Monthly Digest of Statistics – December 2007 (21st December 2007)
2 January 2008
SEXUAL HEALTH
Enhanced Surveillance of Sexually Transmitted Infections in Cheshire and Merseyside 2006 (19th December 2007)
The enhanced STI surveillance scheme for Cheshire and Merseyside has resulted in an information source with the potential for detailed analysis in a way not previously possible using the KC60 reporting scheme. It also provides a report which has been tailored to local requirements and is directly relevant to and useful for planning and intervention. This enhanced surveillance system is also an opportunity to carry out groundwork for the national residence-based STI surveillance scheme, which is currently in preparation to replace the KC60 reporting across the country.
Click here for the Document
The enhanced STI surveillance scheme for Cheshire and Merseyside has resulted in an information source with the potential for detailed analysis in a way not previously possible using the KC60 reporting scheme. It also provides a report which has been tailored to local requirements and is directly relevant to and useful for planning and intervention. This enhanced surveillance system is also an opportunity to carry out groundwork for the national residence-based STI surveillance scheme, which is currently in preparation to replace the KC60 reporting across the country.
Click here for the Document
PUBLIC HEALTH
Paying the Patient: Improving health using financial incentives (December 2007)
This work is the first in a series of papers on how people can be encouraged to adopt healthy behaviour. Input into these papers, through discussion and invited comment, will contribute to a final report at the end of 2008. This paper, identifying programmes based on both positive and negative incentives, finds that financial incentives are effective in encouraging people to perform clearly defined, time-limited, simple behavioural tasks, and also in encouraging participation in lifestyle programmes. However, healthier behaviour is not maintained and financial incentives are not effective when the behaviour change required is complex, for example, giving up smoking. There will be three more of these discussion papers before a final report is produced in late 2008.
Click here for the Document
This work is the first in a series of papers on how people can be encouraged to adopt healthy behaviour. Input into these papers, through discussion and invited comment, will contribute to a final report at the end of 2008. This paper, identifying programmes based on both positive and negative incentives, finds that financial incentives are effective in encouraging people to perform clearly defined, time-limited, simple behavioural tasks, and also in encouraging participation in lifestyle programmes. However, healthier behaviour is not maintained and financial incentives are not effective when the behaviour change required is complex, for example, giving up smoking. There will be three more of these discussion papers before a final report is produced in late 2008.
Click here for the Document
PRIMARY CARE TRUSTS
Guidelines for the appointment of dentists with a special interest (DwSI) in conscious sedation (21st December 2007)
Guidance to PCTs on the appointment of DwSIs in conscious sedation, including a competency framework, contract requirements, assessment standards and the scope of treatment that can be undertaken. This will be of particular use when reviewing contracts for advanced mandatory services in sedation.
Click here for the Guidance
Click here for the Guidance
PHARMACY
Pharmacy Regulation and Leadership Oversight Group (PRLOG) (31st December 2007)
The White Paper, Trust, Assurance and Safety, the Regulation of Health Professionals in the 21st Century, announced that proposals will be brought to Parliament to enable the establishment of a new regulator for pharmacy, the General Pharmaceutical Council, responsible for the regulation of pharmacists, pharmacy technicians, and pharmacy premises. It will exercise the role of inspection of pharmacies currently carried out by the Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain. A programme of work has been established to take forward the necessary changes.
Click here for the Document
The White Paper, Trust, Assurance and Safety, the Regulation of Health Professionals in the 21st Century, announced that proposals will be brought to Parliament to enable the establishment of a new regulator for pharmacy, the General Pharmaceutical Council, responsible for the regulation of pharmacists, pharmacy technicians, and pharmacy premises. It will exercise the role of inspection of pharmacies currently carried out by the Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain. A programme of work has been established to take forward the necessary changes.
Click here for the Document
PATIENT AND PUBLIC INFORMATION
Intravenous immunoglobulin: a patient guide to demand management (21st December 2007)
There have been significant fluctuations in the availability of immunoglobulin. To manage current supply and any future shortages, the Department has implemented guidelines and a demand management plan for immunoglobulin. A patient guide to explain the demand management plan for immunoglobulin is now available.
Click here for the Guide
Transgender experiences – information and support for trans people, their families and healthcare staff (31st December 2007)
This leaflet has been produced to help trans people and their families understand about the experiences of trans people, their rights and their choices. It also helps healthcare staff to understand about their role when caring for trans people.
Click here for the Leaflet
A guide to hormone therapy for trans people (31st December 2007)
This publication available in booklet form has been produced by a team that includes doctors and trans people to help you understand and answer some of your questions about hormone treatment for trans people. This publication gives trans men (female to male individuals) and trans women (male to female individuals) straightforward information about the benefits of hormone therapy and the risks and side effects. Every individual is different, and guidance about hormone therapy should always be used flexibly in response to individual needs.
Click here for the Booklet
There have been significant fluctuations in the availability of immunoglobulin. To manage current supply and any future shortages, the Department has implemented guidelines and a demand management plan for immunoglobulin. A patient guide to explain the demand management plan for immunoglobulin is now available.
Click here for the Guide
Transgender experiences – information and support for trans people, their families and healthcare staff (31st December 2007)
This leaflet has been produced to help trans people and their families understand about the experiences of trans people, their rights and their choices. It also helps healthcare staff to understand about their role when caring for trans people.
Click here for the Leaflet
A guide to hormone therapy for trans people (31st December 2007)
This publication available in booklet form has been produced by a team that includes doctors and trans people to help you understand and answer some of your questions about hormone treatment for trans people. This publication gives trans men (female to male individuals) and trans women (male to female individuals) straightforward information about the benefits of hormone therapy and the risks and side effects. Every individual is different, and guidance about hormone therapy should always be used flexibly in response to individual needs.
Click here for the Booklet
PARTNERSHIPS
Delivering health and well-being in partnership: the crucial role of the new local performance framework (20th December 2007)
This is one of a series of narratives being produced by the Department of Communities and Local Government that articulate changes made to local area agreements and the local government performance framework as a result of the Local Government and Public Involvement in Health Act 2007. The narrative focuses on implications for the health and social care sector.
Click here for this Document
This is one of a series of narratives being produced by the Department of Communities and Local Government that articulate changes made to local area agreements and the local government performance framework as a result of the Local Government and Public Involvement in Health Act 2007. The narrative focuses on implications for the health and social care sector.
Click here for this Document
NURSING
Information for nursing students – outlining the NHS Knowledge and Skills Framework (20th December 2007)
If you are a final year nursing and midwifery student and intend to work in the NHS after graduation, this publication who help prepare you for your first year in post. It explains some of the jargon you will encounter and gives you an insight into what is expected of you. The NHS Knowledge and Skills Framework (KSF) is explained in detail and highlights how it will be a critical tool for you and your manager in supporting your early career and development needs. The personal development review process, producing a portfolio of evidence and pay points under Agenda for Change are all also explained.
Click here for this Publication
Three years on – Caring in partnership: older people and nursing staff working towards the future. An RCN nursing older people strategy progress and evaluation report (19th December 2007)
This publication emphasises the importance the RCN places on promoting nurses' contribution to meeting the needs of older people and ensuring their health and wellbeing, and reviews the progress of work surrounding the RCN's Nursing Older People Strategy, which was launched in 2004. The strategy has ensured that the RCN works to achieve an integrated, consistent and inclusive way of working that focuses on maximising the potential of nursing staff and older people.
Click here for this Report
Benchmarks for children's orthopaedic nursing care (18th December 2007)
This publication offers a portfolio of evidence-based benchmarks which define best practice in key elements of paediatric orthopaedic nursing care. It is hoped the benchmarks will help stimulate discussion, measure individual practice and guide staff to review the various issues surrounding each benchmark. The publication is very user-friendly and can be used to inform and update practice.
Click here for the Benchmarks
Standards for assessing, measuring and monitoring vital signs in infants, children and young people (December 2007)
The assessment, measurement and monitoring of vital signs are important skills for all practitioners working with infants, children and young people. The vital signs covered in this publication include temperature, heart/pulse rate, respiratory rate and effort, and blood pressure. Important information gained by assessing and measuring vital signs can be indicators of health and ill health. These standards provide criteria for practitioners in achieving high quality nursing care. They will be of help in guiding local policies and procedures in relation to vital sign monitoring, performance improvement programmes and education programmes for registered nurses, nurses in training and health care assistants.
Click here for the Standards
If you are a final year nursing and midwifery student and intend to work in the NHS after graduation, this publication who help prepare you for your first year in post. It explains some of the jargon you will encounter and gives you an insight into what is expected of you. The NHS Knowledge and Skills Framework (KSF) is explained in detail and highlights how it will be a critical tool for you and your manager in supporting your early career and development needs. The personal development review process, producing a portfolio of evidence and pay points under Agenda for Change are all also explained.
Click here for this Publication
Three years on – Caring in partnership: older people and nursing staff working towards the future. An RCN nursing older people strategy progress and evaluation report (19th December 2007)
This publication emphasises the importance the RCN places on promoting nurses' contribution to meeting the needs of older people and ensuring their health and wellbeing, and reviews the progress of work surrounding the RCN's Nursing Older People Strategy, which was launched in 2004. The strategy has ensured that the RCN works to achieve an integrated, consistent and inclusive way of working that focuses on maximising the potential of nursing staff and older people.
Click here for this Report
Benchmarks for children's orthopaedic nursing care (18th December 2007)
This publication offers a portfolio of evidence-based benchmarks which define best practice in key elements of paediatric orthopaedic nursing care. It is hoped the benchmarks will help stimulate discussion, measure individual practice and guide staff to review the various issues surrounding each benchmark. The publication is very user-friendly and can be used to inform and update practice.
Click here for the Benchmarks
Standards for assessing, measuring and monitoring vital signs in infants, children and young people (December 2007)
The assessment, measurement and monitoring of vital signs are important skills for all practitioners working with infants, children and young people. The vital signs covered in this publication include temperature, heart/pulse rate, respiratory rate and effort, and blood pressure. Important information gained by assessing and measuring vital signs can be indicators of health and ill health. These standards provide criteria for practitioners in achieving high quality nursing care. They will be of help in guiding local policies and procedures in relation to vital sign monitoring, performance improvement programmes and education programmes for registered nurses, nurses in training and health care assistants.
Click here for the Standards
NICE
Balloon catheter dilation of paranasal sinus ostia for chronic sinusitis (interventional procedures consultation) (2nd January 2008)
Sinusitis occurs when air-filled cavities of the face (the sinuses) become inflamed. Balloon catheter dilation aims to keep sinus passages open by gently inflating a small balloon, which is introduced through the nose via a flexible tube. The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence is examining balloon catheter dilation of paranasal sinus ostia for chronic sinusitis and will publish guidance on its safety and efficacy to the NHS in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. The Institute's Interventional Procedures Advisory Committee has considered the available evidence and the views of Specialist Advisers, who are consultants with knowledge of the procedure. The Advisory Committee has made provisional recommendations about balloon catheter dilation of paranasal sinus ostia for chronic sinusitis. Closing date for comments is 30th January 2008.
Click here for the Consultation
Interstitial photodynamic therapy for malignant parotid tumours (interventional procedures consultation) (2nd January 2008)
The parotid glands are located in front of the ears and help to produce saliva. Rarely, they may be affected by malignant tumours. In photodynamic therapy (usually abbreviated to PDT), a drug called a 'photosensitising agent' is injected into a vein. A few days later, special needles and fibres are inserted into the tumour and a special light is shone through them. The light causes the photosensitising agent to destroy the tumour cells. The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence is examining interstitial photodynamic therapy for malignant parotid tumours and will publish guidance on its safety and efficacy to the NHS in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. The Institute's Interventional Procedures Advisory Committee has considered the available evidence and the views of Specialist Advisers, who are consultants with knowledge of the procedure. The Advisory Committee has made provisional recommendations about interstitial photodynamic therapy for malignant parotid tumours. Closing date for comments is 30th January 2008.
Click here for the Consultation
Endoaortic balloon occlusion for cardiac surgery (interventional procedures consultation) (2nd January 2008)
During major heart surgery, the flow of blood through the heart needs to be stopped temporarily. In endoaortic balloon occlusion, a flexible tube (catheter) with a balloon attached to its tip is inserted into an artery in the groin (femoral artery) and threaded up to the heart. When the catheter is in the correct position in the heart, the balloon is filled with saline. As the balloon expands it blocks the aorta, which is the largest artery in the body. With the aorta blocked, the heart surgery can be performed. After heart surgery, the balloon and catheter are removed and the blood flow is restored. The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence is examining endoaortic balloon occlusion for cardiac surgery and will publish guidance on its safety and efficacy to the NHS in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. The Institute's Interventional Procedures Advisory Committee has considered the available evidence and the views of Specialist Advisers, who are consultants with knowledge of the procedure. The Advisory Committee has made provisional recommendations about endoaortic balloon occlusion for cardiac surgery. Closing date for comments is 30th January 2008.
Click here for the Consultation
Intraoperative red blood cell salvage during radical prostatectomy or radical cystectomy (interventional procedures consultation) (2nd January 2008)
Intraoperative red blood cell salvage involves the collection of the solid components of the blood lost during an operation, which are then transfused back to the same patient. The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence is examining intraoperative red blood cell salvage during radical prostatectomy or radical cystectomy and will publish guidance on its safety and efficacy to the NHS in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. The Institute's Interventional Procedures Advisory Committee has considered the available evidence and the views of Specialist Advisers, who are consultants with knowledge of the procedure. The Advisory Committee has made provisional recommendations about intraoperative red blood cell salvage during radical prostatectomy or radical cystectomy. Closing date for comments is 30th January 2008.
Click here for the Consultation
Allogeneic pancreatic islet cell transplantation for type 1 diabetes mellitus (interventional procedures consultation) (2nd January 2008)
Type 1 diabetes mellitus occurs when the body does not produce enough insulin (a substance that helps control sugar balance in the body). Although treatable with insulin injections, it is associated with an increased risk of other health problems, such as vascular disease. Allogeneic pancreatic islet cell transplantation involves the removal of islet cells, which are responsible for the production of insulin, from human donors. These cells are inserted into the patient's liver to restart insulin production within the body. Patients who have this procedure take medications so their body's immune system does not reject the cells. It is associated with some serious risks and is only considered in special circumstances. The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence is examining allogeneic pancreatic islet cell transplantation for type 1 diabetes mellitus and will publish guidance on its safety and efficacy to the NHS in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. The Institute's Interventional Procedures Advisory Committee has considered the available evidence and the views of Specialist Advisers, who are consultants with knowledge of the procedure. The Advisory Committee has made provisional recommendations about allogeneic pancreatic islet cell transplantation for type 1 diabetes mellitus. Closing date for comments is 30th January 2008.
Click here for the Consultation
Workplace Physical Activity: consultation on the draft guidance (21st December 2007)
NICE was asked by the Department of Health to develop intervention guidance on workplace health promotion with reference to physical activity. All registered stakeholders for the NICE public health intervention guidance on Workplace Physical Activity are invited to comment on the draft guidance. This consultation will take place between Friday 21st December 2007 and Friday 25th January 2008.
Click here for the Draft Guidance
Click here for the Comments Form
Schizophrenia (update) (21st December 2007)
The scope defines what aspects of care are covered by the guideline and to whom it applies. Comments that were made by stakeholders during the consultation on the scope can be seen in the scope consultation table.
Click here for the Final Scope
Click here for the Consultation Table
Sinusitis occurs when air-filled cavities of the face (the sinuses) become inflamed. Balloon catheter dilation aims to keep sinus passages open by gently inflating a small balloon, which is introduced through the nose via a flexible tube. The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence is examining balloon catheter dilation of paranasal sinus ostia for chronic sinusitis and will publish guidance on its safety and efficacy to the NHS in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. The Institute's Interventional Procedures Advisory Committee has considered the available evidence and the views of Specialist Advisers, who are consultants with knowledge of the procedure. The Advisory Committee has made provisional recommendations about balloon catheter dilation of paranasal sinus ostia for chronic sinusitis. Closing date for comments is 30th January 2008.
Click here for the Consultation
Interstitial photodynamic therapy for malignant parotid tumours (interventional procedures consultation) (2nd January 2008)
The parotid glands are located in front of the ears and help to produce saliva. Rarely, they may be affected by malignant tumours. In photodynamic therapy (usually abbreviated to PDT), a drug called a 'photosensitising agent' is injected into a vein. A few days later, special needles and fibres are inserted into the tumour and a special light is shone through them. The light causes the photosensitising agent to destroy the tumour cells. The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence is examining interstitial photodynamic therapy for malignant parotid tumours and will publish guidance on its safety and efficacy to the NHS in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. The Institute's Interventional Procedures Advisory Committee has considered the available evidence and the views of Specialist Advisers, who are consultants with knowledge of the procedure. The Advisory Committee has made provisional recommendations about interstitial photodynamic therapy for malignant parotid tumours. Closing date for comments is 30th January 2008.
Click here for the Consultation
Endoaortic balloon occlusion for cardiac surgery (interventional procedures consultation) (2nd January 2008)
During major heart surgery, the flow of blood through the heart needs to be stopped temporarily. In endoaortic balloon occlusion, a flexible tube (catheter) with a balloon attached to its tip is inserted into an artery in the groin (femoral artery) and threaded up to the heart. When the catheter is in the correct position in the heart, the balloon is filled with saline. As the balloon expands it blocks the aorta, which is the largest artery in the body. With the aorta blocked, the heart surgery can be performed. After heart surgery, the balloon and catheter are removed and the blood flow is restored. The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence is examining endoaortic balloon occlusion for cardiac surgery and will publish guidance on its safety and efficacy to the NHS in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. The Institute's Interventional Procedures Advisory Committee has considered the available evidence and the views of Specialist Advisers, who are consultants with knowledge of the procedure. The Advisory Committee has made provisional recommendations about endoaortic balloon occlusion for cardiac surgery. Closing date for comments is 30th January 2008.
Click here for the Consultation
Intraoperative red blood cell salvage during radical prostatectomy or radical cystectomy (interventional procedures consultation) (2nd January 2008)
Intraoperative red blood cell salvage involves the collection of the solid components of the blood lost during an operation, which are then transfused back to the same patient. The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence is examining intraoperative red blood cell salvage during radical prostatectomy or radical cystectomy and will publish guidance on its safety and efficacy to the NHS in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. The Institute's Interventional Procedures Advisory Committee has considered the available evidence and the views of Specialist Advisers, who are consultants with knowledge of the procedure. The Advisory Committee has made provisional recommendations about intraoperative red blood cell salvage during radical prostatectomy or radical cystectomy. Closing date for comments is 30th January 2008.
Click here for the Consultation
Allogeneic pancreatic islet cell transplantation for type 1 diabetes mellitus (interventional procedures consultation) (2nd January 2008)
Type 1 diabetes mellitus occurs when the body does not produce enough insulin (a substance that helps control sugar balance in the body). Although treatable with insulin injections, it is associated with an increased risk of other health problems, such as vascular disease. Allogeneic pancreatic islet cell transplantation involves the removal of islet cells, which are responsible for the production of insulin, from human donors. These cells are inserted into the patient's liver to restart insulin production within the body. Patients who have this procedure take medications so their body's immune system does not reject the cells. It is associated with some serious risks and is only considered in special circumstances. The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence is examining allogeneic pancreatic islet cell transplantation for type 1 diabetes mellitus and will publish guidance on its safety and efficacy to the NHS in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. The Institute's Interventional Procedures Advisory Committee has considered the available evidence and the views of Specialist Advisers, who are consultants with knowledge of the procedure. The Advisory Committee has made provisional recommendations about allogeneic pancreatic islet cell transplantation for type 1 diabetes mellitus. Closing date for comments is 30th January 2008.
Click here for the Consultation
Workplace Physical Activity: consultation on the draft guidance (21st December 2007)
NICE was asked by the Department of Health to develop intervention guidance on workplace health promotion with reference to physical activity. All registered stakeholders for the NICE public health intervention guidance on Workplace Physical Activity are invited to comment on the draft guidance. This consultation will take place between Friday 21st December 2007 and Friday 25th January 2008.
Click here for the Draft Guidance
Click here for the Comments Form
Schizophrenia (update) (21st December 2007)
The scope defines what aspects of care are covered by the guideline and to whom it applies. Comments that were made by stakeholders during the consultation on the scope can be seen in the scope consultation table.
Click here for the Final Scope
Click here for the Consultation Table
NHS
Efficiency appendix to NHS Operating Framework (20th December 2007)
An NHS led working group has been reviewing and developing strategies for sustainable future efficiency delivery. The group has concluded that there is significant potential to deliver both quality and efficiency through better procurement, commissioning, organisation and management. This appendix to the 2008/09 NHS Operating Framework summarises the most significant immediate opportunities that should form the basis of local improvement for the next twelve months.
Click here for the Framework
The Curriculum Framework for the Perioperative Specialist Practitioner (21st December 2007)
This document is the reference document for the education programme curriculum, practice standards and quality assurance of trainee PSPs in England and supports the development of programmes for education and training. Evidence from the pilot sites indicated improved patient care within surgical teams through increased capability, capacity and continuity of care.
Click here for the Document
Value for Money Delivery Agreement 2008-2011 (21st December 2007)
This document sets out the Department’s agreement with HM Treasury on how we expect to support delivery of the Value for Money (VfM) requirements of the 2007 Comprehensive Spending Review. It continues to build on the progress made as part of the Gershon efficiency programme.
Click here for the Document
An NHS led working group has been reviewing and developing strategies for sustainable future efficiency delivery. The group has concluded that there is significant potential to deliver both quality and efficiency through better procurement, commissioning, organisation and management. This appendix to the 2008/09 NHS Operating Framework summarises the most significant immediate opportunities that should form the basis of local improvement for the next twelve months.
Click here for the Framework
The Curriculum Framework for the Perioperative Specialist Practitioner (21st December 2007)
This document is the reference document for the education programme curriculum, practice standards and quality assurance of trainee PSPs in England and supports the development of programmes for education and training. Evidence from the pilot sites indicated improved patient care within surgical teams through increased capability, capacity and continuity of care.
Click here for the Document
Value for Money Delivery Agreement 2008-2011 (21st December 2007)
This document sets out the Department’s agreement with HM Treasury on how we expect to support delivery of the Value for Money (VfM) requirements of the 2007 Comprehensive Spending Review. It continues to build on the progress made as part of the Gershon efficiency programme.
Click here for the Document
MENTAL HEALTH
Mental Health Act 2007 Implementation Self Assessment Tool (ISAT) (26th November 2007)
The ISAT will be of most interest to organizations providing services to patients detained under the legislation plus those providing services for children and young people (CYP) aged under 18 on a voluntary or detained basis. However, it also provides a useful framework for health and social care commissioners and others with an interest in implementation of the new legislation. The aim of this self assessment tool is to help organisations providing services under the Mental Health Act 2007 to implement the new legislation.
Click here for the Covering Letter
Click here for the Guidance
Click here for the ISAT Tool
Click here for the Project Plan Template
Click here for the Local Policy Guidance
The ISAT will be of most interest to organizations providing services to patients detained under the legislation plus those providing services for children and young people (CYP) aged under 18 on a voluntary or detained basis. However, it also provides a useful framework for health and social care commissioners and others with an interest in implementation of the new legislation. The aim of this self assessment tool is to help organisations providing services under the Mental Health Act 2007 to implement the new legislation.
Click here for the Covering Letter
Click here for the Guidance
Click here for the ISAT Tool
Click here for the Project Plan Template
Click here for the Local Policy Guidance
LOCAL AUTHORITY/GOVERNMENT
Warrington Borough Council – Corporate Assessment (21st December 2007)
Comprehensive Performance Assessment (CPA) is the means by which the Audit Commission fulfils its statutory duty under section 99 of the Local Government Act 2003 to make an assessment, and report on the performance, of local authorities. Corporate assessment is one element in the overall assessment that leads to a CPA score and category. The purpose of the corporate assessment is to assess how well the Council engages with and leads its communities, delivers community priorities in partnership with others, and ensures continuous improvement across the range of Council activities.
Click here for the Report
Comprehensive Performance Assessment (CPA) is the means by which the Audit Commission fulfils its statutory duty under section 99 of the Local Government Act 2003 to make an assessment, and report on the performance, of local authorities. Corporate assessment is one element in the overall assessment that leads to a CPA score and category. The purpose of the corporate assessment is to assess how well the Council engages with and leads its communities, delivers community priorities in partnership with others, and ensures continuous improvement across the range of Council activities.
Click here for the Report
GUIDANCE/GUIDELINES
Guidance on preparation of local IM&T plans for 2008/09 (20th December 2007)
Guidance for the production of an information management and technology plan for the local health community in support of national and local service objectives. National expectations for the NHS are set out building on the existing investment in NPfIT and to strengthen local information and data management.
Click here for the Guidance
Privacy and Dignity: the elimination of mixed sex accommodation (December 2007)
This guidance outlines 11 key principles to support the achievement of good physical separation of the sexes in hospital accommodation. It includes a self-assessment checklist to help trusts identify issues that need to be addressed. Download of this document requires free registration.
Click here for the Guidance
18 Weeks Intensive Support Team Guidance (December 2007)
With legacy patients proving a difficulty in many organisations, the 18 weeks Intensive Support Team has developed a flow chart which provides suggestions on how organisations might approach pathways where the RTT status is unknown. This guidance is not a series of hard and fast rules. Any approach adopted by a Local Health Community must be locally relevant and approved at a senior level jointly by provider and commissioning organisations. Ultimately, Trusts and PCT provider arms are responsible for the proper validation of all patients who may have an incomplete RTT pathway. It is possible that some patients on pathways with uncertain RTT status have been ‘lost to follow up’ - it is therefore an important clinical governance issue to establish the care plans for these patients and ensure that they are appropriately managed. This validation may establish some RTT pathways that have already been completed (i.e. clock stop in a previous month). These should not be added to the monthly reporting of completed RTT pathways unless the clock stops in the month of reporting.
Click here for the Guidance
Guidance for the production of an information management and technology plan for the local health community in support of national and local service objectives. National expectations for the NHS are set out building on the existing investment in NPfIT and to strengthen local information and data management.
Click here for the Guidance
Privacy and Dignity: the elimination of mixed sex accommodation (December 2007)
This guidance outlines 11 key principles to support the achievement of good physical separation of the sexes in hospital accommodation. It includes a self-assessment checklist to help trusts identify issues that need to be addressed. Download of this document requires free registration.
Click here for the Guidance
18 Weeks Intensive Support Team Guidance (December 2007)
With legacy patients proving a difficulty in many organisations, the 18 weeks Intensive Support Team has developed a flow chart which provides suggestions on how organisations might approach pathways where the RTT status is unknown. This guidance is not a series of hard and fast rules. Any approach adopted by a Local Health Community must be locally relevant and approved at a senior level jointly by provider and commissioning organisations. Ultimately, Trusts and PCT provider arms are responsible for the proper validation of all patients who may have an incomplete RTT pathway. It is possible that some patients on pathways with uncertain RTT status have been ‘lost to follow up’ - it is therefore an important clinical governance issue to establish the care plans for these patients and ensure that they are appropriately managed. This validation may establish some RTT pathways that have already been completed (i.e. clock stop in a previous month). These should not be added to the monthly reporting of completed RTT pathways unless the clock stops in the month of reporting.
Click here for the Guidance
GENERAL PRACTICE
A Guide to GP Systems of Choice (December 2007)
GP Systems of Choice (GPSoC) is a new scheme through which the NHS will fund the provision of GP clinical IT systems in England. GPSoC allows practices and primary care trusts (PCTs) to benefit from a range of quality GP clinical IT systems from existing suppliers who will now be contracted to work within the NHS National Programme for IT (NPfIT). Any practice or PCT wishing to benefit from the scheme must take action to join the scheme.
Click here for the Covering Letter
Click here for the Guide
GP Systems of Choice (GPSoC) is a new scheme through which the NHS will fund the provision of GP clinical IT systems in England. GPSoC allows practices and primary care trusts (PCTs) to benefit from a range of quality GP clinical IT systems from existing suppliers who will now be contracted to work within the NHS National Programme for IT (NPfIT). Any practice or PCT wishing to benefit from the scheme must take action to join the scheme.
Click here for the Covering Letter
Click here for the Guide
EMERGENCIES
Strategic command arrangements for the NHS during a major incident (19th December 2007)
The purpose of this document is to provide guidance to National Health Service (NHS) organisations regarding command, control and co-ordination arrangements, required in planning, preparing and responding to emergencies. It provides a platform for all NHS organisations to undertake emergency planning.
Click here for the Document
The purpose of this document is to provide guidance to National Health Service (NHS) organisations regarding command, control and co-ordination arrangements, required in planning, preparing and responding to emergencies. It provides a platform for all NHS organisations to undertake emergency planning.
Click here for the Document
NHS Emergency Planning Guidance 2005: Planning for the management of blast injured patients (19th December 2007)
This guidance sets out a set of general principles to guide all NHS organisations in the provision of services to plan and respond for the management of blast injured patients within the context of the NHS Emergency Planning Guidance 2005.
Click here for the Guidance
This guidance sets out a set of general principles to guide all NHS organisations in the provision of services to plan and respond for the management of blast injured patients within the context of the NHS Emergency Planning Guidance 2005.
Click here for the Guidance
ELDERLY/OLDER PEOPLE
Partnerships for Older People Projects – An outline of innovation and service elements from the Round 1 pilots sites (December 2007)
The Care Services Improvement Partnership (CSIP) has published this report highlighting some of the innovation and ‘best practice’ from the POPP programme – interventions which are most innovative and appear to be producing effective outcomes for older people.
Click here for the Report
The Care Services Improvement Partnership (CSIP) has published this report highlighting some of the innovation and ‘best practice’ from the POPP programme – interventions which are most innovative and appear to be producing effective outcomes for older people.
Click here for the Report
DRUGS
Cannabis supply and young people (20th December 2007)
This report provides a snapshot of how young people in a large city and rural villages obtain cannabis. The study interviewed 182 young people aged 11–19, all of whom had used cannabis and/or been involved in cannabis transactions in recent months.
Click here for the Report
Non-medical prescribing, patient group directions and minor ailment schemes in the treatment of drug misusers (December 2007)
Detailed guidance on application and implementation of nurse and pharmacist prescribing, patient group directions and minor ailment schemes in the treatment of drug misusers. Includes explanation of the various terms and details the clinical governance aspects of using these mechanisms to improve access to treatment for drug users.
Click here for the Guidance
This report provides a snapshot of how young people in a large city and rural villages obtain cannabis. The study interviewed 182 young people aged 11–19, all of whom had used cannabis and/or been involved in cannabis transactions in recent months.
Click here for the Report
Non-medical prescribing, patient group directions and minor ailment schemes in the treatment of drug misusers (December 2007)
Detailed guidance on application and implementation of nurse and pharmacist prescribing, patient group directions and minor ailment schemes in the treatment of drug misusers. Includes explanation of the various terms and details the clinical governance aspects of using these mechanisms to improve access to treatment for drug users.
Click here for the Guidance
CONSULTATIONS
Developing the annual health check in 2008/2009 – Have your say (20th December 2007)
The Healthcare Commission are consulting on the annual health for 2008/09. Their proposals aim to maintain continuity with previous years. They will reflect on the changes that are taking place in the way services are commissioned and delivered and how these services will be regulated. Closing date for comments is 12th March 2008.
Click here for the Consultation
Click here for the Questionnaire
Health Care and Associated Professions (Miscellaneous Amendments) No 2 Order 2008: a paper for consultation (21st December 2007)
This order is the second in a series of orders that will take forward the reforms of professional regulation identified in the White Paper "Trust assurance and safety". It concentrates on reforms set out in the White Paper, but also includes measures required to deliver other legislative requirements. Closing date for comments is 22nd March 2008.
Click here for the Consultation
Click here for the Impact Assessment
Click here for the Response Form
The Healthcare Commission are consulting on the annual health for 2008/09. Their proposals aim to maintain continuity with previous years. They will reflect on the changes that are taking place in the way services are commissioned and delivered and how these services will be regulated. Closing date for comments is 12th March 2008.
Click here for the Consultation
Click here for the Questionnaire
Health Care and Associated Professions (Miscellaneous Amendments) No 2 Order 2008: a paper for consultation (21st December 2007)
This order is the second in a series of orders that will take forward the reforms of professional regulation identified in the White Paper "Trust assurance and safety". It concentrates on reforms set out in the White Paper, but also includes measures required to deliver other legislative requirements. Closing date for comments is 22nd March 2008.
Click here for the Consultation
Click here for the Impact Assessment
Click here for the Response Form
COMMISSIONING
10 Quick Wins to Support Long-term Neurological Conditions NSF Implementation (19th December 2007)
Care Services Improvement Partnership (CSIP) have worked with the Department of Health (DH) to develop this booklet to support the implementation of the Long-term Neurological Conditions NSF.
Click here for the Booklet
Generic choice model for long term conditions (20th December 2007)
The generic model helps commissioners understand the process and range of services needed to be commissioned, to improve and personalise services and support people with long term conditions. The model, developed in conjunction with a number of patient organisations, provides good practice examples, and aims to reduce inequalities.
Click here for the Document
Click here for the PowerPoint presentation
Click here for the Presentation slides in PDF format
Click here for the Impact assessment
Practice based commissioning – budget setting refinements and clarification of health funding flexibilities, incentive schemes and governance (20th December 2007)
The direction of travel for practice based commissioning remains unchanged. This document follows up the commitment made in Practice based commissioning: practical implementation to refine the budget setting methodology, and responds to requests received through the Commissioning Framework for Health and Well-being consultation for clarification on the flexible use of NHS funds, governance arrangements and incentive schemes.
Click here for the Document
Collaborative commissioning of National Screening Programmes (20th December 2007)
This best practice guidance sets out roles and responsibilities for the collaborative commissioning of national screening programmes, as recommended in Sir David Carter's Review of Commissioning Arrangements for Specialised Services.
Click here for the Guidance
Care Services Improvement Partnership (CSIP) have worked with the Department of Health (DH) to develop this booklet to support the implementation of the Long-term Neurological Conditions NSF.
Click here for the Booklet
Generic choice model for long term conditions (20th December 2007)
The generic model helps commissioners understand the process and range of services needed to be commissioned, to improve and personalise services and support people with long term conditions. The model, developed in conjunction with a number of patient organisations, provides good practice examples, and aims to reduce inequalities.
Click here for the Document
Click here for the PowerPoint presentation
Click here for the Presentation slides in PDF format
Click here for the Impact assessment
Practice based commissioning – budget setting refinements and clarification of health funding flexibilities, incentive schemes and governance (20th December 2007)
The direction of travel for practice based commissioning remains unchanged. This document follows up the commitment made in Practice based commissioning: practical implementation to refine the budget setting methodology, and responds to requests received through the Commissioning Framework for Health and Well-being consultation for clarification on the flexible use of NHS funds, governance arrangements and incentive schemes.
Click here for the Document
Collaborative commissioning of National Screening Programmes (20th December 2007)
This best practice guidance sets out roles and responsibilities for the collaborative commissioning of national screening programmes, as recommended in Sir David Carter's Review of Commissioning Arrangements for Specialised Services.
Click here for the Guidance
CHILDREN/YOUNG PEOPLE
Delivering improved outcomes for children, young people and their families: The crucial role of the new local performance framework (21st December 2007)
The Department for Children, Schools and Families has consulted widely on the content of the Children's Plan, and local authorities have been fully involved in these discussions. The plan is built around four principles: that all children have the potential to succeed and should go as far as their talents will take them, with no child left to fall behind; that the biggest influence on a child's life is its family, and then the community in which it grows up; that it is always better to prevent failure than to tackle the crisis later; and that services need to be shaped by and responsive to the children, young people and families who use them.
Click here for the Report
The Department for Children, Schools and Families has consulted widely on the content of the Children's Plan, and local authorities have been fully involved in these discussions. The plan is built around four principles: that all children have the potential to succeed and should go as far as their talents will take them, with no child left to fall behind; that the biggest influence on a child's life is its family, and then the community in which it grows up; that it is always better to prevent failure than to tackle the crisis later; and that services need to be shaped by and responsive to the children, young people and families who use them.
Click here for the Report
CARE/CARERS
Care in a New Welfare Society: Unpaid care, welfare and employment (23rd December 2007)
Unpaid care is critical for individuals to flourish, and for society to function. Literally from cradle to grave, receiving care from others can promote rather than diminish our capacity to live independently and in dignity. Whether we consider it in terms of economics or ethics, the care provided within families and communities makes an enormous contribution to our lives. This report provides a policy framework for unpaid care in welfare and employment policy. It sets out a way to understand the value of care, and recognise the costs that caring involves. Laying out the principles on which care policy should be built, it goes on to outline what a welfare and employment policy that reflected these principles would look like. The report proposes reform of the central pillars of welfare and workplace policy: the social security and tax credit system, and flexible working and leave rights.
Click here for the Report
Unpaid care is critical for individuals to flourish, and for society to function. Literally from cradle to grave, receiving care from others can promote rather than diminish our capacity to live independently and in dignity. Whether we consider it in terms of economics or ethics, the care provided within families and communities makes an enormous contribution to our lives. This report provides a policy framework for unpaid care in welfare and employment policy. It sets out a way to understand the value of care, and recognise the costs that caring involves. Laying out the principles on which care policy should be built, it goes on to outline what a welfare and employment policy that reflected these principles would look like. The report proposes reform of the central pillars of welfare and workplace policy: the social security and tax credit system, and flexible working and leave rights.
Click here for the Report
BULLETINS/NEWSLETTERS
Sexual Health Quarterly Bulletin Issue 18 – December 2007 (19th December 2007)
Environmental Health Quarterly Bulletin Issue 10 – December 2007 (19th December 2007)
FSA News 73 – December 2007 (31st December 2007)
Health Protection Report Vol. 1 No. 51 (21st December 2007)
CSIP Telecare eNewsletter – December 2007 (19th December 2007)
Environmental Health Quarterly Bulletin Issue 10 – December 2007 (19th December 2007)
FSA News 73 – December 2007 (31st December 2007)
Health Protection Report Vol. 1 No. 51 (21st December 2007)
CSIP Telecare eNewsletter – December 2007 (19th December 2007)
ALCOHOL
Drinking places: where people drink and why (28th December 2007)
It is well-established that attitudes to alcohol vary by social group, but there is little research on how geography affects these attitudes. This report investigates where people drink alcohol and why in two contrasting communities, one urban and one rural. Looking at a range of drinking, from abstinence to binging, the project: explores how socio-economic processes shape local drinking cultures; evaluates the benefits and problems associated with alcohol use; examines how attitudes to and use of alcohol vary across social groupings both within and between the two communities; explores how attitudes have changed between generations and the impact of local history on those attitudes; and identifies the policy implications of the local specificity of drinking cultures.
Click here for the ReportIt is well-established that attitudes to alcohol vary by social group, but there is little research on how geography affects these attitudes. This report investigates where people drink alcohol and why in two contrasting communities, one urban and one rural. Looking at a range of drinking, from abstinence to binging, the project: explores how socio-economic processes shape local drinking cultures; evaluates the benefits and problems associated with alcohol use; examines how attitudes to and use of alcohol vary across social groupings both within and between the two communities; explores how attitudes have changed between generations and the impact of local history on those attitudes; and identifies the policy implications of the local specificity of drinking cultures.
Click here for the Findings
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