ABOUT THIS BULLETIN

This bulletin highlights recently produced documents that have appeared on websites. The aim is to trawl the web and produce a fortnightly review of what is found (coverage may not be comprehensive). If you have any comments or suggestions regarding this Bulletin, please send an email to library.pct@sthk.nhs.uk . All links are correct at time of publishing. Some documents are large and may take time to open so please be patient when waiting for links to open. If a link is incorrect please email me and I will correct the link and send you the document.

For those that are receiving this through an email or through a third party you can view the original Bulletin at http://www.newdocumentsbulletin.blogspot.com/ and also sign up to receive the Bulletin by RSS.

ALCOHOL

Opinions on the impact of alcohol on individuals and communities: early summary findings from the NorthWest Big Drink Debate. Appendix with additional supporting material (2nd February 2009)
This is the Appendix with additional supporting material from the 'Opinions on the impact of alcohol on individuals and communities: early summary findings from the North West Big Drink Debate' which was published in December 2008.
Appendix

Opinions on the impact of alcohol on individuals and communities: early summary findings from the North West Big Drink Debate. Appendix B: Analysis at local authority level (2nd February 2009)
This is Appendix B:Analysis at local authority level from the 'Opinions on the impact of alcohol on individuals and communities: early summary findings from the North West Big Drink Debate' which was published in December 2008.
Appendix B

BULLETINS/NEWSLETTERS

Health Protection Report Vol. 3 No. 3 (23rd January 2009)

Health Protection Report Vol. 3 No. 4 (30th January 2009)

Telecare LIN eNewsletter January 2009 (3rd February 2009)

CHILDREN/YOUNG PEOPLE

Summary of a research study of Raleigh's work with disadvantaged young people (2nd February 2009)

Raleigh is a youth development organisation that runs overseas expeditions for young people to work together on community, environmental and conservation projects around the world.

In 2008, ippr was commissioned by Raleigh to research the long-term impact of Raleigh’s work with young people from disadvantaged backgrounds. This research had two key objectives:

1. To provide Raleigh with feedback on its work with disadvantaged young people over the past 25 years
2. To provide a case study of a practical intervention which has broader lessons for policymakers and practitioners concerned with improving young people’s lives.

Report
Executive Summary

A Good Childhood (2nd February 2009)
This inquiry report, from The Children's Society, says that most of the obstacles children face today are linked to the belief among adults that the prime duty of the individual is to make the most of their own life, rather than contribute to the good of others. The inquiry received evidence from over 30,000 children, adults and professionals and undertook a comprehensive review of all the available research. It looked at seven aspects of childhood:

• Family
• Friends
• Lifestyle
• Values
• Schooling
• Mental Health
• Inequalities

Report
Summary for Children and Young People

Preventing Childhood Deaths - Supplementary Survey 2008 (January 2009)
A short questionnaire regarding the prevention of childhood deaths was sent to all LSCBs in England in January 2008. This questionnaire was identical to that used in October 2006, with the addition of specific questions relating to collaboration with neighbouring authorities, and on appointment of lead paediatricians for unexpected child deaths.

Findings from the questionnaire returns were compared with those returned in October 2006. This questionnaire was followed up, with those LSCBs indicating a willingness to participate, with two audits - one relating to the rapid response process and one to the child death overview panels.

The main study was published in June 2008.
Survey

COMMISSIONING

Provision of services for adults with tinnitus: a good practice guide (28th January 2009)
Further to the publication of 'Improving Access to Audiology Services in England' in March 2007, this document provides good practice and evidence to help commissioners and service providers to make changes to the way that adult tinnitus services are delivered, and in particular to reduce waits for patients with the most common hearing difficulties.
Guidance

Planning for pandemic influenza in social care (23rd January 2009)
The aim of this guidance is to equip local authorities and other social care organisations with the tools and resources needed to plan for and meet the challenges presented by pandemic influenza.
Guidance

Provision of adult balance services: a good practice guide (28th January 2009)
Further to the publication in March 2007 of 'Improving access to audiology services in England', this document provides good practice and evidence to help commissioners and service providers to make changes to the way that adult balance services are delivered, and in particular to reduce waits for patients with the most common hearing difficulties.
Guidance

Primary care and community services: improving dental access, quality and oral health (27th January 2009)
This is one of a series of guides to help primary care trusts become world class commissioners of primary care and community services.
Guidance

Primary care and community services: improving GP services (27th January 2009)
This is one of a series of guides to help primary care trusts become world class commissioners of primary care and community services.
Guidance

COMMUNITY SAFETY

Tired of Hanging Around (28th January 2009)
This study focuses on the role of sport and leisure activities in preventing anti-social behaviour in young people aged 8 to 19 years. These activities are part of the actions that councils and their partners can use to tackle and prevent anti-social behaviour. This study recognises, but does not cover, local agencies' work with families and young children or the role of schools in helping to prevent or address anti-social behaviour.
Report
Summary
Scrutiny Tool
Accompanying materials

CONSULTATION RESPONSES

Consultation response and analysis: National Dementia Strategy (3rd February 2009)
This document gives feedback regarding the responses received on the 'Transforming the quality of dementia care: a consultation on a National Dementia Strategy' Consultation.
Consultation Response

CONSULTATIONS

Fairer Contributions Guidance: A consultation on the extension and revision of the statutory guidance for charging for non-residential social services in relation to personal budgets (26th January 2009)
The aim of the new guidance is to provide councils with a system for calculating how much a person should contribute to their personal budget. It has been produced as a companion to the existing Fairer Charging guidance. Closing date for comments is 19th April 2009.
Consultation

Common Assessment Framework for Adults: A consultation on proposals to improve information sharing around multi-disciplinary assessment and care planning (21st January 2009)
This consultation focuses on care and support for adults and on assisting the continued development of personalisation by helping people to choose services better suited to their needs. Closing date for comments is 17th April 2009.
Consultation

Young People and Alcohol Guidance (29th January 2009)

The Secretary of State for Children, Schools and Families has launched a consultation on alcohol guidance, advice and information for parents, children and young people. Closing date for comments is 23rd April 2009.
Consultation

Ending Child Poverty: Making it happen (28th January 2009)
The Government wants to provide children and young people with the best start in life and break cycles of deprivation for good. Prior to the introduction of a child poverty Bill in 2009, the Government is consulting on legislative proposals. Closing date for comments is 11th March 2009.
Consultation

DENTAL

Dental National Decontamination Survey (29th January 2009)
This letter from Mr Barry Cockcroft, Chief Dental Officer for England, highlights a national survey the Department of Health is undertaking which looks at how the current quality of decontamination of surgical instruments in primary care dental services can be imporved.
Letter

Independent review of NHS dentistry (3rd February 2009)
An independent team to help improve access for patients who want to see an NHS dentist is currently undertaking an extensive review of NHS dentistry, and they want you to have your say. The independent review team is being led by Professor Jimmy Steele, Chair in Oral Health Services Research at the School of Dental Sciences in Newcastle and he and his team are looking for as many people to become involvd in the review as possible.
Information

DISABILITIES

Update on disabled children's national indicator (28th January 2009)

The government has published an updated briefing and the timetable for its development on the national indicator for disabled children's services (National Indicator 54 - NI54). The indicator will look at parental experience of services for disabled children and young people aged 0-19 and the extent to which these services are delivered according to 'core offer' standards. A draft version of the main stage questionnaire can be accessed here.

Briefing

DISEASES AND DISORDERS

Hepatitis C: quick reference guide for primary care (28th January 2009)
Concise information and good practice advice about hepatitis C testing and diagnosis for use by doctors and nurses in primary care, including a testing and diagnosis flowchart.
Guidance

Perceptions of patients and professionals on rheumatoid arthritis care (22nd January 2009)

A report by the King's Fund says that GPs are too slow ro refer patients with arthritis to specialist care. The main finding says clinicians and patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) believe that many GPS remain insufficiently aware of the indicators that may suggest RA or the importance of early referral to specialist care for rapid aggressive therapy to prevent damage to joints. The report highlights inconsistencies, poor GP knowledge and "underlying uncertainty" about managing flares which are experienced by 90% of patients and concludes that medical education should play a role in increasing the awareness of future GPs about RA.
Report

DRUGS

Cannabis reclassification and the associated penalties (26th January 2009)

The government decided to reclassify cannabis from Class C to Class B because repeated cannabis use can have serious consequences for mental health.
Information

HEALTH PROTECTION

Increase in Meningococcal type B infections in England (23rd January 2009)
The Health Protection Agency reported that there has been an increase in meningococcal group B (MenB) infections in late December 2008 and early January of this years for England. There have been 252 cases of MenB reported in the last four weeks in December and first two weeks of January compared to 198 for the same period the year before.

HEALTHCARE

Across the Pond - Lessons from the US on Integrated Healthcare (21st January 2009)

This report, by Richard Gleave, combines first-hand observations of how integrated care operates ‘across the pond’ in the United States, with suggested lessons for the UK’s health system. These lessons are important for policy-makers and for health and social care managers.
Report

HEALTHCARE COMMISSION

Improving services for substance misuse - Diversity and inpatient and residential rehabilitation services (29th January 2009)
A report released today by the Healthcare Commission and the National Treatment Agency (NTA) shows how well local areas are meeting the needs of diverse communities and people who require inpatient or residential drug treatment.

The review covered each of the 149 local drug partnerships in England, where drug treatment is commissioned and managed by representatives from primary care trusts, local authorities, the police and the probation service.

Findings reveal widespread good practice with 15% of local drug partnerships rated as "excellent" and 72% "good" overall. Thirteen percent were rated "fair" and no partnerships had an overall score of "weak".
Document
Further information

IMMUNISATION

Acceleration of the HPV vaccination catch-up campaign (30th January 2009)
Further guidance on the acceleration of the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination catch-up campaign was sent to PCT Immunisation Coordinators on 30 January. The Department of Health is encouraging PCTs to deliver the remainder of the catch-up programme earlier than originally planned.
Guidance

INCAPACITY BENEFIT

Pathways to Work from incapacity benefits: A review of research findings on referral practices and liaison with service providers (22nd January 2009)
This working paper presents a review of research findings on the topic of referrals and working relationships between Jobcentre Plus and other organisations and practitioners helping people with health problems and disabilities. This review was conducted in order to draw together and synthesise what was already known about the process of referring incapacity benefits recipients to specialist service provision. The review draws on a selection of qualitative studies completed earlier in the Pathways evaluation, and other published reports on a range of disability employment services.
Paper

INFECTION CONTROL

The Health and Social Care Act 2008: Code of Practice for the NHS on the prevention and control of healthcare associated infections and related guidance (23rd January 2008)
This Code comes into force on 1st April 2009 and sets out how the Care Quality Commission will assess compliance with the requirements set out in the Regulations made under section 20(5) of the Health and Social Care Act 2008.
Guidance

INFORMATION SHARING

ContactPoint (26th January 2009)

ContactPoint is an online directory enabling authorised staff to have access to demographic data on every child in the country. It will also give the name and address of any professional working with them. The database has been criticised by some children's campaigners and civil liberties groups but backed by others children's organisation and the Royal College of GPs and the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health. It is said that it will be a vital tool to help safeguard children, helping to ensure that the right agencies are involved at the right time and that children do not slip through the net.
Information

LEADERSHIP

Inspiring Leadership for Quality - The Approach (24th January 2009)
'Inspiring leaders: leadership for quality' is the first national guidance on talent and leadership plnning for the NHS. This letter outlines the support available from the National Leadership council.
Letter

LEGISLATION

Delivering High Quality Impact Assessments (30th January 2009)

Government is committed to conducting formal impact assessments of the need for and likely impact of new regulations. A National Audit Office report has found that scrutiny of proposed legislation is strengthening and that the standard is better than it was, but one fifth of assessments still did not include any quantified data to assess costs or benefits.

The Better Regulation Executive (BRE) has introduced new guidance, templates and training to improve the quality of impact assessments and, as a result, impact assessments have clearer presentation of results, better planning for implementation, and more quantification of costs and benefits.
Report
Executive Summary

LOCAL AUTHORITY/GOVERNMENT

The Credit Crunch and Regeneration: Impact and Implications (30th January 2008)
There has been much successful regeneration across England during the past decade. But the picture has been changing during the past year as a result of the international credit crunch and economic downturn. This study assesses what the effect has been, what might happen next, and what the key implications are for partners involved in regeneration.
Report

MENTAL HEALTH

Living well with dementia: A National Dementia Strategy (3rd February 2009)
This strategy provides a strategic framework within which local services can:

• deliver quality improvements to dementia services and address health inequalities relating to dementia;
• provide advice and guidance and support for health and social care commissioners and providers in the planning, development and monitoring of services; and
• provide a guide to the content of high-quality services for dementia.

Strategy

Adult Psychiatric Morbidity in England, 2007 results of a household survey (27th January 2009)
Nearly one in four people (23.0%) in England had at least one psychiatric disorder in 2007 according to a survey report published today by the NHS Information Centre for health and social care and conducted by NatCen (National Centre for Social Research) in collaboration with the University of Leicester. 7.2% of people had two or more disorders.

The Adult Psychiatric Morbidity Survey (APMS) series is the only source of data on the national prevalence of both treated and untreated psychiatric disorder in the English general population.
Report

MIGRATION

Empowering Birmingham's migrant and refugee community organisations (2nd February 2009)

An exploration of how migrant and refugee community organisations (MRCOs) can be supported and trained to collect evidence from their communities that will help influence policy and service provision.

The role of MRCOs in providing support and guidance to new arrivals is well acknowledged. However, they also lack the resources and capacity to engage in consultation and influencing processes to help shape the ways in which services are provided for the communities they represent. This report explores the support offered to community leaders in a range of MRCOs in the West Midlands and examines the scope of capacity building work to:

• develop the skills of MRCO leaders to engage in, and shape, the research agenda;
• develop relationships with policymakers and service providers;
• engage in policy debate and influence strategy and service provision.

The report explores the barriers and constraints to success and makes recommendations aimed at helping to shape future initiatives.
Report

NHS

Launch of the Cooperation and Competition Panel (28th January 2009)

The Cooperation and Competition Panel will be operational at the end of January. The Secretary of State is establishing the Panel to compliment the role of SHAs and provide advice as to compliance with the overarching rules in individual cases.
Information and website

Personal health budgets: first steps (28th January 2009)
Lord Darzi announced in High Quality Care for All that the Department will launch a pilot of personal health budgets in 2009, as a way of giving people greater control over the services they use and who provides them. Personal Health Budgets: First Steps sets out the principles of personal health budgets, reports on early lessons and invites expressions of interest in the pilot programme.
Guidance and other information

NHS Pay Modernisation in England: Agenda for Change (29th January 2009)
According to a National Audit Office report, the NHS has successfully transferred 1.1 million NHS employees on to a new simplified pay system. Given the scale of the NHS this was a substantial task which the NHS, in partnership with the trade unions, achieved in a short timescale. There are some examples of NHS trusts using Agenda for Change to help introduce new roles. But the Department of Health did not put enough emphasis on getting trusts to develop these new ways of working to secure the full benefits from the new pay system, so the programme is not yet achieving the intended value for money.

A key element of Agenda for Change, the Knowledge and Skills Framework and effective use of the Framework is fundamental to achieving the full benefits of Agenda for Change.
Report
Executive Summary
Census of NHS Trusts

NICE

Antisocial personality disorder: treatment, management and prevention. Clinical Guideline CG77 (28th January 2009)
Antisocial personality disorder is the name given to a condition that affects a person's thoughts, emotions and behaviour. Antisocial means behaving in a way that is disruptive to, and may be harmful to, other people. The advice in the NICE guideline covers:

• The care, treatment and support that people with antisocial personality disorder and their families or carers should be offered
• The care and treatment that children with conduct problems and their families or carers should be offered.

Clinical Guideline

Autologous blood injection for tendinopathy. Interventional Procedure Guidance IPG279 (28th January 2009)
Tendonitis is the inflammation of the tendon - the fibrous tissue that connects muscles to bones - which may occur through overuse. In this treatment, blood is taken from the patient (which is sometimes treated in the laboratory) and then re-injected around the affected tendon to supply growth factors that initiate healing.
IP Guidance

Borderline personality disorder: treatment and management. Clinical Guideline CG78 (28th January 2009)
This guideline covers:

• The care, treatment and support that people with borderline personality disorder should be offered.

Clinical Guideline

Functional electrical stimulation for drop foot of central neurological origin. Interventional Procedure IPG27 (28th January 2009)
Drop foot is the inability to lift the foot and toes when walking. It can result from conditions such as stroke, multiple sclerosis or spinal cord injury. Functional electrical stimulation involves stimulation of the peripheral nerves that supply the paralysed muscle using electrodes that may be implanted or placed on the surface of the skin. The aim is to restore muscular function.
IP Guidance

Cochlear implants for severe to profound deafness in children and adults. Technology Appraisal TA166 (28th January 2009)
A cochlear implant in one ear is recommended as a possible option for everyone with severe to profound deafness if they do not get enough benefit from hearing aids after trying them for 3 months. Cochlear implants in both ears are recommended for the following groups with severe to profound deafness only if they do not get enough benefit from hearing aids after trying them for 3 months and the implants are placed during the same operation:

• children
• adults who are blind or have other disabilities which mean that they depend upon hearing sounds for spatial awareness.

Technology Appraisal

Infracoccygeal sacropexy using mesh for uterine prolapse repair. Interventional Procedure IPG280 (28th January 2009)
NICE was notified of various procedures for the treatment of pelvic organ prolapse. NICE asked the Review Body for Interventional Procedures to undertake a systematic review of these procedures.The Interventional Procedures Advisory Committee (IPAC) considered the systematic review and have also produced guidance on: infracoccygeal sacropexy using mesh for vaginal vault prolapse repair, sacrocolpopexy using mesh for vaginal vault prolapse repair, sacrocolpopexy using mesh for uterine prolapse repair and insertion of uterine suspension sling (including sacrohysteropexy) using mesh for uterine prolapse repair.

Uterine prolapse occurs when the womb (uterus) slips down from its normal position into the vagina. Infracoccygeal sacropexy is an operation that involves the insertion of a piece of material (mesh) with the aim of holding the womb in place.
IP Guidance

Infracoccygeal sacropexy using mesh for vaginal vault prolapse repair. Interventional Procedure IPG281 (28th January 2009)
The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) has issued full guidance to the NHS in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland on infracoccygeal sacropexy using mesh for vaginal vault prolapse repair .

It replaces the previous guidance on posterior infracoccygeal sacropexy for vaginal vault prolapse (Interventional Procedures Guidance no. 125, May 2005).

Vaginal vault prolapse occurs in wome with previous surgical removal of the womb when the upper vaginal wall slips down from its normal position down into the vaginal canal or outside of the vagina. Infracoccygeal sacropexy is an operation that involves the insertion of a piece of material (mesh) with the aim of holding the vaginal vault in place.
IP Guidance

Insertion of mesh uterine suspension sling (including sacrohysteropexy) for uterine prolapse repair. Interventional Procedure IPG282 (28th January 2009)
NICE was notified of various procedures for the treatment of pelvic organ prolapse. NICE asked the Review Body for Interventional Procedures to undertake a systematic review of these procedures.The Interventional Procedures Advisory Committee (IPAC) considered the systematic review and have also produced guidance on: sacrocolpopexy using mesh for vaginal vault prolapse repair, sacrocolpopexy using mesh for uterine prolapse repair, infracoccygeal sacropexy using mesh for vaginal vault prolapse repair and infracoccygeal sacropexy using mesh for uterine prolapse repair.

Uterine prolapse occurs when the womb slips down from its normal position into the vagina. Uterine suspension sling involves an operation to insert a piece of material (mesh) with the aim of holding the womb in place.
IP Guidance

Sacrocolpopexy using mesh for vaginal vault prolapse repair. Interventional Procedure IPG283 (28th January 2009)
The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) has issued full guidance to the NHS in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland on sacrocolpopexy using mesh for vaginal vault prolapse repair.

It replaces the previous guidance on mesh sacrocolpopexy for vaginal vault prolapse (Interventional Procedures Guidance no. 215, March 2007).

Vaginal vault prolapse occurs when organs above or around the vagina slip down from their normal position. Sacrocolpopexy is an operation that aims to provide support for the pelvic organs in their natural position. This is achieved by attaching a piece of material (mesh), usually from the top and back of the vagina, to a ligament of the lower back bone.
IP Guidance

Sacrocolpopexy with hysterectomy using mesh for uterine prolapse repair. Interventional Procedure IPG284 (28th January 2009)
NICE was notified of various procedures for the treatment of pelvic organ prolapse. NICE asked the Review Body for Interventional Procedures to undertake a systematic review of these procedures.The Interventional Procedures Advisory Committee (IPAC) considered the systematic review and have also produced guidance on: sacrocolpopexy using mesh for vaginal vault prolapse repair, infracoccygeal sacropexy using mesh for vaginal vault prolapse repair, infracoccygeal sacropexy using mesh for uterine prolapse repair and insertion of uterine suspension sling (including sacrohysteropexy) using mesh for uterine prolapse repair.

Uterine prolapse occurs when the womb (uterus) slips down from its normal position into the vagina. Sacrocolpopexy is an operation involving the insertion of a piece of material (mesh) with the aim of holding the pelvic organs in place, following surgical removal of the womb.
IP Guidance

Medicines adherence: involving patients in decisions about prescribed medicines and supporting adherence. Clinical Guideline CG76 (28th January 2009)
This guidance is about enabling patients to make informed choices by involving and supporting them in decisions about prescribed medicines. It explains guidance (advice) from NICE (the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence) to the NHS in England and Wales.
Clinical Guideline

Machine perfusion systems and cold static storage of kidneys from deceased donors. Technology Appraisal TA165 (28th January 2009)

The following methods are recommended for storing kidneys from donors who have died:

• machine perfusion using the LifePort kidney transporter
• cold static storage using Belzer UW storage solution or Marshall's hypertonic citrate solution

The choice of storage method should be based on:

• the expertise and equipment available to the teams collecting the kidney
• how the teams are organised, and
• the distances involved

Technology Appraisal

Promoting physical activity, active play and sport for pre-school and school-age children and young people in family, pre-school, school and community settings. Publich Health Guidance PH17 (28th January 2009)
This guidance is for all those who have a direct or indirect role in - and responsibility for - promoting physical activity for children and young people. It complements and supports, but does not replace, NICE guidance on obesity, physical activity, physical activity and the environment, depression among children and young people and social and emotional wellbeing in schools.
PH Guidance

Ultrasound-guided regional nerve block. Interventional Procedure IPG285 (28th January 2009)
There are a number of conditions for which regional anaesthesia to allow surgery is required for a specific part of the body. This technique aims to provide accurate placement of local anaesthetic by using ultrasound guidance to position needles that deliver the local anaesthetic in the correct place next to the nerves.
IP Guidance

Thoracoscopic epicardial radiofrequency ablation for atrial fibrillation. Interventional Procedure IPG286 (28th January 2009)
Atrial fibrillation is a condition that affects the heart, causing an irregular pulse. It occurs when the electrical impulses controlling the heartbeat become disorganised, so that the heart beats irregularly and too fast. When this happens, the heart cannot efficiently pump blood around the body. This may cause symptoms such as palpitations, chest pain or discomfort, shortness of breath, dizziness and fainting. Atrial fibrillation increases the risk of blood clots and stroke. In thoracoscopic epicardial radiofrequency ablation, selected areas of the heart are destroyed using heat, with the aim of preventing the occurrence or conduction of abnormal electrical activity. The procedure is done through small incisions in the chest and using a camera.
IP Guidance

Quitting smoking in pregnancy and following childbirth - draft scope consultation (23rd January 2009)
NICE is developing public health intervention guidance: How to stop smoking in pregnancy and following childbirth. Closing date for comments is 20th February 2009.
Consultation

Interventional procedure overview of tenotomy of horizontal eye muscles for nystagmus (with reattachment at their original insertions) (interventional procedures second consultation) (27th January 2009)
Nystagmus is the involuntary movement of the eyes (most commonly from side to side) and is usually associated with impaired vision. Tenotomy involves cutting the horizontal muscles of the eye (which move the eye from side to side) and reattaching them at the same place. The aim of the procedure is to improve vision. Closing date for comments is 24th February 2009.
Consultation

Percutaneous endoscopic laser lumbar discectomy (interventional procedures consultation) (27th January 2009)
Symptomatic lumbar disc prolapse occurs when a disc at the lower end of the back bursts and pushes against spinal nerves. This may cause pain in the back or legs, and weakness and numbness in the legs. The aim of a percutaneous endoscopic laser lumbar discectomy is to remove the part of the disc that is pushing against the spinal nerve root. A small cut is made in the skin and a small flexible camera is inserted though the cut. This allows use of special equipment including a laser to heat and destroy some of the disc and remove its protruding part. Closing date for comments is 24th February 2009.
Consultation

Transmyocardial laser revascularisation for refractory angina pectoris (interventional procedures consultation) (27th January 2009)
Patients with refractory angina pectoris have chest pain (because of insufficient oxygen delivery to their heart muscle) that cannot be controlled by optimal medical or surgical management. Transmyocardial laser revascularisation involves open heart surgery to drill holes on the heart muscle using a laser beam, with the aim of enabling blood flow from the heart chambers into the heart muscle, to relieve myocardial ischaemia and reduce chest pain. Closing date for comments is 24th February 2009.
Consultation

Percutaneous laser revascularisation for refractory angina pectoris (interventional procedures consulation) (27th January 2009)
Patients with refractory angina pectoris have chest pain (because of insufficient oxygen delivery to their heart muscle) that cannot be controlled by optimal medical or surgical management. Percutaneous laser revascularisation involves insertion of a catheter into major vessels of the groin, which is advanced to the heart, to drill holes on the heart muscle using a laser beam. The aim is to enable blood flow from the heart chambers into the heart muscle, to relieve myocardial ischaemia and reduce chest pain. Closing date for comments is 24th February 2009.
Consultation

How to put NICE guidance into practice and improve the health and well being of communities: practical steps for local authorities (28th February 2009)
Following two stakeholder workshops in May of this year, NICE has developed a “How to” guide to implementation that aims to support Local Authorities with the implementation of NICE guidance. This guide was launched at the NICE conference in December 2008. The guide is split into 3 parts:

Part 1 discusses getting started with the process of implementation of NICE Guidance
Part 2 outlines the principles of implementation of NICE guidance
Part 3 discusses the practical steps to implementation of NICE guidance

Feedback is welcomed by 11th February 2009.
Guide

Head and neck cancer (squamous cell carcinoma) - cetuximab (appraisal consultation document) (29th January 2009)
The Appraisal Committee has had its first meeting to consider both the evidence submitted by the manufacturer 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 cetuximab for the treatment of recurrent and/or metastatic squamous cell cancer of the head and neck. Closing date for comments is 19th February 2009.
Consultation

Promoting mental wellbeing at work: consultation on the evidence, January 2009 (29th January 2009)
The aim of this consultation is to enable stakeholders to consider the evidence gathered and to provide the opportunity to comment, in particular on:

• major gaps in the evidence gathered, including papers in the published literature that we have not been able to identify
• queries around the interpretation of the evidence, both of single studies and the reviewed material as a whole
• the applicability of the evidence and its usefulness for the development of guidance
• issues relating to equality
• issues relating to cost-effectiveness

Closing dte for comments is 26th February 2009.
Consultation

Multiple myeloma - lenalidomide: appraisal consultation document 2 (29th January 2009)
The Appraisal Committee has had its second meeting following consultation on the first appraisal consultation document, to consider the updated analysis submitted by the manufacturer. It also considered 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 lenalidomide. Closing date for comments is 20th February 2009.
Consultation

NHS Evidence: draft accreditation process manual public consultation (2nd February 2009)
This draft ‘Process manual for accrediting producers of guidance and recommendations for practice: a guide for producers and stakeholders’ describes the process for accrediting producers of guidance and recommendations for practice. It provides details on the scope for accreditation and what types of guidance producers are accredited, the criteria used to perform the accreditation assessment, the main steps in the process for reaching an accreditation decision and the notification and publication process of an accreditation decision. Closing date for comments is 1st May 2009.
Consultation

Epilepsy (update): scope consultation (3rd February 2009)
NICE have been asked to develop a clinical practice guideline on Epilepsy for use in the NHS in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. The draft scope defines what aspects of care the guideline will cover and to whom it will apply. Registered stakeholders for the Epilepsy (update) guideline are invited to submit comments on the scope and may suggest clinical questions that could be answered in the guideline. Closing date for comments is 2nd March 2009.
Consultation

NURSING

Who wants to be a nurse? (January 2009)
Nursing roles and the configuration of health services will change in the future, but there will be an ongoing need to draw large numbers of talented people into nursing careers to deliver the Next Stage Review’s vision of a “quality workforce”. This edition of Policy+ considers who is currently entering nursing and what can be done to maintain or increase the number of high calibre applicants to nursing courses.
Document

PARLIAMENTARY PUBLICATIONS

Children, Schools and Families Committee - The Work of the Committee in 2007-08 - Second Report of Session 2008-09 (27th January 2009)

Communities and Local Government Committee - Work of the Committee in 2007-08 - First Report of Session 2008-09 (22nd January 2009)

Health Committee - Work of the Committee in 2007-08 - Second Report of Session 2008-09
(29th January 2009)

Joint Committee on Human Rights - Work of the Committee in 2007-08 - Second Report of Session 2008-09 (26th January 2009)

Public Accounts Committee - The National Programme for IT in the NHS: Progress since 2006 - Second Report of Session 2008-09 (27th January 2009)

Public Accounts Committee - Skills for Life: Progress in Improving Adult Literacy and Numeracy - Third Report of Session 2008-09 (29th January 2009)

PATIENT AND PUBLIC INFORMATION

Getting the best from neurological services: A guide for people affected by conditions of the brain, spine and nervous system (30th January 2009)
Revised and updated guide for people with neurological conditions and their families living in England. It highlights what support is available and provides answers to frequently asked questions.
Guidance

Hepatitis C: are you at risk? (28th January 2009)
Leaflet for the public: Hepatitis C: Get tested. Get treated.
Leaflet

PHARMACY

Proposals to reform 'market entry' based on pharmaceutical needs assessments (27th January 2009)
This is the impact assessment of the above.
Impact Assessment

CHOOSE AND BOOK

Choose and Book - Learning lessons from local experience (January 2009)

The British Medical Association (BMA) receives mixed feedback about Choose and Book and felt there could be value in exploring local use and possible reasons for these variances in opinion. This report is the outcome of this research.
Report

PRESCRIBING

What you need to know about prescribing, the 'drugs bill' and medicines management. A guide for all NHS managers (December 2008)

This document is intended to be a readily accessible quick reference guide which will enable all NHS managers to gain an understanding of the fundamentals of medicines usage. In addition it highlights areas in which they may wish to take action, working with colleagues involved in prescribing and medicines management, within their own and partner organisations. I know it will be useful to you in developing and delivering services involving the use of medicines.
Document

PRIMARY CARE TRUSTS

Primary Care Roadmap (December 2008)

NHS Connecting for Health has just published the latest version of the primary care roadmap. This document details the primary care elements of the National Programme for IT (NPfIT) which will affect PCTs over the next 12 to 18 months.
Roadmap

PROVIDERS

New providers: new solutions. The independent sector partnering with the NHS (January 2009)
This report highlights examples of how the NHS confederation's independent sector members are helping the NHS to improve quality, to innovate and to enhance the patient experience.
Report

PUBLIC HEALTH

The Law as a friend: how to protect yourself and be effective (22nd January 2009)

This CPD event, from ChaMPs Public Health Network and Mersey Deanery, was held at the Halliwell Jones Stadium, Warrington on 22nd January.
Programme
James Bullton presentation

SMOKING/TOBACCO

Mandatory age restriction technology or prohibition for tobacco vending machines (27th January 2009)
This is the impact assessment for the above.
Impact Assessment

Prohibiting the disply of tobacco at point of sale (27th January 2009)
This is the impact assessment for the above.
Impact Assessment

SOCIAL CARE

Key issues in social care regulation and inspection (2nd February 2009)
This short booklet looks at what the Commission for Social Care Inspection have achieved over the past five years. It explains how they have used their vision and values to regulate and inspect social care.
Booklet

STATISTICS

Survey of English Housing Preliminary Report: 2007-08 (29th January 2009)

NHS inpatient and outpatient waiting times figures, 31st December 2008 (30th January 2009)

Abortion statistics 2008 (29th January 2009)

Health Profile of England 2008 (27th January 2009)

Local Index of Child Well-Being 2009 (22nd January 2009)

Report of the National Patient Choice Survey, England, September 2008 (3rd February 2009)

Provisional drug treatment statistics (2nd February 2009)

Smokefree legislation compliance data, July - December 2008 (30th January 2008)
Report
Technical Annex Report

Attribution dataset GP registered populations 2008 (30th January 2009)

Referral to treatment statistics (admitted patients, non-admitted patients and incomplete RTT times), November 2008 (29th January 2009)

NHS Staff Earnings, July - September 2008 (29th January 2009)

Breast Screening Programme, England 2007-2008 (28th January 2009)

Trend in alcohol-related deaths levelling out (27th January 2009)

UK Suicide rates continue to fall (27th January 2009)

Monthly Digest of Statistics, January (26th January 2009)

Crime in England and Wales: Quarterly update to September 2008 (22nd January 2009)

Drinking: Adults' Behaviour and Knowledge in 2008 (22nd January 2008)

General Household Survey Overview 2007 (22nd January 2009)

Smoking and Drinking Among Adults, 2007 (22nd January 2009)

Accident and Emergency Attendances in England (Experimental Statistics), 2007-08 (21st January 2009)

Labour market statistics, January 2009 (21st January 2009)

Regional labour market statistics, January 2009 (21st January 2009)

Statistics on NHS stop smoking services in England, April 2008 to September 2008 (Q2 - Quarterly report) (20th January 2009)

British Social Attitudes - 25th Report Summary (28th January 2009)

WORKFORCE/WORKPLACE

Proposals for a Centre of Excellence for Workforce strategy and planning (29th January 2009)
In August 2008, the Department of Health asked the King's Fund to lead a stakeholder engagement review on the proposal for a Centre of Excellence. This report reflects what was heard from stakeholders during the consultation and sets out a series of recommendations that aim to support effective implementation.
Report

King's Fund Report on the Centre of Excellence (30th January 2009)
This letter from Clare Chapman, Director General NHS and Social Care Workforce, summaries the DH's response to the King's Fund report on the Centre of Excellence.
Letter

The European Working Time Directive for trainee doctors - Implementation update (29th January 2009)
There is a commitment to support the NHS in achieving compliance with the WTD by 1st August 2009. The expectation is that all services will strive to be fully compliant and all but a very few services with special difficulties will be compliant by 1st August.
Guidance

The European Working Time Directive - UK notification of Derogation for doctors in training (29th January 2009)
The UK has made considerable progress in achieving compliance with the European Working Time Directive (EWTD) by doctors in training. The UK governments intend to take up the option of a derogation under Article 17(5) of the EWTD, permitting an average weekly working time of 52 hours for doctors in training to apply to such services from 1st August 2009.
Guidance