The NHS needs to be more productive – or is it more efficient? Stop reading this and get back to work – you need to be more productive. Or is it more efficient?
In the long-term plan, NHS England sets out a goal of achieving at least 1.1 per cent increases in productivity over each of the next five years. But there’s often confusion about the term ‘productivity’ and what it really means, with efficiency and productivity often used interchangeably despite meaning very different things. In the simplest terms, an increase in productivity is when a business makes more of a product (in the case of the NHS, it would be more “care”- doing more operations, for example) using the resources they have available. Efficiency, however, relates to the quality of the work being done – so producing the same, but at a lower cost to the NHS or with less waste. The King's Fund
Wednesday, 13 March 2019
The wider public health workforce: a review
The wider public health workforce: a review This review identifies three broad categories of work completed by the wider public health workforce: leading and advocating for health; influencing the wider determinants of health; and direct contact with individuals and communities. It reports on progress to date to engage and develop the wider public health workforce across a range of sectors: healthcare; social care; emergency services; VCSE; education; employment; criminal justice; housing; and planning. Public Health England
Clinically-led review of NHS access standards: interim report from the NHS National Medical Director
Clinically-led review of NHS access standards: interim report from the NHS National Medical Director In 2018 Professor Stephen Powis, NHS National Medical Director, was asked to carry out a clinical review of standards across the NHS, with the aim of determining whether patients would be well served by updating and supplementing some of the older targets currently in use. In this interim report, Professor Powis sets out his recommendations for doing so. NHS England
'Unacceptable' self-harm images still on Instagram
'Unacceptable' self-harm images still on Instagram The NSPCC has criticised Instagram for continuing to allow "distressing" pictures of self-harm to remain on the site.
Last month, Instagram said all graphic images of self-harm would be removed.
The BBC reported three images of people cutting themselves to Instagram. The social media platform added warnings to two but ruled that all three could remain on the site.
A spokesman for Instagram said it "will take time... to get this right". BBC News
Last month, Instagram said all graphic images of self-harm would be removed.
The BBC reported three images of people cutting themselves to Instagram. The social media platform added warnings to two but ruled that all three could remain on the site.
A spokesman for Instagram said it "will take time... to get this right". BBC News
Italy bans unvaccinated children from school
Italy bans unvaccinated children from school Italian children have been told not to turn up to school unless they can prove they have been properly vaccinated.
The deadline follows months of national debate over compulsory vaccination.
Parents risk being fined up to €500 (£425; $560) if they send their unvaccinated children to school. Children under six can be turned away.
The new law came amid a surge in measles cases - but Italian officials say vaccination rates have improved since it was introduced. BBC News
The deadline follows months of national debate over compulsory vaccination.
Parents risk being fined up to €500 (£425; $560) if they send their unvaccinated children to school. Children under six can be turned away.
The new law came amid a surge in measles cases - but Italian officials say vaccination rates have improved since it was introduced. BBC News
Air pollution responsible for more deaths than smoking, study says
Air pollution responsible for more deaths than smoking, study says The number of people dying as a result of air pollution may exceed the number killed by smoking, a major new study suggests.
German researchers estimate that as many as 8.8 million deaths per year globally can be attributed to dirty air.
In Europe alone they estimate there are more than 790,000 additional deaths as a result – double the previous estimate, which did not properly account for the additional rates of cardiovascular disease. The Independent
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German researchers estimate that as many as 8.8 million deaths per year globally can be attributed to dirty air.
In Europe alone they estimate there are more than 790,000 additional deaths as a result – double the previous estimate, which did not properly account for the additional rates of cardiovascular disease. The Independent
See also:
- Cardiovascular disease burden from ambient air pollution in Europe reassessed using novel hazard ratio functions (open access) European Heart Journal
Hospital gave teenage cancer victim's address to estranged father
Hospital gave teenage cancer victim's address to estranged father Mother of girl who died a day after diagnosis says Bristol trust’s error added to her grief
The mother of a girl who died of cancer a day after being diagnosed has said the hospital compounded her grief by sharing the family’s address with the teenager’s estranged father.
The University Hospitals Bristol NHS foundation trust apologised to Kelly Baverstock and admitted it had breached its duty of confidentiality by giving doctor’s letters and her address to the father of 13-year-old Tanisha despite the fact he had not seen his daughter in years. The Guardian
The mother of a girl who died of cancer a day after being diagnosed has said the hospital compounded her grief by sharing the family’s address with the teenager’s estranged father.
The University Hospitals Bristol NHS foundation trust apologised to Kelly Baverstock and admitted it had breached its duty of confidentiality by giving doctor’s letters and her address to the father of 13-year-old Tanisha despite the fact he had not seen his daughter in years. The Guardian
Stephen Hawking's former nurse struck off for failing to provide him with 'care he deserved'
Stephen Hawking's former nurse struck off for failing to provide him with 'care he deserved' The former nurse of Professor Stephen Hawking has been struck off the nursing register after a panel found she failed to provide appropriate care to the late scientist.
The Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) said on Tuesday that Patricia Dowdy "failed to provide the standards of good, professional care that we expect and Professor Hawking deserved". The Daily Telegraph
The Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) said on Tuesday that Patricia Dowdy "failed to provide the standards of good, professional care that we expect and Professor Hawking deserved". The Daily Telegraph
Inquiry into deaths at scandal-hit maternity unit is widened to investigate more than 250 families
Inquiry into deaths at scandal-hit maternity unit is widened to investigate more than 250 families More than 250 families have now raised concerns about an NHS trust at the centre of a maternity scandal.
Their cases are being investigated by an independent review team set up to look at services at the Shrewsbury and Telford Hospitals Trust, it was revealed last night.
Many families allege that babies died or were left with lifelong brain injuries as a result of poor care at the Shropshire trust.
The independent review was launched by former health secretary Jeremy Hunt in April 2017 when it was looking into 23 cases. But that number has increased ten-fold in what could be one of the NHS’s worst maternity care scandals. The Daily Mail
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Their cases are being investigated by an independent review team set up to look at services at the Shrewsbury and Telford Hospitals Trust, it was revealed last night.
Many families allege that babies died or were left with lifelong brain injuries as a result of poor care at the Shropshire trust.
The independent review was launched by former health secretary Jeremy Hunt in April 2017 when it was looking into 23 cases. But that number has increased ten-fold in what could be one of the NHS’s worst maternity care scandals. The Daily Mail
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Government announces 'appalling' price hike of NHS dental treatment
Government announces 'appalling' price hike of NHS dental treatment The Government has revealed plans to raise the cost of NHS dental treatments by five per cent.
It means that a standard trip to the dentist for a routine examination and possible cleaning will cost £22.70 from April.
Patients will have to fork out £62.10 for fillings, while crowns and other band three treatments will cost £269.30.
However, critics today slammed the 'appalling' price hike and argued it will only discourage more people from seeing a dentist. The Daily Mail
It means that a standard trip to the dentist for a routine examination and possible cleaning will cost £22.70 from April.
Patients will have to fork out £62.10 for fillings, while crowns and other band three treatments will cost £269.30.
However, critics today slammed the 'appalling' price hike and argued it will only discourage more people from seeing a dentist. The Daily Mail
Tuesday, 12 March 2019
Northampton hospital given award by global children's charity for top baby care
Northampton hospital given award by global children's charity for top baby care Northampton General Hospital has been accredited by UNICEF UK for being a 'baby friendly' hospital for the second time.
This award recognises the hospital care for mothers and babies, the information parents receive about breastfeeding and the support given to patients. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
This award recognises the hospital care for mothers and babies, the information parents receive about breastfeeding and the support given to patients. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
What does the public think about the NHS and Brexit?
What does the public think about the NHS and Brexit? Since 1983, NatCen’s British Social Attitudes (BSA) survey has asked a representative sample of adults in England, Scotland and Wales about their views on the NHS and health and care issues. The King’s Fund sponsors a selection of questions in the survey, and in last year’s survey, conducted between July and October 2018, we included questions on the potential impact of Brexit on the NHS. While much has changed since the survey was conducted, the findings are nonetheless interesting, giving a picture of where people’s views were at that point. The King's Fund
Human: Solving the global workforce crisis in health care
Human: Solving the global workforce crisis in health care Mark Britnell describes the practical achievements he has seen around the world that could enhance our capacity to care by 20% – if we reframe the debate on workforce planning. Nuffield Trust
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See also:
- No country is an island: UK and international health workforce mobility The Health Foundation
Neuro numbers 2019
Neuro numbers 2019 This report shows that the number of neurological cases has now reached at least 14.7 million in England. This equates to more than one in six people living with one or more neurological conditions. The report also highlights that the prevalence of neurological conditions will continue to increase due to an ageing population, improvements in diagnosis and advances in neo-natal care. In response to this new data, The Neurological Alliance is calling for neurology to be prioritised by the health and care system to ensure the needs of this growing patient group are met. The Neurological Alliance
Men as allies
Men as allies In this report, the Health & Care Women Leaders Network, delivered by NHS Confederation and NHS Employers, explores some of the important actions and behaviours men can take to support the development of female leaders in the NHS. The report was compiled following conversations with a number of male senior leaders who shared their views on the barriers facing women getting to leadership roles in the NHS and how those can be overcome. It also includes contributions from a Tweet chat held by the network on the topic of men as allies in January 2019.
Exploring dementia and agitation: how public policy needs to respond
Exploring dementia and agitation: how public policy needs to respond With 850,000 people living with dementia in the UK, there is a significant need to understand how to improve quality of life for them and their carers. This report summarises a number of key findings from the MARQUE project, led by Prof Gill Livingston from UCL. MARQUE (Managing Agitation and Raising Quality of Life in Dementia) is the largest ever study involving people living in care homes. International Longevity Centre UK
BMA threatens legal action over 'discriminatory' NHS pension scheme
BMA threatens legal action over 'discriminatory' NHS pension scheme The BMA is to help GPs and other doctors sue the Government over the NHS pension scheme if ministers refuse to admit the scheme discriminates against younger members.
BMA solicitors have today written to the health secretary Matt Hancock - as well as to the Scottish Government and Northern Ireland's Department of Health - to warn of legal action that will accuse the Government of discriminating against doctors by forcing some of them to join a pension scheme. Pulse
BMA solicitors have today written to the health secretary Matt Hancock - as well as to the Scottish Government and Northern Ireland's Department of Health - to warn of legal action that will accuse the Government of discriminating against doctors by forcing some of them to join a pension scheme. Pulse
NHS signals end of four-hour A&E target
NHS signals end of four-hour A&E target The four-hour A&E target may be dropped under plans announced by NHS England.
NHS bosses have unveiled plans for an overhaul of the A&E target alongside changes to waiting times for cancer, mental health and planned operations.
It said the targets were becoming outdated. But it comes after many of them have been missed for years.
Instead of aiming to see and treat virtually all A&E patients in four hours, the sickest patients will be prioritised for quick treatment. BBC News
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NHS bosses have unveiled plans for an overhaul of the A&E target alongside changes to waiting times for cancer, mental health and planned operations.
It said the targets were becoming outdated. But it comes after many of them have been missed for years.
Instead of aiming to see and treat virtually all A&E patients in four hours, the sickest patients will be prioritised for quick treatment. BBC News
See also:
- NHS to test new rapid care measures for patients with the most urgent mental and physical health needs NHS England
- The King's Fund responds to plans to pilot changes to NHS waiting times targets The King's Fund
- Testing out new targets is a big improvement on the usual directive approach The Nuffield Trust
- A&E four-hour target to be scrapped The Daily Telegraph
- Pilot scheme moves NHS closer to ending four-hour A&E target The Guardian
- NHS waiting times: A&E four-hour target set to be scrapped, plans reveal The Independent
- NHS waiting targets must not be binned to save managers’ blushes The Independent
The world is not prepared for a global flu pandemic, experts warn
The world is not prepared for a global flu pandemic, experts warn The world would quickly run out of flu vaccine in the event of a global pandemic despite efforts to improve production capacity, experts have warned.
Speaking at the launch of the World Health Organization’s new global influenza strategy Martin Friede, co-ordinator of immunisation, vaccines and biologicals at the WHO said that although the world is in better shape to combat a flu pandemic than ever before it is still "not prepared enough". The Daily Telegraph
Speaking at the launch of the World Health Organization’s new global influenza strategy Martin Friede, co-ordinator of immunisation, vaccines and biologicals at the WHO said that although the world is in better shape to combat a flu pandemic than ever before it is still "not prepared enough". The Daily Telegraph
Skype-style GP appointments could 'make it harder for doctors to spot deadly sepsis'
Skype-style GP appointments could 'make it harder for doctors to spot deadly sepsis' Dr Susan Hopkins, a senior doctor at Public Health England, warned using video appointments could slow down doctors' ability to identify and treat sepsis, which can become deadly within hours. The Daily Mail
Pen-pushers blocking cash for dementia care — leaving families to pick up the bill
Pen-pushers blocking cash for dementia care — leaving families to pick up the bill 160,000 people a year receive funding and the majority are elderly with dementia, costing the NHS £3 billion. But it’s mired in controversy. Peter and Grace Loppolo, from Reading, tell their story. The Daily Mail
Monday, 11 March 2019
Northamptonshire mental health services in line for national award
Northamptonshire mental health services in line for national award Northamptonshire’s community services for people in mental health crisis have been shortlisted for a prestigious award.
Northamptonshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust could win a Health Service Journal (HSJ) Value Award for its services available to manage and reduce the risk of mental health crisis for people in the county.
These community services have reduced the burden on emergency services and acute inpatient mental health, resulting in significant financial system savings. Northamptonshire Telegraph
Northamptonshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust could win a Health Service Journal (HSJ) Value Award for its services available to manage and reduce the risk of mental health crisis for people in the county.
These community services have reduced the burden on emergency services and acute inpatient mental health, resulting in significant financial system savings. Northamptonshire Telegraph
A modest proposal? Choice and competition in the long-term plan
A modest proposal? Choice and competition in the long-term plan ‘When the facts change, I change my mind. What do you do?’ That paraphrase of a quote, usually (but not entirely accurately) attributed to John Maynard Keynes, was Simon Stevens’s response at the Nuffield Trust’s Health Policy Summit last week to an entirely fair question from Mark Dayan.
Namely, how is it that the man who was first Alan Milburn’s and then Tony Blair’s special adviser in the early 2000s and did so much to re-inforce the ‘choice and competition’ model in the National Health Service is now systematically unpacking much of it? The King's Fund
Namely, how is it that the man who was first Alan Milburn’s and then Tony Blair’s special adviser in the early 2000s and did so much to re-inforce the ‘choice and competition’ model in the National Health Service is now systematically unpacking much of it? The King's Fund
Breaking point: the social care burden on women
Breaking point: the social care burden on women This report sets out the challenges facing many women who are carers. The report shows how women are going above and beyond to care for loved ones because good, reliable social care support isn't available. Age UK
Air pollution: Cars should be banned near schools says public health chief
Air pollution: Cars should be banned near schools says public health chief Public health chiefs have called for drivers to switch off their engines when they drop children off at school.
Paul Cosford, medical director of Public Health England, told the BBC children should grow up "free from the scourge and harm of air pollution".
His comments came as PHE published a series of recommendations on how the government can improve air quality.
PHE said 28,000 to 36,000 deaths a year in the UK could be attributed to long-term exposure to air pollution. BBC News
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Paul Cosford, medical director of Public Health England, told the BBC children should grow up "free from the scourge and harm of air pollution".
His comments came as PHE published a series of recommendations on how the government can improve air quality.
PHE said 28,000 to 36,000 deaths a year in the UK could be attributed to long-term exposure to air pollution. BBC News
See also:
- Improving outdoor air quality and health: review of interventions Public Health England
- New funding to research health impact of climate change Public Health England
- Ban cars from idling near schools, says UK public health agency The Guardian
- Toxic fumes from ships linked to thousands of UK deaths The Independent
Robot rolls into hospital ward and tells 97-year-old man he is dying
Robot rolls into hospital ward and tells 97-year-old man he is dying A 97-year-old man was told he would die within days via a robot that rolled into his intensive care unit during the night at a hospital in California.
Ernesto Quintana was given the terminal diagnosis by a doctor who appeared on a video screen on the robot after he was admitted to Kaiser Permanente Medical Centre in San Francisco on Sunday.
His family said they were “shocked” the news Mr Quintana would die from his chronic lung disease was communicated via the robot. The Independent
Ernesto Quintana was given the terminal diagnosis by a doctor who appeared on a video screen on the robot after he was admitted to Kaiser Permanente Medical Centre in San Francisco on Sunday.
His family said they were “shocked” the news Mr Quintana would die from his chronic lung disease was communicated via the robot. The Independent
NHS hospitals could face fines for breaches of new sepsis rules
NHS hospitals could face fines for breaches of new sepsis rules NHS England staff told to look out for signs of sepsis in patients attending A&E
Hospitals could face financial penalties if they fail to meet new guidelines for detecting and treating sepsis.
The guidance, mandated by NHS England, includes a requirement for staff to alert senior doctors if patients suspected of having the deadly condition do not respond to treatment within one hour. The Guardian
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Hospitals could face financial penalties if they fail to meet new guidelines for detecting and treating sepsis.
The guidance, mandated by NHS England, includes a requirement for staff to alert senior doctors if patients suspected of having the deadly condition do not respond to treatment within one hour. The Guardian
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Teenagers kept in temporary mental health units for more than a year
Teenagers kept in temporary mental health units for more than a yearMore than half of young people admitted to short stay mental health units are being kept there for longer than the recommended maximum stay of six weeks, Sky News can reveal.
Some young people end up staying in the units for months, or more than a year.
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Some young people end up staying in the units for months, or more than a year.
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Mother in FGM case 'betrayed' three-year-old daughter by mutilating her, as she is sentenced to 13 years
Mother in FGM case 'betrayed' three-year-old daughter by mutilating her, as she is sentenced to 13 years The first person to be convicted of FMG in Britain “betrayed” her three-year-old daughter by mutilating her, a judge said, as she jailed her for 13 years. The Daily Telegraph
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See also:
Dozens of NHS managers are paid more than Theresa May despite promises to crack down on salaries
Dozens of NHS managers are paid more than Theresa May despite promises to crack down on salaries Dozens of local NHS managers pocket more than the Prime Minister – despite promises to crack down on executive pay.
The Mail on Sunday has discovered that at least 25 bureaucrats at county-level NHS clinical commissioning groups received more than £150,000 in salary and bonuses last year.
According to an analysis of the latest annual reports from CCGs across England, a further 423 individuals were paid more than £100,000, with hundreds more part-time board members earning in excess of Theresa May’s salary on a pro-rata basis.
The Mail on Sunday has discovered that at least 25 bureaucrats at county-level NHS clinical commissioning groups received more than £150,000 in salary and bonuses last year.
According to an analysis of the latest annual reports from CCGs across England, a further 423 individuals were paid more than £100,000, with hundreds more part-time board members earning in excess of Theresa May’s salary on a pro-rata basis.
Doctors accuse Britain's first medical cannabis clinic of making unfounded claims over pain relief
Doctors accuse Britain's first medical cannabis clinic of making unfounded claims over pain relief Britain’s first dedicated medical cannabis clinic has been accused by doctors of making unfounded claims for the drug’s pain-relieving qualities.
The private Medical Cannabis Clinic (MCC) opened in Manchester last week amid complaints that patients have been denied access to the drug by the NHS. Further branches are scheduled for Birmingham and London’s Harley Street.
The MCC website claims the drug can help with chronic pain, but guidelines issued by the Royal College of Physicians state ‘there is no robust evidence’ for such use. The Daily Mail
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The private Medical Cannabis Clinic (MCC) opened in Manchester last week amid complaints that patients have been denied access to the drug by the NHS. Further branches are scheduled for Birmingham and London’s Harley Street.
The MCC website claims the drug can help with chronic pain, but guidelines issued by the Royal College of Physicians state ‘there is no robust evidence’ for such use. The Daily Mail
See also:
- UK’s first medical cannabis clinic opens in Greater Manchester The Independent
Friday, 8 March 2019
Failing to capitalise: Capital spending in the NHS
Failing to capitalise: Capital spending in the NHS The capital budget of the Department of Health and Social Care is used to finance long-term investments in the NHS in England. This includes spending on new buildings, equipment and IT, improvements to and some maintenance of NHS trusts, and research and development.
In this briefing, we analyse trends in the capital budget, comparing the UK with international averages. Using annual data from all NHS trusts in England, we then focus on trends in the capital spending of NHS trusts to analyse where money has been spent and where there are areas of need.
We also analyse the implications of recent capital spending, with a specific focus on NHS trusts’ maintenance backlog, and conclude with a discussion of the trends in capital spending and capital levels, and implications and recommendations for future health care. The Health Foundation
In this briefing, we analyse trends in the capital budget, comparing the UK with international averages. Using annual data from all NHS trusts in England, we then focus on trends in the capital spending of NHS trusts to analyse where money has been spent and where there are areas of need.
We also analyse the implications of recent capital spending, with a specific focus on NHS trusts’ maintenance backlog, and conclude with a discussion of the trends in capital spending and capital levels, and implications and recommendations for future health care. The Health Foundation
Mental health services: Addressing the care deficit
Mental health services: Addressing the care deficit A new report by NHS Providers reveals deep disquiet among NHS mental health trust leaders about a substantial care deficit resulting from the impact of growing social and economic hardship in their communities.
Mental health services: Addressing the care deficit looks at the levels of demand reported by frontline leaders across the range of services they provide, and examines what lies behind the growing pressures.
In particular the report identifies widespread concerns about benefits cuts and the impact of universal credit. It also suggests that loneliness, homelessness and financial hardship are adding to pressures on NHS mental health services.
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Mental health services: Addressing the care deficit looks at the levels of demand reported by frontline leaders across the range of services they provide, and examines what lies behind the growing pressures.
In particular the report identifies widespread concerns about benefits cuts and the impact of universal credit. It also suggests that loneliness, homelessness and financial hardship are adding to pressures on NHS mental health services.
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Public must see benefits from changes to NHS commissioning
Public must see benefits from changes to NHS commissioning The NHS Long Term Plan is the latest change in three decades of changes to the structure of NHS commissioning organisations. The Long Term Plan sets out the intention for Integrated Care Systems to cover the whole of England by 2021. This will result in a significant reduction in the number of Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs).
The changes in organisational structures since 2012 have been particularly confusing and rapid. The changes make it challenging for taxpayers to understand who in their local area is accountable for health spending and performance.
It is important not to lose sight of the need for robust accountability structures which make it clear who is ultimately responsible for planning and commissioning decisions and to make this transparent to the public. The alphabet soup of health bodies that has grown up has done so, in many instances, without clear governance and accountability.
Many CCGs are currently underperforming and this will need to improve as they take on the responsibility for commissioning services across larger populations. Public Accounts Select Committee
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The changes in organisational structures since 2012 have been particularly confusing and rapid. The changes make it challenging for taxpayers to understand who in their local area is accountable for health spending and performance.
It is important not to lose sight of the need for robust accountability structures which make it clear who is ultimately responsible for planning and commissioning decisions and to make this transparent to the public. The alphabet soup of health bodies that has grown up has done so, in many instances, without clear governance and accountability.
Many CCGs are currently underperforming and this will need to improve as they take on the responsibility for commissioning services across larger populations. Public Accounts Select Committee
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Improving patient safety through collaboration: a rapid review of the academic health science networks’ patient safety collaboratives
Improving patient safety through collaboration: a rapid review of the academic health science networks’ patient safety collaboratives This report discusses the progress and impact made by England’s Patient Safety Collaboratives (PSCs) in their first four years. It was commissioned by The AHSN Network and written by The King's Fund. The report notes how interest is shifting from supporting the improvement of individual services to improving how different services work together in local systems. It highlights the role the PSC programme has had in creating a movement for change and cultivating a shared vision among health and care organisations. It also suggests some areas PSCs and national NHS bodies could focus on to further support innovation, quality improvement and patient safety. AHSN Network
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We need a big conversation about (women as) carers
We need a big conversation about (women as) carers Ten days ago my Twitter timeline was humming with comments, mostly highly critical, about an article by Giles Fraser for the website Unherd. The article was entitled 'Why won't Remainers talk about family?' I don't know if you saw it but in it he set out the argument that the free movement at the heart of the European Union has unhelpfully disrupted our communities and the caring, reciprocal relationships within them.
What really got a lot of people angry was nothing to do with Brexit but a section that seemed to assume it is a woman’s job to look after her ageing parents if and when they need care. Age UK
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What really got a lot of people angry was nothing to do with Brexit but a section that seemed to assume it is a woman’s job to look after her ageing parents if and when they need care. Age UK
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Cochlear implants to benefit more people with hearing loss
Cochlear implants to benefit more people with hearing loss Hundreds more children and adults with severe to profound hearing loss will be given the option of having cochlear implants, under new guidance.
It comes as the NHS watchdog NICE revised its definition of severe deafness - extending the number of people who could benefit.
Charities welcomed the move, suggesting previous guidance had been among "the strictest in the developed world".
The guidance applies to England and Wales. BBC News
It comes as the NHS watchdog NICE revised its definition of severe deafness - extending the number of people who could benefit.
Charities welcomed the move, suggesting previous guidance had been among "the strictest in the developed world".
The guidance applies to England and Wales. BBC News
More than 700,000 more adults could be put on blood pressure pills under new guidelines
More than 700,000 more adults could be put on blood pressure pills under new guidelines Hundreds of thousands more people should be offered drugs that lower blood pressure, according to new guidelines for doctors from the NHS medicines watchdog intended to tackle heart attack and stroke deaths.
As many as 720,000 extra adults could be prescribed drugs such as valsartan and beta blockers under the revised prescribing guidelines proposed by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (Nice). The Independent
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As many as 720,000 extra adults could be prescribed drugs such as valsartan and beta blockers under the revised prescribing guidelines proposed by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (Nice). The Independent
See also:
- Hypertension in adults: diagnosis and management (consultation) NICE
- New NICE guideline on hypertension needs careful consideration, says College Royal College of General Practitioners
- High blood pressure drugs to be offered to thousands more BBC News
High price of cystic fibrosis drug not political, firm's boss tells MPs
High price of cystic fibrosis drug not political, firm's boss tells MPs CEO of company that makes Orkambi denies being ‘political minion’ for Donald Trump
The chief executive of a US company holding out for a high price from the NHS for its cystic fibrosis drugs was asked whether he might be considered “a political minion for President Trump” as he gave evidence to MPs on Thursday. The Guardian
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The chief executive of a US company holding out for a high price from the NHS for its cystic fibrosis drugs was asked whether he might be considered “a political minion for President Trump” as he gave evidence to MPs on Thursday. The Guardian
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One in three hospital patients admitted as an emergency to be sent home without an overnight stay
One in three hospital patients admitted as an emergency to be sent home without an overnight stay Hospitals will be told to send far more emergency patients home on the same day, under new NHS plans.
Health officials say one in three emergency admissions will be sent home without an overnight stay, after being given access to on-the-spot tests.
They say patients with conditions as severe as pneumonia could be helped by new services, which will see them assessed, diagnosed, treated and sent home without an overnight stay. The Daily Telegraph
Health officials say one in three emergency admissions will be sent home without an overnight stay, after being given access to on-the-spot tests.
They say patients with conditions as severe as pneumonia could be helped by new services, which will see them assessed, diagnosed, treated and sent home without an overnight stay. The Daily Telegraph
NHS transgender clinic accused of covering up negative impacts of puberty blockers on children by Oxford professor
NHS transgender clinic accused of covering up negative impacts of puberty blockers on children by Oxford professor An Oxford University professor has accused the NHS’s only specialised clinic for transgender children of suppressing negative results while undertaking experimental treatment on adolescents.
Dr Michael Biggs, an associate professor at Oxford’s Department of Sociology claims the Gender Identity Development Service (GIDS) has been giving puberty blocking hormones to children, without robust evidence as to the long-term effects. The Daily Telegraph
Dr Michael Biggs, an associate professor at Oxford’s Department of Sociology claims the Gender Identity Development Service (GIDS) has been giving puberty blocking hormones to children, without robust evidence as to the long-term effects. The Daily Telegraph
Thursday, 7 March 2019
New smear test campaign launched in Northampton to tackle decline in women getting tested
New smear test campaign launched in Northampton to tackle decline in women getting tested Public Health England has today launched a major campaign in the East Midlands ‘Cervical Screening Saves Lives’, to increase the number of women attending their cervical screening.
The campaign will encourage women to respond to their cervical screening invitation letter, and if they missed their last screening, to book an appointment at their GP practice.
Around 258 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer in the East Midlands each year and around 69 women die from the disease. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
The campaign will encourage women to respond to their cervical screening invitation letter, and if they missed their last screening, to book an appointment at their GP practice.
Around 258 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer in the East Midlands each year and around 69 women die from the disease. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Public satisfaction with the NHS and social care in 2018: Results from the British Social Attitudes survey
Public satisfaction with the NHS and social care in 2018: Results from the British Social Attitudes survey The latest survey was carried out between July and October 2018 and asked a nationally representative sample of 2,926 people about their satisfaction with the NHS overall, and 973 people about their satisfaction with individual NHS and social care services. The 2018 BSA survey questions reported here were jointly sponsored by the Nuffield Trust and The King’s Fund.
See also:
See also:
- Why is public satisfaction with the NHS still falling? The King's Fund
- British public’s satisfaction with the NHS at lowest level in over a decade Nuffield Trust
- What does the British public think about social care? Nuffield Trust
- Satisfaction with NHS 'hits 11-year low' BBC News
- British public's satisfaction with the NHS falls to just 53% - the lowest level since 2007 The Daily Mail
- Public satisfaction over the NHS is lowest in a decade, despite £20bn ‘birthday boost’ The Daily Telegraph
- Satisfaction with NHS falls to lowest level for a decade The Guardian
- Public satisfaction with government’s running of NHS at lowest level since financial crisis, research shows The Independent
Consultation response: The National Health Service Pension Scheme, Additional Voluntary Contributions and Injury Benefits (Amendment) Regulations 2019
Consultation response: The National Health Service Pension Scheme, Additional Voluntary Contributions and Injury Benefits (Amendment) Regulations 2019 The original consultation ran from 18 December 2018 to 28 January 2019 and proposals included changes to contribution rates, providing civil partners and same sex spouses with the same survivor pension rights as widows, and extending the current forfeiture of pension benefits rules. The government received almost 1,500 responses to the consultation. This report summarises the consultation findings and the government’s response. Department of Health and Social Care
Care home performance across England
Care home performance across England This briefing assesses the state of care home performance across England and looks at what is being done to tackle poor performance. The report uses publicly available inspection data from the Care Quality Commission to work out a total figure for the percentage of care homes in each local authority that are rated either “Inadequate” or “Requires Improvement”. The briefing also outlines how Independent Age want to see care home quality develop and what factors are key to ensuring that care home quality does improve. Independent Age
Transgender teen care 'needs urgent regulation'
Transgender teen care 'needs urgent regulation' Young transgender people are being let down by the "terrible" quality of evidence underpinning their treatment and care, a leading researcher warns.
Prof Carl Heneghan, from Oxford University, said there was an "urgent" need for a new regulator in the field.
He said much more "rigorous" and "robust" research was needed into the effects of drugs given to young transgender people.
But the Department of Health says it has no plans to create a new regulator. BBC News
Prof Carl Heneghan, from Oxford University, said there was an "urgent" need for a new regulator in the field.
He said much more "rigorous" and "robust" research was needed into the effects of drugs given to young transgender people.
But the Department of Health says it has no plans to create a new regulator. BBC News
Two-thirds of pregnant women under-25 show signs of mental health problems, 'alarming' research finds
Two-thirds of pregnant women under-25 show signs of mental health problems, 'alarming' research finds As many as two-thirds of young, pregnant women may have a mental health disorder, according to UK research which found “shockingly high levels” among under 25s.
Academics from King’s College London found 67 per cent of women aged 16 to 24 met the criteria for a mental health condition, including anxiety, depressionand post-traumatic stress disorder. This compared to around one in five women 25 and over.
The researchers said their “alarming” findings come amid increasing recognition of rising unmet mental health needs among young people. The Independent
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Academics from King’s College London found 67 per cent of women aged 16 to 24 met the criteria for a mental health condition, including anxiety, depressionand post-traumatic stress disorder. This compared to around one in five women 25 and over.
The researchers said their “alarming” findings come amid increasing recognition of rising unmet mental health needs among young people. The Independent
See also:
- Young pregnant women and risk for mental disorders: findings from an early pregnancy cohort (open access) British Journal of Psychiatry Open
Private ambulances increasingly used by NHS ‘putting patients at risk’, damning report finds
Private ambulances increasingly used by NHS ‘putting patients at risk’, damning report finds A damning report has warned that the increasing use of private ambulances is leading to examples of poor care, including a dialysis patient left to wander the streets.
Private ambulances are being used by the NHS more and more to transport patients to appointments and hospital, and to respond to emergency 999 calls.
But the Care Quality Commission (CQC) said it was concerned about the quality of care, staff training and use of medicines. The Independent
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Private ambulances are being used by the NHS more and more to transport patients to appointments and hospital, and to respond to emergency 999 calls.
But the Care Quality Commission (CQC) said it was concerned about the quality of care, staff training and use of medicines. The Independent
See also:
- The state of care in independent ambulance services Care Quality Commission
NHS cancer centre loses scanning contract to private firm
NHS cancer centre loses scanning contract to private firm Doctors express disgust after eminent hospital fails to win tender for PET-CT services
NHS chiefs are pushing through plans to let private companies take over scanning services that are vital in treating cancer patients, having told ministers last week that privatisation was harming patient care.
Despite its international reputation for cancer care, Churchill hospital in Oxford has lost its contract to carry out PET-CT scans to InHealth, a private company, as part of the tendering process, the Guardian can reveal.
NHS chiefs are pushing through plans to let private companies take over scanning services that are vital in treating cancer patients, having told ministers last week that privatisation was harming patient care.
Despite its international reputation for cancer care, Churchill hospital in Oxford has lost its contract to carry out PET-CT scans to InHealth, a private company, as part of the tendering process, the Guardian can reveal.
Ketamine-based drug approved for treating severe depression in the US
Ketamine-based drug approved for treating severe depression in the US A variant of the party drug Ketamine has been licensed in the US for treatment-resistant depression.
The decision comes as the European Medicines Agency (EMA) considers a similar application, which could see British patients given the powerful anaesthetic better known as an illegal club drug.
The US Food and Drink Administration (FDA) yesterday licensed the nasal spray for use by those who have already tried at least two medications for depression, without success. The Daily Telegraph
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The decision comes as the European Medicines Agency (EMA) considers a similar application, which could see British patients given the powerful anaesthetic better known as an illegal club drug.
The US Food and Drink Administration (FDA) yesterday licensed the nasal spray for use by those who have already tried at least two medications for depression, without success. The Daily Telegraph
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‘Devastating' loophole means bladder cancer patients face FIVE MONTH wait for treatment
‘Devastating' loophole means bladder cancer patients face FIVE MONTH wait for treatment Patients with bladder cancer are being made to wait up to five months for treatment because of an NHS loophole, it has been revealed.
Health service guidance counts a biopsy – the removal of a small sample of cells to be tested – as the beginning of treatment.
This means the NHS's 62-day treatment waiting limit stops once a patient has had a biopsy, and they are being left to wait up to 144 days to start actual therapy.
Politicians and campaigners have written to the Government urging it to act to improve care for patients with the illness, which kills around 5,000 Britons per year. The Daily Mail
Health service guidance counts a biopsy – the removal of a small sample of cells to be tested – as the beginning of treatment.
This means the NHS's 62-day treatment waiting limit stops once a patient has had a biopsy, and they are being left to wait up to 144 days to start actual therapy.
Politicians and campaigners have written to the Government urging it to act to improve care for patients with the illness, which kills around 5,000 Britons per year. The Daily Mail
Wednesday, 6 March 2019
Almost 9 out of 10 child hospital tooth extractions due to decay
Almost 9 out of 10 child hospital tooth extractions due to decay Almost 9 out of 10 hospital tooth extractions among children aged 0 to 5 are due to preventable tooth decay, according to data published by Public Health England.
Although the oral health of children is improving, significant inequalities remain and tooth extraction is still the most common hospital procedure in 6 to 10 year olds. Public Health England
Although the oral health of children is improving, significant inequalities remain and tooth extraction is still the most common hospital procedure in 6 to 10 year olds. Public Health England
Maximising the potential: essential measures to support SAS doctors
Maximising the potential: essential measures to support SAS doctors This report outlines measures to support Specialty and Associate Specialist (SAS) doctors sets out how Health Education England, NHS Improvement, NHS Employers and other partners will work together to support and develop SAS doctors. The guidance describes measures including effective induction and appraisal to support and develop their careers and using their skills in ways that realise their full potential. Health Education England
How fast is the ambulance service where you live?
How fast is the ambulance service where you live? Critically injured patients in rural areas are at risk due to the time it takes the ambulance service to reach them, a BBC investigation has found.
Some rural communities wait more than 20 minutes on average for 999 crews or trained members of the community to reach life-threatening cases such as cardiac arrests and stab victims.
A response should come in six to eight minutes, depending on where you live.
Experts said delays could make the difference between life and death. BBC News
Some rural communities wait more than 20 minutes on average for 999 crews or trained members of the community to reach life-threatening cases such as cardiac arrests and stab victims.
A response should come in six to eight minutes, depending on where you live.
Experts said delays could make the difference between life and death. BBC News
Brexit 'likely to cause cancer test delays'
Brexit 'likely to cause cancer test delays' Hospitals are likely to experience delays to cancer testing and treatment regardless of the result of next week's Brexit vote, BBC Newsnight has learned.
The Royal College of Radiologists has told doctors to prepare for possible delays for some drugs used to detect cancer if there is a no-deal Brexit.
It says clinicians should reduce their workload in the days after 29 March, when the UK is due to leave the EU.
The government said it had "robust" plans for however the UK leaves the EU. BBC News
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The Royal College of Radiologists has told doctors to prepare for possible delays for some drugs used to detect cancer if there is a no-deal Brexit.
It says clinicians should reduce their workload in the days after 29 March, when the UK is due to leave the EU.
The government said it had "robust" plans for however the UK leaves the EU. BBC News
See also:
- Medicines and radioisotope supply in the event of a no-deal Brexit The Royal College of Radiologists
- No-deal Brexit guidance for nuclear medicine teams The Royal College of Radiologists
Retraining experienced NHS medics: ‘They don’t care if you are 60 or 16'
Retraining experienced NHS medics: ‘They don’t care if you are 60 or 16' Paramedics, nurses and healthcare assistants are adapting existing skills for new roles with the help of apprenticeships
Age has been no barrier to Jed Bates’ ambition to become one of the first nursing associates– a brand-new bridging role between healthcare assistant and registered nurse.
The 61-year-old has just qualified after completing the two-year apprenticeship and now plans to continue down the same route to degree-level and become a qualified nurse. “I never thought I’d ever go to university. I left school at 16 and have been working all my life. I was quite happy with the way my life was going and there was no way that I could afford the £9,000 tuition fees. But with the apprenticeship, all that gets paid for.” The Guardian
Age has been no barrier to Jed Bates’ ambition to become one of the first nursing associates– a brand-new bridging role between healthcare assistant and registered nurse.
The 61-year-old has just qualified after completing the two-year apprenticeship and now plans to continue down the same route to degree-level and become a qualified nurse. “I never thought I’d ever go to university. I left school at 16 and have been working all my life. I was quite happy with the way my life was going and there was no way that I could afford the £9,000 tuition fees. But with the apprenticeship, all that gets paid for.” The Guardian
The NHS apprenticeships offering a new route to health and social care
The NHS apprenticeships offering a new route to health and social care As health and social care faces ongoing recruitment woes, new degree-level apprenticeships put clinical careers back in reach for more applicants
The first degree-level apprenticeships in physiotherapy and occupational therapy are due to be launched in April, offering an alternative earn-while-you-learn route to professional qualification. And this autumn the first apprentices are expected to start the new degree-level qualification in social work.
These new professional apprenticeships are creating alternative career paths in health and social care and are also addressing the continuing workforce recruitment and retention problems. They fit alongside a growing and diverse portfolio of other new lower-level apprenticeships. The NHS alone has 350 different job roles – 120 of which have an apprenticeship route, 30 are degree-level.
In the past, people may have seen apprenticeships for those with low skills and no qualifications
If you are put through training to progress and are getting paid, you are more likely to stay. The Guardian
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The first degree-level apprenticeships in physiotherapy and occupational therapy are due to be launched in April, offering an alternative earn-while-you-learn route to professional qualification. And this autumn the first apprentices are expected to start the new degree-level qualification in social work.
These new professional apprenticeships are creating alternative career paths in health and social care and are also addressing the continuing workforce recruitment and retention problems. They fit alongside a growing and diverse portfolio of other new lower-level apprenticeships. The NHS alone has 350 different job roles – 120 of which have an apprenticeship route, 30 are degree-level.
In the past, people may have seen apprenticeships for those with low skills and no qualifications
If you are put through training to progress and are getting paid, you are more likely to stay. The Guardian
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Libraries and parks face closure in bid to pay for social care services facing multi-billion pound funding gap, LGA warn
Libraries and parks face closure in bid to pay for social care services facing multi-billion pound funding gap, LGA warn Libraries and parks will close in a bid to fund social care services facing a multi-billion-pound funding gap, local authorities warn.
The Local Government Association (LGA) has insisted that this year councils will have to further divert funding from local amenities - including bus services, parks, filling potholes, libraries and leisure centres - to try and protect vital adult social care services. The Daily Telegraph
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The Local Government Association (LGA) has insisted that this year councils will have to further divert funding from local amenities - including bus services, parks, filling potholes, libraries and leisure centres - to try and protect vital adult social care services. The Daily Telegraph
See also:
- Council tax will fail to protect adult social care services this year Local Government Association
- Local councils face £1bn social care black hole as tax revenues fall short The Independent
From ignorance to a potential cure: the history of HIV breakthroughs
From ignorance to a potential cure: the history of HIV breakthroughs The news that a man in London has potentially been “cured” of HIV through a stem cell transplant shows how far the world has come since Aids first burst into global consciousness in the 1980s.
HIV is thought to have originated in the 1920s in Leopoldville, the capital of the Belgian colony of Congo when the virus crossed from monkeys into humans and was spread through prostitution.
How many people were infected in the early 20th century is unknown and first reports of what we now know as Aids came in the late 1970s and early 1980s, when groups of gay men began to report a rare lung infection and an unusually aggressive cancer called Kaposi’s sarcoma. The Daily Telegraph
HIV is thought to have originated in the 1920s in Leopoldville, the capital of the Belgian colony of Congo when the virus crossed from monkeys into humans and was spread through prostitution.
How many people were infected in the early 20th century is unknown and first reports of what we now know as Aids came in the late 1970s and early 1980s, when groups of gay men began to report a rare lung infection and an unusually aggressive cancer called Kaposi’s sarcoma. The Daily Telegraph
Tuesday, 5 March 2019
Winter pressures: how is the NHS coping?
Winter pressures: how is the NHS coping? Commentary and analysis from the health and social care front line in England. The Health Foundation
Guidance: Social prescribing: applying All Our Health
Guidance: Social prescribing: applying All Our Health This resource helps health professionals prevent ill health and promote wellbeing as part of their everyday practice, including guidance on:
- why adopt social prescribing in your professional practice
- understanding local needs
- measuring impact
Government response to nursing degree apprenticeships inquiry
Government response to nursing degree apprenticeships inquiry The government has published its response to the education select committee’s inquiry into nursing degree apprenticeships.
Despite ongoing lobbying to establish greater flexibility in the use of the apprenticeship levy, the response makes clear that the government will not be implementing the flexibilities requested by NHS Employers.
Danny Mortimer, chief executive of NHS Employers, called the government’s response “hugely disappointing”.
Despite ongoing lobbying to establish greater flexibility in the use of the apprenticeship levy, the response makes clear that the government will not be implementing the flexibilities requested by NHS Employers.
Danny Mortimer, chief executive of NHS Employers, called the government’s response “hugely disappointing”.
Keeping kids safe: improving safeguarding responses to gang violence and criminal exploitation
Keeping kids safe: improving safeguarding responses to gang violence and criminal exploitation This report estimates there are 27,000 children in England who identify as a gang member, only a fraction of whom are known to children’s services. The report recommends that government needs to make child criminal exploitation a national priority, and lay out clear expectations about the role of all organisations working with children – including the police, schools, children’s services and NHS bodies. There also needs to be more support from the NHS, including better mental health support for children at risk of gang membership and exclusion. Children's Commissioner for England
Proceed with caution: what makes personal budgets work?
Proceed with caution: what makes personal budgets work? This report provides a critical examination of how personal budgets have been used to deliver public services in the UK. It suggests where personal budgets show potential to deliver more effective, personalised public services, whilst also highlighting and suggesting solutions to the key challenges raised by their implementation so far. Reform
Is it time for 'smear test' to be rebranded?
Is it time for 'smear test' to be rebranded? The government has launched its first cervical screening advertising campaign in England, as the number of women having checks has hit a 20-year low.
The campaign - being run by Public Health England - has avoided the term "smear test" amid concern it may be putting people off.
Officials said the term was outdated and hope the term cervical screening will "normalise" the procedure. BBC News
The campaign - being run by Public Health England - has avoided the term "smear test" amid concern it may be putting people off.
Officials said the term was outdated and hope the term cervical screening will "normalise" the procedure. BBC News
Digital health apps could save NHS billions, says report
Digital health apps could save NHS billions, says report Digital health could save public health services in England £7.5 billion (nearly $10 billion) across England, according to a report from Now Healthcare Group.
The study found the use of telehealth and digital consultations removed the need for a National Health Service general practitioner appointment in more than half (56 percent) of cases, and a hospital appointment in 3 percent of cases if digital health through app-based tech was rolled out across the population. Healthcare IT News
The study found the use of telehealth and digital consultations removed the need for a National Health Service general practitioner appointment in more than half (56 percent) of cases, and a hospital appointment in 3 percent of cases if digital health through app-based tech was rolled out across the population. Healthcare IT News
HIV patient in London becomes second person in history to be completely cured of virus
HIV patient in London becomes second person in history to be completely cured of virus A man has been cured of HIV following an “improbable” stem cell transplant, becoming only the second patient in history to completely recover from the virus.
The unnamed man, known as the “London patient”, was diagnosed with HIV in 2003 and started taking drugs to control the virus, which causes Aids, in 2012.
He developed Hodgkin’s lymphoma the same year and agreed to a stem cell transplant in 2016, aimed at treating the cancer.
Doctors found a donor for the transplant who had a rare gene mutation that confers natural resistance to HIV, in what researchers called an “improbable event”. The Independent
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The unnamed man, known as the “London patient”, was diagnosed with HIV in 2003 and started taking drugs to control the virus, which causes Aids, in 2012.
He developed Hodgkin’s lymphoma the same year and agreed to a stem cell transplant in 2016, aimed at treating the cancer.
Doctors found a donor for the transplant who had a rare gene mutation that confers natural resistance to HIV, in what researchers called an “improbable event”. The Independent
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New funding models for health urgently needed, experts warn
New funding models for health urgently needed, experts warn Finance ministers must use their “political firepower” to help tackle some of the most pressing health challenges such as obesity and tuberculosis.
According to a report from the G20 Health and Development Partnership - a global coalition of charities, businesses and academics - the world is failing to invest in the fight against ill health, with countries at risk of being left behind. The Daily Telegraph
According to a report from the G20 Health and Development Partnership - a global coalition of charities, businesses and academics - the world is failing to invest in the fight against ill health, with countries at risk of being left behind. The Daily Telegraph
Transgender NHS rules that allow men to share women's wards if they identify as female to be reviewed
Transgender NHS rules that allow men to share women's wards if they identify as female to be reviewed Health officials are reviewing NHS policies which allow transgender patients to be cared for on women's wards even if they have not undergone medical transition, Matt Hancock has said.
The Health Secretary said officials are examining current rules which allow patients who have legally changed their gender to be cared for on women's wards.
Transgender patients are currently treated "as they present" - regardless of whether they have undergone a medical procedure to transition, Mr Hancock confirmed. The Daily Telegraph
The Health Secretary said officials are examining current rules which allow patients who have legally changed their gender to be cared for on women's wards.
Transgender patients are currently treated "as they present" - regardless of whether they have undergone a medical procedure to transition, Mr Hancock confirmed. The Daily Telegraph
Controversial review panel set-up to investigate NHS baby deaths is disbanded
Controversial review panel set-up to investigate NHS baby deaths is disbanded Health officials have ditched a panel of experts reviewing scores of deaths at a scandal-hit maternity unit amid conflict of interest fears.
The Government-ordered inquiry is reviewing around 220 suspicious incidents at Shrewsbury and Telford NHS Trust dating back two decades – including 200 deaths.
However, last week families expressed fury at the supervising panel, accusing some of the experts of being implicated in the scandal.
And now NHS Improvement has disbanded the controversial panel, saying it will ensure that families are given the answers they need. The Daily Mail
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The Government-ordered inquiry is reviewing around 220 suspicious incidents at Shrewsbury and Telford NHS Trust dating back two decades – including 200 deaths.
However, last week families expressed fury at the supervising panel, accusing some of the experts of being implicated in the scandal.
And now NHS Improvement has disbanded the controversial panel, saying it will ensure that families are given the answers they need. The Daily Mail
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Monday, 4 March 2019
Nurse asked Northampton mum whose child was in hospice to lie for her
Nurse asked Northampton mum whose child was in hospice to lie for her An NHS nurse has been struck off for causing distress to a Northampton family who she asked to cover up a falsified appointment.
Claire Hopson was working for NHS Nene as an assessor of children's needs when she was assigned to the family of a Northampton child who was being cared for at Rainbows Hospice, in Loughborough.
Her work diary showed she had an appointment at the family home on October 26, 2017 but an NHS Nene manager discovered it had not taken place. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Claire Hopson was working for NHS Nene as an assessor of children's needs when she was assigned to the family of a Northampton child who was being cared for at Rainbows Hospice, in Loughborough.
Her work diary showed she had an appointment at the family home on October 26, 2017 but an NHS Nene manager discovered it had not taken place. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
'How can they do this to a nurse?': on-duty nurse has car stolen from Northampton General Hospital
'How can they do this to a nurse?': on-duty nurse has car stolen from Northampton General Hospital A staff nurse at NGH came off shift to find her car keys had been stolen from the staff room - and her car was missing.
Dorcas Fokou was working a night shift on Althorp Ward on Thursday / Friday and left her belongings in the staff room.
Finishing at 8am on Friday, Dorcas felt in her handbag for her keys and realised they, along with her purse, were missing.
On talking to security staff, she learned to her horror that her car - a black Audi A5, registration FL13 BGY - had been driven away at 9.17pm on Thursday. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Dorcas Fokou was working a night shift on Althorp Ward on Thursday / Friday and left her belongings in the staff room.
Finishing at 8am on Friday, Dorcas felt in her handbag for her keys and realised they, along with her purse, were missing.
On talking to security staff, she learned to her horror that her car - a black Audi A5, registration FL13 BGY - had been driven away at 9.17pm on Thursday. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
The NHS crisis of caring for staff
The NHS crisis of caring for staff It is astonishing that politicians have watched the NHS staff crisis develop to this point without taking action. The reality is more than 100,000 NHS staff vacancies – that’s 1 in 11 of all NHS posts. There are very high levels of staff turnover with large numbers of nursing, midwifery and medical staff leaving every month (in secondary care, community services and general practice in particular). And there are chronically high levels of sickness absence and presenteeism. Add to this the struggle most NHS organisations now have in recruiting staff and the picture becomes clear. This is a crisis that threatens the ability of the service to deliver safe, high-quality care for the people in our communities. In any other industry, increasing staff turnover, absenteeism and difficulty recruiting would be seen as red flags, warning of fundamental toxicity in organisational cultures. The King's Fund
How to make the benefits system more accessible for people with mental health problems
How to make the benefits system more accessible for people with mental health problems When people are too ill to work, can’t find work or work doesn’t pay enough for their basic needs, the benefits system is supposed to provide a safety net. However, it can be notoriously hard to access the support you are entitled to. Long forms, hours on the phone and the threat of sanctions present challenges to anyone trying to make a claim. As our report, The benefits assault course, shows, these challenges are greater for people with mental health problems and the consequences can be dire. Money and Mental Health Policy Institute
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Trends in life expectancy in EU and other OECD countries
Trends in life expectancy in EU and other OECD countries This paper reports on trends in life expectancy in the 28 EU countries and some other high-income OECD countries, and examines potential explanations for the slowdown in improvements in recent years. The slowdown in improvements in life expectancy since 2011 has been greatest in the USA, where life expectancy has fallen in recent years, and the UK, but France, Germany, Sweden and Netherlands have also seen a sharp slowdown. The report also considers wider contributing factors. Although some risk factors, such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, high blood pressure and cholesterol levels, continue to decline in most EU countries, the prevalence of obesity and diabetes continues to rise. Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development
Major shake-up in NHSI and NHSE joint structure as Ian Dalton steps down
Major shake-up in NHSI and NHSE joint structure as Ian Dalton steps down Ian Dalton has announced he is stepping down as the chief executive of NHS Improvement (NHSI), with NHS England’s (NHSE) CEO Simon Stevens to lead both teams.
The news comes ahead of major policy changes towards joined-up working between NHSI and NHSE – and new briefing proposals suggest that both organisations believe “legislative change would support more rapid progress.”
Ian Dalton will step down as leader of NHSI and it is expected that a new chief operating officer will be appointed and formally designated as NHS Improvement chief executive. National Health Executive
The news comes ahead of major policy changes towards joined-up working between NHSI and NHSE – and new briefing proposals suggest that both organisations believe “legislative change would support more rapid progress.”
Ian Dalton will step down as leader of NHSI and it is expected that a new chief operating officer will be appointed and formally designated as NHS Improvement chief executive. National Health Executive
Why are BAME girls less likely to get the HPV jab?
Why are BAME girls less likely to get the HPV jab? The HPV - or Human Papilloma Virus - vaccine is available to year 8 and 9 schoolgirls across Britain. But not all of them get the jab.
Girls from black, Asian or minority ethnic (BAME) backgrounds are less likely to receive the vaccine in school than their white counterparts.
It's an important difference: Virtually all cases of cervical cancer are caused by HPV. BBC News
Girls from black, Asian or minority ethnic (BAME) backgrounds are less likely to receive the vaccine in school than their white counterparts.
It's an important difference: Virtually all cases of cervical cancer are caused by HPV. BBC News
NHS patients in England to be offered free tampons
NHS patients in England to be offered free tampons Women and girls in hospital who need sanitary protection will be offered free tampons and other products from this summer, NHS England has said.
It follows a British Medical Association campaign pointing out many hospitals supply razors and shaving foam to men, but no sanitary products.
NHS England said it was "absolutely right" that women had access to daily essentials while in hospital. BBC News
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It follows a British Medical Association campaign pointing out many hospitals supply razors and shaving foam to men, but no sanitary products.
NHS England said it was "absolutely right" that women had access to daily essentials while in hospital. BBC News
See also:
- Hospitals will supply free tampons and sanitary towels to inpatients, following doctors' campaign The Daily Telegraph
- Campaigners welcome free tampons for hospital patients The Guardian
- NHS hospitals told to provide free tampons in victory for period poverty campaigners The Independent
- Government launches bid to end period poverty worldwide by 2030 The Independent
Public health 'improving under councils despite cuts'
Public health 'improving under councils despite cuts' Councils in England say there has been a marked improvement in public health since they took over responsibility for delivering services nearly six years ago, despite budget cuts.
The Local Government Association points to a fall in the number of smokers, fewer teenage pregnancies and a decrease in the suicide rate.
But it warns progress could stop if there are further funding cuts. BBC News
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The Local Government Association points to a fall in the number of smokers, fewer teenage pregnancies and a decrease in the suicide rate.
But it warns progress could stop if there are further funding cuts. BBC News
See also:
- Improving the public's health: local government delivers (report) Local Government Association
- Public health improving under councils, despite substantial cuts Local Government Association
Vaccine-deniers are gaining traction, warns NHS England chief
Vaccine-deniers are gaining traction, warns NHS England chief Simon Stevens says messages spread on social media are part of fake news movement
The head of NHS England has said “vaccination deniers” are gaining traction on social media as part of a “fake news” movement.
Simon Stevens said a parent at his own daughter’s primary school had used WhatsApp to express concern about children’s immune systems being “loaded up” with vaccines. The Guardian
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The head of NHS England has said “vaccination deniers” are gaining traction on social media as part of a “fake news” movement.
Simon Stevens said a parent at his own daughter’s primary school had used WhatsApp to express concern about children’s immune systems being “loaded up” with vaccines. The Guardian
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Doctors need training in how to ask grieving parents for their children's organs says NHS, as number of donations plateau
Doctors need training in how to ask grieving parents for their children's organs says NHS, as number of donations plateau Doctors need training in how to ask grieving parents for their children's organs NHS Blood and Transplant has said, as the number of organ donations has plateaued.
Parents are being urged by the blood and transplant service to consider organ donation when their child dies as new figures show the number donating has not changed in more than five years. The Daily Telegraph
Parents are being urged by the blood and transplant service to consider organ donation when their child dies as new figures show the number donating has not changed in more than five years. The Daily Telegraph
Ministers have 'moral duty' to cap costs of elderly care, former Government advisor says
Ministers have 'moral duty' to cap costs of elderly care, former Government advisor says Ministers have a “moral duty” to introduce a cap on costs of care for the elderly, a former Government advisor has said - suggesting it was “silly” to suggest reforms were unaffordable.
Sir Andrew Dilnot, who led a cross-party commission on social care, spoke out following political rows between the Cabinet about a long-delayed green paper on the matter. The Daily Telegraph
Sir Andrew Dilnot, who led a cross-party commission on social care, spoke out following political rows between the Cabinet about a long-delayed green paper on the matter. The Daily Telegraph
NHS hospitals with more volunteers 'perform better in inspections', watchdog claims
NHS hospitals with more volunteers 'perform better in inspections', watchdog claims Hospitals with well-run volunteer schemes are more likely to be given a top rating by inspectors, the health watchdog has said.
Professor Ted Baker, of the Care Quality Commission (CQC), said the presence of trained helpers usually indicates that patients are receiving excellent care.
He said volunteering programmes at some hospitals have been so successful they have even helped to boost their rankings to 'outstanding'. The Daily Mail
Professor Ted Baker, of the Care Quality Commission (CQC), said the presence of trained helpers usually indicates that patients are receiving excellent care.
He said volunteering programmes at some hospitals have been so successful they have even helped to boost their rankings to 'outstanding'. The Daily Mail
Friday, 1 March 2019
Race equality in the NHS workforce
Race equality in the NHS workforce (podcast) What can be done about race inequality in the NHS workforce? How can we ensure representative leadership happens? Helen McKenna talks with Yvonne Coghill, Director at NHS England Workforce Race Equality Standard (WRES); Dionne Daniel, Project Lead, Nursing Workforce Remodelling Research Project; and Ben Morrin, Director of Workforce at University College London Hospitals. The King's Fund
New training for health visitors to boost early language skills
New training for health visitors to boost early language skills 1,000 health visitors to be trained to support children's early language and communication needs during routine home visits. Public Health England
People with a mental health problem can pay a premium of over £1000 every year
People with a mental health problem can pay a premium of over £1000 every year A lack of support means people with a mental health condition can pay between £1,100 to £1,550 a year more for essential services, new research from Citizens Advice shows.
This problem exists across energy, telecoms, current accounts and unsecured personal credit such as credit cards and overdrafts.
The charity has found that many companies are failing people with mental health problems. Citizens Advice
This problem exists across energy, telecoms, current accounts and unsecured personal credit such as credit cards and overdrafts.
The charity has found that many companies are failing people with mental health problems. Citizens Advice
Shropshire baby deaths: Families could pull out of inquiry
Shropshire baby deaths: Families could pull out of inquiry Families who have alleged failings at an NHS trust could pull out of an inquiry into their babies' deaths.
Some object to the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists being part of the overseeing review panel.
Rhiannon Davies, whose baby Kate died in 2009, said its role in the review of Shrewsbury and Telford NHS Trust, the biggest inquiry into claims of maternity failure, was "inappropriate".
NHS Improvement (NHSI) defended the inquiry as "independent". BBC News
See also:
Some object to the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists being part of the overseeing review panel.
Rhiannon Davies, whose baby Kate died in 2009, said its role in the review of Shrewsbury and Telford NHS Trust, the biggest inquiry into claims of maternity failure, was "inappropriate".
NHS Improvement (NHSI) defended the inquiry as "independent". BBC News
See also:
- Parents anger over 'NHS cover up' in Telford death probe The Daily Mail
- NHSI accused of 'cover up' over maternity deaths investigation Health Service Journal
Scrap laws driving privatisation of health service, say NHS bosses
Scrap laws driving privatisation of health service, say NHS bosses NHS England calls for end to rules under which firms have won £10.5bn of contracts
NHS bosses have urged ministers to scrap controversial legislation that has led to the widespread privatisation of healthcare as part of a major revamp of the health service. The Guardian
NHS bosses have urged ministers to scrap controversial legislation that has led to the widespread privatisation of healthcare as part of a major revamp of the health service. The Guardian
Meet my patients who've been left out of the mental health conversation
Meet my patients who've been left out of the mental health conversation Vinny has been violent, Leanne hears voices, and Harry is paranoid. How does the vogue for wellbeing help them?
Mental health is everywhere. The phrase reverberates from nurseries to nursing homes, and hushed conversations once held out of the earshot of children and polite company are giving way to a more open dialogue about psychological wellbeing. But are we seeing the full picture? And does the vogue for wellbeing distract us from a long-overdue conversation about individuals with serious mental illness?
I work as a consultant psychiatrist in assertive outreach, a specialty that aims to help those who have struggled to engage with psychiatric services. While they too have mental health problems, you don’t hear a lot about some of the people I meet. The Guardian
Mental health is everywhere. The phrase reverberates from nurseries to nursing homes, and hushed conversations once held out of the earshot of children and polite company are giving way to a more open dialogue about psychological wellbeing. But are we seeing the full picture? And does the vogue for wellbeing distract us from a long-overdue conversation about individuals with serious mental illness?
I work as a consultant psychiatrist in assertive outreach, a specialty that aims to help those who have struggled to engage with psychiatric services. While they too have mental health problems, you don’t hear a lot about some of the people I meet. The Guardian
Breast cancer screening sinks to lowest rate in 10 years
Breast cancer screening sinks to lowest rate in 10 years The proportion of women taking up breast cancer screening has sunk to its lowest level for a decade, new NHS figures show.
Experts have warned the “extremely worrying” trend risks worsening until health chiefs improve their methods of encouraging the public to take up the potentially life-saving tests.
Under the NHS Breast Screening Programme, women normally receive their first routine invitation for screening between the ages of 50 and 53, and are thereafter invited back every three years until their 71st birthday. The Daily Telegraph
Experts have warned the “extremely worrying” trend risks worsening until health chiefs improve their methods of encouraging the public to take up the potentially life-saving tests.
Under the NHS Breast Screening Programme, women normally receive their first routine invitation for screening between the ages of 50 and 53, and are thereafter invited back every three years until their 71st birthday. The Daily Telegraph
Two pharmaceutical firms face fines for 'illegally inflating drug prices'
Two pharmaceutical firms face fines for 'illegally inflating drug prices' The Government has accused two English pharmaceutical firms of trying to illegally make millions of pounds from the NHS.
Medicine suppliers Auden Mckenzie and Waymade allegedly set up an agreement to inflate the price of a life-saving steroid.
The Competition and Markets Authority today claimed Auden Mckenzie paid Waymade to not sell certain tablets so it could demand a higher price from the NHS.
As a result, the cost to the health service for 20mg hydrocortisone tablets reportedly almost doubled from £46 to £90 for a single pack of 30. The Daily Mail
Medicine suppliers Auden Mckenzie and Waymade allegedly set up an agreement to inflate the price of a life-saving steroid.
The Competition and Markets Authority today claimed Auden Mckenzie paid Waymade to not sell certain tablets so it could demand a higher price from the NHS.
As a result, the cost to the health service for 20mg hydrocortisone tablets reportedly almost doubled from £46 to £90 for a single pack of 30. The Daily Mail
Build houses away from polluting roads, NHS watchdog warns councils
Build houses away from polluting roads, NHS watchdog warns councils New homes should be built away from main roads, the NHS watchdog has said.
The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (Nice) has recommended houses, flats, schools, nurseries and care homes be protected from pollution.
It said properties should be built in way which reduces the need to use cars to get there, as one charity warns dirty air is killing thousands of people each year.
Vehicles churn out polluting gases including nitrogen dioxide, which can cause lung problems and trigger asthma attacks in both adults and children. The Daily Mail
See also:
The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (Nice) has recommended houses, flats, schools, nurseries and care homes be protected from pollution.
It said properties should be built in way which reduces the need to use cars to get there, as one charity warns dirty air is killing thousands of people each year.
Vehicles churn out polluting gases including nitrogen dioxide, which can cause lung problems and trigger asthma attacks in both adults and children. The Daily Mail
See also:
Thursday, 28 February 2019
Lorry gets stuck under low awning at Northampton General Hospital
Lorry gets stuck under low awning at Northampton General Hospital The claw of a loading lorry damaged an awning at Northampton General Hospital this morning.
A road closure was put in place from the Cheyne Walk entrance after the lorry got stuck under a canopy. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
A road closure was put in place from the Cheyne Walk entrance after the lorry got stuck under a canopy. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Northampton hospital kept patients in seclusion cells for long periods, despite knowing they were low-risk
Northampton hospital kept patients in seclusion cells for long periods, despite knowing they were low-risk A hospital in Northampton has admitted not being able to meet the needs of three patients with complex needs - a watchdog report has found - one of whom was kept in regular seclusion for 18 months.
The Care Quality Commission (CQC) has released the findings of a focused inspection into St Andrew's Healthcare, carried out between October and January. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
The Care Quality Commission (CQC) has released the findings of a focused inspection into St Andrew's Healthcare, carried out between October and January. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
See also:
- St Andrew's Healthcare - Adolescents Service Care Quality Commission
Compassion: your greatest leadership contribution?
Compassion: your greatest leadership contribution? After months of waiting, we finally have the NHS long-term plan. So, was it worth the wait? Does it really matter to the day-to-day work of staff delivering care? And what changes will be required to deliver on its ambitions? The King's Fund
Diabulimia: NHS cash to treat type 1 diabetes eating disorder
Diabulimia: NHS cash to treat type 1 diabetes eating disorder At her worst point Zohra Allana was told she was "going to die".
The 25-year-old has diabulimia - when someone with type 1 diabetes deliberately doesn't take their insulin to control their weight.
"I look really awful, emaciated," she tells Radio 1 Newsbeat, while swiping through holiday photos from last year.
The condition isn't medically recognised, but now NHS England is putting just under £1m into two pilot projects to help people like Zohra. BBC News
See also:
The 25-year-old has diabulimia - when someone with type 1 diabetes deliberately doesn't take their insulin to control their weight.
"I look really awful, emaciated," she tells Radio 1 Newsbeat, while swiping through holiday photos from last year.
The condition isn't medically recognised, but now NHS England is putting just under £1m into two pilot projects to help people like Zohra. BBC News
See also:
Generation Z teenagers have more mental health problems despite drops in smoking, drugs and antisocial behaviour
Generation Z teenagers have more mental health problems despite drops in smoking, drugs and antisocial behaviour Mental health problems and self-harm are on the rise among British teenagers despite significant decreases in antisocial behaviour and substance use, a long-running study has found.
Depressive symptoms among “Generation Z” – teenagers born at the turn of the millennium – are around two-thirds higher than the “millennial generation” born in the early nineties.
They are also more likely to self-harm, suffer from poor body image, skip sleep and be overweight, according to the research from University College London. The Independent
See also:
Depressive symptoms among “Generation Z” – teenagers born at the turn of the millennium – are around two-thirds higher than the “millennial generation” born in the early nineties.
They are also more likely to self-harm, suffer from poor body image, skip sleep and be overweight, according to the research from University College London. The Independent
See also:
- Changes in millennial adolescent mental health and health-related behaviours over 10 years: a population cohort comparison study (abstract) International Journal of Epidemiology
- Adolescent health: Teens 'more depressed and sleeping less' BBC News
- Depression and self-harm is higher in young people than a decade ago The Daily Mail
Higher taxes on the rich could reduce UK health inequality, says expert
Higher taxes on the rich could reduce UK health inequality, says expert Gap in life expectancy in Britain has widened since onset of austerity, says Michael Marmot
Higher taxation for the rich may need to be considered if the UK is to tackle the decline in life expectancy in parts of the UK and the widening gap in health inequalities, according to Sir Michael Marmot, the country’s leading authority on the issues.
Ten years on from his seminal review for the Labour government of health inequality in England in 2010, Marmot will publish a review of what has been achieved and the current state of the nation with the Health Foundation. The evidence is expected to show that initial progress faltered and then stopped under the pressure of austerity, Marmot told the Guardian in an interview.
See also:
Higher taxation for the rich may need to be considered if the UK is to tackle the decline in life expectancy in parts of the UK and the widening gap in health inequalities, according to Sir Michael Marmot, the country’s leading authority on the issues.
Ten years on from his seminal review for the Labour government of health inequality in England in 2010, Marmot will publish a review of what has been achieved and the current state of the nation with the Health Foundation. The evidence is expected to show that initial progress faltered and then stopped under the pressure of austerity, Marmot told the Guardian in an interview.
See also:
- The Marmot Review 10 Years On The Health Foundation
Vulnerable pensioners with dementia facing crippling care bills following NHS attempts to restrict funding
Vulnerable pensioners with dementia facing crippling care bills following NHS attempts to restrict funding Vulnerable pensioners with dementia and Parkinson’s are facing crippling care bills following attempts by health officials to restrict the numbers receiving NHS funding.
Under national rules, any patient with a significant health problem should have their care and nursing fees paid in full - if the condition is deemed to be the main reason they need such help.
But an investigation by The Daily Telegraph reveals that authorities are increasingly refusing to fund care, claiming that devastating diseases are not severe, or not the primary reason help is needed - leaving families facing bills of up to £100,000 a year.
Under national rules, any patient with a significant health problem should have their care and nursing fees paid in full - if the condition is deemed to be the main reason they need such help.
But an investigation by The Daily Telegraph reveals that authorities are increasingly refusing to fund care, claiming that devastating diseases are not severe, or not the primary reason help is needed - leaving families facing bills of up to £100,000 a year.
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