Tuesday 31 January 2017
Treat as one: bridging the gap between mental and physical healthcare in general hospitals
Treat as one: bridging the gap between mental and physical healthcare in general hospitals This report from the National Confidential Enquiry into Patient Outcome and Death highlights concerns around the lack of progress on integration of physical and mental health care in general hospitals. NHS Networks
Staying put: developing dementia-friendly care and support for people with a learning disability
Staying put: developing dementia-friendly care and support for people with a learning disability A report from several voluntary sector organisations calls for an improvement in the way that the needs of people with learning disabilities and dementia are addressed. NHS Networks
Evidence review on drug misuse treatment
Evidence review on drug misuse treatment Public Health England (PHE) has published a comprehensive review of the evidence on the drug misuse treatment system in England. NHS Networks
Take care of your elderly mothers and fathers, says Tory minister
Take care of your elderly mothers and fathers, says Tory minister David Mowat speaks out during House of Commons committee session on tackling the care crisis. People have just as much of a duty to look after their elderly parents as they do to care for their own children, a health minister has said.
David Mowat made the comments alongside an admission that the government had no “final answer” on how it was going to cope with the rising costs of social care. Continue reading... The Guardian
David Mowat made the comments alongside an admission that the government had no “final answer” on how it was going to cope with the rising costs of social care. Continue reading... The Guardian
Burning injustice: reducing tobacco-driven harm and inequality
Burning injustice: reducing tobacco-driven harm and inequality The All Party Parliamentary Group on Smoking and Health (APPGSH) launched this inquiry to review current action on tobacco control in response to concerns that funding is being reduced or not used effectively for work on tobacco control. The report provides evidence-based recommendations to the government, local authorities and the NHS for effective action to further reduce smoking prevalence at a time of austerity. The King's Fund
More patients placed in mixed-sex wards in England
More patients placed in mixed-sex wards in England The number of patients placed in mixed-sex wards in England has risen by almost 70% in the last year.
Statistics from NHS England show 7,163 patients were put in the wards in 2016, up from 4,248 in 2015.
In April 2011, fines were introduced to try to eradicate the problem, leading to a fall from thousands per month to hundreds. The Patients Association said the rise was "concerning" and that the wards should be scrapped. BBC News
Statistics from NHS England show 7,163 patients were put in the wards in 2016, up from 4,248 in 2015.
In April 2011, fines were introduced to try to eradicate the problem, leading to a fall from thousands per month to hundreds. The Patients Association said the rise was "concerning" and that the wards should be scrapped. BBC News
NHS health service for GPs opens across England
NHS health service for GPs opens across England GPs seeking help with depression, addiction, stress and other mental health issues can now access support from the GP Health Service, following its launch on Monday 30 January. GP Online
Prison crisis affecting health services for inmates, says GP
Prison crisis affecting health services for inmates, says GP Rising tension and staff shortages in prisons are affecting decisions about how to manage urgent medical care for inmates, a senior prison GP has warned. GP Online
MPs to debate call to remove 1% nurse pay cap
MPs to debate call to remove 1% nurse pay cap MPs will today debate a call for the lifting of the 1% pay cap on public sector workers.
Catherine McKinnell, MP for Newcastle North, will lead the debate, which resulted from a petition started by Royal College of Nursing member Danielle Tiplady and signed by over 100,000 people.
At 4.30pm today members will debate the motion: “That this House has considered e-petition 168127 relating to pay restraint for Agenda for Change NHS staff.” OnMedica
Catherine McKinnell, MP for Newcastle North, will lead the debate, which resulted from a petition started by Royal College of Nursing member Danielle Tiplady and signed by over 100,000 people.
At 4.30pm today members will debate the motion: “That this House has considered e-petition 168127 relating to pay restraint for Agenda for Change NHS staff.” OnMedica
Councils may cut social care provision due to underfunding, LGA says
Councils may cut social care provision due to underfunding, LGA says Association says some of its 370 councils are struggling to meet legal requirement so badly they could face high court challenge.
Older and vulnerable people could stop receiving vital help to get out of bed, washed and dressed, because the underfunding of social care has become so severe, councils have warned.
Leaders of 370 local authorities in England and Wales fear that some councils are finding it so hard to provide the right level of support they could face a high court legal challenge for breaking the law.Continue reading... The Guardian
Older and vulnerable people could stop receiving vital help to get out of bed, washed and dressed, because the underfunding of social care has become so severe, councils have warned.
Leaders of 370 local authorities in England and Wales fear that some councils are finding it so hard to provide the right level of support they could face a high court legal challenge for breaking the law.Continue reading... The Guardian
No improvement in heart failure death rates since 1990s
No improvement in heart failure death rates since 1990s Heart failure still kills the same number of middle-aged Britons as it did nearly two decades ago, a new study warned.
While medical advances has slashed the number of Britons dying from cancer, the same has not happened for those suffering from heart failure.
The University of Oxford led study found between 1998 and 2012, survival rates for people aged over 45 with heart failure showed no improvement. The Telegraph
While medical advances has slashed the number of Britons dying from cancer, the same has not happened for those suffering from heart failure.
The University of Oxford led study found between 1998 and 2012, survival rates for people aged over 45 with heart failure showed no improvement. The Telegraph
Monday 30 January 2017
The NHS at mid-winter
The NHS at mid-winter With December and half of January behind us, how is the NHS faring this winter? According to the British Red Cross, the service is facing a ‘humanitarian crisis’, whereas according to the Prime Minister the current situation is ‘not unusual’, with much of the media coverage perhaps closer in tone to the British Red Cross than to the PM.
However, with performance data on A&E now published several weeks after events take place, it is less easy to tell how far undoubted signs of real stress in some trusts are a local issue, or are replicated across the rest of the country. Equally, even where national data is available on the state of the service (mainly through winter situation reports or SitReps) this does not necessarily tell us what has caused any problems and there are, in any case, data quality issues with SitReps that should be taken as a caveat on the numbers presented here. King's Fund
However, with performance data on A&E now published several weeks after events take place, it is less easy to tell how far undoubted signs of real stress in some trusts are a local issue, or are replicated across the rest of the country. Equally, even where national data is available on the state of the service (mainly through winter situation reports or SitReps) this does not necessarily tell us what has caused any problems and there are, in any case, data quality issues with SitReps that should be taken as a caveat on the numbers presented here. King's Fund
Cancer drugs price rise 'costing NHS millions'
Cancer drugs price rise 'costing NHS millions' Some cancer drugs that are no longer under patent are rising in price when they should be falling. UK prices for generic cancer drugs have risen sharply in the past five years, restricting their use in treating NHS patients, research from the European Cancer Congress has found. Drugs such as tamoxifen and bulsufan are now 10 times more expensive despite no longer being under patent. BBC News
NHS spending per person will be cut next year, ministers confirm
NHS spending per person will be cut next year, ministers confirm The Government will cut the National Health Service’s budget per person in real terms next year, ministers have admitted in official figures for the first time. Numbers released by ministers show NHS England will face a sharp reduction of 0.6 per cent in real terms of per head in the financial year 2018-19.
The numbers corroborate claims by NHS chief Simon Stevens earlier this month that “in 2018-19, real-terms NHS spending per person in England is going to go down”. The figures also fly in the face of the Government’s public insistence that it is investing more in the health service, with Jeremy Hunt and Theresa May repeating the mantra of an extra £10bn for the NHS. The Independent
The numbers corroborate claims by NHS chief Simon Stevens earlier this month that “in 2018-19, real-terms NHS spending per person in England is going to go down”. The figures also fly in the face of the Government’s public insistence that it is investing more in the health service, with Jeremy Hunt and Theresa May repeating the mantra of an extra £10bn for the NHS. The Independent
Ensure GPs fully support hospitals over winter pressures
Ensure GPs fully support hospitals over winter pressures NHS Improvement and NHS England should “ensure that social care and GPs fully support hospitals and ambulance services” in an urgent review of how the NHS manages winter pressures, NHS Providers insisted this morning. It said this review should also consider how the NHS prepared for this winter, whether or not the NHS should have dedicated winter funding, and the impact of staff shortages.
NHS Providers, which represents NHS acute, ambulance, community and mental health services, argued that as the current approach places most of the burden of winter pressures on trusts, they should be given the opportunity to say what has and hasn’t worked, and what must change. It said a review led by NHS Improvement and NHS England, with input from trusts, should be conducted rapidly so that it can be concluded by this April and its findings made public. OnMedica
NHS Providers, which represents NHS acute, ambulance, community and mental health services, argued that as the current approach places most of the burden of winter pressures on trusts, they should be given the opportunity to say what has and hasn’t worked, and what must change. It said a review led by NHS Improvement and NHS England, with input from trusts, should be conducted rapidly so that it can be concluded by this April and its findings made public. OnMedica
NHS intensive care 'at its limits' because of staff shortages
NHS intensive care 'at its limits' because of staff shortages Units are so overwhelmed that life-saving operations are having to be delayed, warn senior doctors.
The NHS’s network of intensive care units is “at its limits” because they are overwhelmed by staff shortages and the sheer number of patients needing life-or-death care, senior doctors are warning in an unprecedented intervention.
Intensive care units (ICUs) are becoming so full that patient safety is increasingly at risk because life-saving operations – including heart, abdominal and neurosurgery – are having to be delayed, the leaders of the specialist doctors who staff the units have told the Guardian.Continue reading... The Guardian
The NHS’s network of intensive care units is “at its limits” because they are overwhelmed by staff shortages and the sheer number of patients needing life-or-death care, senior doctors are warning in an unprecedented intervention.
Intensive care units (ICUs) are becoming so full that patient safety is increasingly at risk because life-saving operations – including heart, abdominal and neurosurgery – are having to be delayed, the leaders of the specialist doctors who staff the units have told the Guardian.Continue reading... The Guardian
NHS commissioners risk losing sight of human cost of their decisions
NHS commissioners risk losing sight of human cost of their decisions Vulnerable patients are being shunted into care homes to make easy savings.
The revelation that thousands of people could be forced out of their homes into residential care raises serious questions about the judgment of clinical commissioning groups (CCGs).
According to the Health Service Journal story, based on information gathered by campaign group Disability United, at least 37 CCGs have imposed restrictions on access to NHS continuing healthcare funding, which provides ongoing care for adults with a “primary health need”. Continue reading... The Guardian
The revelation that thousands of people could be forced out of their homes into residential care raises serious questions about the judgment of clinical commissioning groups (CCGs).
According to the Health Service Journal story, based on information gathered by campaign group Disability United, at least 37 CCGs have imposed restrictions on access to NHS continuing healthcare funding, which provides ongoing care for adults with a “primary health need”. Continue reading... The Guardian
Quitting EU regulator 'would leave UK waiting longer' for new drugs
Quitting EU regulator 'would leave UK waiting longer' for new drugs Drug firms say leaving EMA could mean Britons having to wait a year longer than EU citizens for newly-developed medicines.
Ministers are coming under growing pressure to scrap plans to quit Europe’s medicines regulator as part of Brexit, with drug firms saying doing so could force Britons to wait a year longer than patients in the EU to access new drugs.
Labour and leaders of the UK’s pharmaceutical industry fear that patients and the NHS will lose out if Britain gives up its membership of the European Medicines Agency (EMA). The health secretary, Jeremy Hunt, told MPs last week that he did not expect the UK to continue as a member once it left the EU.Continue reading... The Guardian
Ministers are coming under growing pressure to scrap plans to quit Europe’s medicines regulator as part of Brexit, with drug firms saying doing so could force Britons to wait a year longer than patients in the EU to access new drugs.
Labour and leaders of the UK’s pharmaceutical industry fear that patients and the NHS will lose out if Britain gives up its membership of the European Medicines Agency (EMA). The health secretary, Jeremy Hunt, told MPs last week that he did not expect the UK to continue as a member once it left the EU.Continue reading... The Guardian
Friday 27 January 2017
Northamptonshire carers honoured for outstanding work
Northamptonshire carers honoured for outstanding work Carers from Northamptonshire were honoured for the outstanding work they do for others at the annual Jane Roebuck Carers Awards at Barton Hall in Kettering. Northamptonshire Telegraph
Kettering baby’s catastrophic injuries could have been prevented had fractures been spotted
Kettering baby’s catastrophic injuries could have been prevented had fractures been spotted Catastrophic injuries which a Kettering baby suffered at the hands of her parents could have been prevented had earlier rib fractures been noticed, a case review has found. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
See also:
See also:
- Child N - Serious Case Review Northamptonshire Children Safeguarding Board
- Chances to stop 'sickening' assaults on baby missed BBC Northampton
- KGH: “We profoundly regret the missed opportunities to escalate safeguarding concerns” Northampton Chronicle and Echo
- Kettering baby abuse case one of the most serious I’ve dealt with, says safeguarding board chairman Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Quality improvement: learning from innovations in the vanguards
Quality improvement: learning from innovations in the vanguards I have recently returned from an exciting, whirlwind tour of another set of new care models sites. This was my fourth such tour. My goal for these visits, which I make as an International Visiting Fellow for The King’s Fund, is to attempt to understand what the vanguard organisations are trying to do, how well they are faring, and how they might progress even better and faster. On this trip, the additional question was: ‘How can these lessons and models be spread more widely across the NHS?’
Let me recount a few of the many highlights, and then summarise some general conclusions about the new care models investment. The King's Fund
Let me recount a few of the many highlights, and then summarise some general conclusions about the new care models investment. The King's Fund
Research and analysis: Drug misuse treatment in England: evidence review of outcomes
Research and analysis: Drug misuse treatment in England: evidence review of outcomes This review gives policy makers and local areas an objective assessment of what drug treatment outcomes are achievable, and compares outcomes in England to the evidence and to other drug treatment systems
It reviews the impact of housing problems, unemployment and social deprivation on treatment engagement and outcomes. The review also considers how drug treatment will need to be configured to meet future need and recommends an appropriate set of measures or indicator for treatment evaluation.
It was commissioned by the Department of Health and was based partly on 3 rapid evidence assessments commissioned from independent academics. Public Health England
It reviews the impact of housing problems, unemployment and social deprivation on treatment engagement and outcomes. The review also considers how drug treatment will need to be configured to meet future need and recommends an appropriate set of measures or indicator for treatment evaluation.
It was commissioned by the Department of Health and was based partly on 3 rapid evidence assessments commissioned from independent academics. Public Health England
Building on the industrial strategy: briefing for the NHS
Building on the industrial strategy: briefing for the NHS The government published its long-awaited industrial strategy green paper on 23 January 2017. The forthcoming departure from the EU has given the industrial strategy added importance, with the 2016 referendum vote highlighting regional disparities in economic prosperity.
This briefing focuses on the implications and opportunities for NHS organisations arising from the industrial strategy. NHS Confederation
This briefing focuses on the implications and opportunities for NHS organisations arising from the industrial strategy. NHS Confederation
New confidentiality guidance published by the GMC
New confidentiality guidance published by the GMC The General Medical Council (GMC) has published revised, expanded and reorganised guidance on confidentiality for all doctors practising in the UK.
Outcome-focused integrated care: lessons from experience
Outcome-focused integrated care: lessons from experience This paper captures some of the learning and experience from work on developing integrated practice. It aims to offer guidance to those embarking on a significant period of change on what they may need to consider. It draws on IPC’s practice-based experience of integration across a range of different organisational set-ups and cultures. Institute of Public Care
NHS equality boss and Devon CEO faces jail for fraud
NHS equality boss and Devon CEO faces jail for fraud A former NHS equality boss has been warned she could face jail for swindling £11,000 by diverting funds to her husband.
Paula Vasco-Knight, 53, broke down as she changed her plea on the second day of her trial at Exeter Crown Court.
She used £11,072 of NHS cash to pay her husband Stephen, 46, for work on an equality and diversity publication called Transform, which never existed.
Her husband also changed his plea to admit fraud. BBC News
Paula Vasco-Knight, 53, broke down as she changed her plea on the second day of her trial at Exeter Crown Court.
She used £11,072 of NHS cash to pay her husband Stephen, 46, for work on an equality and diversity publication called Transform, which never existed.
Her husband also changed his plea to admit fraud. BBC News
Health professionals vary hugely in disability assessments
Health professionals vary hugely in disability assessments Healthcare professionals vary hugely in how they assess people’s eligibility for disability benefits, even the same claimant, international research has revealed. The researchers behind the ‘disconcerting’ review,* published online today by The BMJ, found there was better reproducibility when experts used a standardised evaluation procedure, and they have called for substantial and urgent investment in research to improve assessment of disability. OnMedica
FGM clinic hailed as 'life-changing' to close after losing funding
FGM clinic hailed as 'life-changing' to close after losing funding A “life changing” clinic which helps women and girls subjected to female genital mutilation (FGM) could be forced to close in March after losing its council funding.
The Acton FGM Community Clinic in West London – where FGM figures are the highest in the country - is the only facility in the country to offer reversal of the practice.
Ealing Council and Imperial NHS Trust have funded the service for the past decade, but the council is withdrawing money for rent of the space and other costs - and health commissioners have refused to plug the gap. The Independent
The Acton FGM Community Clinic in West London – where FGM figures are the highest in the country - is the only facility in the country to offer reversal of the practice.
Ealing Council and Imperial NHS Trust have funded the service for the past decade, but the council is withdrawing money for rent of the space and other costs - and health commissioners have refused to plug the gap. The Independent
Royal College of Surgeons slam plans to cut back on hip and knee replacements
Royal College of Surgeons slam plans to cut back on hip and knee replacements Three clinical commissioning groups propose only operating on patients that have such severe levels of pain they cannot sleep or carry out daily tasks
The Royal College of Surgeons has hit out at cost-cutting plans to ration who can receive hip and knee replacements.
Three clinical commissioning groups (CCGs) in the West Midlands have proposed slashing the number of people who qualify for hip replacements by 12% and introducing a 19% cut over who is eligible for knee replacements. Continue reading... The Guardian
See also:
The Royal College of Surgeons has hit out at cost-cutting plans to ration who can receive hip and knee replacements.
Three clinical commissioning groups (CCGs) in the West Midlands have proposed slashing the number of people who qualify for hip replacements by 12% and introducing a 19% cut over who is eligible for knee replacements. Continue reading... The Guardian
See also:
We are rightly proud that our NHS is free. Let’s keep it that way
We are rightly proud that our NHS is free. Let’s keep it that way A group of GPs has suggested that some treatments could be paid for. But the profit motive would taint the precious trust between patient and doctor
Imagine you have a big, greasy, warty growth on your back. It’s embarrassing, catches on your clothes and means you avoid swimming or exposing your back on holiday. Your GP confirms that it’s not cancer and says it’s a seborrhoeic wart. That’s great, but you’d like it removed. Your GP says you can’t be referred for removal on the NHS because it’s a cosmetic problem. Continue reading... The Guardian
Imagine you have a big, greasy, warty growth on your back. It’s embarrassing, catches on your clothes and means you avoid swimming or exposing your back on holiday. Your GP confirms that it’s not cancer and says it’s a seborrhoeic wart. That’s great, but you’d like it removed. Your GP says you can’t be referred for removal on the NHS because it’s a cosmetic problem. Continue reading... The Guardian
Thursday 26 January 2017
SPECIAL REPORT: Council leader says Northamptonshire will not have Surrey-style 15 per cent council tax hike vote
SPECIAL REPORT: Council leader says Northamptonshire will not have Surrey-style 15 per cent council tax hike vote A shock referendum posed by an affluent county in the south of England may well set off a chain reaction of referenda across the country as authorities seek to plug their ailing adult social care budgets. But Northamptonshire won’t be following suit. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Lenehan review into care of children with learning disabilities
Lenehan review into care of children with learning disabilities Dame Christine Lenehan was asked by the Department of Health to take a strategic overview and recommend what practical action can be taken to co-ordinate care, support and treatment for children and young people with complex needs (and behaviour that challenges) involving mental health problems and learning disabilities and/or autism.
Dame Christine has spoken to many different organisations and individuals, including young people and their families. Her report makes 11 recommendations for government departments and partners at a national level on how to improve the system. Department of Health
Dame Christine has spoken to many different organisations and individuals, including young people and their families. Her report makes 11 recommendations for government departments and partners at a national level on how to improve the system. Department of Health
Mental health problems: statistics on prevalence and services
Mental health problems: statistics on prevalence and services This briefing addresses frequently asked questions about mental health, including: how common are mental health problems? How long do people wait to access talking therapies? How much is spent on mental health services? House of Commons Library
NHS Ambulance Services
NHS Ambulance Services Ambulance services are finding it increasingly difficult to cope with rising demand for urgent and emergency services, according to the National Audit Office.
Demand for ambulance services continues to grow rapidly. Contributing factors may include the increasing numbers of elderly patients with multiple conditions, an increasing number of alcohol- and mental health-driven issues, the availability of primary care services in the community and how patients seek help. Between 2009-10 and 2015-16, the number of ambulance calls and NHS 111 transfers increased from 7.9 million to 10.7 million. Increased funding for these services has not matched rising demand, and future settlements are likely to be tougher.
See also:
Demand for ambulance services continues to grow rapidly. Contributing factors may include the increasing numbers of elderly patients with multiple conditions, an increasing number of alcohol- and mental health-driven issues, the availability of primary care services in the community and how patients seek help. Between 2009-10 and 2015-16, the number of ambulance calls and NHS 111 transfers increased from 7.9 million to 10.7 million. Increased funding for these services has not matched rising demand, and future settlements are likely to be tougher.
See also:
National Lung Cancer Audit annual report 2016 (for the audit period 2015)
National Lung Cancer Audit annual report 2016 (for the audit period 2015) This report shows a seven per cent increase in the number of people diagnosed with lung cancer surviving for longer than one year, compared with results from 2010. It also reveals that 60 per cent of lung cancer patients received anti-cancer treatment such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy or surgery, meeting the target set out in the 2015 annual audit report. Royal College of Physicians
NMC agrees to regulate new nursing associate role
NMC agrees to regulate new nursing associate role The Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) has today formally agreed to a request from the Department of Health to be the regulator for the new nursing associate role.
Child health in UK 'lagging behind' due to poverty
Child health in UK 'lagging behind' due to poverty Child health in the UK is lagging behind that of most other European countries, a major report has said.
It raises particular concerns over rates of obesity, mental health issues and mortality among the young.
The in-depth report, from the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health, emphasised that poverty was at the root of many child health problems.
UK health ministers said money was being invested in services to help tackle health inequalities. BBC News
See also:
It raises particular concerns over rates of obesity, mental health issues and mortality among the young.
The in-depth report, from the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health, emphasised that poverty was at the root of many child health problems.
UK health ministers said money was being invested in services to help tackle health inequalities. BBC News
See also:
- State of child health: The report in a glance Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health
- State of Child Health report 2017 Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health
- RCPCH launches landmark State of Child Health report (press release) Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health
Prison suicides rise to record level
Prison suicides rise to record level A record number of people killed themselves in prisons in England and Wales in 2016, figures show.
The Ministry of Justice says there were 119 self-inflicted deaths - 29 more than the previous year and the highest number since records began in 1978. BBC News
The Ministry of Justice says there were 119 self-inflicted deaths - 29 more than the previous year and the highest number since records began in 1978. BBC News
Artificial intelligence 'as good as cancer doctors'
Artificial intelligence 'as good as cancer doctors' Artificial intelligence can identify skin cancer in photographs with the same accuracy as trained doctors, say scientists.
The Stanford University team said the findings were "incredibly exciting" and would now be tested in clinics.
Eventually, they believe using AI could revolutionise healthcare by turning anyone's smartphone into a cancer scanner.
Cancer Research UK said it could become a useful tool for doctors. BBC News
The Stanford University team said the findings were "incredibly exciting" and would now be tested in clinics.
Eventually, they believe using AI could revolutionise healthcare by turning anyone's smartphone into a cancer scanner.
Cancer Research UK said it could become a useful tool for doctors. BBC News
Half the public back a national NHS tax
Half the public back a national NHS tax Half the public would be willing to pay an additional ‘NHS tariff’ through national insurance to support the health service, with only a quarter opposing the idea, according to consultants PwC.
A poll of more than 2,000 UK adults found twice as many people supported a national tax as opposed it, while 31% of the public would be supportive of a local tax for their local services.
The survey also found a majority of the public (76%) think clinical quality should take precedence over balancing the books – an increase from 68% in April 2016 - challenging some fundamental policy commitments, including the Department of Health’s drive to wring £22bn in efficiency savings from the NHS. Pulse
See also:
A poll of more than 2,000 UK adults found twice as many people supported a national tax as opposed it, while 31% of the public would be supportive of a local tax for their local services.
The survey also found a majority of the public (76%) think clinical quality should take precedence over balancing the books – an increase from 68% in April 2016 - challenging some fundamental policy commitments, including the Department of Health’s drive to wring £22bn in efficiency savings from the NHS. Pulse
See also:
- Chron readers debate whether we should be made to pay a special NHS tax Northampton Chronicle and Echo
GP full-time workforce numbers dropped last year
GP full-time workforce numbers dropped last year The number of full-time equivalent GPs working in England last year fell by almost 100, according to new statistics released today by NHS Digital.
The figures show the full-time equivalent number dropped by 96* (0.3%) from 34,592 in September 2015 to 34,495 in September 2016.
Over the same period, the headcount decreased by 12 from 41,877 to 41,865.
Although this represented a small decline, it is exactly the reverse trend that the government is keen on under its plans in the General Practice Forward View to have 5,000 more GPs in place by 2020. OnMedica
See also:
The figures show the full-time equivalent number dropped by 96* (0.3%) from 34,592 in September 2015 to 34,495 in September 2016.
Over the same period, the headcount decreased by 12 from 41,877 to 41,865.
Although this represented a small decline, it is exactly the reverse trend that the government is keen on under its plans in the General Practice Forward View to have 5,000 more GPs in place by 2020. OnMedica
See also:
- Everything that can be done must be done to reverse GP workforce trends, says RCGP Royal College of General Practitioners
Jeremy Hunt admits Brexit could mean the end of free medical treatment for travellers to the EU
Jeremy Hunt admits Brexit could mean the end of free medical treatment for travellers to the EU British citizens may lose their right to free or subsidised medical treatment when they visit the EU after Brexit, the Health Secretary has admitted.
Jeremy Hunt told MPs he could give no guarantees that the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) will survive EU withdrawal.
Giving evidence to a Commons committee, Mr Hunt agreed that the card was “a very positive thing” but warned any decision on its future must await the final Brexit deal. The Independent
Jeremy Hunt told MPs he could give no guarantees that the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) will survive EU withdrawal.
Giving evidence to a Commons committee, Mr Hunt agreed that the card was “a very positive thing” but warned any decision on its future must await the final Brexit deal. The Independent
Mentally ill patients face 'double whammy' of poor hospital care
Mentally ill patients face 'double whammy' of poor hospital care Most people with mental health issues do not receive good treatment at A&E, leading to repeated visits, report finds
More than half of people with mental health problems receive a “double whammy” of poor care in general hospitals which increases patients’ risk of dying, according to a major new NHS inquiry.
Only 46% of patients with serious mental health conditions were well looked after when they attended hospital with a physical ailment such as heart trouble, a group of independent experts found. Continue reading... The Guardian
See also:
More than half of people with mental health problems receive a “double whammy” of poor care in general hospitals which increases patients’ risk of dying, according to a major new NHS inquiry.
Only 46% of patients with serious mental health conditions were well looked after when they attended hospital with a physical ailment such as heart trouble, a group of independent experts found. Continue reading... The Guardian
See also:
- Mental Health in General Hospitals: Treat as One National Confidential Enquiry into Patient Outcome and Death
Jeremy Hunt's hospital food revolution has failed, campaigners say
Jeremy Hunt's hospital food revolution has failed, campaigners say Department of Health study shows almost half of hospitals in England have not implemented key improvements
Jeremy Hunt has been accused of failing to deliver his promised revolution in hospital food after the health secretary’s own department found that many hospitals have still not improved patient catering.
A Department of Health study shows that almost half of hospitals in England have failed to implement key improvements almost two and a half years after Hunt’s crackdown. Continue reading... The Guardian
Jeremy Hunt has been accused of failing to deliver his promised revolution in hospital food after the health secretary’s own department found that many hospitals have still not improved patient catering.
A Department of Health study shows that almost half of hospitals in England have failed to implement key improvements almost two and a half years after Hunt’s crackdown. Continue reading... The Guardian
Disabled people are to be ‘warehoused’. We should be livid
Disabled people are to be ‘warehoused’. We should be lividNew rules could see 13,000 people with disabilities and long-term health needs forced into care homes. This is treating people as objects to be stored
The inescapable logic of austerity is looking likely, once again, to reduce people with disabilities to objects – and in doing so to reduce their independence, options and enjoyment of life. According to the Health Service Journal, Freedom of Information (FOI) requests from campaign group Disability United found that 37 NHS clinical commissioning groups (CCGs) in England were introducing rules about ongoing care that could force up to 13,000 people with health conditions into care homes. The CCGs will essentially begin saying to people with disabilities and long-term health needs: if you haven’t got the cash for homecare, then it’s off to a care home for you.
As a country we have been brutalised into accepting that each year the porridge pot gets smaller and our belts tighter Continue reading... The Guardian
The inescapable logic of austerity is looking likely, once again, to reduce people with disabilities to objects – and in doing so to reduce their independence, options and enjoyment of life. According to the Health Service Journal, Freedom of Information (FOI) requests from campaign group Disability United found that 37 NHS clinical commissioning groups (CCGs) in England were introducing rules about ongoing care that could force up to 13,000 people with health conditions into care homes. The CCGs will essentially begin saying to people with disabilities and long-term health needs: if you haven’t got the cash for homecare, then it’s off to a care home for you.
As a country we have been brutalised into accepting that each year the porridge pot gets smaller and our belts tighter Continue reading... The Guardian
Wednesday 25 January 2017
How St Andrew's want to make Northampton the mental health care capital of the world
How St Andrew's want to make Northampton the mental health care capital of the world The new FitzRoy House, at St Andrew's Hospital, is now the largest adolescent mental health facility in Europe. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
'Nurse bank' campaign shortlisted for healthcare efficiency award
'Nurse bank' campaign shortlisted for healthcare efficiency award A campaign to recruit nurses onto its staff bank has seen Northampton General Hospital shortlisted for a communications award in the health sector. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Defining and measuring unmet need to guide healthcare funding: identifying and filling the gaps
Defining and measuring unmet need to guide healthcare funding: identifying and filling the gaps Budget allocations to CCGs include adjustments for meeting unmet health care needs and tackling health inequalities. This literature review aims to identify and understand the available evidence regarding unmet health need. The study found that whilst there was evidence to support identifying unmet health need, there was a gap in the evidence on how budget allocations are best used to reduce unmet need. Centre for Health Economics
Obesity and the public purse: weighing up the true cost to the taxpayer
Obesity and the public purse: weighing up the true cost to the taxpayer This report analyses the cost of obesity to public services and estimates that the net cost is less than £2.5 billion a year or 0.3 per cent of government spending. The report argues that the economic burden of obesity has been exaggerated and that the health care costs of an ageing population should be the focus for public service efficiency savings. Institute of Economic Affairs
Bed-blocking patient evicted after two years 'did not want to stay'
Bed-blocking patient evicted after two years 'did not want to stay' A patient who was evicted from a hospital after spending more than two years in a bed said he did not want to stay and "tried to get out of there".
Adriano Guedes, 63, who suffers paralysis after a stroke in 2008, was admitted to the James Paget Hospital in Gorleston, Norfolk, in 2014.
The hospital obtained a court order and evicted him two weeks ago, saying he had occupied the bed "unnecessarily".
"I didn't want to stay, and they forced me to stay," Mr Guedes told the BBC.
"It's very bad to occupy a place which should be used by someone in need, but I didn't cause the situation. On the contrary - I tried to get out of there." BBC News
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Adriano Guedes, 63, who suffers paralysis after a stroke in 2008, was admitted to the James Paget Hospital in Gorleston, Norfolk, in 2014.
The hospital obtained a court order and evicted him two weeks ago, saying he had occupied the bed "unnecessarily".
"I didn't want to stay, and they forced me to stay," Mr Guedes told the BBC.
"It's very bad to occupy a place which should be used by someone in need, but I didn't cause the situation. On the contrary - I tried to get out of there." BBC News
See also:
- 'I was forced to stay': Man hits back after eviction The Daily Mail
- 'Bed blocker' evicted after two years says he begged to leave hospital The Daily Telegraph
- Patient who spent two years in hospital evicted under court order The Guardian
Compensation payouts for poor out-of-hours care top £30m
Compensation payouts for poor out-of-hours care top £30m A doctor's indemnity organisation has paid out well over £30 million in compensation and legal costs on behalf of GPs working in out-of-hours and unscheduled care settings over a three-year period. This included a number of high value cases settled for over £1 million.
The Medical Defence Union (MDU) said the most common reason for a claim was a delay or failure to diagnose a condition, which accounted for almost three quarters of cases (71%). In 18% of cases, there were allegations about a failure to make a referral or an incorrect referral. OnMedica
The Medical Defence Union (MDU) said the most common reason for a claim was a delay or failure to diagnose a condition, which accounted for almost three quarters of cases (71%). In 18% of cases, there were allegations about a failure to make a referral or an incorrect referral. OnMedica
More help needed for people with learning disability and dementia
More help needed for people with learning disability and dementia A partnership of voluntary sector organisations has today launched a new report* calling for the needs of people with learning disabilities, who have also developed dementia, to be better addressed.
People with learning disabilities are five times more likely than those in the general population to develop dementia, according to the largest ever study** into the health and care of people with learning disabilities, by NHS Digital, published in December. OnMedica
People with learning disabilities are five times more likely than those in the general population to develop dementia, according to the largest ever study** into the health and care of people with learning disabilities, by NHS Digital, published in December. OnMedica
Cervical cancer screening attendance hits 19 year low
Cervical cancer screening attendance hits 19 year low Cervical screening tests are a vital method of preventing cancer through the detection and treatment of abnormalities in the cervix, but new research shows that the number of women using this service has dropped to a 19 year low.
Charity Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust has found that the number of women attending potentially life-saving cervical screening tests in England is falling.
The research, obtained by a series of Freedom of Information requests sent to every local authority in England, found that over 1.12 million women did not attend a cervical screening test in the last year. The Independent
Charity Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust has found that the number of women attending potentially life-saving cervical screening tests in England is falling.
The research, obtained by a series of Freedom of Information requests sent to every local authority in England, found that over 1.12 million women did not attend a cervical screening test in the last year. The Independent
NHS hands over patient records to Home Office for immigration crackdown
NHS hands over patient records to Home Office for immigration crackdown Number of government requests to access confidential non-clinical details rises threefold since 2014 in drive to track down immigration offenders
The confidential patient records of more than 8,000 people have been handed over by the NHS to the Home Office in the past year as part of its drive to track down immigration offenders.
A memorandum of understanding, published for the first time on Tuesday, makes clear that NHS digital is required by law to hand over non-clinical patient details including last known addresses, dates of birth, GP’s details and date registered with doctor. Continue reading... The Guardian
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The confidential patient records of more than 8,000 people have been handed over by the NHS to the Home Office in the past year as part of its drive to track down immigration offenders.
A memorandum of understanding, published for the first time on Tuesday, makes clear that NHS digital is required by law to hand over non-clinical patient details including last known addresses, dates of birth, GP’s details and date registered with doctor. Continue reading... The Guardian
See also:
- NHS patient data handed to Home Office in immigration crackdown The Independent
Tackling mental health stigma will require more than just goodwill
Tackling mental health stigma will require more than just goodwill Delivering the PM’s pledge should not rest on the shoulders of overstretched staff, it must be backed with appropriate resources
The prime minister, Theresa May, has pledged to tackle mental health stigma as part of her vision for her “shared society”. May announced plans to transform the way mental illness is dealt with not in our hospitals but in classrooms, at work and in our communities. The initiative has been largely welcomed, although there is concern that this is yet another governmental policy that hinges on goodwill rather than identifiable resource.
Given the stakes, we cannot afford to be sceptical or dismissive about any initiative on stigma. Continue reading... The Guardian
The prime minister, Theresa May, has pledged to tackle mental health stigma as part of her vision for her “shared society”. May announced plans to transform the way mental illness is dealt with not in our hospitals but in classrooms, at work and in our communities. The initiative has been largely welcomed, although there is concern that this is yet another governmental policy that hinges on goodwill rather than identifiable resource.
Given the stakes, we cannot afford to be sceptical or dismissive about any initiative on stigma. Continue reading... The Guardian
NHS could force chronically-ill patients into care
NHS could force chronically-ill patients into care Some British health trusts are refusing to pay for carers to visit patients at home if it works out significantly cheaper to place them in residential care. The Daily Mail
GPs seek rule change to earn private cash from patients in spare time
GPs seek rule change to earn private cash from patients in spare time Family doctors want to change NHS rules so they can earn cash from their patients in their spare time, a leading medic has said.
Currently, GPs are banned from charging their own patients for any services.
The rules were drawn up to avoid conflicts of interest and stop family doctors from denying patients treatment on the NHS, so they could profit from treatment privately.
Now local medical committees are in talks about introducing a new structure, which would allow GPs to charge fees for providing services if they were not covered in their NHS contract. The Daily Telegraph
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Currently, GPs are banned from charging their own patients for any services.
The rules were drawn up to avoid conflicts of interest and stop family doctors from denying patients treatment on the NHS, so they could profit from treatment privately.
Now local medical committees are in talks about introducing a new structure, which would allow GPs to charge fees for providing services if they were not covered in their NHS contract. The Daily Telegraph
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Tuesday 24 January 2017
Smart TMS Announces rTMS alliance with Northamptonshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust
Smart TMS Announces rTMS alliance with Northamptonshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust London-based Smart TMS has announced that it will be working in partnership with Northamptonshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust (NHFT) to explore the provision of rTMS treatment for depression. The alliance will see Smart TMS working with NHFT for provision of Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation for both NHS and private patients in London and Northamptonshire.
rTMS, or Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation is an innovative alternative to medication for treating depression. It is a clinically proven, non-invasive treatment which utilises the power of magnetic energy to directly stimulate precisely targeted areas of the brain.
The treatment was approved by NICE in 2015 for treating depression; yet as a new treatment, is not widely available in the UK, with just 3 NHS trusts and a handful of private clinics offering the service.
rTMS, or Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation is an innovative alternative to medication for treating depression. It is a clinically proven, non-invasive treatment which utilises the power of magnetic energy to directly stimulate precisely targeted areas of the brain.
The treatment was approved by NICE in 2015 for treating depression; yet as a new treatment, is not widely available in the UK, with just 3 NHS trusts and a handful of private clinics offering the service.
Northampton nurse who skipped appointments and covered-up failings struck-off
Northampton nurse who skipped appointments and covered-up failings struck-off A Northampton nurse has been struck off after it was proved she lied about treating patients. Stephanie Patricia Chesterman was struck off the nursing register and given an 18-month interim suspension order for misconduct and repeated dishonesty.
She lied about visiting patients, did not provide proper treatment and care, and falsely documented her appointments to cover for her failings, a Nursing and Midwifery Council panel heard. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
She lied about visiting patients, did not provide proper treatment and care, and falsely documented her appointments to cover for her failings, a Nursing and Midwifery Council panel heard. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
The conundrum of children’s and young people’s health: time to address it
The conundrum of children’s and young people’s health: time to address it In the past few years, our focus here at The King’s Fund - on integration, new models of care and, increasingly, place-based population health systems - has been concerned with the physical and mental health of adults, often older people. But we are increasingly aware of some of the trends, issues and conundrums when it comes to the health of children and young people.
Why do I say conundrums? Well for a start, some important trends in children’s and young people’s health have been moving in opposite directions.
Why do I say conundrums? Well for a start, some important trends in children’s and young people’s health have been moving in opposite directions.
Banks face mental health challenge
Banks face mental health challenge Banks must offer basic account options, as given to other vulnerable people, to assist those struggling with mental health conditions, a think tank says.
Mental health problems affected everyday activities such as budgeting and paying bills, the Money and Mental Health Policy Institute (MMHPI) said. BBC News
Mental health problems affected everyday activities such as budgeting and paying bills, the Money and Mental Health Policy Institute (MMHPI) said. BBC News
Organ trafficking
Organ trafficking Alert raised after patients from UK, Canada and Australia develop complications following kidney transplants. BBC News
GPs will not be forced into seven-day opening despite PM's comments, officials confirm
GPs will not be forced into seven-day opening despite PM's comments, officials confirm GP practices will not be compelled to open seven days a week or beyond current core hours, despite Downing Street briefings last week, DH and NHS England officials have told GP leaders. GP Online
GP referrals blocked as NHS sees four-fold rise in hospitals on top alert
GP referrals blocked as NHS sees four-fold rise in hospitals on top alert GPs continued to face blocks on routine referrals as the number of NHS hospitals declaring the highest possible level of alert more than quadrupled in the second week of 2017, official data show. GP Online
Dementia patients need more support at diagnosis
Dementia patients need more support at diagnosis A survey of the experiences of patients with dementia and their families reveals that there is a serious shortage of information available regarding services and support following diagnosis.
Patient watchdog group Healthwatch UK spoke to more than 1,000 patients and their families and visited 120 care home to find out more about the experiences of dementia care, from the help provided by GPs, to the support offered through hospitals and social care.
Healthwatch says cases of dementia are on the rise. Around 700,000 people in England have the disease currently, and this figure is expected to increase to over a million by 2025. OnMedica
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Patient watchdog group Healthwatch UK spoke to more than 1,000 patients and their families and visited 120 care home to find out more about the experiences of dementia care, from the help provided by GPs, to the support offered through hospitals and social care.
Healthwatch says cases of dementia are on the rise. Around 700,000 people in England have the disease currently, and this figure is expected to increase to over a million by 2025. OnMedica
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NHS offers paramedics a £10,000 bonus to tackle 999 crisis
NHS offers paramedics a £10,000 bonus to tackle 999 crisis Ambulance trusts across the country are offering paramedics sign-on bonuses of up to £10,000 in a desperate attempt to fill gaping vacancy lists - including 'golden hellos' and relocation expenses. The Daily Mail
Chilling menace of HACKERS holding the NHS to ransom
Chilling menace of HACKERS holding the NHS to ransom Having your operation cancelled because of a bed shortage or an infection on the ward is something patients dread but, these days, have learned to expect.
However, patients in three North Lincolnshire hospitals were recently offered a very different excuse: hackers had brought down the trust's computer system, forcing the cancellation of all appointments for two days.
Even car park barriers were affected, and the hospitals had to resort to pen and paper.
The network had been taken over by a malicious virus which encrypted files: the hackers demanded a ransom to unlock them. The Daily Mail
However, patients in three North Lincolnshire hospitals were recently offered a very different excuse: hackers had brought down the trust's computer system, forcing the cancellation of all appointments for two days.
Even car park barriers were affected, and the hospitals had to resort to pen and paper.
The network had been taken over by a malicious virus which encrypted files: the hackers demanded a ransom to unlock them. The Daily Mail
Hidden generation of mentally ill pensioners suffering in silence, charity boss warns
Hidden generation of mentally ill pensioners suffering in silence, charity boss warns A hidden generation of mentally ill pensioners is suffering in silence because they do not want to be a “burden”, the head of a charity helpline has warned.
Sophie Andrews, chief executive of The Silver Line, said increasing numbers of old people are phoning the charity with problems such as depression, but they refuse to tell their family or their doctor meaning the problems go unrecorded and untreated.
While mental health problems among the young are increasingly making their way onto the political agenda, the elderly are going largely unnoticed, said Ms Andrews. The Daily Telegraph
Sophie Andrews, chief executive of The Silver Line, said increasing numbers of old people are phoning the charity with problems such as depression, but they refuse to tell their family or their doctor meaning the problems go unrecorded and untreated.
While mental health problems among the young are increasingly making their way onto the political agenda, the elderly are going largely unnoticed, said Ms Andrews. The Daily Telegraph
Monday 23 January 2017
Raunds man urges people with mental health issues to speak out
Raunds man urges people with mental health issues to speak out A man who has hidden his mental health issues for 30 years says nobody should suffer in silence.
David Beeney says he hid his anxiety disorder from the rest of the world because he feared being discriminated against, and often played the fool to mask his real feelings.
David, who is now a qualified mental health counsellor, wants to share his story to inspire others to seek help. Northamptonshire Telegraph
David Beeney says he hid his anxiety disorder from the rest of the world because he feared being discriminated against, and often played the fool to mask his real feelings.
David, who is now a qualified mental health counsellor, wants to share his story to inspire others to seek help. Northamptonshire Telegraph
My cancelled Northampton General Hospital appointments have cost me £6,000, says pub boss
My cancelled Northampton General Hospital appointments have cost me £6,000, says pub boss A publican who has been unable to work after snapping his wrist bone says series of cancelled operations at Northampton General Hospital has left him in agony... and a £6,000 staff bill. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Inclusive Leadership in the NHS
Inclusive Leadership in the NHS This podcast, the first episode in a series of two, explores the theoretical side of inclusive leadership with leading experts Dan Robertson, Joan Saddler and Michelle Tuckey.
Find out about the benefits of a diverse and inclusive workplace for both staff and patients, how values based leadership is key to developing a more diverse workforce, and the importance of inclusive leadership in creating inclusive workplaces. NHS Employers
Find out about the benefits of a diverse and inclusive workplace for both staff and patients, how values based leadership is key to developing a more diverse workforce, and the importance of inclusive leadership in creating inclusive workplaces. NHS Employers
NHS efficiency map
NHS efficiency map The HFMA and NHS Improvement have worked in partnership to update and revise the NHS efficiency map. The map is a tool that promotes best practice in identifying, delivering and monitoring cost improvement programmes in the NHS. The map contains links to a range of tools and guidance to help NHS bodies improve their efficiency. Healthcare Financial Management Association
NHS at risk unless government takes responsibility for crisis, warns NHS Alliance
NHS at risk unless government takes responsibility for crisis, warns NHS Alliance The NHS 'could be made to fail' if the government blames GPs for the crisis facing the health service rather than taking responsibility for it, the NHS Alliance has warned. GP Online
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Record numbers of NHS frontline staff have had flu jab this winter
Record numbers of NHS frontline staff have had flu jab this winter Record numbers of NHS staff have had their flu jab this winter, official figures from Public Health England (PHE) show.
Some 594,700 (61.8%) frontline NHS staff across England were vaccinated against flu between 1 September and 31 December last year. That figure is expected to increase in January and February.
The highest level achieved by the end of February in previous winters was 541,757 (just under 55%) in 2014-15. OnMedica
Some 594,700 (61.8%) frontline NHS staff across England were vaccinated against flu between 1 September and 31 December last year. That figure is expected to increase in January and February.
The highest level achieved by the end of February in previous winters was 541,757 (just under 55%) in 2014-15. OnMedica
From NHS Director To Mental Health Inpatient In 10 Days
From NHS Director To Mental Health Inpatient In 10 Days Mental illness will affect 1 in 4 of us during our lifetime and I guess now it’s my turn.
I am recovering from the most terrible depression that ripped the heart and soul out of me. Very unexpectedly an NHS Acute Inpatient ward in Hackney has been my home for the past 12 weeks.
As I have worked in mental health services for 29 years, one would think I would be immune to mental illness. I am a registered mental health nurse with 15 years experience as a clinician and latterly 14 years as a manager and then director. But there is no immunity; mental illness can come out of nowhere and affect anyone at any time. Huffington Post UK
I am recovering from the most terrible depression that ripped the heart and soul out of me. Very unexpectedly an NHS Acute Inpatient ward in Hackney has been my home for the past 12 weeks.
As I have worked in mental health services for 29 years, one would think I would be immune to mental illness. I am a registered mental health nurse with 15 years experience as a clinician and latterly 14 years as a manager and then director. But there is no immunity; mental illness can come out of nowhere and affect anyone at any time. Huffington Post UK
Over-cooked potatoes and burnt toast could cause cancer, new research suggests
Over-cooked potatoes and burnt toast could cause cancer, new research suggests Roasting and frying starchy foods could increase the risk of cancer, a Government body has said.
The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has issued a public warning over the risks of acrylamide - a chemical compound that forms in some foods when they are cooked at high temperatures (above 120C).
A new campaign tells people how they can cut their risk, including opting for a gold colour - rather than darker brown - when frying, roasting, baking, grilling or toasting.
Acrylamide is found in high levels in a range of foods including breakfast cereals (not porridge), chips, potato products (such as waffles or children's potato shapes), biscuits, crackers, crispbread and crisps. The Independent
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The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has issued a public warning over the risks of acrylamide - a chemical compound that forms in some foods when they are cooked at high temperatures (above 120C).
A new campaign tells people how they can cut their risk, including opting for a gold colour - rather than darker brown - when frying, roasting, baking, grilling or toasting.
Acrylamide is found in high levels in a range of foods including breakfast cereals (not porridge), chips, potato products (such as waffles or children's potato shapes), biscuits, crackers, crispbread and crisps. The Independent
See also:
- Families urged to 'Go for Gold' to reduce acrylamide consumption Food Standards Agency
- Is burnt toast a health risk? BBC News
- Browned toast and potatoes are 'potential cancer risk', say food scientists BBC News
Young women are now a ‘high-risk group’ for mental illness
Young women are now a ‘high-risk group’ for mental illness Psychological distress in women aged 16-24 is at an all-time high, with record numbers admitting to harming themselves to relieve their distress, according to an alarming study.
Experts say young women are now a “high-risk group” and point to links between mental illness and violence or sexual abuse, and possible pressures from the rise of social media. This has prompted calls from researchers for more funding to protect the nation’s mental health.
The Adult Psychiatric Morbidity survey of mental health and wellbeing, carried out every seven years across England, reveals soaring rates of mental illness among young women, who are suffering from a range of common mental health problems, including depression and anxiety. Despite going to their GP for help, only 20% received treatment in the last 12 months, according to the study. The Guardian
Experts say young women are now a “high-risk group” and point to links between mental illness and violence or sexual abuse, and possible pressures from the rise of social media. This has prompted calls from researchers for more funding to protect the nation’s mental health.
The Adult Psychiatric Morbidity survey of mental health and wellbeing, carried out every seven years across England, reveals soaring rates of mental illness among young women, who are suffering from a range of common mental health problems, including depression and anxiety. Despite going to their GP for help, only 20% received treatment in the last 12 months, according to the study. The Guardian
NHS transformation plans are beset by infighting
NHS transformation plans are beset by infighting Negotiations on reforms must be built on trust, otherwise there is little chance of escaping the relentless cycle of crisis management and short-term fixes
Behind the vision documents and targets, what is really going on inside the sustainability and transformation plan (STP) process?
A clinical commissioner outside one meeting was overheard asking: “How are we going to shaft the acute?” But elsewhere there is a growing recognition that old-style NHS infighting is a big part of the problem. For there to be any chance of ensuring services have a viable future, local leaders are increasingly trying to understand what skills they need to run health and care as a system.
Related: Sustainability and transformation plans are 'least bad option' for NHS
They are thinking, ‘What if we behave as doves and they behave as hawks?’ They are worried they might … be taken advantage of Continue reading... The Guardian
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Behind the vision documents and targets, what is really going on inside the sustainability and transformation plan (STP) process?
A clinical commissioner outside one meeting was overheard asking: “How are we going to shaft the acute?” But elsewhere there is a growing recognition that old-style NHS infighting is a big part of the problem. For there to be any chance of ensuring services have a viable future, local leaders are increasingly trying to understand what skills they need to run health and care as a system.
Related: Sustainability and transformation plans are 'least bad option' for NHS
They are thinking, ‘What if we behave as doves and they behave as hawks?’ They are worried they might … be taken advantage of Continue reading... The Guardian
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The true cost of NHS staff sick days
The true cost of NHS staff sick days Hospital staff calling in sick costs the NHS more than £1 billion a year, shocking new statistics show.
Overworked paramedics, nurses and midwives are being forced to take time off to cope with the current crisis, experts have warned.
Despite having a budget of £116.4 billion, a range of services are constantly being scuppered to help combat its growing deficit.
And this increasing pressure on staff to make up for the slashes is forcing the NHS to waste their own diminished budget on providing sick pay, MailOnline can exclusively reveal. The Daily Mail
Overworked paramedics, nurses and midwives are being forced to take time off to cope with the current crisis, experts have warned.
Despite having a budget of £116.4 billion, a range of services are constantly being scuppered to help combat its growing deficit.
And this increasing pressure on staff to make up for the slashes is forcing the NHS to waste their own diminished budget on providing sick pay, MailOnline can exclusively reveal. The Daily Mail
Winter crisis deepens despite drop in numbers attending A&E units
Winter crisis deepens despite drop in numbers attending A&E units New figures show a deepening winter crisis across the NHS with 52 Accident & Emergency departments ordering ambulances to be diverted to other hospitals.
The record high comes despite a significant drop in the number of patients arriving at casualty units, following repeated advice to stay away unless need is severe.
The figure is almost twice the 27 recorded in the same week last year.
And 45 per cent of NHS trusts in England declared a major alert last week as services came under pressure.
Sixty-eight trusts out of 152 raised the alarm at least once due to bed shortages and problems managing the flow of patients through A&E. The Daily Telegraph
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The record high comes despite a significant drop in the number of patients arriving at casualty units, following repeated advice to stay away unless need is severe.
The figure is almost twice the 27 recorded in the same week last year.
And 45 per cent of NHS trusts in England declared a major alert last week as services came under pressure.
Sixty-eight trusts out of 152 raised the alarm at least once due to bed shortages and problems managing the flow of patients through A&E. The Daily Telegraph
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Friday 20 January 2017
POLL: Would you be willing to pay extra tax to prop up the NHS in Northamptonshire?
POLL: Would you be willing to pay extra tax to prop up the NHS in Northamptonshire? Health bosses in Northamptonshire need to save £230 million over the next five years to balance the books... but would you be willing to pay extra tax to prop up the NHS? Northampton Chronicle and Echo
‘We want justice for our babies’: Northampton woman’s campaign to see inquests for stillbirths
‘We want justice for our babies’: Northampton woman’s campaign to see inquests for stillbirths A Northampton mother who was forced to enter a four-year legal battle to reveal doctor’s negligence over her baby’s death is calling for a change in the law for other parents - and The Chronicle & Echo wants to help her cause. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
St Andrew's college for young people with mental needs rated 'outstanding' by Ofsted
St Andrew's college for young people with mental needs rated 'outstanding' by Ofsted A school for children and adolescents with mental health needs has earned its second 'outstanding' rating from Ofsted. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Crowd-sourcing the future of the NHS
Crowd-sourcing the future of the NHS As the NHS struggles to meet rising demand amid funding constraints and a growing sense of crisis in social care, it can be difficult to look beyond the immediate pressures and think ahead to the longer term future of health and social care in England.
Last year, in a bid to look beyond the here and now, we started a programme of work to generate new thinking on the future of the NHS – thinking unconstrained by today’s limitations and boundaries. We asked experts both inside and outside the Fund to set free their imaginations on a range of ‘What if…’ scenarios for the future of health and care.
Their essays challenged us to consider scenarios such as a carbon-neutral NHS, an NHS in a world in which antibiotics stopped working and a society in which obesity were eradicated, among others. The King's Fund
Last year, in a bid to look beyond the here and now, we started a programme of work to generate new thinking on the future of the NHS – thinking unconstrained by today’s limitations and boundaries. We asked experts both inside and outside the Fund to set free their imaginations on a range of ‘What if…’ scenarios for the future of health and care.
Their essays challenged us to consider scenarios such as a carbon-neutral NHS, an NHS in a world in which antibiotics stopped working and a society in which obesity were eradicated, among others. The King's Fund
Supporting carers: mental health carers’ assessments in policy and practice
Supporting carers: mental health carers’ assessments in policy and practice This briefing outlines the challenges that mental health carers face in accessing carers’ assessments. It looks at the legal context and how the assessments work in practice. Centre for Mental Health
Designing a High-Performing Health Care System for Patients with Complex Needs
Designing a High-Performing Health Care System for Patients with Complex Needs The Commonwealth Fund International Experts Working Group on Patients with Complex Conditions offers recommendations on care for older adults living with frailty, advanced illness, or other complex conditions.
Fewer beds, higher patient demand - NHS pressure mounts
Fewer beds, higher patient demand - NHS pressure mounts With many hospitals close to full in these difficult winter weeks, there has been much debate about the resources available in the health service.
Patient demand is rising faster than the budget increases allocated to the NHS in England.
Yet the number of hospital bed numbers has fallen steadily in recent years. So what is going on?
The total number of overnight hospital beds in England fell from 144,455 at the start of the 2010/11 financial year to 129,458 in the middle of 2016 (the last recorded figures). The number of day beds over that period increased from 11,783 to 12,480.
Looking further back into history reveals a sharper rate of decline.
That current figure of overnight beds compares with almost 300,000 in 1987-88 according to figures from the Nuffield Trust. BBC News
Patient demand is rising faster than the budget increases allocated to the NHS in England.
Yet the number of hospital bed numbers has fallen steadily in recent years. So what is going on?
The total number of overnight hospital beds in England fell from 144,455 at the start of the 2010/11 financial year to 129,458 in the middle of 2016 (the last recorded figures). The number of day beds over that period increased from 11,783 to 12,480.
Looking further back into history reveals a sharper rate of decline.
That current figure of overnight beds compares with almost 300,000 in 1987-88 according to figures from the Nuffield Trust. BBC News
Man evicted from hospital for blocking bed for two years
Man evicted from hospital for blocking bed for two years A hospital applied for a court order to remove a patient who had occupied a bed "unnecessarily" for more than two years.
The man, who cannot be named due to patient confidentiality, had refused to leave the James Paget University Hospital in Norfolk.
The hospital said he had been "fit for discharge" and had been offered appropriate accommodation.
It said the decision to go to court was a last resort and "not taken lightly".
The man, from Suffolk, had been at the hospital in Gorleston, near Great Yarmouth, since August 2014. BBC News
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The man, who cannot be named due to patient confidentiality, had refused to leave the James Paget University Hospital in Norfolk.
The hospital said he had been "fit for discharge" and had been offered appropriate accommodation.
It said the decision to go to court was a last resort and "not taken lightly".
The man, from Suffolk, had been at the hospital in Gorleston, near Great Yarmouth, since August 2014. BBC News
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'Huge leap' in prostate cancer testing
'Huge leap' in prostate cancer testing The biggest leap in diagnosing prostate cancer "in decades" has been made using new scanning equipment, say doctors and campaigners.
Using advanced MRI nearly doubles the number of aggressive tumours that are caught.
And the trial on 576 men, published in the Lancet, showed more than a quarter could be spared invasive biopsies, which can lead to severe side-effects.
The NHS is already reviewing whether the scans can be introduced widely.
Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in British men, and yet testing for it is far from perfect. BBC News
Using advanced MRI nearly doubles the number of aggressive tumours that are caught.
And the trial on 576 men, published in the Lancet, showed more than a quarter could be spared invasive biopsies, which can lead to severe side-effects.
The NHS is already reviewing whether the scans can be introduced widely.
Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in British men, and yet testing for it is far from perfect. BBC News
Nearly 200 GP practices closed in 2016 alone, NHS data suggest
Nearly 200 GP practices closed in 2016 alone, NHS data suggest Data on GP practice populations released by NHS Digital this month list just 7,532 GP practices - down 181 from the total a year earlier in January 2016.
Part of the drop in GP practice numbers in the NHS Digital data is likely to be driven by mergers, which could mean that some of the practice locations no longer listed in official figures remain open, but under the wing of a larger group.
However, BMA leaders have warned that closures are at 'record levels' and the latest figures suggest that the trend is not slowing down as GPs wait for government pledges of investment through the GP Forward View to take effect. GP Online
Part of the drop in GP practice numbers in the NHS Digital data is likely to be driven by mergers, which could mean that some of the practice locations no longer listed in official figures remain open, but under the wing of a larger group.
However, BMA leaders have warned that closures are at 'record levels' and the latest figures suggest that the trend is not slowing down as GPs wait for government pledges of investment through the GP Forward View to take effect. GP Online
Noisy hospitals can accelerate decline in dementia
Noisy hospitals can accelerate decline in dementia Busy noisy hospitals with changing staff can accelerate mental decline in patients with dementia, a study* published in JAMA Psychiatry has shown.
Patients can become acutely confused and disorientated in busy noisy environments such as hospitals, which can prompt delirium. Delirium, which affects a quarter of older patients, may have long-lasting consequences, including accelerating the dementia process, University College London and University of Cambridge researchers have shown. OnMedica
Patients can become acutely confused and disorientated in busy noisy environments such as hospitals, which can prompt delirium. Delirium, which affects a quarter of older patients, may have long-lasting consequences, including accelerating the dementia process, University College London and University of Cambridge researchers have shown. OnMedica
Nurse shifts left unfilled at nearly every hospital in England, figures show
Nurse shifts left unfilled at nearly every hospital in England, figures show Analysis of official data finds 96% of NHS hospital trusts had fewer nurses covering day shifts than they had planned
Almost every hospital in England has fewer nurses on duty than each believes are needed to guarantee safe patient care, research shows.
Analysis of official data by the Health Service Journal (HSJ) found that 96% of NHS hospital trusts in England had fewer nurses covering day shifts in October than they had planned and 85% did not have the desired number working at night. Continue reading... The Guardian
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Almost every hospital in England has fewer nurses on duty than each believes are needed to guarantee safe patient care, research shows.
Analysis of official data by the Health Service Journal (HSJ) found that 96% of NHS hospital trusts in England had fewer nurses covering day shifts in October than they had planned and 85% did not have the desired number working at night. Continue reading... The Guardian
See also:
- Shortage of nurses in almost EVERY hospital in Britain The Daily Mail
- 96 per cent of hospitals have nurse shortages, official figures show The Daily Telegraph
- NHS Hospital wards left with 'dangerously low levels of nurses' The Independent
Hitting the right note: the orchestra helping stroke survivors recover – video
Hitting the right note: the orchestra helping stroke survivors recover – video Strokestra, a pioneering collaboration between the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and Hull integrated community stroke service uses group music-making to drive recovery in stroke survivors. Patients try out instruments, listen to and play alongside world-class musicians. With funding from Hull Public Health, the pilot programme involved 50 patients and carers and ran from May to October 2015. This is their story. Continue reading... The Guardian
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Sandwiches and salads off the menu as NHS battles cash crisis
Sandwiches and salads off the menu as NHS battles cash crisis Sandwiches and salads are off the menu at cash-strapped NHS hospitals as trusts attempt to put off paying bills until the new financial year.
Suppliers to hospitals have abandoned contracts after senior managers failed to persuade them to wait months for outstanding payments to be made.
Other NHS trusts are delaying payments in a desperate bid to reduce their deficit by the end of this financial year.
Last year the health service declared the worst deficit in its history - at £2.45bn - and the current winter crisis is fuelling extra spending on agency staff. The Daily Telegraph
Suppliers to hospitals have abandoned contracts after senior managers failed to persuade them to wait months for outstanding payments to be made.
Other NHS trusts are delaying payments in a desperate bid to reduce their deficit by the end of this financial year.
Last year the health service declared the worst deficit in its history - at £2.45bn - and the current winter crisis is fuelling extra spending on agency staff. The Daily Telegraph
Thursday 19 January 2017
KGH outlines plans to reduce car park traffic
KGH outlines plans to reduce car park traffic Car park queues have been the source of many a headache for those visiting Kettering General Hospital in recent years. Northamptonshire Telegraph
‘Waste’ in health care: separating good from bad
‘Waste’ in health care: separating good from bad Last week we hosted a conference jointly with the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) to launch their new report on wasteful spending on health. The OECD’s report suggests that around one fifth of spending on health makes no or minimal contribution to improved health outcomes. At a time when NHS funding is back in the headlines, the report’s findings repay careful study. The King's Fund
Sustainable development guidance for health and social care organisations
Sustainable development guidance for health and social care organisations The SDU have produced updated Sustainable Development Management Plan guidance with information tailored to be helpful to specific organisation types.
The new version has been brought up to date with the current NHS standard contract and provides more detailed guidance as to which areas are more or less appropriate for large providers, small providers and CCGs.
The guidance is intended to support organisations to understand the key elements that make up a Sustainable Development Management Plan (SDMP). It also provides some advice on how you can develop your organisation’s SDMP. Sustainable Development Unit
The new version has been brought up to date with the current NHS standard contract and provides more detailed guidance as to which areas are more or less appropriate for large providers, small providers and CCGs.
The guidance is intended to support organisations to understand the key elements that make up a Sustainable Development Management Plan (SDMP). It also provides some advice on how you can develop your organisation’s SDMP. Sustainable Development Unit
NHS staff shortages: Why so persistent?
NHS staff shortages: Why so persistent? NHS staff shortages seem an everyday fact of life - or at least a factor mentioned in several news stories each week. But why do these shortages persist and is there anything that can be done to get rid of them?
In this week's In Business on BBC Radio 4, I spoke to historians, economists, nurses, doctors and other healthcare staff to try to get to the bottom of these questions.
And to pose another one - does the NHS have the right mix of staff with the right mix of skills or could changing traditional roles rather than just boosting numbers help? BBC News
In this week's In Business on BBC Radio 4, I spoke to historians, economists, nurses, doctors and other healthcare staff to try to get to the bottom of these questions.
And to pose another one - does the NHS have the right mix of staff with the right mix of skills or could changing traditional roles rather than just boosting numbers help? BBC News
Vaccines for three deadly viruses fast-tracked
Vaccines for three deadly viruses fast-tracked Scientists have named three relatively little-known diseases they think could cause the next global health emergency.
A coalition of governments and charities has committed $460m to speed up vaccine development for Mers, Lassa fever and Nipah virus.
They are asking funders at the World Economic Forum Davos for another $500m.
The Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (Cepi) aims to have two new experimental vaccines ready for each disease within five years. BBC News
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A coalition of governments and charities has committed $460m to speed up vaccine development for Mers, Lassa fever and Nipah virus.
They are asking funders at the World Economic Forum Davos for another $500m.
The Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (Cepi) aims to have two new experimental vaccines ready for each disease within five years. BBC News
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Financial ties between researchers and drug industry linked to positive trial results
Financial ties between researchers and drug industry linked to positive trial results Financial ties between researchers and the companies that make the drugs they are studying are independently associated with positive trial results, suggesting bias in the evidence base, concludes a study published by The BMJ. OnMedica
EU workers must be guaranteed right to remain in the UK, says BMA
EU workers must be guaranteed right to remain in the UK, says BMA The government must guarantee the rights of EU workers to remain in the UK permanently post Brexit to assure “the stability of the NHS and the future of medical research”, the BMA has warned.
Yesterday, Prime Minister Teresa May outlined some details of her Brexit strategy, which made it clear that there would be future restrictions on EU workers wanting to come to the UK and failed to provide assurance to EU nationals already here that they will be able to remain. OnMedica
Yesterday, Prime Minister Teresa May outlined some details of her Brexit strategy, which made it clear that there would be future restrictions on EU workers wanting to come to the UK and failed to provide assurance to EU nationals already here that they will be able to remain. OnMedica
A week after Theresa May's speech on mental health, a women's psychiatric ward is closing due to cuts
A week after Theresa May's speech on mental health, a women's psychiatric ward is closing due to cuts After declaring children and adolescent mental health services the 'single biggest area of weakness in NHS provision', Jeremy Hunt pledged an extra £250m a year. However, around half of CCGs in England will spend the extra money allocated for CAMHS on other services. The Independent
Iceland knows how to stop teen substance abuse but the rest of the world isn’t listening
Iceland knows how to stop teen substance abuse but the rest of the world isn’t listening In Iceland, teenage smoking, drinking and drug use have been radically cut in the past 20 years. Emma Young finds out how they did it, and why other countries won’t follow suit. The Independent
Home Office refuses to enforce privacy code on NHS staff using video
Home Office refuses to enforce privacy code on NHS staff using video Surveillance camera commissioner’s advice that trusts be required to comply with code to protect patients is rejected
The government has rejected a request by the surveillance camera watchdog to allow it to monitor the increasing and unregulated use of CCTV and body-worn video cameras in hospitals.
The body cameras, which record sound as well as images, are being increasingly deployed in hospitals in an effort to tackle abuse of frontline health service staff. Continue reading... The Guardian
The government has rejected a request by the surveillance camera watchdog to allow it to monitor the increasing and unregulated use of CCTV and body-worn video cameras in hospitals.
The body cameras, which record sound as well as images, are being increasingly deployed in hospitals in an effort to tackle abuse of frontline health service staff. Continue reading... The Guardian
Cancer could become untreatable because of superbugs
Cancer could become untreatable because of superbugs Professor Dame Sally Davies, the Government's chief medical officer, warned that the increasing prevalence of superbugs could soon make routine operations risky. The Daily Mail
BMA tell Theresa May they won't be scapegoats for NHS
BMA tell Theresa May they won't be scapegoats for NHS The intervention by the British Medical Association follows a warning by the Prime Minister that GPs were partly to blame for the pressure on A&E by closing their surgeries early. The Daily Mail
One in five new drugs could be rationed on the NHS
One in five new drugs could be rationed on the NHS One in five new medicines on the NHS could be rationed under new plans to save the health service money, meaning patients will have to join a queue to get treatment.
Cancer, diabetes and asthma patients are all likely to be hit by the plans, which will affect even drugs that have been ruled cost-effective by medics.
Currently people suffering from illness have the right to be treated with drugs that the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (Nice) says are good value for money. But new affordability criteria will mean that drugs which cost the NHS more than £20 million in total each year could be subject to extra delays or restrictions. The Daily Telegraph
Cancer, diabetes and asthma patients are all likely to be hit by the plans, which will affect even drugs that have been ruled cost-effective by medics.
Currently people suffering from illness have the right to be treated with drugs that the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (Nice) says are good value for money. But new affordability criteria will mean that drugs which cost the NHS more than £20 million in total each year could be subject to extra delays or restrictions. The Daily Telegraph
Wednesday 18 January 2017
One in 16 people in Northamptonshire has type 2 diabetes, says NHS
One in 16 people in Northamptonshire has type 2 diabetes, says NHS One in 16 people across Northamptonshire has Type 2 diabetes, new figures have revealed. During the past 12 months, figures show that 1,547 people have been diagnosed – an increase of 4.4 per cent on last year. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Taking back control: Integrated Personal Commissioning
Taking back control: Integrated Personal Commissioning It’s easy to dismiss those who say people ’have had enough of experts’, particularly if you work for a think tank. But in health and care, we’ve long known that expertise is not the sole territory of the professional.
The Care Quality Commission now involves ‘experts by experience’ – people who have first-hand experience of health and/or social care services – in its inspections, in training inspectors and in the broader shaping of the organisation. Utilising the 'renewable energy' of patient expertise was one of the central pillars of the NHS five year forward view (Forward View), now more than two years old. The King's Fund
The Care Quality Commission now involves ‘experts by experience’ – people who have first-hand experience of health and/or social care services – in its inspections, in training inspectors and in the broader shaping of the organisation. Utilising the 'renewable energy' of patient expertise was one of the central pillars of the NHS five year forward view (Forward View), now more than two years old. The King's Fund
Why the NHS is performing miracles
Why the NHS is performing miraclesIt has been a remarkable few weeks for the health service hasn't it? The worst waiting times in A&E for over a decade. Patients left for hours on trolleys. Vital cancer operations being cancelled. Hospitals across the country declaring major alerts. A humanitarian crisis in the making, says the Red Cross.
But amid all this what we haven't heard is just how well the health service is coping. Given what it is facing, the NHS and, in particular, hospitals are performing miracles. BBC News
But amid all this what we haven't heard is just how well the health service is coping. Given what it is facing, the NHS and, in particular, hospitals are performing miracles. BBC News
Addenbrooke's out of special measures thanks to staff 'dedication'
Addenbrooke's out of special measures thanks to staff 'dedication' The "dedication and skill" of hospital staff has helped one of the UK's largest NHS Trusts emerge from special measures, a report has revealed.
The Care Quality Commission (CQC) has enhanced the rating for Cambridge University Hospitals Trust from "inadequate" to "good".
It follows a visit by inspectors in September 2016. BBC News
The Care Quality Commission (CQC) has enhanced the rating for Cambridge University Hospitals Trust from "inadequate" to "good".
It follows a visit by inspectors in September 2016. BBC News
PM ‘scapegoating’ GPs for endangering patients
PM ‘scapegoating’ GPs for endangering patients Doctors’ leaders have written to the Prime Minister in fury at her blaming general practice for the pressures on A&E while underplaying the extent of the NHS crisis, and claiming that the NHS is fully funded. The BMA told Theresa May this morning that her position appears to be a deliberate distraction from the reality of the NHS.
In his letter, BMA chair Dr Mark Porter urged her to address the system-wide crisis that has resulted from years of underfunding, rather than attempting to scapegoat GPs. He wrote: “I have been horrified to see the position which you have taken in responding to the current crisis in the NHS in England. In playing down what is happening in hospitals up and down the country – with beds at full capacity, daily breaches in A&E, and critical operations being cancelled – and in then seeking to lay the blame on general practice, your government appears to be seeking deliberately to distract from what is really happening in the NHS.” OnMedica
In his letter, BMA chair Dr Mark Porter urged her to address the system-wide crisis that has resulted from years of underfunding, rather than attempting to scapegoat GPs. He wrote: “I have been horrified to see the position which you have taken in responding to the current crisis in the NHS in England. In playing down what is happening in hospitals up and down the country – with beds at full capacity, daily breaches in A&E, and critical operations being cancelled – and in then seeking to lay the blame on general practice, your government appears to be seeking deliberately to distract from what is really happening in the NHS.” OnMedica
The NHS no longer has the resources to care for our sick population
The NHS no longer has the resources to care for our sick population The government is in denial - the chronic underfunding of the health service is bad for patients and staff
Hospitals and GP surgeries have always had a symbiotic relationship and the hospital crisis this winter has had a significant impact on the way that we are able to offer care to patients in the community.
In our practice, demand has not changed significantly as far as minor illnesses are concerned. We had an expectation of winter pressures and planned for more urgent appointments across all days of the week (including a Saturday shared rota with a hub of other local practices). But what we have seen is a significant rise in the complexity of cases – even when compared with a year ago. Continue reading... The Guardian
Hospitals and GP surgeries have always had a symbiotic relationship and the hospital crisis this winter has had a significant impact on the way that we are able to offer care to patients in the community.
In our practice, demand has not changed significantly as far as minor illnesses are concerned. We had an expectation of winter pressures and planned for more urgent appointments across all days of the week (including a Saturday shared rota with a hub of other local practices). But what we have seen is a significant rise in the complexity of cases – even when compared with a year ago. Continue reading... The Guardian
Mental health needs good deeds more than good speeches
Mental health needs good deeds more than good speeches The landscape is not changing quickly enough – it’s time resources followed the rhetoric
In less than 12 months, two prime ministers have chosen to start their year with major speeches about mental health, committing themselves and their governments to a transformation of the mental health landscape. But as so many of the statistics and personal stories bear witness; the landscape is not changing fast enough.
In her speech earlier this month, Theresa May talked about the critical importance of relationships and the role of government to “encourage and nurture” them. Continue reading... The Guardian
In less than 12 months, two prime ministers have chosen to start their year with major speeches about mental health, committing themselves and their governments to a transformation of the mental health landscape. But as so many of the statistics and personal stories bear witness; the landscape is not changing fast enough.
In her speech earlier this month, Theresa May talked about the critical importance of relationships and the role of government to “encourage and nurture” them. Continue reading... The Guardian
NHS 111 helpline is harming children and causing deaths
NHS 111 helpline is harming children and causing deaths Preventable mistakes in treating children led to 12 deaths, 41 cases of severe harm and 658 cases of minor harm in England and Wales, a new report by Cardiff University found. The Daily Mail
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Financial watchdog warns UK facing £30 billion bill every decade to pay for NHS as population ages
Financial watchdog warns UK facing £30 billion bill every decade to pay for NHS as population ages Britain's ageing population will cost the UK £30 billion every decade in increased NHS, pensions and social care costs over the next 50 years and put pressure on the Chancellor's pledge to cut the deficit, a report has warned.
The Office for Budget Responsibility found that spending on healthcare and pensions will grow faster than the British economy by 2066 leaving the UK with a gap of £156 billion unless taxes are increased and spending cut to pay for it. The Daily Telegraph
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The Office for Budget Responsibility found that spending on healthcare and pensions will grow faster than the British economy by 2066 leaving the UK with a gap of £156 billion unless taxes are increased and spending cut to pay for it. The Daily Telegraph
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- Fiscal sustainability report – January 2017 Office for Budget Responsibility
- NHS will need £88bn extra by 2067, says OBR forecast The Guardian
Couple fails in Court of Appeal challenge over change to assisted dying policy
Couple fails in Court of Appeal challenge over change to assisted dying policy Disability rights campaigners have failed in a bid to challenge the Director of Public Prosecution’s policy on assisted dying which they fear leaves vulnerable people “at risk from dodgy doctors”.
The Court of Appeal today told Nikki and Merv Kenward it was “futile” to allow them permission to appeal against an earlier High Court ruling that Alison Saunders’s updated advice does not breach the Suicide Act. The Daily Telegraph
The Court of Appeal today told Nikki and Merv Kenward it was “futile” to allow them permission to appeal against an earlier High Court ruling that Alison Saunders’s updated advice does not breach the Suicide Act. The Daily Telegraph
Tuesday 17 January 2017
Plea to donate your favourite book to Northampton General Hospital
Plea to donate your favourite book to Northampton General Hospital A campaign to create a library of town's favourite books was launched by Northampton General Hopspital this morning. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
County council to charge some adults in need of care £50 under new assessment proposals
County council to charge some adults in need of care £50 under new assessment proposals Adults in need of care who earn more than £23,250 per year in savings and capital investments will need to pay for their own care services, Northamptonshire County Council papers reveal. Northampton Chronicle and Echo
Allied Health Professions into Action: Using Allied Health Professionals to transform health, care and wellbeing
A new online resource from allied health professionals ‘AHPs into Action’ is a product for leaders and decision makers, to inform and inspire the system about how AHPs can be best utilised to support future health, care and wellbeing service delivery. It offers examples of innovative AHP practice and a framework to develop a plan of delivery. ‘AHPs into Action’ defines how AHPs can support STPs implement the triple aim set out in the Five Year Forward View; driving improvements in health and wellbeing, restoring and maintaining financial balance and delivering core quality standards. NHS England
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See also:
- A new online resource from allied health professionals NHS Employers
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