18 WEEKS PROGRAMME

18 weeks performance sharing and choose and book appointment slots (20th August 2008)
Arrangements for 'performance sharing' for 18 weeks as set out in the Operating Framework for 2008/09 have been confirmed. This will alter the published performance of providers, and will be used in Health Care Commission performance assessments. Guidance on addressing insufficient appointment slots on Choose and Book has also been published.
Letter
Spreadsheet

ALCOHOL

Alcohol in Business and Commerce Survey: Workplace Alcohol Questionnaire - 2007 (18th August 2008)
To investigate the impact of alcohol on the workplace and how strategies can be developed to help tackle this, Health@Work commissioned the Centre for Public Health at Liverpool John Moores University to conduct a research study examining workplaces in Liverpool. The research study was conducted in three parts: a telephone survey of 302 businesses in Liverpool, face-to-face interviews with representatives from ten companies involved in the survey and an employee survey.
Report

ANNUAL REPORTS

Department of Health Audit Committee 2007-08 annual report to the Departmental Board (20th August 2008)
2007-08 Annual Report of the Audit Committee.
Annual Report

Expert Advisory Group on AIDS Annual Report 2007 (26th August 2008)
This report from the Expert Advisory Group on AIDS (EAGA) covers the period 1 January 2007 to 31 December 2007. The Expert Advisory Group on AIDS (EAGA) is an advisory non-departmental public body which is non-statutory. It was established in 1985 with the following terms of reference: 'To provide advice on such matters relating to HIV/AIDS as may be referred to it by the Chief Medical Officers of the Health Departments of the United Kingdom'.
Annual Report

BULLETINS/NEWSLETTERS

The Quarter: quarter 1, 2008-2009 (27th August 2008)

National Register of Social Housing Bulletin - Spring 2008 (12th August 2008)

Health Protection Report Vol. 2 No. 33 (15th August 2008)

Health Protection Report Vol. 2 No. 34 (22nd August 2008)

Health Protection Report Vol. 2 No. 35 (29th August 2008)

CARE/CARERS

New Deal for Carers: deliberative events (15th August 2008)
In addition to the ideas tree the Department of Health ran nine regional events during September and October 2007. The outcomes of the consultation and work from the four task forces were considered at three deliberative events - two for adult carers and one for young carers in November 2007.
Event details
Executive Summary of the deliberative events
Final Report
Appendix 1 - Adult Carers deliberative event
Appendix 2 - Young Carers deliberative event

Care, support, independence: stakeholder events toolkit (1st September 2008)
The Government is undertaking an extensive period of engagement between May and November 2008 about the long-term future of England’s care and support system. As part of the engagement process, the Government wants to involve stakeholders in discussions about how the system can meet the challenges of the future. Materials have been developed to help organisations to lead discussions with colleagues and other people in their networks so that their opinions can inform the debate.
Toolkit

ARTICLE - Self reported receipt of care consistent with 32 quality indicators: national population survey of adults aged 50 or more in England (August 2008)
This article assesses the receipt of effective healthcare interventions in England by adults aged 50 or more with serious health conditions. It showed that there was a large gap between recommended care and care that is actually received.
Article

CHILDREN/YOUNG PEOPLE

Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) media pack (August 2008)
The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) is part of the Government's wider scheme, laid out in the Children's Plan and Every Child Matters, to give all children the best possible start in life. Introducing statutory standards for childcare for 0- to 5-year-olds gives every child the right, regardless of their background, to play, have fun and develop safely when they are looked after outside of their home. It means that parents can relax, safe in the knowledge that their children will get the same excellent standards of learning and care, regardless of the type of setting they attend.
Media Pack

‘Fun and Freedom’ (28th August 2008)
Children have identified freedom, socialising with friends and active outdoor fun as vital to play in a new report published by Play England and the children’s commissioner for England. For most children, freedom, physical activity and areas that encourage them to socialize were crucial elements of good play provision. An opportunity to engage in active, outdoor play was the most consistent request. However, barriers to play still exist and many children raised concerns about road traffic, bullying, peer-racism, stranger danger and negative adult attitudes.
Report

COMMISSIONING

Value People Now: Transfer of the responsibility for the commissioning of social care for adults with a learning disability from the NHS to local government and transfer of the appropriate funding (21st August 2008)
This letter and annex set out the existing policy and legal framework for the transfer of learning disability social care funding and commissioning from the NHS to local authorities with effect from 1 April 2009. The annex provides guidance on what is covered, what PCTs and LAs need to do and the timescale for the transfer. The proposed transfer was set out in Valuing People Now.
Publication
Annex A Easy Read Version

Interim report of the Expert Group on Commissioning NHS Infertility Provision: letter from the Public Health Minister Dawn Primarolo, to Chairs of Primary Care Trusts (22nd August 2008)
An Expert Group on Commissioning NHS Infertility Provision was established by the Department at the beginning of 2008, with the aim of identifying the barriers to the implementation of the NICE fertility guideline and helping PCTs move towards the implementation of the guideline. The group is due to report in 2009, and has issued an interim report with recommendations, including that consideration be given to a clear clinical pathway and a national tariff for regulated fertility services.
Letter
Interim Report

Managing urgent mental health needs in the acute trust: a guide by practitioners, for managers and commissioners in England and Wales (August 2008)
This document describes the characteristics of a good acute mental health service. It sets out clearly and firmly the principles and standards that should be applied to any acute medical and surgical service.
Document

COMMUNITY SAFETY

Early evaluation of the Domestic Violence, Crime and Victims Act 2004 (14th August 2008)
This study was commissioned to provide an early evaluation of some of the measures of the Domestic Violence, Crime and Victims Act 2004. The report focuses on the three measures of the Act that were implemented during the evaluation period: making common assault an arrestable offence*; making it an arrestable, criminal offence to breach a non-molestation order; and extending the civil law on domestic violence (to ensure cohabiting same-sex couples have the same access to non-molestation and occupation orders as opposite sex couples, and non-molestation orders are available to couples who have never cohabited).
Report

CONSULTATION RESPONSES

Response to the consultation on regulations for Local Involvement Networks (LINks) (13th August 2008)
The Department of Health has published a response to a consultation it held on the draft regulations for Local Involvement Networks (LINks). The draft regulations set out how LINks’ powers would work in practice and the consultation asked a number of specific questions. The publication summarises the consultation results and the Governments response to the views expressed.
Response

Independent evaluation report of Improving health, supporting justice: a consultation document (26th August 2008)
This is an independent evaluation of inter governmental consultation document, Improving Health, Supporting Justice, which focuses upon the health and social care services for those individuals who have offended or are at risk of offending. This report will form part of the evidence set for the developing national Offender Health and Social Care Strategy, that is likely to be published in spring 2009.
Response

CONSULTATIONS

The General Osteopathic Council (Constitution) Order 2008 - A paper for consultation (15th August 2008)
This draft orders sets out a proposed constitution for the GOsC. It provides details of the composition of the council, the terms of office for council members, and criteria for the disqualification, suspension or removal of members from office. The Health Care and Associated Professions (Miscellaneous Amendments) Order 2008 was made on 9 July. It makes a number of changes to the constitutional arrangements for the General Osteopathic Council. Instead of the constitutional details of the GOsC being set out in the Osteopaths Act 1993, these details must now be set out in a separate Constitution Order made by the Privy Council. This paper considers the proposed constitution of the General Osteopathic Council. Closing date for comments 7th November 2008.
Consultation document
Draft Constitution Order
Draft Appointment Directions
Response Questionnaire

The General Optical Council (Constitution) Order 2008 - A paper for consultation (15th August 2008)
This draft orders sets out a proposed constitution for the GOC. It provides details of the composition of the council, the terms of office for council members, and criteria for the disqualification, suspension or removal of members from office. The Health Care and Associated Professions (Miscellaneous Amendments) Order 2008 was made on 9 July. It makes a number of changes to the constitutional arrangements for the General Optical Council. Instead of the constitutional details of the GOC being set out in the Opticians Act 1989, these details must now be set out in a separate Constitution Order made by the Privy Council. This paper considers the proposed constitution of the General Optical Council. Closing date for comments is 7th November 2008.
Consultation Document
Draft Constitution Order
Draft Appointment Directions
Response Questionnaire

Consultation on direct payments regulations (19th August 2008)
Direct payments are crucial to achieving the Government's aim to increase independence, choice and control for service users and their carers through allowing them the opportunity to arrange their own personalised care. The Health and Social Care Act 2008 extends the availability of direct payments to those people who lack the capacity to consent to their receipt. In addition, the government is also reviewing the current exclusions to receiving direct payments for those people who are subject to various provisions of mental health legislation in light of the modernisation of mental health law brought about by the Mental Health Act 2007. The Government is now consulting on regulations relating to these two changes. Closing date for comments is 11th November 2008.
Consultation Document
Easy Read Consultation Document
Consultation Response Template
Draft Statutory Instrument
Impact Assessment

Pharmacy in England: Building on strengths - delivering the future - proposals for legislative change (27th August 2008)
The Pharmacy White Paper (Pharmacy in England: Building on Strengths – delivering the future) was published on 3 April 2008. This consultation document, Building on Strengths - delivering the future – proposals for legislative change, fulfils the commitment to publish fuller information on a number of proposals for structural change and consult on them. The document discusses a number of changes and levers which the Department believes are needed in both the medium and longer-term to transform delivery and to align pharmaceutical services within the wider reform programme. Closing date for comments is 20th November 2008.
Consultation

A European Health Service? (August 2008)
The European Commission has published legal proposals on patients' rights to receive healthcare in other European countries. This consultation outlines the key issues covered and seeks views from NHS organisations on the likely implications for the NHS. Comments should be received by 14 November 2008.
Consultation

DIABETES

Five years on: delivering the diabetes national service framework (20th August 2008)
The Diabetes National Service Framework (NSF) set out the first ever set of national standards for the care of people with diabetes. This report highlights progress over the first five years of the NSF Delivery Strategy; marking the half-way point of the implementation period.
Report

DISABILITIES

Counting the costs (28th August 2008)
Families with disabled children are struggling with soaring cost of living and some families are going without basic food and heating. These are the findings of Counting the Costs, a survey and report from Contact a Family, the charity for families with disabled children. Key findings include: One in six disabled children lives in a household struggling to afford food and heating; Almost half of families have borrowed money from friends and family, with one in five using the cash to pay their heating bills; and One in 14 children with a disability or medical condition is living under threat of losing their home. Contact a Family surveyed almost 800 parent carers in the UK about their financial situation in the current economic crisis.
Report

ECONOMIC CONDITIONS

Changing economic circumstances in childhood and their effects on subsequent educational and other outcomes (26th August 2008)
The detrimental effects of poverty on children’s development are well established: children growing up in poverty, especially persistent poverty, do less well at school, have poorer health and often end up in poorly paid jobs or unemployment as adults. Moreover, a lack of income can mean that children are unable to participate in social activities in the same way as their better-off peers are able to do. However, it is the nature and size of the link between changes in family income and income related measures on the one hand and child outcomes on the other, particularly educational and behaviour outcomes, that form the essence of this report.
Report

EMERGENCIES

Report on the lessons learned from the summer 2007 flooding experiences, from an Estates and Facilities perspective (18th August 2008)
During June and July 2007, unprecedented rainfall occurred across certain parts of England, causing serious flooding and disruption to the social infrastructure, including health and social care services. Whilst most of England was affected, there were three main areas of the country where the most impact upon the health and social care services provision was felt. These areas are Gloucestershire, East Yorkshire (Hull) and South Yorkshire (Sheffield, Rotherham and Doncaster). Whilst it is recognised that other parts of the country were significantly affected, e.g. Oxfordshire and the Thames Valley, following discussions with colleagues at Strategic Health Authority level, it was envisaged that no additional lessons could be learned over and above those which should be identified by concentrating on the experiences of those involved in the three areas above.
Report

FAMILIES

Exploring Disability, Family Formation and Break-up: Reviewing the evidence (26th August 2008)
The overall aim of the project is to assess patterns of family formation and change where families include a disabled adult or a disabled child and the primary focus is on family units which include a dependent child. The research involves assessing currently available literature and conducting data analysis to explore the experience of relationship breakdown in families which include a disabled person, and examining whether there are associations that can be highlighted between disability experiences and relationship transitions. The research seeks to enable Government to build strategies which better support disabled adults and parents of disabled children, particularly in relation to employment roles and additionally, in relation to carer and childcare related needs. The analysis has wider implications for policies concerning flexible leave arrangements in relation to childcare, disability experiences and caring and for support for lone-parents.
Report

GENERAL PRACTICE

Practice based commissioning GP practice survey (29th August 2008)
This is the fourth quarterly practice survey, covering a sample of practices from each primary care trust (PCT), conducted between June and August 2008. The aims of the survey are to get feedback from practices on their perception of the support offered by their PCT and on the clinical and financial engagement of practices with PBC. The survey is part of a group of indicators that will be assessed together to give a picture of PBC implementation.
National Summary of Results
Detailed Results for Primary Care Results

GUIDANCE/GUIDELINES

Department of Health central purchase and distribution of the British National Formularies (8th August 2008)
Guidance for NHS organisations ordering supplies of the British National Formularies.
Guidance

Guidance on the diagnosis and management of PVL associated Staphylococcus aureus infections (PVL-SA) in England: Report prepared by the PVL sub-group of the Steering Group on Healthcare Associated Infection (22nd August 2008)
This guidance was prepared by a sub-group of the Steering Group on Healthcare Associated Infections at the request of the Department of Health and replaces the interim guidance drafted by the Health Protection Agency working group in 2006. It is based on expert opinion following review of the literature and experiences of colleagues in the UK, Europe, the USA and Canada. The guidance is intended to provide easily accessible advice on the recognition, investigation and management of PVL-Staphylococcus aureus cases.
Guidance

Ambulance guidelines: reducing infection through effective practice in the pre-hospital environment (29th August 2008)
In the pre-hospital environment, there are three key high-risk areas for the transfer of infection: Direct transfer through the hands of clinical practitioners; Invasive devices; The emergency environment. This document explains how the risk of infection can be reduced by adhering to best practice in: Hand hygiene; The use of personal protective equipment; Aseptic technique; Working in the pre-hospital environment.
Guidelines

HEALTHCARE COMMISSION

Services for young people and adolescents - supplementary report to the national audit of specialist inpatient healthcare services for people with learning difficulties in England (21st August 2008)
This is part of a suite of material that the Healthcare Commission has produced to support the findings from the national audit of specialist inpatient healthcare services for people with learning difficulties in England, carried out in 2007. This report provides supplementary details on the findings of the audit that relate specifically to specialist services for young people and adolescents. This should be read alongside the full report of the audit.
Report
National Audit

HIV AND AIDS

HIV and AIDS in the North West of England 2007 (14th August 2008)
This is the twelfth annual report of the North West HIV/AIDS Monitoring Unit, presenting data on HIV positive
individuals accessing treatment and care in the North West Region.
Full Report
Executive Summary
County Database

HOUSING

In brief: The link between housing and drug treatment outcomes (29th August 2008)
In 2004 the Audit Commission pointed out an over-emphasis on treating drug addiction and a lack of emphasis on providing the support necessary to bring order to chaotic lives. The connection between drug misuse and homelessness is a strong one but despite this, agencies and commissioners who support homeless drug users often work in isolation from each other. The Clean Break project focused on how housing and drug treatment services can work together more effectively and makes recommendations for future improvements.
In brief
Clean Break Final Report

Housing aspirations and shared ownership (29th August 2008)
Shared ownership allows a household to buy a share of their home (typically between 25% and 75%) and pay an affordable, but not social/regulated, rent on the remainder (usually to a housing association). In this paper, shared ownership is considered as distinct from schemes such as Open Market HomeBuy, which involves an equity loan, and from the right to buy, which involves an outright purchase but at a discount.
Paper

Social Housing and Worklessness: Qualitative Research Findings (26th August 2008)
In his recent review of the future role of the social rented housing sector, John Hills (2007) observed that levels of worklessness within the social rented sector are disproportionately high, even when taking into account the relatively high levels of disadvantage apparent among the tenant base. This report presents the key findings to emerge from a study commissioned by the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) that set out to explain the relatively high levels of worklessness apparent within the social rented sector.
Report

IMMUNISATION

Statutory Directions for the Routine Human Papillomavirus Vaccination Programme (27th August 2008)
Letter giving the legal framework and guidance to trusts on the programme.
Letter

Impact assessment of introduction of HPV vaccination (29th August 2008)
HPV vaccination was recommended by the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation.
Impact Assessment

INFECTION CONTROL

Going Further Faster II: Applying the learning to reduce HCAI and improve cleanliness (29th August 2008)
This guide is a summary of the key interventions that will enable organisations to prioritise efforts and maximise impact. It reflects the accumulated learning, evidence and good practice on the critical actions that NHS trusts can take. The guide aims to help everyone move faster and in a sustainable way towards the goal of zero tolerance toward infection and delivering a clean NHS.

Guide

LONG TERM CONDITIONS

Disease Management Information Toolkit (DMIT) Paediatric Asthma Data Module (22nd August 2008)
This document provides guidance for use with the Disease Management Information Toolkit (DMIT) Paediatric Asthma Data Module. The data module will enable PCTs to compare their emergency admission rates, bed-days and lengths of stay with a range of different comparators. Potential cost savings through reductions in admissions and bed-days for PCTs are also included.
Document

Disease Management Information Toolkit (DMIT) (Updated August 2008)
DMIT is a voluntary good practice tool that the NHS may wish to use to strengthen their approach to Disease Management, by presenting data at Primary Care Trust (PCT) level on conditions contributing to high numbers of emergency bed days. DMIT models the effects of possible interventions which may be commissioned at a local level. It aims to support decision-makers, commissioners and deliverers of care for people with LTCs.
Toolkit

LOCAL AUTHORITY/GOVERNMENT

LAC(DH)(2008)6: Supported Capital Expenditure (capital grant) for adult social care IT infrastructure: financial years 2008/2009-2010/2011 (21st August 2008)
This circular sets out how the capital grant for developing adult social care IT infrastructure is to be allocated from 2008/2009 and provides suggestions for use of the grant by councils.
Circular

MENTAL HEALTH

Mental Capacity Act 2005: Deprivation of liberty safeguards - Code of Practice to supplement the main Mental Capacity Act 2005 Code of Practice (26th August 2008)
The deprivation of liberty safeguards Code of Practice was laid in draft before Parliament by the Lord Chancellor on 13 June 2008, in accordance with sections 42 and 43 of the Mental Capacity Act 2005. The Code was subject to the negative Parliamentary process, and successfully completed its 40 day laying period on 22 July. The Code of Practice contains guidance on the deprivation of liberty safeguards. It is particularly intended to provide guidance for professionals involved in administering and delivering the safeguards, who are under a duty to have regard to the Code. The Code is also intended to provide information for people who are, or could become, subject to the deprivation of liberty safeguards, and for their families, friends and carers, as well as for anyone who believes that someone is being deprived of their liberty unlawfully.
Code of Practice

NICE

Commissioning Guide - Antenatal and postnatal mental health services (August 2008)
This commissioning guide provides support for the local implementation of NICE clinical guidelines through commissioning, and is a resource to help health professionals in England to commission effective antenatal and postnatal mental health services.
Commissioning Guide

Breast cancer (early and locally advanced): draft guideline consultation (13th August 2008)
A clinical practice guideline on Breast cancer (early & locally advanced) is being developed for use in the NHS in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Registered stakeholders for this guideline are invited to comment on the provisional recommendations via this website. Closing date for comments is 8th October 2008.
Full Draft Guideline
NICE Draft Guideline
Evidence Review
Needs Assessment
Comments Proforma

Breast cancer (advanced): consultation on the draft guidance (13th August 2008)
A clinical practice guideline on Breast cancer (advanced) is being developed for use in the NHS in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Registered stakeholders for this guideline are invited to comment on the provisional recommendations via this website. Closing date for comments is 8th October 2008.
Full Draft Guideline
NICE Draft Guideline
Evidence Review
Needs Assessment
Comments Proforma

Promoting Physical Activity for children: consultation on the draft guidance (18th August 2008)
Consultation on the draft guidance relating to Promoting physical activity, active play and sport for pre-school and school age children in family, pre-school, school and community settings. Registered stakeholders are invited to comment on the draft guidance document which entails the draft recommendations. Closing date for comments is 16th September 2008.
Consultation

Management of long-term sickness and absence and incapacity for work: consultation on the draft guidance (20th August 2008)
Consultation on the draft guidance for primary care and employers on the management of long term sickness and incapacity. This consultation will take place between 20 August - 17 September 2008.
Draft Guidance
Comments Form

Insertion of mesh uterine suspension sling (including sacrophysteropexy) for uterine prolapse repair: interventional procedures consultation document (27th August 2008)
The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) is examining the insertion of mesh uterine suspension sling (including sacrohysteropexy) for uterine prolapse repair and will publish guidance on its safety and efficacy to the NHS in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. NICE'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 the insertion of mesh uterine suspension sling (including sacrohysteropexy) for uterine prolapse repair. Closing date for comments is 24th September 2008.
Consultation

Infracoccygeal sacropexy using mesh for uterine prolapse repair: interventional procedure consultation document (27th August 2008)
The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) is examining infracoccygeal sacropexy using mesh for uterine prolapse repair and will publish guidance on its safety and efficacy to the NHS in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. NICE'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 infracoccygeal sacropexy using mesh for uterine prolapse repair. Closing date for comments is 24th September 2008.
Consultation

Infracoccygeal sacropexy using mesh for vaginal vault prolapse repair: interventional procedure consultation document (27th August 2008)
The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) is examining infracoccygeal sacropexy using mesh for vaginal vault prolapse repair and will publish guidance on its safety and efficacy to the NHS in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. NICE’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 infracoccygeal sacropexy using mesh for vaginal vault prolapse repair. Closing date for comments is 24th September 2008.
Consultation

Sacrocolpopexy using mesh for uterine prolapse repair: interventional procedure consultation document (27th August 2008)
The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) is examining sacrocolpopexy using mesh for uterine prolapse repair and will publish guidance on its safety and efficacy to the NHS in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. NICE?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 sacrocolpopexy using mesh for uterine prolapse repair. Closing date for comments is 24th September 2008.
Consultation

Sacrocolpopexy using mesh for vaginal vault prolapse repair: interventional procedure consultation document (27th August 2008)
The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) is examining sacrocolpopexy using mesh for vaginal vault prolapse repair and will publish guidance on its safety and efficacy to the NHS in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. NICE?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 sacrocolpopexy using mesh for vaginal vault prolapse repair. Closing date for comments is 24th September 2008.
Consultation

Pain (chronic neuropathic or ischaemic) - spinal cord stimulation: final appraisal determination (1st September 2008)
After considering the feedback from consultation, the Appraisal Committee has prepared a Final Appraisal Determination (FAD) on Pain (chronic neuropathic or ischaemic) - spinal cord stimulation and submitted it to the Institute. The FAD has been sent to the formal consultees for this appraisal who have 15 working days to consider whether they wish to appeal against it. Subject to any appeal by consultees, the FAD may be used as the basis for the Institute's guidance on the use of the appraised technology in the NHS in England and Wales. Please note that the appeal period for this appraisal will close at 5pm on 15th September 2008.
Final Appraisal Determination
Table of comments on ACD
Consultee and Commentator Comments
Expert Comments on the ACD

Abdominal aortic aneurysm - endovascular stent-grafts: appraisal consultation (2nd September 2008)
The Department of Health has asked the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE or the Institute) to conduct a multiple technology appraisal of endovascular stent–grafts and provide guidance on their use to the NHS in England. The Appraisal Committee has had its first meeting to consider both the evidence submitted and the views put forward by non-manufacturer consultees and commentators, and by the clinical specialist and patient expert representatives nominated for this appraisal by non-manufacturer consultees and commentators. The Committee has developed preliminary recommendations on the use of endovascular stent–grafts. Closing date for comments is 22nd September 2008.
Consultation
Evaluation Report

Hearing impairment - cochlear implants: final appraisal determination (2nd September 2008)
After considering the feedback from consultation, the Appraisal Committee has prepared a Final Appraisal Determination (FAD) on Cochlear implants for severe to profound deafness in children and adults and submitted it to the Institute. The FAD has been sent to the formal consultees for this appraisal who have 15 working days to consider whether they wish to appeal against it. Subject to any appeal by consultees, the FAD may be used as the basis for the Institute's guidance on the use of the appraised technology in the NHS in England and Wales. Please note that the appeal period for this appraisal will close at 5pm on 16 September 2008.
Final Appraisal Determination
Response to Consultee, Commentator and Public Comments on the ACD
Consultee and Commentator Comments on the ACD
Expert comments on the ACD

Identification and management of familial hypercholesterolaemia Clinical Guideline CG71 (27th August 2008)
The advice in the NICE guideline covers the care and treatment of adults and children/young people with familial hypercholesterolaemia (a specific type of inherited high cholesterol that runs in the family). It does not cover other forms of hypercholesterolaemia that are not genetic (inherited) or that are due to other genetic conditions.
Full Guideline and Appenices A - G
NICE Guideline
Quick Reference Guide
Understanding NICE Guidance
Costing Template
Costing Report

Entecavir for the treatment of chronic hepatitis B Technology Appraisal TA153 (27th August 2008)
Entecavir is recommended as a possible treatment for people with chronic hepatitis B.
Guidance
Quick Reference Guide
Understanding NICE Guidance
Costing Statement
Audit Support

Telbivudine for the treatment of chronic hepatitis B Technology Appraisal TA154 (27th August 2008)
Telbivudine is not recommended for people with chronic hepatitis B. Healthcare professionals should not stop prescribing telbivudine for people who were already taking it when the guidance was issued. These patients should be able to carry on taking telbivudine until they and their healthcare professionals decide that it is the right time to stop treatment.
Guidance
Quick Reference Guide
Understanding NICE Guidance
Audit Support
Costing Statement

Implantation of miniature lens systems for advanced age-related macular degeneration Interventional Procedure Guidance IPG272 (27th August 2008)
Age-related macular degeneration is an eye disorder that usually starts later in life and causes problems with central vision. In this procedure, a combination of artificial lenses is implanted behind the pupil of one eye. The aim is that the implanted lenses help improve central vision while the other eye is used for peripheral vision.
Guidance
Understanding NICE Guidance
Audit Support
Consultation Comments

Macular degeneration (age-related) - ranibizumab and pegaptanib Technology Appraisal TA155 (27th August 2008)
Ranibizumab is recommended as a possible treatment for people with wet AMD if all the following apply to their eye: The best possible visual acuity after correction with glasses or contact lenses is between 6/12 and 6/96; There is no permanent damage to the fovea (the part of the eye that helps people to see things in sharp detail); The area affected by AMD is no larger than 12 times the size of the area inside the eye where the optic nerve connects to the retina; and There are signs that the condition has been getting worse. Pegaptanib is not recommended for people with wet AMD. Healthcare professionals should not immediately stop prescribing pegaptanib for people who were already taking it when the guidance was issued. These people should be able to carry on taking pegaptanib until they and their healthcare professionals decide that it is the right time to stop treatment.
Guidance
Quick Reference Guide
Understanding NICE Guidance
Cost Template

Pregnancy (rhesus negative women) - routine anti-D (review) (27th August 2008)
Routine antenatal anti-D prophylaxis is recommended as a treatment option for all pregnant women who are RhD negative and who are not known to be 'sensitised'. When a decision has been made to give routine antenatal anti-D prophylaxis, the treatment with the lowest cost should be used. This should take into account the costs of both obtaining and giving the treatment.
Guidance
Quick Reference Guide
Understanding NICE Guidance
Audit Support
Costing Statement

Technical patient safety solutions for ventilator - associated pneumonia in adults Patient Safety Solutions Pilot Guidance PSG002 (27th August 2008)
The NICE guidance covers patients who are on a ventilator and have a tube placed into their mouth, nose or through the neck and down into their windpipe. Healthcare professionals should: make sure these patients are sitting up or leaning back supported for as much of the time as possible. This will not be appropriate for all patients (for example, those with injuries to the spine); and make sure an antiseptic is included as part of the mouth care routine for these patients.
Guidance
Understanding NICE Guidance
Costing Statement
Audit Support
Slide Set

Total Wrist Replacement Interventional Procedure Guidance IPG271 (27th August 2008)
Arthritis is a condition that causes swelling and damage to the cartilage and bone around the joints, including the wrist. It is painful and can reduce the function of the joint. Total wrist replacement aims to create an artificial wrist joint consisting of metal implants attached to the end of the arm and to the hand, separated by a spacer to allow movement of the hand.
Guidance
NICE Guidance

OBESITY

Weighing up the burden of obesity (28th August 2008)
The report provides a broad overview of the complexity of obesity and includes information on: Where prevalence of obesity is highest in the UK; Why obesity is on the increase; Health risks associated with obesity; Costs of obesity to the NHS and economy; Government policy for the prevention and management of obesity; and Primary care management of obesity.
Report

OPHTHALMOLOGY

The General Ophthalmic Services Contracts (Payments) Directions 2008 (19th August 2008)
The Secretary of State for Health, in exercise of powers conferred by section 120 of the National Health Service Act 2006(a), having consulted bodies appearing to him to be representative of persons to whose remuneration they relate, gives the following Directions.
Directions

PARLIAMENTARY PUBLICATIONS

Work and Pensions Committee - Valuing and Supporting Carers - Fourth Report of Session 2007-08 (29th August 2008)
Vol. I
Vol. II

PATIENT AND PUBLIC INFORMATION

Healthy weight, healthy lives: why your child’s weight matters (18th August 2008)
Parents have the biggest influence over how their child grows and develops, and can help their children achieve and maintain a healthy weight. The key things that matter are enjoying healthy foods and being active. This booklet includes information on the National Child Measurement Programme (NCMP) and some practical tips on how to help your whole family be healthy.
Booklet

If you knew about flu, you’d get the jab (26th August 2008)
Annually produced campaign leaflet available in various languages.
Leaflet
A3 Poster
A4 Poster
Health or Social Care Worker Poster

Gangs: You and Your Children. Advice to parents on gangs. Helping your child make the right choices (2nd September 2008)
New advice for parents on preventing their children from becoming involved in gangs was published today. The eight-page booklet details practical steps parents and carers can take if they suspect their child may be involved with gangs and who to contact for help and support.
Booklet

PAYMENT BY RESULTS

Arrangements for market forces factor payments relating to PbR activity (21st August 2008)
This document supplements the PbR guidance published in December 2007, with which it should be used in conjunction with. The purpose of this document is to confirm and clarify the payment arrangements for the market forces factor (MFF) element for the different organisations providing elective services within the scope of PbR in 2008/09.
Document

PbR Data Assurance Framework 2007/08 (28th August 2008)
This report contains the summary analysis from the Payment by Results (PbR) clinical coding audit programme undertaken at all acute NHS trusts in England in 2007/08. The auditing of in excess of 50,000 episodes, equating to approximately GBP73 million of expenditure under PbR, provides the first comprehensive national picture of the quality of data which underpins not only financial but clinical and commissioning information.
Summary
Report

PHARMACY

The Pharmaceutical Price Regulation Scheme August 2008 (13th August 2008)
The 2008 Pharmaceutical Price Regulation Scheme (PPRS) is a noncontractual scheme, effective from the termination of the 2005 scheme on 31st August 2008 until the 31 December 2008. The 2008 PPRS is an agreement for the purposes of section 261 of the National Health Service (NHS) Act 2006. The objectives of the scheme are that it should continue to: secure the provision of safe and effective medicines for the NHS at reasonable prices; promote a strong and profitable pharmaceutical industry capable of such sustained R and D expenditure as should lead to the future availability of new and improved medicines; and encourage the efficient and competitive development and supply of medicines to pharmaceutical markets in this and other countries. The text of the PPRS sets out the conditions under which scheme members may supply branded medicines to the NHS.
Publication

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

Active Hastings (August 2008)
Habits formed in childhood last a lifetime, they say. If this is true, health and council officials in Hastings Borough Council appear to be on the right track. The council is reaching out to young people through an imaginative programme of events aimed at getting them active.
Information

PRIMARY CARE TRUSTS

PCT Board Development Framework (1st September 2008)
The Department of Health has established a PCT Board Development Framework, which PCTs can now use to appoint appropriately skilled organisations to provide a range of board development support.
Introduction
How to ‘call off’ services
Questions and Answers
Specification
Framework agreement

PRISONS/PRISON HEALTH

Doing Time: the experiences and needs of older people in prison (August 2008)
This briefing aims to give older people in prison a voice. The Prison Reform Trust believe that to develop more effective ways of working with older prisoners, an important first step is to hear directly from them. Although noting a general improvement in prison healthcare, the report finds older prisoners can face difficulties continuing their medication when imprisoned and routinely fail to receive preventative and screening services.
Briefing

PUBLIC HEALTH

Local Basket of Indicators (July 2008)
The Local Basket of Indicators (LBOI) was developed by the London Health Observatory on behalf of the Information Centre for Health and Social Care. It was launched in June 2008. The LBOI is a national collection of a wide range of measures that can be used at a local level to track progress against local priorities for action on health inequalities.
Indicators

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) prevalence estimates (29th August 2008)
CKD stage 3-5 prevalence estimates for Local Authority and Primary Care Trust areas.
Estimates

APHO Technical Briefing 4: Target Setting in a Multi-Agency Environment (27th August 2008)
This is the fourth in a series of technical briefings produced by the Association of Public Health Observatories, designed to support public health practitioners and analysts and to promote the use of public health intelligence in decision making.
Briefing

SEXUAL HEALTH

Your Puberty - online questionnaire (August 2008)
This survey, launched by the Sexual Health Team in the Centre for Public Health, is open to people between the ages of 16-45 years. The data will help to inform prevention interventions for young people.
Survey

SOCIAL CARE

The personalisation of adult social care in rural areas (August 2008)
The aim of this report is to inform debate about the transformation of social care and to produce a set of specific messages about and for rural communities based on evidence from rural areas.
Report

STATISTICS

NHS Cancer waiting times figures, April to June 2008 (29th August 2008)

NHS inpatient and outpatient waiting times figures, 31 July 2008 (29th August 2008)
Latest figures
Additional Tables

NHS cancelled operations, quarter ending 30 June 2008 (29th August 2008)

Statistics on Drug Misuse: England 2008 (14th August 2008)
Report
Tables

Statistics on NHS Stop Smoking Services: England, April 2007- March 2008 (21st August 2008)
Report
Tables
Quick access PCT and SHA Results

Report of the National Patient Choice Survey, England - March 2008 and provisional headlines for May 2008 (2nd September 2008)

Monthly Drug Treatment Statistics (1st September 2008)

Critical Care Census, July 2008 (29th August 2008)

GP Practice Vacancies Survey 2008 (28th August 2008)

NHS Vacancies Survey 2008 (28th August 2008)
Report
Three month NHS vacancies, rates and numbers report
Three month NHS vacancies, rates and numbers tables
Total NHS vacancies, rates and numbers (experimental) report
Total NHS vacancies, rates and numbers (experimental) tables

Reported deaths involving Clostridium difficile rise by 28 per cent (28th August 2008)

Deaths related to drug poisoning in England and Wales, 2003-2007 (28th August 2008)

Difference in mortality between rural and urban areas in England and Wales, 2002-2004 (28th August 2008)

Health Statistics Quarterly - Autumn No. 39 (28th August 2008)

Unexplained deaths in infancy (28th August 2008)

Monthly Digest of Statistics August 2008 (27th August 2008)

Work and Worklessness (27th August 2008)

Dental Treatment Band Analysis, England and Wales 2007/08 (21st August 2008)

Dental Working Hours, England and Wales 2006/07 and 2007/08 (21st August 2008)

NHS Dental Statistics, 2007-08 annual report (21st August 2008)
Report
Annex 2a - PCT Factsheet
Annex 3
Annex 4

Data on written complaints in the NHS 2007/08 (21st August 2008)
Report
Tables

Mid-year Population Estimates (21st August 2008)

Population and Migration Statistics (21st August 2008)

Labour Market Statistics - August 2008 (13th August 2008)

Labour Market Statistics - North West, August 2008 (13th August 2008)

SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

NHS Design Champions Event June 2008 (1st September 2008)
An event for NHS Design Champions was held on 26 June 2008, at Barts and the London NHS Trust. The varied programme began with a keynote speech from Ben Bradshaw, Minister of State for Health Services and Ministerial Design Champion for Health, and continued by: Describing the experience of three NHS Design Champions; Presenting the latest thinking about patient-focused, sustainable buildings; Showcasing good practice through projects, including Barts' award-winning West Wing; Providing facilitated discussions about design quality and sustainability. The presentations from some of the speakers are now available.
Presentations

WORLD HEALTH

Closing the gap in a generation. Health equity through action on the social determinants of health (August 2008)
A child born in a Glasgow, Scotland suburb can expect a life 28 years shorter than another living only 13 kilometres away. A girl in Lesotho is likely to live 42 years less than another in Japan. In Sweden, the risk of a woman dying during pregnancy and childbirth is 1 in 17 400; in Afghanistan, the odds are 1 in 8. Biology does not explain any of this. Instead, the differences between - and within - countries result from the social environment where people are born, live, grow, work and age. These "social determinants of health" have been the focus of a three-year investigation by an eminent group of policy makers, academics, former heads of state and former ministers of health. Together, they comprise the World Health Organization's Commission on the Social Determinants of Health.
Report
Executive Summary