IHAS Update

February 2012

News, views and snippets from the dynamic world of health care.

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Stop Press

Parliamentary reception for Treatments You Can Trust

Baroness Ritchie of Brompton, Chair of the Treatments You Can Trust Governance Group hosted a Parliamentary reception for Treatments You Can Trust

Baroness RitchieAttended by Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Health Anne Milton who announced her continued support for the Treatments You Can Trust scheme. Sally Taber announced at the reception the ‘Seven Challenges for 2012’ with many of these issues having been championed by the IHAS since 2005. January’s Cosmetic newsletter outlined the key issues that the IHAS continue to believe need to be addressed to further protect patients from the escalating number of rogue providers of cosmetic injectable treatments.

The reception provided an opportunity for the leading manufacturers and suppliers of injectables in the UK to declare their continued support for the Treatments You Can Trust scheme and their role in ensuring patient safety by confirming their dermal filler products are marked as suitable for use only by a Doctor, Dentist or Registered Nurse.

Anne Milton MP for Guildford and Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Health said:

A new review of arrangements for cosmetic interventions will be led by Sir Bruce Keogh, the NHS Medical Director. The review will look at current arrangements for ensuring the safety of cosmetic interventions will make recommendations to Ministers and will inform our contribution to the EU review of the Medical Devices Directive. Ministers can then decide whether measures are required to further regulate the cosmetic industry... ...In the meantime, ‘Treatments You Can Trust’, and the Independent Healthcare Advisory Services, will I hope continue with their work on improving the field of cosmetic procedures. I encourage practitioners and providers of cosmetic treatments to register and members of the public to use all tools available to find out more about any potential procedure.

Treatments You Can trust Governance BoardThe Seven Challenges for 2012

  1. Reduction in the number of dermal fillers available in the uk
  2. Restricting foreign supplies of uncertified dermal fillers in the uk
  3. To clamp down on issues surrounding remote prescribing
  4. Local authority support
  5. Spot inspections for registered providers
  6. To track the use of dermal fillers amongst appropriately qualified providers
  7. To launch a consumer awareness campaign: patient pester power.

IHAS Specific News

Department of Health – ‘The Month’ – December 2011 / January 2012

All IHAS members are encouraged to read this key issue of The Month. A focus on the highlights::

Update on Any Qualified Provider (AQP)

As of April 2012, commissioners will start to offer patients the choice of AQP in at least three services, which have been selected based on local priorities. Patients will be able to see which local services will be available to them through ‘any qualified provider’ on a new user-friendly and interactive map, available on the new AQP resource centre on the NHS Supply2Health website.

To provide support and guidance to commissioners, DH has supported the production of a series of AQP implementation packs covering eight clinical areas developed by the NHS for the NHS. Once they begin to assess potential providers, using the national qualification process and questionnaire, commissioners may find it useful to refer to other supporting material on NHS Supply2Health website, including frequently asked questions.

The process for qualifying providers will operate at three levels. DH will host a central team to undertake initial compliance. Each region will host Qualification Centres of Excellence (detailed in The Month) to undertake the service specific review of providers on behalf of participating commissioners. The Centres will be virtual teams who will undertake the majority of the service specific qualification tasks on behalf of commissioners in England, reflecting where experience has been developed through preparing the implementation packs. Finally, the local commissioners will complete the process, formally qualifying providers to deliver services for patients in their areas. Adverts for services will be placed on the NHS Supply2Health website over the next few months.

New approach to education and training

Liberating the NHS: Developing the Healthcare Workforce - From Design to Delivery published in January sets out a new policy framework for the education and training system to be put in place, subject to Parliamentary approval.

The development of the Local Education and Training Boards (LETBs) provides a real opportunity for employers to work with their professional leaders and education partners to shape the education, training and development of their future and present NHS workforce. LETBs will have the responsibility for deciding what skills and workforce they need and for investing the £4.9bn central education and training funding to meet their local priorities. But this can only happen if providers step up to this role and demonstrate that the LETBs can handle this responsibility. The SHA clusters are already working with local employers to support the development of the LETBs.

Health Education England will be established later this year as a special health authority. It will have a key role to play in authorising the LETBs and allocating resources for them to invest in education and training locally.

NHS Future Forum calls on healthcare professionals to lead way on patient-centred care

The NHS Future Forum has given its second set of reports to Health Secretary Andrew Lansley which it set out a series of recommendations to improve the quality of patient care and achieve better outcomes.

The Government has responded to the second Future Forum report and accepted its recommendations. Highlights from the NHS Future Forum’s reports include:

Integration

  • Integration should be defined around the patient, not the system – outcomes, incentives and system rules (i.e. competition and choice) need to be aligned accordingly.
  • Health and wellbeing boards should drive local integration – through a whole-population, strategic approach that addresses local priorities.
  • Local commissioners and providers should be given freedom and flexibility to ‘get on and do’ – through flexing payment flows and enabling planning over a longer term.

Education and training

  • The new local education and training boards must have the governance in place to deliver strong partnerships across healthcare providers, academia and education.
  • Quality must be at the heart of education and training with systems in place at all levels to reward high quality education and embed continuing professional development.
  • There needs to be a review of the principles and aims of the Tooke Report into medical education.
  • A properly structured process to support individual nurse and midwife development in post-qualification career pathways should be developed nationally.

Information

  • Patients should have access to their online GP-held records by the end of this Parliament.
  • The NHS must move to using its IT systems to share data about individual patients and service users electronically in the interests of high quality care.
  • The Government should set a clear deadline within the current Parliament by which all information about clinical outcomes is put in the public domain.
 

SIHA and SINA meeting

Members of SIHA have all taken part in the Health Protection Scotland point prevalence survey and the report is expected shortly.Sally Taberwill be meeting with the Scottish Health Government about cosmetic injectables on 14 February.

Upcoming Health Protection Agency (HPA) survey of MRSA & CDI infection rates in the independent sector – action required by 20 February

The next HPA publication of data on independent sector methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) bacteraemia and Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) infection rates will be on 3rd April 2012. This publication will for the first time include methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) bacteraemia data.

Sally Wellsteed, Team Leader at Infection Control, Infectious Diseases and the Blood Policy Branch at the Department of Health has written to all CEOs of participating independent sector providers to remind them to check their data submissions. Action is required by Monday 20th February 2012. Demonstrating the independent sector’s low levels of MRSA & CDI infection rates is a good news story for the independent sector and if you have not previously submitted data, please contact  This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.  or 020 7379 8598 to discuss how to do so.

National Joint Registry (NJR) Patient Focus Conference, 23 March

Dr JJ de Gorter, of Spire Healthcare represents the independent sector on the NJR. The NJR’s aim is to have around 30-40 orthopaedic patients/representatives in attendance alongside NJR, contacts from patient organisations and clinicians with an interest in patient engagement (20-30). The event is an opportunity to:

  • meet joint replacement patients, share experiences and views;
  • hear about the first NJR Annual Report Public and Patient Guide;
  • meet NJR orthopaedic surgeons and ask questions;
  • find out more about the NJR and;
  • help consult on projects as part of the future NJR patient network.

To book a place, please contact  This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.  or call 020 7469 2546.

Advertising Unplanned Pregnancy Advice Services

This month the ASA’s Committee of Advertising Practice (CAP) announced a new rule for advertising unplanned pregnancy advice services. The new rule means that advertisements for services offering post-conception advice on unplanned pregnancy must make clear in the advertisement if the service does not refer women directly for a termination. The rule will come into effect on 30 April 2012 and CAP has updated its online advice to help providers get their adverts right in time for the change.

The rule change draws on NHS guidance and aims to protect potentially vulnerable women from being misled at a time when a delay in accessing the information they need could increase the risk of health complications. CAP’s regulatory statement, including the new rule, can be read here.

National Clinical Assessment Service (NCAS) – services to IHAS members concerned about an individual’s professional practice

The NCAS provides a service to senior independent sector healthcare managers in resolving concerns about the practice of individual dentists, doctors and pharmacists. Support from NCAS is provided in the first instance by their Advisers, with bespoke telephone advice, followed up in writing. Advisers are backed up by Case Managers who, where necessary, provide more in-depth interventions including performance assessment and remediation, facilitation, mediation and access to team reviews. For interest, doctors qualifying outside the UKare more likely to be referred to the NCAS be excluded or suspended from work than UKmedical graduates. Read more about NCAS. Further information will be sent to members of the IHAS Medical Revalidation work stream shortly

Updates from International Society for Quality in Health Care (ISQua)

International Conference in Geneva – deadline for abstract submissions is 29th February 2012

The includes:

  • Patient Centered Care
  • Education in Safety and Quality
  • Governance, Leadership and Health Policy
  • Patient Safety Systems
  • Measuring Service Performance and Outcome
  • Integrated Care and Interface with Primary and Social Care
  • Innovative Technologies using e-health and Health Technology Assessment
  • Quality and Safety in Transitional and Developing Countries
  • Accreditation and Regulation of Systems and Professionals

For more information about the opportunity to present at the conference, click here.

ISQua launches an e-newsletter for healthcare professionals –

ISQua Knowledge.

 Susan Jones

Susan Jones, BMI Healthcare – from Healthcare Assistant to Director

The Nursing Times has written a role model feature on BMI’s Director of Clinical Services, Susan Jones. Susan emphasised the amount of training and education she has received since moving into the independent sector. Read the full article.

David Flory confirmed as first Chief Executive of the NTDA

David Flory is confirmed as the first Chief Executive of the NHS Trust Development Authority (NTDA). Currently, Deputy NHS Chief Executive and Director General for Finance, Performance and Operations at the Department of Health, David Flory will continue as Deputy NHS Chief Executive until March 2013. From April 2013, the NTDA will provide governance and oversight of NHS trusts, supporting them to NHS Foundation Trust status. Read more here.

Monitor – on-going Stakeholder Engagement on the Licence

As we reported in the December update, IHAS has engaged with the NHS Partners Network (NHSPN) in responding to Monitor’s ongoing consultation about the proposed licence. Monitor has now published further consultation documents about aspects of the licence, including:

IHAS is meeting with Monitor to discuss key issues for the sector on 15 February 2012 – report back in the March issue. If you would like to attend this meeting please contact  This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. " data-mce-href="/../../"mailto: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. ">Sally Taber. Tel No: 020 7379 7721.

PIP Breast Implants

IHAS and representatives from its membership will be meeting with the DH on 13 February following the meeting of the Government’s Expert Group.

Latest Advice on PIP implants published by the Department of Health

Follow the links:

The Government’s position

Read more. 

The Chief Executive of the NHS Sir David Nicholson, and Chief Medical Officer Dame Sally Davies also wrote to health professionals with updates on PIP Breast Implants on 6 January and re-stated this position. Read more. The Department of Health has also published an Interim Report of the Expert Group convened to review policy in relation to breast implants.

The MHRA position

Read more.

Cosmetics Agenda

IHAS continues to seek to have dermal fillers to be reclassified from medical devices to medicines in progressing the quality and safety in the injectable cosmetics sector.

The Aesthetic Surgery Services European Standard will be moving to the next stage of public comment. As reported previously some of the contents of this would be in conflict with current accepted practice in the UK. The BSI is collecting comments on this standard through the BSI Draft Review System. The document is titled prEN 16372. The IHAS Cosmetic Surgery Working group is coordinating a response to this draft document which closes on 30 April however the BSI will close for comment on 22 April 2012.

The introduction of the laser regulation and register could be affected by the above draft standard however due to the need to have a framework in place for safety and quality for the public the registration scheme will go ahead. The Laser and Intense Pulse Light Treatments Standards are free to download in preparation for launching the scheme. A launch date will be released soon as the new website has final testing.

The working group is reviewing the outcome and impact of NCEPOD report from September 2010 on the organisational aspects of Cosmetic Surgery and provide an update to members in view of the next stage of the government’s agenda to review the regulation of the cosmetic industry.

Workforce Advisory Group – taking forward the agenda

A tentative date has been noted for the Laing and Buisson Conference for 18 April 2012 – more details to follow.

Formation of the Quality and Safety Working Group

This new group will be chaired by Patricia Scott, The Hospital of St John and St Elizabeth. Terms of Reference are currently being agreed to take the new group forward which will seek to establish and promote the sector’s quality credentials. This will be based on the results of a survey shortly to be undertaken with all members of the group. Contact  This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .ukLene" gurney="" a="" data-mce-href="/../../"mailto: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .ukLene">for more.

Perioperative Care Collaborative – way forward decided

The Perioperative Care Collaborative met on 18 January and agreed the following way forward.

The WIHA and SIHA credentials 2011/2012 have been published. Please contact  This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. " data-mce-href="/../../"mailto: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. ">Sally Taber for copies. These are also available on the IHAS website.

Cosmetic Surgery / TYCT

Register now if your organisation is doing Cosmetic Injectables

ihas_injectable_cosmetic_providers_quality_markMinister of State for Health confirms support for IHAS register of injectable cosmetic providers quality assurance mark - the new Minister of State for Health, Simon Burns, confirmed his backing for the IHAS Register of Injectable Cosmetic Providers. Simon Burns said, "The IHAS Register of Injectable Cosmetic Providers has the potential to make a very real difference to the safety and quality of services on offer in this growing industry."

The new and updated TYCT website is now in use at:  www.treatmentsyoucantrust.org.uk

It is a customer-facing site with greatly improved search facilities for customers/patients to find registered providers and already receiving good feedback from its users. The new site registration system is optimised for easy registration by providers wishing to join the Register.  The Registrar, CHKS, will shortly be issuing guidance to providers in the middle of registering.

The website provides for Registration of cosmetic injectables providers, and it is intended shortly to include registration for companies offering training courses also. Visitors landing on the old website will be re-directed automatically. 

Managing Complaints (ISCAS)

Independent Sector Complaints Adjudication ServiceIndependent Sector
Complaints Adjudication Service (ISCAS)

Adjudicator's Monthly Message -
How to manage persistent complainers

Firstly, it is necessary to have a mechanism for identifying those who persistently complain and the key indicators are: signs of unreasonableness; threatening behaviour; irrational arguments; resistance to solutions; demand for early escalation of complaints; transfer of complaint to higher authorities; dishonesty of evidence and overall attitude that shows an unwavering negativity towards every effort that is made to resolve matters.

Secondly, it is important to develop a policy to manage the situation and then to implement the policy swiftly in order to control the situation. The response must be firm and clear and the complainant must be made aware of the way in which their complaint will be handled.  It is possible that the firm response will aggravate the situation and intensify the aggression and outrage that is felt by the complainant, but it is important to remain clear headed and steadfast.  Explain what you can do, what you cannot do and what the options are for the complainant.  Put your offer forward in writing and keep the communication short, to the point and unequivocal. 

If you receive abusive telephone calls, respond by stating clearly what you will and will not tolerate but be careful not to allow a high-handed tone to creep into your approach.  It is easy to feel justified in giving as good as you get in threatening situations and in taking offence, but try to remember that the complaint is not about you.  If, on the other hand, the complaint does involve you or you realise that it is beginning to look as though it is going to do so, then pass it on to a colleague.  Do not allow yourself to become embroiled in a situation that you cannot manage with independence and neutrality.

Above all, try to remain objective and calm but if you are affected by any bullying and aggressive behaviour then talk to colleagues and share your concerns.

Lady Fiona Hodgson 

ISCAS Governance Board

As reported in last month’s update, Lady Fiona Hodgson, CBE will commence her role as the Chair of the new ISCAS Governance Board in March 2012. The date of the first meeting has been set for and the Board will consider the ongoing membership and set the agenda for the years work priorities for ISCAS.

ISCAS membership provides:

  • access to experienced ISCAS staff and the infrastructure necessary to maintain an up to date ISCAS Model Complaints Policy
  • full consultation with DH and Care Quality Commission
  • maintain a Stage 3 (externally moderated) complaints management system
  • publish industry - standard literature for use by patients
  • collect and publish industry wide statistical outcomes
  • access to ISCAS exclusively-retained impartial Adjudicators
  • costs maintained at realistic levels

  • ISCAS Annual Report 2010

Revalidation implementation year

Every five years the GMC will require confirmation in the form of a recommendation from a doctor's Responsible Officer that they are up to date and fit to practise and that there are no significant unaddressed concerns about their practice.

Revalidation is not expected to roll-out until late 2012. In the meantime, doctors should ensure that they:

For more information about what doctors should be doing now to prepare for revalidation down the leaflet ‘Ready for revalidation: one year to go’ (published December 2011). IHAS has produced, in conjunction with the BMA a Whole Practice Appraisal document. This document tabulates the information required for you to be appraised.

Independent Sector Employer - GMC & IHAS Publication - Revalidation: The Way Ahead. A Guide for Independent Sector Leaders in England. This important publication is a guide to help leaders of an independent sector organisation to understand the background to medical revalidation and the steps needed to be ready by late 2012. Read the report.

Practising Privileges – IHAS guidance for developing a policy. This document has been reviewed to bring it up to date with legislative changes and developments that impact on the guidance. Following the responses to the updates the new document is being finalised.

ISROC

The major independent sector Employers have set up a Network entitled ISROC, chaired by Dr Sheila Peskett, Medical Director Ramsay Health Care. The aim of this group is to provide professional peer support for Responsible Officers who relate to the RO of NHS London

The IHAS / GMC Group met in January 2012

Discussed the implementation programme for Medical Revalidation to ensure that it is appropriate for the independent sector at the January meeting. IHAS has responded to the GMC consultation on the License to Practice and Revalidation Regulations 2012. IHAS largely agreed with the proposal but seeks further clarification on a number of issues, see the full response here.

Revalidation Support team request for case studies

The RST and partners are building a bank of case studies to provide inspiration and practical tips to help designated bodies prepare for revalidation. This is an opportunity to showcase your organisation’s work and share learning. They are particularly interested in speaking to people regarding their experiences of appraisal, clinical governance and preparations for revalidation.

Possible topics include (but are not limited to):

  • appraisal systems/ appraiser training
  • clinical governance systems
  • responding to concerns
  • information management
  • the appraisal and revalidation of doctors in different circumstances (e.g. locums, SAS doctors) and
  • action planning/project management for revalidation readiness.

If you feel others could learn from your organisation's experiences, please email  This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. , including the following details:

  • Name
  • Job title
  • Organisation
  • Contact number
  • Email
  • Best day / time to call and brief overview of case study 

Workforce

Publication of the MAC Report on the Analysis of the Impacts of Migration on 10 January

In May 2011 the Government asked the MAC to ‘research the labour market, social and public service impacts of non-EEA migration; and to advise on the use of such evidence in cost-benefit analysis of migration policy decisions.' It is this report that the MAC will publish on 10 January. Alongside the report the MAC will also publish six external research reports that it commissioned to inform this work. The report and the external research reports are available here.

Skills Passport for Health.  The Stakeholder Group chaired by David Foster, Deputy Chief Nursing Officer met on the 2 February and were given an update of the project by John Herring, Director for the Project, Skills for Health.  The Skills Passport Design phase starts on 6 February and a prototype will be available in April 2012 with the finished product being ready in February 2013.  During the Design phase a user group will be convened and once the prototype is available pilots will be run. In short 2012 is the Development year and 2013 will be the Rollout year.

Core Skills Framework – A sub-group to the Skills Passport Programme Board has been established and the “Finding of a survey exploring the support for the development of a UK wide Care Skills Framework” was published at the end January 2012 on the Skills for Health website

Long-Term Conditions 2012 Conference was held on Wednesday 1 February at the QEII conference centre. Two seminars were presented by the Independent Sector:

  • GlensideCare – The Glenside Plaited Pathway Model – a pathway where the environment is suited to the patient
  • Sue Ryder – Working together for Change – personalisation with complex long term neurological conditions – personalised care planning

Both sessions were very well attended and created a great deal of interest from delegates  

Care Quality Commission (CQC)

The CQC is responsible for registering, reviewing and inspecting services and has powers of enforcement exercisable in response to failures by providers to meet the legal requirements of registration; including failure to register.

HealthwatchEnglandmembership consultation, closes 2 March

Healthwatch Englandwill be a national consumer champion that enables the collective views of the people who use health and social care services to influence national policy, advice and guidance. This consultation asks questions regarding the membership of HealthwatchEngland.

Cosmetic surgery news on 11 January 2012

CQC information update

Fees consultation

A short consultation on Fees is underway and closes on 20 February 2012 due to the limited scope of proposed changes. These are due to the changes to fewer PCT’s providing the range of regulated services now following the Transforming Community Services initiative and the fee increases that resulted for HPA, NHSBT and NHSD.

Useful links at CQC:

Healthcare News

40 percent of clinical commissioning groups enlist private sector support

Four in ten clinical commissioning groups across Englandhave begun to enlist commissioning support from the private sector and have already signed a series of deals with external firms, a Pulse investigation has found. An analysis of data from 86 CCGs obtained under the Freedom of Information Act shows 41% have taken on external commissioning support outside the NHS, spending an average of £76,472 each and £2,753,000 in total.

Good Governance Handbook

The Good Governance Institute has collaborated with the Healthcare Quality Improvement Partnership to produce this report into the foundation principles of good governance. Drawn from academic study, the various governance codes and law, and established better governance practice, it identifies nine foundation principles. This report explains how to apply these within health and social care organisations.

Code of Conduct for Healthcare Managers

The Institute of Healthcare Management (IHM), worked with the Medical Royal Colleges, the RCN and others, and the new Code of Conduct lays out expected behaviours from those managing healthcare services.

Helping people live healthier lives: the future for public health

The Government has announced that in future public health will be measured against a framework, which sets out 66 health measures, in order that councils and the Government are able to see real improvements being made and take any action needed. In 2012/13 around £5.2bn will be spent on public health services. From April 2013, councils get a ring-fenced budget and can choose how they spend it according to the needs of their population. A new health premium will reward areas that make progress. For more information, go to: www.dh.gov.uk/health/2012/01/future-for-public-health/

Laing & Buisson Independent Specialist Care Awards 2012, 15 March inLondon

The awards are for independent sector providers of social care services for adults with learning or physical disabilities or mental health problems including dementia, from care homes to supported living and home care. IHAS members are amongst the finalists in the 15 award categories. Read more.

An opportunity for IHAS members to sponsor an award at the new Care Integration Awards being launched by the HSJ and Nursing Times on 4 July 2012

Nursing Times and HSJ are launching these new awards in recognition of the key role integrated care will play over the next decade in helping the NHS to meet rising patient demands in the context of tightening financial constraints. These will be the first Awards to directly recognise collaborative clinical practice. Sponsors will benefit from inclusion in a six month multi-channel marketing campaign across Nursing Times and Health Service Journal as well as high profile networking opportunities.

Awards categories include: cancer care, cardiac care, dementia Care, diabetes care, gastrointestinal care, musculoskeletal care, primary care and respiratory care. For more details contact Angus Hutchinson at 020 7728 3801 or  This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Update from The King’s Fund

Read the King’s Fund latest analysis on the Health and Social Care Bill and NHS Future Forum on their website. 

General Medical Council (GMC)

GMC updates Patient Safety Guidance and Professional Leadership Guidance, which come into effect on 12 March

Raising and acting on concerns about patient safety makes clear that doctors have a duty to act when they believe patient safety is at risk, or when a patient’s care or dignity is being compromised. The guidance explains when doctors need to raise concerns and advises on the help and support available to them, including how to tackle any barriers that they may face.

Leadership and Management for all Doctors is aimed at helping doctors understand their responsibilities in relation to employment issues; teaching and training; as well as planning, using and managing resources.

The new GMC Liaison Service, which builds on the GMC’s ambition to be more proactive with a stronger local presence, will use the guidance and work with Medical Directors, doctors and patients groups to help foster openness and a willingness to speak out throughout the health service. Copies of the guidance have been sent to all doctors on the medical register. For further information please contact Ian Hicks, Policy Manager at  This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .

Call for evidence to inform the review of the PLAB (Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board) test, closes 30 April 2012

The GMC has launched a call for written evidence to inform the latest review of the PLAB test. The test is designed to ensure doctors from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) have the knowledge and skills they need to practise medicine in theUK. The call for written evidence is the first part of the review, which will help to ensure the test remains fit for purpose for future candidates.

The GMC wishes to hear the views of anyone who has an interest in the arrangements for the admission of non-EEA doctors to the medical register. Click here to see the questions in full and take part. Or email  This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. . 

Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC)

http://www.nmc.org.uk

NMC – Meet the Independent Sector events – 16 February & 22 March

Meet the NMC events are aimed at senior staff in the independent sector. The first three events are for anyone who has responsibility for nurses or midwives working in the independent acute sector, including mental health and learning disabilities. Apply for a free place here.

The Meet the NMC events offer you the opportunity to meet the NMC team of directors, find out more about its work and discuss the issues that matter to you. During the event you will have the opportunity to visit two of its sites, at23 Portland Placeand at 61 Aldwych.

Staff from the Nursing and Midwifery Policy and Standards team run a session which covers: Safeguarding adults; Guidance on raising concerns; Unregulated practice; Additional materials to support the code; Student indexing; EU issues; Revalidation; Advanced practice and Fitness to Practise. Delegates then travel over to 61 Aldwych for a short tour of where the NHS holds many of its Fitness to Practise hearings and NMC staff lead a further short session on fitness to practice issues.

Click here for a full list of NMC events around the country

Department of Health asks CHRE to undertake a strategic review of the NMC

Concerns have been raised in parliament about the NMC and its performance. With a view to further strength the NMC’s leadership and governance the DH also plans to consult on re-constituting the NMC’s council to reduce its size. IHAS will provide further information as it becomes available.

Resignation of Professor Dickon Weir-Hughes with immediate effect

The NMC has issued the following statement:

“After a period of sick leave, Professor Dickon Weir-Hughes, has decided to resign from his position as Chief Executive and Registrar of the Nursing and Midwifery Council and leave with immediate effect.”  Read more.

Survey of nurses and midwives on stress

Researchers at the Universityof Wolverhamptonare conducting a short online survey of nurses and midwives to find out their views on seeking help for stress. Click here to complete the survey. 

Health Professions Council (HPC)

HPC website

The HPC “In Focus” February 2012 newsletter is available here. It includes details of upcoming events, new contact details for the NMC, new appointments, a focus on delegation and supervision of new consultants.

NICE Guidance

NICE published the following guidance in January 2012:

NICE opens up access to The Lancet

As part of the drive to provide open access to high quality evidence, the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) has signed a three-year agreement with Elsevier to fund a national subscription to the online version of The Lancet via NHS Evidence, a move which will save time and money and provide NHS-wide access to this valued resource.

www.nice.org.uk/newsroom/news/NICEOpensUpAccessToTheLancet.jsp

Help NICE to improve access to examples of local practice

The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) is keen to hear from health and social care professionals from a broad range of disciplines willing to participate in a telephone interview that will take place between January and March 2012, followed by an optional short online survey.

https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/Localpracticeonlineregistration

Invitation to attend NICE stakeholder scoping workshop on Referrral for Suspected Cancer, 19 March in Manchester

IHAS is a registered stakeholder for this clinical guideline and have been offered one place at this workshop to help inform the scope of this guideline. If you would like to attend, please email  This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.  by 9 March. 

Business News

Health for Work Adviceline available to IHAS members

The Government has launched a Health for Work Adviceline (the Adviceline) which offers an innovative free service to employers in businesses inEngland(with particular emphasis on organisations with fewer than 250 employees) to help them reduce sickness absence and improve the health and wellbeing of their workforce. The Adviceline offers advice in three ways:

  • Free telephone advice for employers on Freephone 0800 0 77 88 44.
  • Self-service information through access to an extensive, intelligent, on-line knowledge base.
  • On-line communication with a contact centre

Click here to access the adviceline.

Performance Master Classes for staff using science, physiology & psychology

IHAS has learned about these classes which utilise technology used in the sporting arena to optimise the resilience and performance of world class athletes. The approach has been developed to help both public and independent healthcare sector workforces achieve more. By identifying the signs of stress and overload before more serious problems develop such as exhaustion, burnout and illness we can help your staff stay healthy, resilient and engaged. For more information, contact John Parkinson on 07971 750 054 or  This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Information Technology

NHS Connecting for HealthMobileWorking Knowledge Centre 

The potential benefits for mobile working in healthcare are considerable and well-publicised. Significant challenges exist, however, in developing the right strategies and delivering successful programmes to achieve the return on investment. This Knowledge Centre brings together good practice, tools and experience to provide support and guidance for those initiating and implementing mobile working programmes and projects. Read more. NIGB Annual Report 2011

Consultations

NHS Employers intend to publish a good practice guidance for employers on the importance of language competency assessment, final comments can be submitted by 13 February

IHAS has been sent the guidance and final comments are requested before it is published on 20 February. The document specifically:

  • outlines employers responsibilities for making sure that the individuals they appoint have the ability to communicate with both their patients and colleagues
  • provides practical good practice advice on how to set up a fair and non-discriminatory system for assessing language competency under current law
  • outlines the level of language competency and testing  required by the regulatory bodies for international graduates
  • lists some of the most recognised English language competency tests, and outlines what other means employers can accept when assessing an individual’s language competency.

If you would like to comment on the guidance, please contact  This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. " data-mce-href="/../../"mailto: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. ">Sally Taber. 

Management of HIV-infected healthcare workers across England, Scotland & Wales

All three countries have launched a consultation based on new expert advice, which recommends that restrictions on HIV-infected healthcare workers performing invasive clinical procedures (‘exposure prone procedures’) be lifted, provided they are on effective antiretroviral drug therapy with an undetectable viral load and are regularly monitored by their treating and occupational health physicians.

 

Draft Specialist Palliative Care Measures, closes 27 February 2012

A draft version of the revised Specialist Palliative Care Measures for inclusion in the Manual of Cancer Services has been issued for consultation.

NICE consultation on potential Commissioning Outcomes Framework (COF) indicators, closes 29 February

The COF indicators will be the accountability framework for Clinical Commissioning Groups. The COF will contain a number of indicators developed from NICE evidence-based quality standards. Indicators are also sourced from the NHS Outcomes Framework and existing indicator collections. The COF will become operational from April 2013.

Click here to read more about the consultation.

HealthwatchEnglandmembership consultation, closes 2 March

Healthwatch Englandwill be a national consumer champion that enables the collective views of the people who use health and social care services to influence national policy, advice and guidance. This consultation asks questions on the key issues in relation to the membership of HealthwatchEngland.

CHRE (Council for Healthcare Regulatory Excellence) consultation on Standards for members of NHS boards and governing bodies inEngland, closes 10 April

The Standards build on work already done in this area, including by the National Leadership Council, and are consistent with the Nolan Principles on Public Life and other regulatory frameworks. Click here for more information.

Cabinet Office consultation on 'Introducing a Statutory Register of Lobbyists', closes 13 April

The Government believe that a Statutory Register is an important step towards making politics more transparent and accessible. The Consultation asks questions on what a register should look like, what should be the definition of lobbyist, what sort of information should be held on the register and what penalties should be in place for non-registration. Read more.

IHAS Consultation Responses

DH Chief Executive Bulletins

http://www.dh.gov.uk

DH Review - Winterbourne View: update and action 

This letter from David Flory, Deputy NHS Chief Executive and David Behan, Director General Social Care, Local Government and Care Partnerships alerts NHS bodies and local authorities to the action needed in advance of the Department’s review following the events at Winterbourne View private hospital. www.dh.gov.uk/health/2012/02/review-of-winterbourne-view-hospital/ 

Resuscitation Policy

Concerns about the application of some ‘Do not attempt cardiopulmonary resuscitation’ notices have been expressed in reports by the Care Quality Commission and the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman. HSC 2000/028 advised chief executives to ensure resuscitation policies are in place that respect patients’ rights, are understood by relevant staff, and are publicly accessible. It commended decisions relating to cardiopulmonary resuscitation (latest version October 2007) as a basis for policies.

www.dh.gov.uk/en/Publicationsandstatistics/Lettersandcirculars/Healthservicecirculars/DH_4004244

www.resus.org.uk/pages/dnar.htm

Maximum waiting time right for consultant-led non-emergency treatment

This letter from David Flory, Deputy NHS Chief Executive, reiterates the expected performance on referral to treatment waiting times in 2012/13. It also sets out good practice to ensure performance is improved and maintained. www.dh.gov.uk/health/2012/02/waiting-times/

 

Seven day working in imaging departments - good practice guidance

This good practice guidance identifies the issues, sets out the evidence and provides case studies on providing a seven day service in imaging departments. This has been shown to improve the quality and efficiency of a wide range of services, which rely on imaging, enhancing patient experience and outcomes.

http://ahp.dh.gov.uk/2012/01/23/implementing-7-day-working-in-imaging-departments-good-practice-guidance/

NHS Litigation Authority industry review report and DH response

The Department commissioned an industry review of the NHS Litigation Authority (NHSLA), last year. The review looked at the operation of the NHSLA and concluded there was a case for continued NHS risk-pooling. It made a number of recommendations to change the way the NHSLA delivers its services, including improving the interface with scheme members.

www.dh.gov.uk/health/2012/01/nhs-litigation-authority/

NHS Bowel Cancer Screening Programme: Piloting flexible sigmoidoscopy

Flexible sigmoidoscopy (FS) is a complementary bowel screening methodology to the current faecal occult blood (FOB) test and could prevent around 3,000 cancers every year. Improving Outcomes: A Strategy for Cancer sets out how FS will be incorporated into the current bowel screening programme, with 60% coverage acrossEnglandby the end of 2014-15.

www.dh.gov.uk/health/2012/01/advice-and-bidding-documentation-published-for-the-flexible-sigmoidoscopy-pilot/

www.bcsp.nhs.uk/ The site is password protected and requires registration.

SHA clusters are invited to nominate FS pilot sites. Expressions of interest by 29 February 2012 and full bids by 30 March 2012.

Reference costs collection guidance for 2011-12 published

This guidance sets out the requirements for the collection of 2011-12 reference costs from NHS trusts and NHS foundation trusts. The guidance emphasises the need for more senior leadership and greater clinical engagement to drive up the quality of reference costs.

www.dh.gov.uk/health/2012/01/reference-costs-manua/

Choice of GP Practice: Guidance for PCTs

This guidance covers the introduction of piloting arrangements for patient choice of GP, the establishment of outer practice boundaries and other related areas. The guidance is intended to support PCTs in preparing for the implementation of these arrangements.

www.dh.gov.uk/health/2012/01/gp-practice-guidance/

The NHS Mobile Working Knowledge Centre

The Department of Health Informatics Directorate has developed an online resource to support mobile working programmes in the NHS. Primarily focused on community services, the NHS Mobile Working Knowledge Centre presents good practice guidance, tools and case studies on the implementation of mobile working in healthcare.

www.connectingforhealth.nhs.uk/systemsandservices/icd/assessment/mobile/article

Driving quality and evidence through national clinical audits

The NHS standard contract for acute hospital, mental health, community and ambulance services sets a requirement that provider organisations shall participate in appropriate national clinical audits that are part of the national clinical audit and patient outcome programme (NCAPOP).

www.dh.gov.uk/health/2012/01/funding-change-nca/

Liberating the NHS: Developing the healthcare workforce

Liberating the NHS: Developing the healthcare workforce - from design to delivery, published on 10 January 2012 sets out a new policy framework for the education and training system. It builds on responses to the DoH’s consultation and the advice of the Future Forum. 

www.dh.gov.uk/health/2012/01/workforce-response/

NHS standard contract 2012/13

The NHS standard contract 2012/13 for acute, community, ambulance and mental health and learning disability services and the accompanying supporting documents have been published.

www.dh.gov.uk/health/2011/12/nhs-standard-contract/

Allied health professionals referral to treatment data collection

With the release of the Allied Health Professions (AHP) Referral to Treatment (RTT) Revised guide, this letter from Karen Middleton, the Chief Health Professions Officer clarifies the requirement for collection ofAHPRTT data and urges AHPs to collect local data and reporting on the community information data set structure.

www.dh.gov.uk/health/2012/01/ahp-rtt-data-collection/

Conferences

NICE Annual Conference 2012, 15-16th May 2012 at The ICC,Birmingham 

The 2012 conference will focus specifically on the future of NICE, where it fits with the current reforms and fostering a better relationship between industry and the NHS.

IHAS members can receive the public sector rate. Call 0845 056 8339 and quote H202-IHAS to register. IHAS is officially endorsing this conference.

Confirmed speakers include:

  • Sir Andrew Dillon, Chief Executive, NICE
  • Andrew Lansley, Secretary of State for Health
  • Phil Hammond, GP and Broadcaster
  • Peter Ellingworth, Chief Executive, ABHI
  • Dr James Kingsland, National Clinical Lead, NHS Commissioning Community and President, National Association of Primary Care (NAPC)
  • Danny Keenan, Chair, Commissioning Outcomes Framework Committee
  • Stephen Whitehead, Chief Executive Officer, ABPI
  • Andy McKeon, Non-executive Director, NICE and Managing Director of Health, Audit Commission
  • Dr Gillian Leng, Deputy Chief Executive, NICE and Chief Operating Officer, NHS Evidence
  • Ewan Philips, Chief Executive, Deltex Medical Group

What's new for 2012?

  • Health Landscape Future Think Tank
  • NICE implementation stream
  • Extended Shared Learning
  • Facilitated sector-specific networking tables

For key updates and the latest speakers, click here.

Understanding NHS Commissioning, 8 February

Delegates should leave with a good understanding of how to strengthen their position as a provider for NHS commissioning. Book here.

Health Innovation – Improving the quality of care, 21 February

There are a number of high-profile speakers from the DoH, NHS and independent sector and there will be a session on Any Qualified Provider. Read more.

International Society for Quality in Health Care (ISQua) International Conference inGeneva– Deadline for abstract submissions is 29th February 2012

For more information about the opportunity to present at the conference, click here.

 

MHRA 5th Annual Paediatric Regulation Seminar, 1 March 2012

The seminar will focus on UKand EU paediatric strategies and will also consider the requirements for the development of medicines for use in other special populations such as the elderly and women, including during pregnancy. Click here for more details.

Laing & Buisson Annual Long-term Care Conference, 1 March

This conference will address the issues facing long-term care providers in the face of the forthcoming White Paper.  Click here for more information

Understanding the NHS Investment Process, 6 March,Birmingham

Foundation Trusts now have the freedom to buy direct rather than through national framework agreements. Opportunities exist for healthcare suppliers. Click here for more information.

Sharing Innovation, Delivering Solutions - the 2nd Annual Florence Nightingale Conference, 8 & 9 March 2012

This event is aimed at Senior Professionals. There will be a number of high profile speakers, a Charity Gala Dinner in aid of the Florence Nightingale Foundation and eight workstreams which will focus on: Leading Innovation, Commissioning Innovation, Training & Education for Innovation, Partnerships in Innovation, Research & Innovation, Innovation in Patient / User Experience and Innovation in Pathways of Care. Click here for more information.

 

BMA Private Practice Conference 2012, 22 March 2012

The conference will explore the changing landscape of private practice; the benefits of patient experience surveys; information about the new regulatory system; and ethical consideration for private practice doctors. Book here.

GovKnow 2nd Annual Health and Social Care Conference, 29 March 2012

Topics include: Regulation in the health and social care sector, especially the changing roles of the Care Quality Commission and Monitor and the role of the independent sector as a key supplier of healthcare services. Book here.

GovNet Employee Reward and Benefit Conference, 18 April 2012

The conference will advise on how to lead an engaged, motivated and productive workforce. Read more.

Developing clinical senates and networks: commissioning, integration and efficiency, 24 April 2012

This seminar will explore the role of clinical senates and clinical networks in the new NHS landscape following changes outlined in the Health and Social Care Bill. Click here for more details.

PiF (Patient Information Forum) Annual Conference – Choice: Valueless without meaningful information, 1 May 2012, in Birmingham

Click here for more information.

 

NHS reforms: Developing the healthcare workforce - challenges, revalidation and managing the transition, Westminster Health Forum Conference, 7 June 2012

Click here for more details.

Clinical Commissioning Groups: The changing face of primary care and the role of the GP, 13 June

Click here for more information.

The Future of Health Services inWales, 25 June,Cardiff

This will be a key conference for WIHA members in light of the recently published Together for Health and has speakers from the National Assembly for Wales, NHS Wales and the third sector. Click here for more information.

Dentistry 2012 – Quality, access and regulation, 12 July

This conference will assess the impact of the dental pilot on the industry and the dental contract. It will also discuss the CQC’s role in regulating dentistry and the OFT’s investigation into the UKdentistry market. Read more.

Healthcare Estates 2012 – Exhibition and Conference, 9-10 October, Manchester

This event is already 50% full, email  This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.  if you would like to book a stand.

Coming up next month

  • WIHA meets with health Inspectorate Wales
  • The Red Tape Challenge
  • Health Select Committee - workforce
  • National Quality Board

Please ensure that this 'Update' is widely circulated within your organisations.

Sally, Andrew, Lene, Nigel and Disa

Tel: 020 7379 8598 or 020 7379 7721

Email:  This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Published on Tuesday, 07 February 2012