients may walk away from NHS because of long GP waits, Britain's leading family doctor warns Patients could increasingly walk away from the NHS because of long waiting times to see a family doctor, Britain's leading GP has warned.
Dr Helen Stokes-Lampard said she was fearful that people would seek alternatives to the health service, because they could not face waits of up to four weeks to get help.
The chairman of the Royal College of GPs said family doctors were “really struggling” to cope with escalating demands on them, fuelling ever longer waiting times. The Daily Telegraph
Dr Helen Stokes-Lampard said she was fearful that people would seek alternatives to the health service, because they could not face waits of up to four weeks to get help.
The chairman of the Royal College of GPs said family doctors were “really struggling” to cope with escalating demands on them, fuelling ever longer waiting times. The Daily Telegraph
UK bottom of league table for life expectancy gains
UK bottom of league table for life expectancy gains The UK has experienced the biggest slowdown in increased life expectancy across major nations, official data suggests.
The figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) show Britain is bottom of a league table of 20 leading countries when it comes to improvements in mortality for pensioners.
Experts said that while some slow down was evident in a number of countries across Europe, North America, and Australia, the trends in the UK were particularly steep. The Daily Telegraph
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The figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) show Britain is bottom of a league table of 20 leading countries when it comes to improvements in mortality for pensioners.
Experts said that while some slow down was evident in a number of countries across Europe, North America, and Australia, the trends in the UK were particularly steep. The Daily Telegraph
See also:
- Health state life expectancies, UK: 2014 to 2016 Office for National Statistics
- UK among worst for life expectancy rises BBC News
- UK now at the 'bottom of the league' in life expectancy improvements The Daily Mail
- Increase in UK life spans stalling at one of fastest rates among 20 leading economies The Guardian
- Rise in life expectancy slowing down in the UK, figures show The Independent
Tuesday, 7 August 2018
Health inequalities: reducing ethnic inequalities
Health inequalities: reducing ethnic inequalities Guidance to support local and national action on ethnic inequalities in health. Public Health England
The new approach to organ and tissue donation in England: government response to public consultation
The new approach to organ and tissue donation in England: government response to public consultation This consultation outcome document details the Department of Health and Social Care's analysis of the 17,000 consultation responses. It outlines the government’s plans to implement a new system of consent for organ and tissue donation in order to tackle a shortage of donors. This will mean everyone is considered an organ donor unless they have explicitly recorded a wish not to be or they are from one of these excluded groups: children under 18; individuals who lack the mental capacity to understand the changes; people who have not lived in England for at least 12 months before their death. The donor register will include an option for individuals to state important religious and cultural beliefs to ensure these are respected. There will also be strict safeguards in place and specialist nurses will always discuss donation with families so an individual’s wishes are respected.
Role of CCGs when integrated care providers are in place
Role of CCGs when integrated care providers are in place This document has been produced to reflect changes in terminology and to clarify the policy positions around: whether Integrated Care Providers (ICPs) are allowed to manage third party contracts; and the handling of Individual Funding Requests. NHS England
Always Events evaluation: scale-up and spread
Always Events evaluation: scale-up and spread This report outlines the key learnings from NHS trusts involved in the scale-up and spread of Always Events. Always Events are aspects of the patient experience that are so important to patients and family members that health care providers must aim to perform them consistently for every individual, every time. NHS England, in collaboration with Picker and the Institute for Healthcare Improvement (IHI), have been leading an initiative to support trusts to reliably integrate Always Events into their routine care processes. The report outlines the key learnings from trusts that have piloted an Always Event and have sought to spread the approach to other areas in their organisation. Picker
Bid to end NHS-funded homeopathic treatment in Bristol
Bid to end NHS-funded homeopathic treatment in Bristol The last place in England to offer publicly-funded homeopathy could stop providing the practice on the NHS.
Bristol's clinical commissioning group (CCG) is meeting to discuss ending NHS-funded homeopathic treatment except in exceptional circumstances.
Homeopathy is based on the idea "like cures like", but many scientists say patients are only getting sugar. BBC News
Bristol's clinical commissioning group (CCG) is meeting to discuss ending NHS-funded homeopathic treatment except in exceptional circumstances.
Homeopathy is based on the idea "like cures like", but many scientists say patients are only getting sugar. BBC News
Fentanyl and cocaine drug deaths rise
Fentanyl and cocaine drug deaths rise The number of deaths in England and Wales due to the synthetic opioid fentanyl rose by 29% in 2017, Office for National Statistics data shows.
Forms of the drug - used to treat cancer pain - are often imported illegally from Chinese laboratories and sold to users via the dark web.
Deaths from psychoactive substances like spice or mephedrone halved.
Drug policy campaigners called on the government to fund drug treatment and stop criminalising users. BBC News
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Forms of the drug - used to treat cancer pain - are often imported illegally from Chinese laboratories and sold to users via the dark web.
Deaths from psychoactive substances like spice or mephedrone halved.
Drug policy campaigners called on the government to fund drug treatment and stop criminalising users. BBC News
See also:
- Research and analysis: Opiate and crack cocaine use: prevalence estimates by local area Public Health England
Safety concerns over websites selling prescription drugs
Safety concerns over websites selling prescription drugs England's healthcare regulator is calling for a change in the law to protect patients using online doctor sites selling prescription-only drugs.
It comes after a BBC Panorama investigation exposed safety concerns relating to websites using doctors from companies based outside England.
The Care Quality Commission said these websites could be "dangerous".
Currently, it can only inspect websites employing doctors contracted by companies in England. BBC News
It comes after a BBC Panorama investigation exposed safety concerns relating to websites using doctors from companies based outside England.
The Care Quality Commission said these websites could be "dangerous".
Currently, it can only inspect websites employing doctors contracted by companies in England. BBC News
Maxine Peake: Actress hits back over NHS ad 'hypocrisy' claim
Maxine Peake: Actress hits back over NHS ad 'hypocrisy' claim Actress Maxine Peake has rejected an accusation of hypocrisy for being paid to voice an NHS recruitment advert.
The Silk star was responding to a Mail on Sunday story that drew attention to the fact she had previously voiced fears about government health funding.
In the article, Conservative MP Simon Hart said she was "hypocritical".
Peake said her fee wouldn't have gone back to the NHS if she had returned it, and that she donated it to The Salford Foundation Trust children's charity. BBC News
The Silk star was responding to a Mail on Sunday story that drew attention to the fact she had previously voiced fears about government health funding.
In the article, Conservative MP Simon Hart said she was "hypocritical".
Peake said her fee wouldn't have gone back to the NHS if she had returned it, and that she donated it to The Salford Foundation Trust children's charity. BBC News
GPs urge £2.5bn extra cash injection from NHS England
GPs urge £2.5bn extra cash injection from NHS England Doctors demand that government ‘invests properly’ to ensure safe care for patients
Family doctors are demanding an emergency cash injection of £2.5bn to help struggling surgeries cope with demand and offer patients appointments within a reasonable time.
Leaders of the profession want NHS bosses to plough some of the extra £20bn health funding pledged by Theresa May into improving the services offered by England’s 7,150 GP practices. Continue reading... The Guardian
Family doctors are demanding an emergency cash injection of £2.5bn to help struggling surgeries cope with demand and offer patients appointments within a reasonable time.
Leaders of the profession want NHS bosses to plough some of the extra £20bn health funding pledged by Theresa May into improving the services offered by England’s 7,150 GP practices. Continue reading... The Guardian
Instagram and Tumblr allowing 'extremely dangerous' self harm images that could lead to teenagers copying behaviour, NSPCC warns
Instagram and Tumblr allowing 'extremely dangerous' self harm images that could lead to teenagers copying behaviour, NSPCC warns Instagram and Tumblr are allowing “extremely dangerous” pictures of self harm to appear on their sites that could lead to teenagers to copying the behaviour, the NSPCC has warned.
The Telegraph has found numerous, easily-accessible images showing self mutilation on the popular social media platforms.
The posts included images of fresh deep cuts, a picture of a girl’s thighs with scores of bloody lacerations and one user showing off a collection of almost 100 razor blades and scalpels.
Instagram and Tumblr have both clamped down on self harm posts in recent years, blocking certain search terms and adding pop-up messages offering help and advice to vulnerable users. The Daily Telegraph
The Telegraph has found numerous, easily-accessible images showing self mutilation on the popular social media platforms.
The posts included images of fresh deep cuts, a picture of a girl’s thighs with scores of bloody lacerations and one user showing off a collection of almost 100 razor blades and scalpels.
Instagram and Tumblr have both clamped down on self harm posts in recent years, blocking certain search terms and adding pop-up messages offering help and advice to vulnerable users. The Daily Telegraph
Junior doctors plot a fresh strike in a new pay row weeks after being offered a 1 per cent pay rise
Junior doctors plot a fresh strike in a new pay row weeks after being offered a 1 per cent pay rise The British Medical Association has been polling members to assess their 'strength of feeling' for industrial action. More than 80 per cent of the doctors polled said they were willing to strike. The Daily Mail
Monday, 6 August 2018
Vulnerable children facing 'catastrophe' over crisis-hit councils
Vulnerable children facing 'catastrophe' over crisis-hit councils Vulnerable children cannot get help from some cash-strapped councils, the Children's Commissioner for England has warned.
Anne Longfield said she feared the financial crisis at Northamptonshire County Council would have "catastrophic consequences" for some children.
Both Northamptonshire and East Sussex councils are planning major service cuts due to funding shortfalls.
Ms Longfield wants the government to protect children from any council cuts. BBC Northampton
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Anne Longfield said she feared the financial crisis at Northamptonshire County Council would have "catastrophic consequences" for some children.
Both Northamptonshire and East Sussex councils are planning major service cuts due to funding shortfalls.
Ms Longfield wants the government to protect children from any council cuts. BBC Northampton
See also:
- From coffee mornings to food banks: County council cuts could leave Northamptonshire's volunteer-run groups in 'meltdown' Northampton Chronicle and Echo
- Former Northamptonshire County Council leader launches attack on MPs and fellow councillors in new interview Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Landmark High Court ruling opens up future Corby walk-in centre to public
Landmark High Court ruling opens up future Corby walk-in centre to public A CCG’s attempts to turn a local walk-in centre into an appointment-only provider has been overturned following a landmark decision by the High Court.
Legal action was brought forward last month from campaigners against Corby CCG after it outlined plans to change the service from a walk-in unit to become appointment-only, with the commissioning group claiming the decision should not go to a public review.
The decision from Corby CCG was made after Corby Urgent Care Centre’s operator, private firm Lakeside Plus Ltd, could no longer afford to operate services due to insufficient funding from the commissioning group.
Following the judge’s decision to take the case to a Judicial Review, the High Court ruled that there must be a full public consultation to the changes to Corby’s centre. National Health Executive
Legal action was brought forward last month from campaigners against Corby CCG after it outlined plans to change the service from a walk-in unit to become appointment-only, with the commissioning group claiming the decision should not go to a public review.
The decision from Corby CCG was made after Corby Urgent Care Centre’s operator, private firm Lakeside Plus Ltd, could no longer afford to operate services due to insufficient funding from the commissioning group.
Following the judge’s decision to take the case to a Judicial Review, the High Court ruled that there must be a full public consultation to the changes to Corby’s centre. National Health Executive
Opt-out organ donation 'in place by 2020' for England
Opt-out organ donation 'in place by 2020' for England A new opt-out system for organ donation will be in place by 2020 in England, if Parliament approves "Max's Law".
Under the plans detailed by ministers, adults will be presumed to be organ donors unless they have specifically recorded their decision not to be.
The government said it would save up to 700 lives each year.
In the UK in 2017, 411 people died before the right donor was found, and more than 5,000 people are currently on the waiting list in England. BBC News
Under the plans detailed by ministers, adults will be presumed to be organ donors unless they have specifically recorded their decision not to be.
The government said it would save up to 700 lives each year.
In the UK in 2017, 411 people died before the right donor was found, and more than 5,000 people are currently on the waiting list in England. BBC News
NHS told 'offer transgender fertility treatment' or face legal action
NHS told 'offer transgender fertility treatment' or face legal action A watchdog is threatening NHS England with legal action if it does not begin offering fertility treatments to transgender patients as standard.
Transitioning can lead to fertility loss, but many patients are not offered a chance to have eggs or sperm stored.
The Equality and Human Rights Commission said this is "outdated" discrimination as patients with other conditions routinely get that option.
NHS England says it is a matter for government ministers to decide upon. BBC News
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Transitioning can lead to fertility loss, but many patients are not offered a chance to have eggs or sperm stored.
The Equality and Human Rights Commission said this is "outdated" discrimination as patients with other conditions routinely get that option.
NHS England says it is a matter for government ministers to decide upon. BBC News
See also:
- NHS must offer fertility treatment to trans patients or face legal action, human rights watchdog says The Daily Telegraph
- NHS told: give trans patients equal access to fertility service The Guardian
- NHS threatened with legal action unless it offers transgender people fertility treatment The Independent
- NHS threatened with legal action over transgender fertility policy Sky News
NHS England's top GP resigns following Pulse comments
NHS England's top GP resigns following Pulse comments The NHS England director of primary care Dr Arvind Madan has resigned following his interview with Pulse.
He admitted that he had been posting provocative comments under the pseudonym ’Devil’s Advocate’ on the Pulse Today website.
In a statement, he apologised to small practices following his interview in Pulse, where he suggested GPs should be ’pleased’ when small practices closed.
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He admitted that he had been posting provocative comments under the pseudonym ’Devil’s Advocate’ on the Pulse Today website.
In a statement, he apologised to small practices following his interview in Pulse, where he suggested GPs should be ’pleased’ when small practices closed.
See also:
- Statement from Dr Arvind Madan NHS England
- England's top GP forced to resign after using fake account to troll doctors The Daily Telegraph
- England’s most senior GP quits over anonymous online posts The Guardian
- Most senior NHS GP resigns after inflammatory online comments exposed The Independent
Hospital admissions for self-harming girls double in 20 years, figures show
Hospital admissions for self-harming girls double in 20 years, figures show Girls were admitted to hospital for self-harming nearly twice as regularly last year compared to two decades ago, figures have revealed.
Charity, the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC) described the statistics as "heartbreaking", while an expert suggested social media could have contributed to the rise.
NHS data shows girls were admitted to hospital 7,327 times in 1997, compared to 13,463 times in 2017. The Independent
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Charity, the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC) described the statistics as "heartbreaking", while an expert suggested social media could have contributed to the rise.
NHS data shows girls were admitted to hospital 7,327 times in 1997, compared to 13,463 times in 2017. The Independent
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Anger and confusion as ‘complex’ NHS pay deal disappoints staff
Anger and confusion as ‘complex’ NHS pay deal disappoints staff Workers across service complain they have not had promised wage rises and GMB calls for talks to be reopened
Some NHS staff have been angered by the recent pay deal for more than a million workers, complaining that they are not receiving the increases they had been promised.
One union has been forced to apologise and hold an emergency meeting after admitting to misleading members over the deal, and some NHS staff are complaining that they are either seeing a tiny increase in their pay packets or a fall. Continue reading... The Guardian
Some NHS staff have been angered by the recent pay deal for more than a million workers, complaining that they are not receiving the increases they had been promised.
One union has been forced to apologise and hold an emergency meeting after admitting to misleading members over the deal, and some NHS staff are complaining that they are either seeing a tiny increase in their pay packets or a fall. Continue reading... The Guardian
Fears for NHS as apprenticeships fail to plug gaps left by Brexit brain drain
Fears for NHS as apprenticeships fail to plug gaps left by Brexit brain drain The promise was 1,000 trainee nurses a year, but data shows a serious shortfall for registered and nursing associate programmes
The total number of people starting NHS apprenticeships has fallen by more than a third in the past three years, raising new concerns about shortages of key staff such as nurses after Brexit.
Figures released by the Department for Education show a 36% drop in the number of people taking up NHS apprenticeships between 2015/16 and 2017/18, with take-up of such positions falling way short of government predictions. Continue reading... The Guardian
The total number of people starting NHS apprenticeships has fallen by more than a third in the past three years, raising new concerns about shortages of key staff such as nurses after Brexit.
Figures released by the Department for Education show a 36% drop in the number of people taking up NHS apprenticeships between 2015/16 and 2017/18, with take-up of such positions falling way short of government predictions. Continue reading... The Guardian
How Virgin became one of the UK's leading healthcare providers
How Virgin became one of the UK's leading healthcare providers Virgin’s rapid expansion into healthcare has seen it winning contracts for services from immunisation to sexual health
In early 2000, the Labour government realised it had a problem with the NHS.
Alan Milburn, the then health secretary, wanted fresh ideas to help make hospitals more patient-friendly – and he asked for them from a rather unusual place: Sir Richard Branson. Continue reading... The Guardian
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In early 2000, the Labour government realised it had a problem with the NHS.
Alan Milburn, the then health secretary, wanted fresh ideas to help make hospitals more patient-friendly – and he asked for them from a rather unusual place: Sir Richard Branson. Continue reading... The Guardian
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Scottish figures 'point to hidden UK crisis in tranquiliser abuse'
Scottish figures 'point to hidden UK crisis in tranquiliser abuse' Doctors, counsellors and charity workers say increasing numbers are seeking help with prescription drug addiction
A rise in prescription drug use across the UK could be fueling a hidden crisis affecting millions, experts have said, as Scottish government data shows a dramatic rise in deaths linked to tranquilisers.
Doctors, drug counsellors and charity workers say a growing number of people coming through their doors are seeking help for prescription drug addictions.
It comes as new data shows a surge in deaths in Scotland linked to Alprazolam, a benzodiazepine tranquiliser used to treat anxiety and panic disorders, and sold under the trade name Xanax. Continue reading... The Guardian
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A rise in prescription drug use across the UK could be fueling a hidden crisis affecting millions, experts have said, as Scottish government data shows a dramatic rise in deaths linked to tranquilisers.
Doctors, drug counsellors and charity workers say a growing number of people coming through their doors are seeking help for prescription drug addictions.
It comes as new data shows a surge in deaths in Scotland linked to Alprazolam, a benzodiazepine tranquiliser used to treat anxiety and panic disorders, and sold under the trade name Xanax. Continue reading... The Guardian
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Warning over online GPs as struck-off doctor discovered using loophole to prescribe 'unsafe' drugs
Warning over online GPs as struck-off doctor discovered using loophole to prescribe 'unsafe' drugs The health care regulator is calling for greater powers to protect patients from online GPs after a struck-off doctor was discovered using a loophole to prescribe "unsafe" drugs.
An online company set-up by former doctor Julian Eden prescribed "dangerous" drugs to patients whose own GPs would be highly unlikely to prescribe to them, an investigation by Panorama found.
It will reveal how a loophole in legislation allows Eden's company, EuroRX, to prescribe medication because it is based overseas. The Daily Telegraph
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An online company set-up by former doctor Julian Eden prescribed "dangerous" drugs to patients whose own GPs would be highly unlikely to prescribe to them, an investigation by Panorama found.
It will reveal how a loophole in legislation allows Eden's company, EuroRX, to prescribe medication because it is based overseas. The Daily Telegraph
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Feuding surgeons put patients at risk at heart surgery unit, report finds
Feuding surgeons put patients at risk at heart surgery unit, report finds A "toxic" feud between two rival camps at a troubled heart-surgery unit left staff feeling a high death rate was inevitable, according to a leaked report.
St George's Hospital heart unit was consumed by a "dark force" and patients were put at risk by a dysfunctional team of surgeons, an investigation concluded last month.
The damning review was written by former NHS England deputy medical director Mike Bewick in response to higher mortality rates at the hospital. The Daily Telegraph
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St George's Hospital heart unit was consumed by a "dark force" and patients were put at risk by a dysfunctional team of surgeons, an investigation concluded last month.
The damning review was written by former NHS England deputy medical director Mike Bewick in response to higher mortality rates at the hospital. The Daily Telegraph
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Hundreds of lives are being saved thanks to a TEXT service which alerts doctors to cases of sepsis
Hundreds of lives are being saved thanks to a TEXT service which alerts doctors to cases of sepsis Pioneered by a leading teaching hospital, the system has led to a seven-fold increase in the number of patients getting life-saving drugs. The Daily Mail
Friday, 3 August 2018
Corby MP: care bosses have 'serious questions to answer'
Corby MP: care bosses have 'serious questions to answer' Corby’s MP says the town’s healthcare commissioner has serious questions to answer over the town’s urgent care centre.
A high court judgement handed down yesterday said that NHS Corby CCG failed to properly consult local people when it decided to make changes to the way the town’s urgent care centre.
It also said the CCG failed to take into account the needs of vulnerable groups including those with learning disabilities and mental health problems. Northamptonshire Telegraph
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A high court judgement handed down yesterday said that NHS Corby CCG failed to properly consult local people when it decided to make changes to the way the town’s urgent care centre.
It also said the CCG failed to take into account the needs of vulnerable groups including those with learning disabilities and mental health problems. Northamptonshire Telegraph
See also:
- Corby Urgent Care Centre: Changes put on hold by judge BBC Northampton
- CCG loses high court battle to close urgent care centre HSJ
- Save Corby Urgent Care Centre group wins key legal fight Northamptonshire Telegraph
- “When you make a promise you’re going to consult, you keep your promise” says Corby urgent care centre barrister Northamptonshire Telegraph
Northamptonshire County Council: 'Radical' service cuts planned
Northamptonshire County Council: 'Radical' service cuts planned A cash-strapped local authority has proposed "radical service reductions" to tackle its financial crisis.
Northamptonshire County Council said it must save up to £70m by March, and held an emergency meeting on Wednesday.
Its "action plan", revealed on Thursday, involves possible cuts in adult social care, children's services, road maintenance and school transport.
Council leader Matthew Golby said the plan "includes rigorous controls on spending, recruitment and contracts".
The proposals will be discussed at a full council meeting on 9 August. BBC Northampton
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Northamptonshire County Council said it must save up to £70m by March, and held an emergency meeting on Wednesday.
Its "action plan", revealed on Thursday, involves possible cuts in adult social care, children's services, road maintenance and school transport.
Council leader Matthew Golby said the plan "includes rigorous controls on spending, recruitment and contracts".
The proposals will be discussed at a full council meeting on 9 August. BBC Northampton
See also:
- 'Shortcuts' cannot be taken with vulnerable children NSPCC warns as Northamptonshire County Council prepares cuts package Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Children's A&E attendances: linking data to explore why parents mental health matters
Children's A&E attendances: linking data to explore why parents mental health matters As pressures on emergency care within the NHS continue to rise, research has focused on the demand attributed to our growing older population. However, we know far less about what is driving children and young people's demand for emergency care. Over a single year between 2014/15 and 2015/16 there was a 5% increase in accident and emergency (A&E) attendances for children and young people. The Health Foundation
Sustainable county social care: a green paper that delivers a new deal for counties
Sustainable county social care: a green paper that delivers a new deal for counties This document sets out the County Councils Network’s policy positions on adult social care, ahead of the forthcoming government green paper. It supports the government’s plan to introduce a cap on the costs of care, but warns that it must be fully-funded otherwise it will inadvertently push services, care providers and councils closer to breaking point. The paper also argues that if the government’s reform agenda is to be successful, then social care must remain a local service and ministers should ‘not be swayed’ by overly-simplistic arguments to combine all, or elements of social care into the NHS. County Councils Network
Hospital sepsis deaths 'jump by a third'
Hospital sepsis deaths 'jump by a third' Sepsis deaths recorded in England's hospitals have risen by more than a third in two years, according to data collected by a leading safety expert.
In the year ending April 2017, there were 15,722 deaths in hospital or within 30 days of discharge, where sepsis was the leading cause.
Prof Sir Brian Jarman believes staff shortages and overcrowding on wards are partly to blame.
NHS England said more conditions were being classed as sepsis than before.
A spokesperson added that efforts had also been made to improve diagnosis. BBC News
In the year ending April 2017, there were 15,722 deaths in hospital or within 30 days of discharge, where sepsis was the leading cause.
Prof Sir Brian Jarman believes staff shortages and overcrowding on wards are partly to blame.
NHS England said more conditions were being classed as sepsis than before.
A spokesperson added that efforts had also been made to improve diagnosis. BBC News
Learning how to read emotions aged nine
Learning how to read emotions aged nine Nine-year-old Alex Cullenbine was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder at six years old - but his mum, Donji, said she knew from 18 months that something was different.
He avoided making eye contact, was slow to develop speech and was overly sensitive to sounds.
Since his diagnosis, he had received behavioural therapy one or two times a week but he remained gaze avoidant.
However, a few weeks after he started taking part in a small trial funded by the US government, at Stanford University, Donji noticed a difference in her son. BBC News
He avoided making eye contact, was slow to develop speech and was overly sensitive to sounds.
Since his diagnosis, he had received behavioural therapy one or two times a week but he remained gaze avoidant.
However, a few weeks after he started taking part in a small trial funded by the US government, at Stanford University, Donji noticed a difference in her son. BBC News
Tongue splitting: Surgeons warn of serious health risks
Tongue splitting: Surgeons warn of serious health risks People who have their tongues split deliberately are putting their health at serious risk, surgeons have warned.
The procedure involves cutting the tongue in half to create a lizard-like forked effect.
But experts said it came with the risk of significant blood loss, infection, nerve damage and problems with breathing and swallowing.
They also warned that tongue and lip piercings carry serious dangers, such as tooth fractures and gum damage. BBC News
The procedure involves cutting the tongue in half to create a lizard-like forked effect.
But experts said it came with the risk of significant blood loss, infection, nerve damage and problems with breathing and swallowing.
They also warned that tongue and lip piercings carry serious dangers, such as tooth fractures and gum damage. BBC News
Volunteers could be asked to drive ambulances in bid to avert crisis
Volunteers could be asked to drive ambulances in bid to avert crisis Volunteers could be asked to drive ambulances under NHS proposals to cope with staff shortages.
Health officials are also considering calling in the military in a bid to avert a crisis if pressures on services mount.
It comes amid a national shortage of paramedics, with a shortage of more than 1,000 ambulance staff in total, and attempts to recruit staff from Poland and Australia.
East of England Ambulance Services trust said it is now considering “every alternative” to maximise its resources, including the use of volunteers to drive ambulances to and from incidents. The Daily Telegraph
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Health officials are also considering calling in the military in a bid to avert a crisis if pressures on services mount.
It comes amid a national shortage of paramedics, with a shortage of more than 1,000 ambulance staff in total, and attempts to recruit staff from Poland and Australia.
East of England Ambulance Services trust said it is now considering “every alternative” to maximise its resources, including the use of volunteers to drive ambulances to and from incidents. The Daily Telegraph
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Video GPs tried to block 'inaccurate and misleading' report
Video GPs tried to block 'inaccurate and misleading' report Private healthcare provider Babylon threatened to sue a health watchdog for damages following a critical inspection report, it has been claimed.
The creators of the controversial 'GP at Hand' digital GP service threatened the Care Quality Commission with legal action and suggested one of its chief inspectors could appear biased.
It said a draft inspection report which found some areas of its private digital primary care service were not safe was 'inaccurate and misleading'. The Daily Mail
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The creators of the controversial 'GP at Hand' digital GP service threatened the Care Quality Commission with legal action and suggested one of its chief inspectors could appear biased.
It said a draft inspection report which found some areas of its private digital primary care service were not safe was 'inaccurate and misleading'. The Daily Mail
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Thursday, 2 August 2018
Northamptonshire County Council's crisis meeting begins
Northamptonshire County Council's crisis meeting begins Angry residents gathered outside an emergency meeting of a cash-strapped local authority earlier to protest about proposed cuts to services.
Northamptonshire County Council, which must save £70m by March, met to discuss how to tackle the funding crisis.
Council leader Matthew Golby said councillors had to examine "what we can realistically provide" for residents.
The Conservative-led council has been forced to impose spending controls twice in six months.
It has vowed to protect children and vulnerable adults but a financial expert warned essential services may be "cut to the very bone". BBC Northampton
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Northamptonshire County Council, which must save £70m by March, met to discuss how to tackle the funding crisis.
Council leader Matthew Golby said councillors had to examine "what we can realistically provide" for residents.
The Conservative-led council has been forced to impose spending controls twice in six months.
It has vowed to protect children and vulnerable adults but a financial expert warned essential services may be "cut to the very bone". BBC Northampton
See also:
- Public hit out at councillors as no firm service cut details come to light Northampton Chronicle and Echo
- 'Redundancy programme' and 'radical service reductions' will be debated at next Northamptonshire County Council crisis meeting Northampton Chronicle and Echo
'They deserve life to be happy' - caring for a child with mental health issues
'They deserve life to be happy' - caring for a child with mental health issues There are nearly seven million people in the UK who care for a loved one and it's estimated that up to 1.5 million of those care for someone with mental health problems.
Shelagh cares for her daughter Ailidh who has had complex mental health issues since she was 12.
Ailidh is now 21 and has been diagnosed with atypical anorexia, anxiety, depression and PTSD. BBC News
Shelagh cares for her daughter Ailidh who has had complex mental health issues since she was 12.
Ailidh is now 21 and has been diagnosed with atypical anorexia, anxiety, depression and PTSD. BBC News
Government must change plans to let hospitals investigate own whistleblowing cases, MP say
Government must change plans to let hospitals investigate own whistleblowing cases, MP say Government plans for a new NHS whistleblowing service have come in for criticism from MPs over “conflict of interest” concerns about letting NHS hospitals investigate themselves.
The introduction of a statutorily independent Health Service Safety Investigations Body (HSSIB) to investigate cases of compromised patient safety was supported by a joint Lords and Commons committee.
But allowing the HSSIB to accredit NHS trusts and foundation trusts run their run their own internal investigations was a step too far, the committee said. The Independent
The introduction of a statutorily independent Health Service Safety Investigations Body (HSSIB) to investigate cases of compromised patient safety was supported by a joint Lords and Commons committee.
But allowing the HSSIB to accredit NHS trusts and foundation trusts run their run their own internal investigations was a step too far, the committee said. The Independent
Brexit warnings released by NHS hospital serving Dominic Raab’s constituents
Brexit warnings released by NHS hospital serving Dominic Raab’s constituents A hospital serving Dominic Raab’s constituents has released an internal document identifying potential Brexit risks, warning that an expectation for a flow of funds into the health service after leaving the EU “may be false”.
The paper from Kingston Hospital NHS Foundation Trust – situated in the Brexit secretary’s local area – outlines how NHS officials have highlighted the possibility of staff shortages and how “costs may go up”. The Independent
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The paper from Kingston Hospital NHS Foundation Trust – situated in the Brexit secretary’s local area – outlines how NHS officials have highlighted the possibility of staff shortages and how “costs may go up”. The Independent
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Trainee nurses given 500 free tickets to Glastonbury 2019 amid staffing crisis
Trainee nurses given 500 free tickets to Glastonbury 2019 amid staffing crisis Offer from Michael Eavis is to encourage more into nursing profession, after NHS trust admits ‘there are no more nurses in Somerset’
Glastonbury festival founder Michael Eavis is to give away up to 500 tickets for the 2019 event to trainee nurses in the Mendip area, where the festival is based.
Speaking at Shepton Mallet’s summer fete in July, Eavis said he made the decision following a conversation with the local NHS trust chairman, who had complained about a lack of trainees. Continue reading... The Guardian
Glastonbury festival founder Michael Eavis is to give away up to 500 tickets for the 2019 event to trainee nurses in the Mendip area, where the festival is based.
Speaking at Shepton Mallet’s summer fete in July, Eavis said he made the decision following a conversation with the local NHS trust chairman, who had complained about a lack of trainees. Continue reading... The Guardian
Knife crime 'epidemic' is straining the NHS, surgeon warns
Knife crime 'epidemic' is straining the NHS, surgeon warns A rise in stabbings across England, not just in London, is putting extra pressure on the NHS and victims are getting younger and more severely injured, according to Nottingham surgeon Adam Brooks. The Daily Mail
Wednesday, 1 August 2018
Fears cash-strapped council may cut services for vulnerable children
Fears cash-strapped council may cut services for vulnerable children Northamptonshire County Council scrambles to save £70m amid warnings even core services are at risk.
The funding crisis facing local authorities has deepened after a Tory-run council warned services for vulnerable children and adults can no longer be protected as it prepared drastic measures to survive ongoing financial difficulties described as “without parallel in modern times”.
Northamptonshire county council – already technically insolvent – has called an extraordinary meeting for Wednesday to seek support for cutbacks which will reduce statutory services to the bare legal minimum and see non-core services shrunk or closed. Continue reading... The Guardian
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The funding crisis facing local authorities has deepened after a Tory-run council warned services for vulnerable children and adults can no longer be protected as it prepared drastic measures to survive ongoing financial difficulties described as “without parallel in modern times”.
Northamptonshire county council – already technically insolvent – has called an extraordinary meeting for Wednesday to seek support for cutbacks which will reduce statutory services to the bare legal minimum and see non-core services shrunk or closed. Continue reading... The Guardian
See also:
- Northamptonshire County Council 'ignored 2015 crisis warning' BBC Northampton
- Crucial meeting will determine service 'priorities' ahead of county council cuts Northampton Chronicle and Echo
- Children's services likely to be big loser in Northamptonshire County Council cuts Northampton Chronicle and Echo
- Attempt to stop county council spending due to 'financial crisis' was ignored THREE years ago Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Seven-day GP access is a long way off in Northamptonshire as study reveals only two surgeries at Nene CCG offer 'full provision'
Seven-day GP access is a long way off in Northamptonshire as study reveals only two surgeries at Nene CCG offer 'full provision' Only two doctors' surgeries in the wider Northampton area offer full seven-day a week access - four years after the Government announced plans to improve GP opening hours.
In 2014, the Government pledged to introduce extended opening hours at GP surgeries across the country. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
In 2014, the Government pledged to introduce extended opening hours at GP surgeries across the country. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
From lab to bedside: ensuring new medicines are available in a cost-effective and timely way
From lab to bedside: ensuring new medicines are available in a cost-effective and timely way At a challenging time for the NHS in terms of finances, demand for services and patient expectations, policy-makers need to ensure patients have access to new medicines in a cost-effective and timely way. Many of these new medicines are predicted to add high costs to a rising medicines bill, meaning the NHS will find it increasingly difficult to offer new medicines within current financial constraints. NHS England and National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) are trying to answer this challenge, but doing so without restricting patient access is proving difficult. The King's Fund
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