Three Towns Forum

Members' Lounge => Politics & Current Affairs => Topic started by: Fester on October 10, 2013, 12:15:26 am

Title: National Health Service
Post by: Fester on October 10, 2013, 12:15:26 am
Two reasons for posting this article,

1, The failings of the NHS24 emergency telephone helpline are starkly exposed here, and have caused the premature and needless death of this poor man from Scotland.

2, I couldn't help but notice that the picture of him favoured by his family, has him on the Llandudno Cable Car.

See here..  http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-24456142 (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-24456142)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Ian on October 10, 2013, 07:46:48 am
If you read the full account, it's interesting, since it indicates very clearly several things.  The NHS 'helpline' was always doomed to fail, because it intersperses a human being between the patient and the advice. When you ring the helpline they 'tick boxes on (their) computer screen' and - in this case - some of the wrong boxes were ticked. If the human had been removed, then it would have been down to the patient to tick those same boxes.

Secondly, the helpline is designed to ward off the 'imaginatively ill' and direct the really ill to the appropriate (and increasingly overwhelmed) resources. Triage is difficult to do at a distance and still difficult to do in person.

Thirdly, whenever a sick person is face-to-face with any medical professional two discrete skills are brought into play: physical diagnosis through examination and taking history, through communication. The latter is essentially a process whereby the patient has to convince the Doctor of the seriousness of the condition and with some patients (and some Doctors) that's not an easy process.

I'm not sure the failings in this case actually "caused the premature and needless death of this poor man from Scotland.".  That may well have contributed, but Septicaemia isn't something from which you easily walk away and it's noteworthy that 'he concealed the extent of the illness from his family' for 24 hours because he didn't want to spoil their Christmas. Laudable as that was, without prompt medical attention that condition is often fatal.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: born2run on October 10, 2013, 12:19:45 pm
Has anyone ever used the NHS website for diagnosis? Whenever I have typed my symptons into that it has told me to rin and ambulance straight away
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Fester on October 11, 2013, 10:57:32 pm
If you read the full account, it's interesting, since it indicates very clearly several things.  The NHS 'helpline' was always doomed to fail, because it intersperses a human being between the patient and the advice. When you ring the helpline they 'tick boxes on (their) computer screen' and - in this case - some of the wrong boxes were ticked. If the human had been removed, then it would have been down to the patient to tick those same boxes.


I'm not sure the failings in this case actually "caused the premature and needless death of this poor man from Scotland.".  That may well have contributed, but Septicaemia isn't something from which you easily walk away and it's noteworthy that 'he concealed the extent of the illness from his family' for 24 hours because he didn't want to spoil their Christmas. Laudable as that was, without prompt medical attention that condition is often fatal.

The first thing to point out, is that (subject to the enquiry) it seem that SEVERAL human beings made critical errors. One is understandable, even foregiveable.  But several???  That smacks of very poor management, training, process, or a combination of all three.

On the point of whether you believe that this case 'caused' his needless death, that will be decided by the enquiry.
All I know is, if that was one of my nearest and dearest, I would be mightily angry about the fact that he laid there, seeking help whilst suffering, and it could have been prevented.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Ian on October 12, 2013, 08:56:13 am
Quote
All I know is, if that was one of my nearest and dearest, I would be mightily angry about the fact that he laid there, seeking help whilst suffering, and it could have been prevented.

Well, I wasn't disagreeing with your assessment, F;  I was simply observing that the NHS incongruously named 'helpline' was always going to be an accident waiting to happen.

More seriously, perhaps had he thought to mention to his family how badly he was suffering, then something might have been done. 24 hours with Septicaemia and no treatment isn't recommended.   

Actually, I've long thought we've reached a point where distance treatment could be done.  There are several things that make this viable.

Most people who visit GPs don't need to. Most GPs have no idea what's wrong with their patients most of the time. Most people will (and do) get better by themselves. A small number of people rigorously abuse the system. A self-diagnostic program on your computer will usually do the job as well as or better than your GP.

We could slash NHS spending in three ways: refuse treatment to those with self-inflicted conditions - which includes falling over when drunk, drugged or self-incapacitated.
Institute rigorously-manned Triage points at A&E units.
Make visiting the GP an unpleasant experience by - say, chilling all waiting rooms by having all windows open all the time. That's why dentists aren't as overrun as GPs claim to be. No one enjoys visiting the dentist, so they only go when they have to. But too many local surgeries are simply social clubs for the local over-80s nudist clog dancing and low altitude free fall parachute clubs.

Note:  some of the above is in jest.
 
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Yorkie on October 12, 2013, 06:03:48 pm
Despite all these problems, I have nought but praise for our NHS.  If it were not due to excellent diagnosis and expert treatment, i would probably have departed this World some years ago.

First open heart surgery in 1990 gave me a new lease of life and then the discovery and repair of an Abdominal Aortic Aneurism in 2000 gave me my second chance.  I live and love every new day and am forever grateful to my Surgeon and the super Hospital Staff who attended me.  ZXZ
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Fester on January 21, 2014, 04:54:09 pm
This article tells that the MAJORITY of planned surgery in N Wales has been POSTPONED this week.
Another stark example of how badly under pressure the Betsi Cadwalader Authority is.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-25830185 (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-25830185)

What the article DOESN'T say, is how long patients have had to wait to even reach the stage of being allocated surgery, only to see it postponed.
I shall impart my current experiences.

Ophthalmic Surgery (Cataract).  Current waiting list time just for consultation, 52 weeks.   I have been waiting 67 weeks and I reminded them today.  The appointments clerk apologised and said I hear something soon!
I was given a leaflet saying 'Cataracts are a simple thing to deal with in this day and age, and we deal with them very quickly'
Hmmm.

Orthopedic Consultant.  (Knee replacement)  NHS Target just to get the consultation is 36 weeks.   I have been waiting for 50 weeks.
Again, I reminded them today.
The reply was, I should be offered an appointment at Wrexham hospital in the next few weeks,  as there is nothing at all in the foreseeable future at Glan Clwyd or Bangor.
When I mentioned the NHS target, I was simply told that they are nowhere near meeting their own targets, and actually never have!

It's getting a little worrying.

Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Yorkie on January 21, 2014, 05:46:54 pm
I am waiting for an Opthalmic Consultation, but was it not agreed that a Consultation should be a maximum of 18 weeks  after seeing your GP?

I have a letter from the appointments department which says if I have a problem before I get my appointment to go and see my GP or the Opticians.  Fat lot of good as they are the ones who diagnosed the problem!     :o
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Fester on January 21, 2014, 06:35:39 pm
I am waiting for an Opthalmic Consultation, but was it not agreed that a Consultation should be a maximum of 18 weeks  after seeing your GP?

I have a letter from the appointments department which says if I have a problem before I get my appointment to go and see my GP or the Opticians.  Fat lot of good as they are the ones who diagnosed the problem!     :o

Indeed Yorkie, I was told 18 weeks, and I did get aONE initial consultation after waiting about 25 weeks...BUT, I attended 5 appointments, only because the Consultant 'phoned in sick' for 4 of them..... and I was sent home each time!
So, all in all it took ONE YEAR to actually speak to the consultant..... who then fobbed me off with a leaflet, and a promise of a follow up appointment 'in the future'
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: DaveR on January 22, 2014, 09:35:00 am
Terrible treatment, especially when you consider the many billions pumped into the NHS.  &shake&
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Ian on January 22, 2014, 09:56:38 am
It seems we're caught in a vicious circle, too: fewer GPs, so A&E is inundated and hospital beds blocked because no suitable alternative provision can be found so with a rapidly ageing population the system looks to be grinding to a halt.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Fester on October 04, 2014, 10:02:47 pm
After working all year, (sat on my backside mainly), I have been taking time off recently and giving my already dodgy knees a thorough work out.  Long walks, darts matches, a million stairs at Penrhyn Castle, then the Gym etc...

So today, one of them gave up the ghost and my ligament ruptured when I stepped out of the shower.

The point of posting you this is tell you how impressed I was at Llandudno Hospital today, by the beleaguered staff of the  Minor Injuries Unit
I was seen and processed very quickly, and despite no Doctors being on duty at weekends, the Nurses level of expertise was first class.
The lack of resources was clearly evidenced by the fact that the Radiographer who X-rayed me had to also double up as Porter, as he came to wheel me to and from the X-Ray dept.  Then he also had to do the Admin to discharge me as there was no Clerk on duty.
The Xray dept is actually not open either, it is categorised as being 'On Call'

Nevertheless, I was in and out in about 90 minutes, and I'm really glad Mrs Fester compelled me to go, as due to this injury I will now get fast-tracked to getting some surgery.  Surgery that I have been 'on the list' for, for several years now!

 $thanx$ $thanx$



Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: hollins on October 04, 2014, 10:30:58 pm
Sorry to hear about your injury Fester but I hope you get it sorted quickly now.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on October 04, 2014, 10:48:25 pm
All the best Fester, hope all is well soon.. ££$ $good$
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Merddin Emrys on October 04, 2014, 11:00:30 pm
They are excellent at Llandudno Hospital, hope you improve soon and it's not too painful! 😃
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Ian on October 05, 2014, 07:49:04 am
I've only used Llandudno MI unit once - when I had a really nasty splinter which had gone down a fingernail. They were - it has to be said - superb, and had the splinter out and me driving home in under an hour.

Ruptured ligament, eh? Unpleasant.  D'you think it was aggravated by workouts, or simply something that was going to happen, anyway?
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Nemesis on October 05, 2014, 08:24:01 am
Hope all goes well with your knees Fester  xxx $good$
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: DaveR on October 05, 2014, 10:46:52 am
Get well soon, mate.  $good$ Might make that coffee on Tuesday a little tricky though?
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Hugo on October 05, 2014, 11:31:09 am
It just shows you how easy it is for accidents to happen but I'm glad that you were pleased with the Hospital treatment you had considering the circumstances the staff there have to put up with.
Best wishes for a speedy recovery.     $good$
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Michael on October 05, 2014, 04:55:00 pm
Oh, so that' s what you meant when you told me that your knee "had gone pop."

I had'nt got a clue what you meant. Fortunately the only popping I have encountered is corks out of wine bottles.

i'll try one now and toast to your speedy recovery. And no more struggling up the Orme by foot and refusing offers of a lift.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Fester on October 05, 2014, 08:49:45 pm
Get well soon, mate.  $good$ Might make that coffee on Tuesday a little tricky though?

If it's your round mate, I'll find a way to get there!   :laugh:

Thanks for the kind messages all, much appreciated.

Ian, I actually think I aggravated the ligament by lots of activity recently, but I was warned many years ago after some knee surgery that I would be susceptible to this type of thing.  It soon comes around.  :(
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: DaveR on October 06, 2014, 08:59:19 am
It is my round, I'll be in touch.  8)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Ian on October 06, 2014, 09:11:24 am
Quote
I was warned many years ago after some knee surgery that I would be susceptible to this type of thing.

Ah.  Aggravation of old injuries can be a real nuisance. The only bone I ever broke still nags in the cold.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on October 10, 2014, 03:04:48 pm
Free park and ride service could end parking chaos at Glan Clwyd Hospital

PARKING chaos at Glan Clwyd Hospital could soon be over.
A free park and ride Service for Glan Clwyd Hospital will start on Monday (October 13) in a bid to ease the traffic situation at the Bodelwyddan hospital's car park

http://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/139262/free-park-and-ride-service-could-end-parking-chaos-at-glan-clwyd-hospital.aspx (http://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/139262/free-park-and-ride-service-could-end-parking-chaos-at-glan-clwyd-hospital.aspx)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Hugo on October 24, 2014, 03:04:36 pm
It must be the funny season in the UK as the NHS has gone mad.   We hear of delays in operations, waiting times etc etc but this week we hear of the possibility of GP's being awarded £55.00 for each person diagnosed with Dementia.   WHY?  isn't that part of their well paid job anyway.
Yesterday in the front page of the Daily Mirror it said that the NHS will hand cash and gift vouchers to obese people if they slim down.   WHY?
no one forced them to eat so much that they have become so morbidly obese.
Alcoholics already get an increase in their benefits because of their addiction so whatever next,
Smokers to get perks if they quit smoking?
It's just insane!
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: mull on October 24, 2014, 06:08:31 pm
Strange how the Uk, bankrupt after WW2 managed to bring in the NHS.

Now with the help of the corporate tax dodgers we can no longer afford it. 

Something needs putting right but has this government got the guts to do it ?
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on October 24, 2014, 06:54:35 pm
When I returned to the area, I was surprised to find that prescriptions were free, and I wondered how this was possible, and now I wonder if it will continue.?
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Fester on October 24, 2014, 09:53:54 pm
When I returned to the area, I was surprised to find that prescriptions were free, and I wondered how this was possible, and now I wonder if it will continue.?

Like FREE bus fares, it should not continue.  It is not sustainable, nor sensible.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Hugo on October 24, 2014, 10:41:10 pm
Strange how the Uk, bankrupt after WW2 managed to bring in the NHS.

Now with the help of the corporate tax dodgers we can no longer afford it. 

Something needs putting right but has this government got the guts to do it ?

It's inconceivable to think that this Government or any previous Government hasn't got the brains to close all tax loopholes and make all companies and individuals pay the appropriate rate of tax.   They could do it if they wanted to but I doubt if they will and think the rich people and the large companies will continue to exploit the weaknesses in the tax system.   
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: bigbadhenry on October 25, 2014, 10:25:15 am
Seems that the low payed don't pay tax anymore !!!!

The rich and large companies avoid tax.

How does the government rise funds??

Squeeze the middle!!!
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Ian on October 25, 2014, 12:28:53 pm
Quote
Seems that the low payed don't pay tax anymore !!!!

Not quite true;  that only applies to income tax but they still pay VAT - which is 20% of most purchases.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on November 01, 2014, 01:53:37 pm
Medical tourism generates millions for NHS and wider economy.

Medical tourism is a lucrative source of income for the NHS, according to a major new study that contradicts many of the assumptions behind the government's announcement that it will clamp down on foreigners abusing the health service

http://www.theguardian.com/society/2013/oct/24/medical-tourism-generates-millions-nhs-health (http://www.theguardian.com/society/2013/oct/24/medical-tourism-generates-millions-nhs-health)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on November 02, 2014, 11:23:29 am
Strange how the Uk, bankrupt after WW2 managed to bring in the NHS.
Now with the help of the corporate tax dodgers we can no longer afford it. 
Something needs putting right but has this government got the guts to do it ?
It's inconceivable to think that this Government or any previous Government hasn't got the brains to close all tax loopholes and make all companies and individuals pay the appropriate rate of tax.   They could do it if they wanted to but I doubt if they will and think the rich people and the large companies will continue to exploit the weaknesses in the tax system.   

"It's inconceivable to think that this Government or any previous Government hasn't got the brains"

Here you go Hugo, Mull, this will cheer you up(sic)        &shake&    $angry$

http://www.theguardian.com/society/2014/nov/01/nhs-spending-agency-nurses-cuts (http://www.theguardian.com/society/2014/nov/01/nhs-spending-agency-nurses-cuts)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Hugo on November 02, 2014, 02:34:25 pm
Thanks a lot Steve for that depressive bit of information.  It's not exactly news because you can  ask any NHS staff member and they will say the same.    The Conservatives have done nothing whatsoever for the NHS apart from trying to dismantle it but hopefully next year they'll be out of office and not able to make the situation worse.
I would have thought that the UK has the potential to recruit home grown Doctors and Nurses on a permanent basis which would be cheaper and better than getting agency staff in the long run
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Hugo on November 27, 2014, 04:56:24 pm
TWO MILLION obese Brits to get free gastric band operations on the NHS.

http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/two-million-obese-brits-free-4703363 (http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/two-million-obese-brits-free-4703363)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Yorkie on November 27, 2014, 05:29:36 pm
Just think how the sale of food will go down!  Time to sell a few shares me thinks!   ZXZ
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Fester on December 12, 2014, 10:38:43 pm
Yesterday was one of the most bizarre days of my life.

I will try and explain, as succinctly as I can, and cut a long, detailed story as short as I can.

For the last decade or so, I have been stone deaf in my left ear, emanating from an infection I got in the Far East whilst on bsiness, which destroyed my eardrum.
Despite 3 reconstruction operations, and lots of hard work, various surgeons failed to give me back any degree of hearing.
I gave up on it about 7 years ago.

However, this year, a Surgeon at Ysbyty Gwynedd got interested in my case, and ordered various scans.
He concluded that he could 'quite easily' re-attach the bones on my inner ear, to a new ear-drum....it would be a day-surgery case, and there would be an instant result with few if any stitches.    ''A bit of ointment and I would be good as new''-BRILLIANT EH?
He quoted more than a 70% chance of full hearing recover.   It's pretty easy stuff these days, and ''I do a couple of these a month'' he said.
This was brilliant news, because in the past, the 3 month recuperation period that I went through twice, was debilitating and frustrating.... and ultimately disappointing.  I could never face that again.


Buoyed by this Surgeon's comments, I went through months of pre-op assessments, and dropped some weight in order to get my blood pressure to the required level for anesthetic.

So, yesterday, I checked into Ysbyty Gwynedd, at 8am, as requested.
It was another 5 hours before I was 'admitted', and then placed in my bed and fastened into my fashionable operating gown.
Another hour later, all my tests were done.... and the Anesthetist  came along to give me the 'pre-med' injection.
Oddly though, the surgeon never came.  I didn't think too much about that.

Feeling suitably fuzzy-headed, they wheeled my into theatre.
There, I drowsily asked about the surgeon, and the 'consent forms' .... a puzzled looking Anesthetist said he would fetch him for me.

The surgeon, fully gowned and gloved-up walked in.  It was a DIFFERENT surgeon!   My surgeon, (the Consultant) was on extended leave apparently, and this guy was a replacement.    Hmm, no problem I thought.
But then, he began to outline a very different procedure he was about to ''attempt'' which may improve my hearing to a slight degree.  It involved a LOT of incisions, a LOT of stitching and packing, perhaps take cartilage from my other ear to create new bones,  3 months of no flying,  no swimming etc...... and 3 months before I would know if there was any success!

WHOA THERE, I said........  I urged him to take a look in my file, where a the 'other surgeon' had placed a simple drawing of what should be done.    He shook his head and said in broken English.  'Not seen that, and NO, that won't be the thing we do, it will be a much more complex procedure than that'
I looked across to the waiting Anesthetist, and he looked mightily uncomfortable and noticeably embarrassed.
That was it for me..... off the trolley I climbed.... I'm outta here!

So... I must have looked a sight as I trooped back to the ward, with my AR#E hanging out of that gown, getting dressed, and leaving the hospital.   The Nurses gathered round, muttered to each other and felt incredibly sorry for me.... but were careful not to say too much, for 'professional reasons'

I wonder if anyone else has ever got that close to being operated on, before being forced to pull the plug on it?







Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Merddin Emrys on December 12, 2014, 11:12:59 pm
That is incredible! I would put a complaint in about that! What a terrible experience!
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Yorkie on December 13, 2014, 07:15:48 am
Sorry to hear the news, no wonder you were back at the Words game so quickly!

Why don't you have a word with Ian Turner, he has had some ear surgery over the past year and may be able to advise you of a 'proper' Surgeon?   
 ££$
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Ian on December 13, 2014, 08:49:53 am
Who was the original surgeon, F?
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Fester on December 13, 2014, 12:17:06 pm
Who was the original surgeon, F?

Is it OK to name names?   I deliberately didn't as I assumed it would be moderated.


Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Ian on December 13, 2014, 12:40:08 pm
We're not saying anything derogatory about the gentleman in question so - yes; I think it would be fine. On the other hand , it won't add a lot to your experience. Wonder why he was on indefinite leave?

I'm wondering if he was pioneering a new technique, and of course other surgeons  wouldn't attempt it if they weren't familiar. Thee are two listed at Bangor: Mssrs Chowdry and Barr - both Otolaryngology specialists.

I think this is worth following up.  Microsurgery is making big leaps these days, so it would be a shame if something couldn't be done.   At the very least, you need a copy of your notes and a face-to-face meeting with the specialists to find out if the original diagnostic proposal was valid and - more importantly - why they pulled the plug without warning you.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Hugo on December 13, 2014, 01:55:35 pm
I was sorry to hear about your experience with the NHS  Fester but you've certainly done the right thing by not going ahead with the operation.   Thank goodness you still had the presence of mind to ask those things and then refused the operation as who knows what may have happened as you do hear of such awful things going on.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Fester on December 13, 2014, 02:54:33 pm
Thanks Guys.

Ian, there is a team of 5 E.N.T Surgeons at Ysbyty Gwynedd.... neither of your names were on my paperwork as being part of the team.
The Senior Consultant is an American chap, by the name of Moore.   It was him that was supposed to be doing the original operation.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Ian on December 13, 2014, 03:31:22 pm
This sounds like the guy:

https://www.linkedin.com/pub/phillip-moore/21/741/534 (https://www.linkedin.com/pub/phillip-moore/21/741/534)

and, if so, it's a mighty impressive resume. I'd tend to chase him up.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: hollins on December 13, 2014, 04:12:31 pm
So sorry that you have had that awful experience Fester. I was horrified when I read your story this morning.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Yorkie on December 13, 2014, 05:01:05 pm
He's moved about rather a lot in the past, maybe he has moved on again.  Why the extended leave?  Makes one think.

 ZXZ
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Fester on December 14, 2014, 08:26:44 pm
This sounds like the guy:

https://www.linkedin.com/pub/phillip-moore/21/741/534 (https://www.linkedin.com/pub/phillip-moore/21/741/534)

and, if so, it's a mighty impressive resume. I'd tend to chase him up.

Nice find Ian, I'm pretty sure that's the guy...... but he looks a bit older than that now, and he has a full head of short, mainly greying hair.
I will of course try to follow up what happened with him, assuming he returns that is...
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Ian on December 15, 2014, 07:53:35 am
I should say, F, that your experience isn't unique. All too often what one surgeon sees as a relatively simple and straightforward op, another will baulk at.  I think you did the right thing, though; what they were going to do was far removed from what they said they were going to do.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Fester on December 15, 2014, 12:38:57 pm
I should say, F, that your experience isn't unique. All too often what one surgeon sees as a relatively simple and straightforward op, another will baulk at.  I think you did the right thing, though; what they were going to do was far removed from what they said they were going to do.

I think that is a good summary of what happened.

The moments when I laid there, wondering what to do were the worst.   It was probably one minute, but it felt like hours.
You think, 'Am I going mad?' ...... 'Am I misunderstanding?' .......'Am I being a coward?' ...... 'Am I even allowed to walk away?'
.... 'How will I ever gt another chance at this, is it ten years wasted?'

Then there was the BIG concern, .... ''After all the hassle I've put my Mrs through, what is she going to say?''   :laugh:
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Meleri on December 15, 2014, 02:11:03 pm
Nothing surprises me any more about the Welsh NHS especially after the way my husband has been treated in the past, but that's another story.

If I were you Fester I would telephone Phillip Moore's secretary her name is (details supplied direct to Fester). Give a brief outline of what happened and ask if there is a chance in the not to distant future of seeing Mr Moore again and if not, why not. You should have been consulted about the change in surgeon especially as the procedure wasn't the same as what had been discussed and agreed. I hope you are going to put in a complaint.

Kind Regards,

Meleri
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Fester on December 15, 2014, 03:52:39 pm
Ian / Meleri,
Message received and I have already spoken with his secretary, (it's not the same lady as on your message by the way)

After becoming fiercely defensive at first, she then realised something was not right and I have been told to expect a call from Mr Moore on 22nd December.   So, watch this space.  $thanx$
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Ian on December 15, 2014, 03:54:15 pm
Let's see what transpires. Whatever does, I'm pretty sure it'll be interesting.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Blongb on December 15, 2014, 06:16:43 pm
Lucky escape Fester, good job you had your wits about you.  &well&
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Yorkie on December 15, 2014, 07:30:53 pm
Fester's escape could have made an excellent U Tube video!   _))*
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: DaveR on December 15, 2014, 09:28:53 pm
It's disgraceful that there is no doctor on duty at the A&E in Llandudno Hospital after 6pm.  &shake&
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Fester on December 15, 2014, 10:22:59 pm
It's disgraceful that there is no doctor on duty at the A&E in Llandudno Hospital after 6pm.  &shake&

Nor at any time at weekends Dave.   
I was lucky to be seen by a quite savvy Nurse, when I was wheeled in with a torn knee ligament last time.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Fester on December 16, 2014, 11:16:38 am
Terse message on my Voicemail.

'Message for Mr Fester, because you refused surgery last week, you have now been removed from the list'

I took great pleasure in phoning up to explain that the truth was slightly different.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: DaveR on December 16, 2014, 12:11:16 pm
Terse message on my Voicemail.

'Message for Mr Fester, because you refused surgery last week, you have now been removed from the list'

I took great pleasure in phoning up to explain that the truth was slightly different.
What was their reply?
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Fester on December 16, 2014, 12:26:55 pm
Terse message on my Voicemail.

'Message for Mr Fester, because you refused surgery last week, you have now been removed from the list'

I took great pleasure in phoning up to explain that the truth was slightly different.
What was their reply?

Profuse apologies, and a request that I ignore the message... as they now see from their records that the circumstances were somewhat different.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: born2run on December 16, 2014, 01:57:18 pm
Terse message on my Voicemail.

'Message for Mr Fester, because you refused surgery last week, you have now been removed from the list'

I took great pleasure in phoning up to explain that the truth was slightly different.

I can't believe they are calling you Mr Fester. Cheek of them  ;)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: DaveR on December 16, 2014, 05:55:49 pm
Terse message on my Voicemail.

'Message for Mr Fester, because you refused surgery last week, you have now been removed from the list'

I took great pleasure in phoning up to explain that the truth was slightly different.

I can't believe they are calling you Mr Fester. Cheek of them  ;)
His fame (notoriety?) has spread even within the confines of the NHS...  :laugh:
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Fester on January 07, 2015, 11:41:04 pm
When I worked in a Management role, no matter how well any dept performed or how well targets were met... it seemed that the Board of Directors simply saw it as 'you have too many people', and pressure to make cuts always followed.

Therefore, contrary to the Govt advice to stay away from Hospital A&E departments, I would everyone to go there, as much as possible, for ANY reason.
If you create massive pressure, they are likely to throw some additional resource at it.

If pressure slackens off, they will see at as a sure fire statistical reason to make MORE cuts.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on June 05, 2015, 05:16:45 pm
Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board admit they have no idea how many or what type of drugs have been stolen

Health board has no system for accounting for losses or theft of medication including controlled drugs
Health bosses have come under fire after suggesting they have no detailed records of how many drugs - including controlled drugs - are missing or stolen from its hospitals.
Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB) told the Daily Post it also doesn’t record how much lost or stolen drugs are costing the health board.
BCUHB said the way records were compiled was up to the “interpretation” of the member of staff who noticed items were missing.
Today, politicians said they were concerned it appeared there was no proper record of where controlled drugs were ending up.
Medications including morphine, pethidine and methadone are classed as controlled drugs.
The situation came to light after the Daily Post submitted a Freedom of Information request to BCUHB asking if it had records of how many drugs had been lost or stolen over the last four years.
It responded: “The Health Board’s pharmacy system contains a drug catalogue which includes costs, quantities and issue points of all individual medicines.
“Whilst we record the costs of items we issue, we don’t record the cost against individual losses apart from returned medicines from wards and expired medicines.”
When a spreadsheet was provided to the Daily Post, the document recorded no specific dates, names of drugs or quantities.
No details of the circumstances in which drugs vanished were recorded either, and the health board has not explained why it does not insist on detailed recording.

A spokesman for BCUHB said: “The Health Board’s pharmacy system contains a drug catalogue which includes costs, quantities and issue points of all individual medicines.

“Whilst we record the costs of items we issue, we don’t record the cost against individual losses apart from returned medicines from wards and expired medicines.”

“The categorisation of incidents is subject to interpretation by the person reporting the incident or inputting the data.”
"Suggests there is a problem with stock taking and safety"
Llyr Gruffydd, Plaid Cymru’s North Wales AM, said: “If it’s the case that Betsi Cadwaladr doesn’t know which controlled drugs have gone missing and in what quantity, then it suggests there is a problem with stock taking and safety.
“Staff are under huge pressures in many areas of the health service at the moment and a tightening up of the drugs control procedures would help frontline nurses and doctors as well as reduce theft from the NHS.”
A spokesman for the Welsh Government said: “In this instance it is an operational matter for the health board.
“Each health board has a controlled drug accountable officer who investigates these matters.”
http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/betsi-cadwaladr-university-health-board-9397907 (http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/betsi-cadwaladr-university-health-board-9397907)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Blongb on June 08, 2015, 07:58:46 pm
Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board really isn't fit for purpose at the moment.

I was scheduled to have an operation on the 29th of April but at the very last moment just before going into Theatre it had to be cancelled due to a lack of available beds. I had the operation in Ysbyty Gwynedd on the 12th May. The treatment I received from Surgeons and Nurses during my stay was second to none. There the good news ends.

"We might not have the results of your Biopsy in two weeks so come in and get your results in 3 weeks time"

The day before I'm due to go to Bangor, " Sorry Mr B, we haven't got the results of your Biopsy from Glan Clwyd yet can, you come in next Tuesday?"

Today another phone call from Bangor " Sorry Mr B, we still haven't got the results of your Biopsy". Not a problem say I, how do I make an official complaint about the Pathology Department at Glan Clwyd for not doing their job?

40 days lost so far and I still don't know the result of my Biopsy. If the prognosis is bad, that's going to mean a total of 8 weeks lost, which can be the difference between life and death.

I'd say the N.H.S. in Wales isn't working and our Health in their hands is far from safe.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: alw on June 08, 2015, 08:23:24 pm
Everyone has the same experience.

Urgent referral to Glan Clwyd's coronary and chest clinics in April 2014.

Chest clinic appointment and initial tests in December 2014, referred same day for lung function tests.

Had full set of lung function tests on 12th March, 2015 and staff there said the results were immediately available for Chest clinic consultants to read.

5th June, contact hospital regarding results and learned it will be at least another 2 months before I have an appointment to discuss results.

A friend was referred to a Chest consultant as a private patient in early may, 2015. was seen privately at Glan Clwyd during an outpatients clinic  2 weeks later. Lung function tests done within days and results the same week.

Clearly there is no actual shortage of staff, equipment and facilities available at Glan Clwyd, just they are being made available for private patients who are prepared to pay to queue jump. 

The special measures introduced today should include stopping all private use of staff and facilities until the waiting lists have been totally eradicated.

Won't happen of course; too much money to be made from NHS queues.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Fester on June 08, 2015, 09:47:15 pm
BlongB,
As a person who has suffered badly at the hands of the NHS this year, my heart goes out to you.

I can only imagine how frightening and frustrating it must be, as you say this delay could be a life-or-death situation and it is simply not good enough.
I sincerely hope you get the results quickly and there are no ill effects from this monstrous delay.

I too am considering my situation, as my much delayed operation has left me in a worse situation than before I had it.
At my follow up meeting with the surgeon, his laid-back approach didn't really help very much as he stated... 'it's just one of those sh$t happens moments'

Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: DaveR on June 09, 2015, 08:57:57 am
BCUHB has been taken into 'Special Measures'. This sounds a bit like detention at school, but it actually means that the Welsh Government is taking direct control of the organisation to try and sort it out.

http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/betsi-cadwaladr-university-health-board-9413621 (http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/betsi-cadwaladr-university-health-board-9413621)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Nemesis on June 09, 2015, 09:01:34 am
Where do I start?

I went to the GP on Nov. 11th expecting anti-biotics for a wheezy chest. I have been asthmatic for the last 30years, so know when the usual on-going treatments need extra help.

To cut a long story short I am going in tomorrow for an angiogram, after months of 'mucking about' between one hospital and another. After a CT scan in Bangor and no word,  I rang after a fortnight to be told that it took 3 weeks to type up the results !!!!! 3 weeks later I rang again to be told to see my GP.............another fortnight to wait for the appointment.

I must say that when I eventually visited both hospitals at Glan Clwyd and Bangor I was impressed by the surroundings and 'service' so I shall see what happens tomorrow.

Strikes me if I had had anything wrong with my heart I would have keeled over by now !
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Nemesis on June 10, 2015, 09:44:38 pm
Well here I am...a few bruises, but fine. I have to say that I was impressed by the care and kindness to the small group of us who had angiograms today in Glan Clwyd We were all pretty nervous, but every step was explained and all questions answered with patience. I was a lucky one, my problem doesn't need surgery, but those who did had everything fully explained.
Full marks from me.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Ian on June 11, 2015, 07:35:32 am
What interested me were the comments by a previous BCUHB chair who commented on a culture of bullying and aggressive management within the organisation.  It's not the first time this sort of comment has been made about an institution in North Wales; the first I can remember was about the Chair of the Snowdonia National Park authority in the early '90s, and related to the 'bullying and cavalier' attitudes displayed then.

I suspect this is a peculiarly North Wales issue. The denizens of this area are, on the whole pleasant, easy-going and, above all, non confrontational. That last has often meant that people are reluctant to speak out about what they really believe and, instead, mutter about it in dark corners.

That approach, however, means that leaders or heads of institutions can not only remain in post for much longer than they perhaps should, but that the tendency to bully those they work with can emerge, since few seem compelled to bite back. I could be very wrong about that, but I've seen it operating over many years, in both charitable groups and businesses.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: DaveR on June 11, 2015, 08:31:50 am
I think you may well be right, Ian.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: bigbadhenry on June 11, 2015, 10:16:54 am
What interested me were the comments by a previous BCUHB chair who commented on a culture of bullying and aggressive management within the organisation.  It's not the first time this sort of comment has been made about an institution in North Wales; the first I can remember was about the Chair of the Snowdonia National Park authority in the early '90s, and related to the 'bullying and cavalier' attitudes displayed then.

I suspect this is a peculiarly North Wales issue. The denizens of this area are, on the whole pleasant, easy-going and, above all, non confrontational. That last has often meant that people are reluctant to speak out about what they really believe and, instead, mutter about it in dark corners.

That approach, however, means that leaders or heads of institutions can not only remain in post for much longer than they perhaps should, but that the tendency to bully those they work with can emerge, since few seem compelled to bite back. I could be very wrong about that, but I've seen it operating over many years, in both charitable groups and businesses.


I first heard about bullying at Glan Clwyd about 20 years ago. Three friends who worked there left due to bullying and harassment. Your face had to fit and if not you knew about it.

Management knew what was going on but never put a stop to it. Pleased to see that things may be changing, long overdue.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Michael on June 11, 2015, 08:01:31 pm
  Nemesis, I am not making fun about a serious matter. But I suppose you have to laugh. Did that Saturday walk in the Extravaganza do it any good?  It did.nt for me, I'm still recovering.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Nemesis on June 12, 2015, 09:40:04 am
No Mike, my knees took some while to recover, but I don't think that walking in the pouring rain like we did, did any other damage . My problem pretty much sounds like an age related thing..................I'm giving doctors a wide berth for a while whilst I recover from being scared witless.  ;D
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Michael on June 12, 2015, 06:10:28 pm
   That's me girl. Good old Yorkshire spirit
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Nemesis on June 12, 2015, 09:10:47 pm
 :-* Thanks Mike.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on June 15, 2015, 05:30:22 pm
LOOK: Behind the scenes at Ysbyty Glan Clwyd's A&E department after £90m upgrade


In the past few months Ysbyty Glan Clwyd has been the topic of a host of negative reports... and I have been the author of many,
But during a visit to the hospital’s emergency department last week, I saw for myself just what it was like to be on the frontline of health care in North Wales.
And I can now truly understand the pressures and challenges these hardworking staff face on a daily basis.

MORE/PHOTOS....http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/behind-scenes-ysbyty-glan-clwyd-9457368 (http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/behind-scenes-ysbyty-glan-clwyd-9457368)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Hugo on July 08, 2015, 12:25:10 pm
Two weeks ago I experienced this first hand when I was taken into A & E with a suspected stomach hemorrhage.  From the time I was seen by the Ambulance team to the time I was released from hospital I was extremely grateful to the NHS and all it's staff.
They work under sustained pressure and the present building work that is ongoing just adds to the pressure but they managed to cope with it all. 
Because of my condition I was confined to one room for the 10 days I was in hospital so I was pleased when I came out this week but I can't thank them enough for the treatment I received.  I just hope that today's budget will not make things more difficult for the NHS and its staff.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Nemesis on July 08, 2015, 12:34:24 pm
Hope you will be back on your feet very soon Hugo.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: hollins on July 08, 2015, 12:40:44 pm
So sorry to hear you have been ill Hugo. I was wondering if you were okay when I didn't see your posts on here.
I hope you make a speedy recovery and are back walking those hills before too long.
Best wishes from us.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on July 08, 2015, 01:07:06 pm
Sorry Hugo, I assumed you where on your hol's , glad you are ok, take care. $good$
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: DaveR on July 08, 2015, 01:20:18 pm
Get well soon, Hugo.  $good$
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Merddin Emrys on July 08, 2015, 02:07:01 pm
Sorry to hear that Hugo, get well soon!
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Hugo on July 08, 2015, 02:07:58 pm
Thanks everyone for your kind words.  I've not had an Op this time and am feeling much better now that I'm home and will be back on the road very soon.     $good$
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Ian on July 08, 2015, 03:29:38 pm
Take care of yourself, Hugo; we need your input on here :-))
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Cambrian on July 08, 2015, 05:26:07 pm
Glad to hear you are back Hugo.  You have been missed.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: mull on July 08, 2015, 06:04:44 pm
Glad to hear you are out of hospital.

Get well soon
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: snowcap on July 08, 2015, 10:35:09 pm
i agree with all the above get well soon Hugo
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on July 18, 2015, 12:26:15 pm
Work on £2m minor injuries unit at Llandudno hospital nears completion

The modern £1.9 million building is now complete and construction workers are on site fitting out the inside of the unit ready for opening late this summer.
The design is the result of partnership work between the health board and local stakeholders who have been involved from discussion, to planning and finally construction.
Unit manager Malc Anglesea said: “It’s really exciting to see this project coming into the home stretch now and we are looking forward to when we can showcase the new unit to the surrounding community later this summer.
“All the team are really proud to be involved with such a major development for Llandudno Hospital which will strengthen the services on site for all patients we will see.”

The unit is designed to provide a bigger floor space than the existing unit and will meet modern building regulations, provide more treatment areas, support better access to patient records and provide specific areas for the treatment of children.
It is also expected to allow more people to be treated on site rather than travelling to Ysbyty Gwynedd or Ysbyty Glan Clwyd emergency departments and there will also be improved working between GPs and out of hours.

Cllr Carol Marubbi, deputy mayor of Llandudno and president of the Llandudno Hospital Action Group, said: “I’m very pleased it is nearly complete - It’s great news for the staff and for morale, to see something is happening.
“I’d have been far happier if we had the original plans.

"They wanted to make it two steps higher than a minor injuries unit so it could take some of the strain off Bangor and Wrexham, but we have to be grateful in this day and age. Anything they pump in there is good and is a plus.”
RefNWPioneer
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on August 10, 2015, 01:09:59 pm
Sorry Ian there is a link to the DFM in this article, but I thought it interesting enough to post.....  WWW

NHS vulnerable to health card fraud, government admits

A Hungarian reporter working undercover for the DFM said she obtained an NHS number and then an EHIC card.
She claims she was then able to access a range of medical treatment in Hungary - including maternity care - with the authorities there able to recoup costs from Britain.
The reporter, Ani Horvath, had a fellow journalist pose as her landlord and offer a forged tenancy agreement as proof of address in order to register at a London GP surgery.
Ms Horvath said she then flew to London and underwent a check-up at the surgery, during which her Hungarian ID card and the lease document were scanned but not questioned.
She was then issued with an NHS number, which her accomplice used to successfully apply online for an EHIC card for her, which was valid for five years.
Whitehall sources said it was not clear how extensive EHIC fraud might be, but the Department of Health acknowledged there were loopholes in the system that could be tightened.


By Hugh Pym, Health Editor BBC There are no figures on the scale of fraud with EHIC cards obtained in the UK and used to cover health costs in other European countries.
Whitehall officials believe it could be limited. But critics will say the fact that the Government does not know how much of the money paid to other health systems for EHIC use - £154 million in 2013/14 - might be the result of fraud is itself a problem.
The Department of Health acknowledges that the system need to be tightened up. Questions will be asked about whether more robust evidence of residence and National Insurance contributions is required before NHS numbers and EHIC cards are provided. Cards issued in the UK have a five year lifespan. Some argue this could be shorter, in line with other countries.
Then there's the issue of policing the system with many GPs arguing their job is to care for those who need it rather than act as border control officials.

MORE.....http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-33843758 (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-33843758)


http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-3191557/Foreigners-charge-NHS-care-country-Loophole-lets-thousands-migrants-free-treatment-card-GP.html (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-3191557/Foreigners-charge-NHS-care-country-Loophole-lets-thousands-migrants-free-treatment-card-GP.html)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on August 19, 2015, 12:22:18 pm
Health board managers were paid more than £50m as their numbers rose by nearly a fifth in three years

Managers at North Wales’ scandal-hit health board were paid more than £50m in three years, as their numbers rose by almost a fifth.
Figures released under the Freedom of Information Act also show that the average wage paid to managers at Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board increased by 9% between March 2012 and March 2015.

The board paid senior managers £21.5m and managers £29.5m, based on average salaries over the three-year period.
The number of managers rose from 196.13 to 231.40 - an increase of 17%.
The average wage paid to managers increased from £34,298 to £37,636, equating to a 9% pay rise.
Last year alone, the number of managers employed by the troubled board increased by 29 from the year before, with a rise in their average wage of more than £1,000

Clwyd West AM Darren Millar, who is the party’s health spokesperson, said: “Boosting the number of NHS ‘managers’ in Wales and upping their average pay at a time when frontline staff are under immense pressure is astonishing.
MORE....http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/betsi-cadwaladr-managers-health-board-9880221 (http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/betsi-cadwaladr-managers-health-board-9880221)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Fester on August 19, 2015, 12:31:57 pm
How can the physical NUMBER of managers be 231.4 ??

You see what I mean about dodgy statistics!
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: snowcap on August 19, 2015, 08:42:11 pm
is one of them pregnant?
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: norman08 on August 19, 2015, 09:30:38 pm
Yes and a lot of them took the pay off ,12 months later a post becomes available for them by their mates ,but the staff on the front line have cuts ,could write a book on mad nhs management around this area .
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Ian on August 20, 2015, 07:30:17 am
Quote
How can the physical NUMBER of managers be 231.4 ??
You see what I mean about dodgy statistics!

I don't think it was a good idea to provide the mathematical figures as provided;  Rachel ought to have said "from almost 200 to more than 230".  Non-statisticians don't always understand raw statistical data. But then, as has been proved many, many times reporters on the Nationals don't understand percentages, probability or accuracy...
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on August 27, 2015, 02:35:47 pm
Fault shuts down operating theatres at Llandudno General Hospital
Patients’ surgical procedures are being relocated after problems were detected in the air conditioning system of a hospital’s operating theatre.
The was reported at Llandudno General Hospital in recent days after staff carried out routine checks.
It means that surgery at the unit’s two operating theatres is now being transferred some 22 miles away to Ysbyty Gwynedd in Bangor.
http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/llandudno-hopital-operation-air-conditioning--9939388 (http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/llandudno-hopital-operation-air-conditioning--9939388)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Fester on March 04, 2016, 11:41:11 pm
A five hour wait, on the pavement, in the freezing sleet for an ambulance... the Exec Officer calls it, 'unfortunate'.  &shake& &shake&
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-south-east-wales-35729133 (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-south-east-wales-35729133)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Ian on March 05, 2016, 08:05:44 am
The Welsh Ambulance Service is broken. At the very least they need to double the number of ambulances in service.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: norman08 on March 05, 2016, 08:34:00 am
If all the ambulances were not queuing up outside hospitals wouldn't be a problem .  I noticed yesterday about the overpaying of food from suppliers that was another reason I left the hospital ,I suggested savings and managment didn't want to know that is the biggest problem bad managers ...  Question I asked when do I know when the heating is on ,,,,, the windows are open . So much waste but those at the top don't want to know as its not their money .
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Ian on March 05, 2016, 08:39:35 am
Yes; they certainly need to become more flexible in the triage department. Bangor only has 8 beds in A & E, so it doesn't take a lot to make their department inaccessible on a busy night.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Hugo on March 05, 2016, 08:54:41 am
If all the ambulances were not queuing up outside hospitals wouldn't be a problem .  I noticed yesterday about the overpaying of food from suppliers that was another reason I left the hospital ,I suggested savings and managment didn't want to know that is the biggest problem bad managers ...  Question I asked when do I know when the heating is on ,,,,, the windows are open . So much waste but those at the top don't want to know as its not their money .

That's too often the problem Norman,  it's the staff who work in the hospitals who know how to run the place but all too often the pen pushers at the top won't listen to them.
It's a shame because we could all benefit from their suggestions.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Blongb on March 05, 2016, 03:20:50 pm
If patients who were due to be released from Hospital were seen by their Consultant first thing in the morning, before they did their Morning outpatients clinics, there would be no bed shortage problem.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Ian on March 07, 2016, 09:03:00 am
Another case of a non-arriving ambulance:

http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/elderly-conwy-woman-10-hour-10999235 (http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/elderly-conwy-woman-10-hour-10999235)


Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: DaveR on March 07, 2016, 09:34:31 am
A five hour wait, on the pavement, in the freezing sleet for an ambulance... the Exec Officer calls it, 'unfortunate'.  &shake& &shake&
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-south-east-wales-35729133 (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-south-east-wales-35729133)
Absolutely appalling story, more reminiscent of a third world country than the UK.  &shake&
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Bellringer on March 07, 2016, 04:50:50 pm
Probably because all those available were queuing outside A & E Departments. How can they possibly meet targets when they are 'stuck' outside these departments?
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Ian on March 08, 2016, 07:50:04 am
They need to change the 'handover' procedures and at the very least double the size of the triage bays. The ambulances' role is on the road ferrying the seriously ill, not lined up acting as portable A & E beds.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Fester on April 07, 2016, 12:51:56 am
I have had some very good dentists over the years, and some dodgy ones..... some I have stayed with for many years.
But today, I must have broken some kind of record because I signed on with a new one, and then had myself hastily transferred away from them within 5 minutes.

I waited about 4 months for my first appointment, and turned up to fill my forms in today, promptly.

I was left waiting for about 45 mins for what was a 20 minute appointment. Not the end of the world.
Eventually I was told to get into the chair, as the dentist probed around and called out the codes to her assistant to map my teeth on the chart.   Words such as 'number 8, missing... 7, amalgam, 6 present, 5 present, 4 missing.... '   and on it went.
When I was able to speak,  I enquired whether missing meant that I had lost those teeth?   She said 'yes, you have lost 4'

I assured her that I had never lost any teeth,  I have no gaps.   The dental assistant looked quite red-faced when the dentists snapped back at me. 'Yes, you have'

She continued, 'You can have crowns for £195 or fillings for £45 your choice'   
For what? I asked.... but I received no reply.

I replied, 'I would welcome your opinion, your recommendation as to the best course'   I'm not accustomed to having to choose my own course of treatment, certainly not without some information.
The dentist then ushered me brusquely out, and told me to make another appointment to come back for xrays.
I thought she meant today, in another room maybe?

When I related all this to the receptionists (both were qualified dental nurses), they looked embarrassed and hastily switched me to another dentist for next week.  They said that this 'new' dentist had only been here a couple of days and they were experiencing problems.  They apologised profusely.  They summarised it as follows.

I was only in the surgery for 5 minutes out of the 20 mins allotted, so there was no way that the Xrays could not be done.
There was no way the chart she had just created was correct, as I had no missing teeth, ever!
There were other errors too, in terms of the charge and other treatment questions.
I am no genius, but I knew that what I was being told was entirely incorrect, and totally unprofessional.   Luckily the staff on hand were quick to agree, and remedy the situation for next week.

All in all a very unsatisfactory situation, this was not a new 'wet behind the ears' trainee, this lady was well into her 50's.
The quality of care I have experienced from the NHS, (even when I'm paying) has been very poor in recent years, and it seems to be getting worse!

It makes one wonder what kind of service is received by someone who doesn't feel able to challenge the situation?


Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Ian on April 07, 2016, 08:13:49 am
Interesting.  I thought this sort of behaviour was eradicated years ago, but it seems not. She sounds to be from the Australian Trench school of dentistry, which originated in Liverpool, apparently, and through multiple unnecessary treatments made millionaires of its practitioners.

Many were struck off and some imprisoned when the truth came out;  other fled to rural locations (!). Whatever, in this situation it sounds as though you're well off without her. 
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: DaveR on April 07, 2016, 11:07:51 am
This seems a good point to recommend my Dentist, Llandudno Smiles (opposite the railway station). It's only recently opened but the 2 dentists (Ken & Alison Foxall)  have worked for many years at Rhos Road Dental Practice and are very experienced. It's private treatment only, I'm afraid, but they do have a monthly scheme. I highly recommend them.

http://www.llandudnosmiles.co.uk/ (http://www.llandudnosmiles.co.uk/)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on April 13, 2016, 12:14:41 pm
Overseas nurse recruitment plans for north Wales
Health chiefs say they are considering hiring nurses from the Philippines to plug staffing gaps in north Wales.
A report to the region's health board on Thursday says the move is being explored as part of an all-Wales overseas recruitment plan.
The Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB) said despite job fairs in Ireland, Scotland and England there was still a shortfall in filled posts.
It comes as new laws on safe nursing levels in Wales come into force.
The report to the joint meeting of the health board and the North Wales Community Health Council, which acts as a patients' watchdog, states that not all hospital acute wards are "fully compliant" with the number of nurses and ward managers required.
"Recruitment to registered nurses' posts remains a challenge with a resulting increase in the usage of bank and agency staff to address gaps," said assistant director of nursing Anne-Marie Rowlands.
"A variety of strategies to address this continues, including attendance at job fairs, with BCUHB attending Ireland in April 2016 and Glasgow and Manchester in June 2016."
The nursing official said graduate recruitment and bringing new staff from Europe "continues with much success".
But Mrs Rowlands added: "Further overseas recruitment is planned and BCUHB are exploring recruitment in the Philippines as part of the all-Wales overseas recruitment plan."
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-36026704 (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-36026704)

NHS pay scales.
https://www.rcn.org.uk/employment-and-pay/nhs-pay-scales-2015-16 (https://www.rcn.org.uk/employment-and-pay/nhs-pay-scales-2015-16)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Bosun on April 13, 2016, 12:37:14 pm
Unfortunately, and very sadly, due mainly to a combination of very poor management and (national) political interference, BCUHB have a major problem with staff moral and retention.

There are a myriad of other mainly national issues, but certainly some local, that together are creating a NHS 'perfect storm', not helped by an idiotic Health Minister. We do have the dedicated staff and a foundation for a wonderful NHS, but three things have to change. Firstly, peoples expectations (which is the most difficult) secondly, government spending on the NHS as a percentage of GDP has to rise (the UK spending is currently 13th out of 15 EU original countries) and thirdly, the NHS should stop being used as a political football and NHS policy should be left to health care professionals, not politicians. 

The underfunding is well documented,    http://www.theguardian.com/society/2016/jan/20/nhs-funding-falling-behind-european-neighbours-kings-fund-research (http://www.theguardian.com/society/2016/jan/20/nhs-funding-falling-behind-european-neighbours-kings-fund-research) for example, but why the evidence is ignored, I've no idea.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on April 13, 2016, 05:27:48 pm
"Health chiefs say they are considering hiring nurses from the Philippines to plug staffing gaps in north Wales."

After reading this article I wondered why, considering the unemployment rate, you would think they would be queuing up, during the search I found the report below very interesting.

SCHOOL LEAVERS INTO NURSING
Nursing has been a predominantly female
occupation, with women having little career choice in the past, so it has not been
difficult to recruit student nurses. Naish (1996), for example stated that female school
leavers in the past had provided the largest recruitment pool for student nurse education
programmes.

Up until the late 1980s the nursing workforce had been characterised by a pattern of
high wastage, in which those who left and did not return were replaced by a regular
supply of new entrants to training, primarily school leavers (Houltram 1996). Hanson
and Patchett (1986) examined the breakdown of entrants to nursing in the United
Kingdom each year. They found that the highest number of entrants into nursing were
female school leavers accounting for 70%. Current data relating to the breakdown of
successful applicants to student nurse education programmes shows that school leavers
account for merely 36% in 2004/2005 (CATCH 2005) and only 37.5% in 2005/2006
(CATCH 2006). The RCN (2006) states the average age of a nursing student in 2006 is
29 years compared with 18 years in 1986.  This is supported by Mulholland (2005) who
states that the age profile of student nurses is changing with just 20% coming straight
from school also indicating an apparent decline in school leavers pursuing nursing as a
career.
Schools of nursing are currently perplexed as to how they can meet the challenge of
increasing school pupils’ interest in nursing as a career. It would appear to be worth
investigating, therefore, school pupils’ perceptions of nursing as a career and to thereby
try to determine why they do or why they do not choose nursing as an occupation,
especially given recent efforts by the nursing profession to attract high academic
achieving school pupils (Sadler 2003). Many believe that recruitment initiatives need to
focus predominantly on attracting more young people particularly school leavers into
the nursing profession (Jackson and Daly 2004, Jones 2005, Brostoff et al 2005). It is
argued that there is a need for more school leavers to choose nursing as a career option
because they are the future of nursing (Snow 2005, Watson et al 2005, Simko and
Simmer 2005, Thacker 2005). This is seen as extremely important in view of the ageing
nursing workforce and the impact that this, their retrial, could have on the increased
health care delivery demands within the United Kingdom.

The full report, if you have time to spare.............
https://dspace.stir.ac.uk/bitstream/1893/1755/1/FINAL%20-%20SCHOOL%20LEAVERS%20INTO%20NURSING%20A%20STUDY%20OF%20HIGH%20ACA
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: white rabbit on April 13, 2016, 07:20:00 pm
Fester - it sounds as if you have the same dentists as I do 😖
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Fester on April 13, 2016, 09:34:26 pm
Fester - it sounds as if you have the same dentists as I do 😖

I was swapped to 'Marian', the Polish dentist on Deganwy Ave,  first appointment today, he seems excellent.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Ian on April 14, 2016, 07:46:37 am
Bosun makes a number of excellent points about BCUHB. Expenditure certainly has to rise but more especially the critical aspect appears to be the Welsh Ambulance Service. We seem to hear all the time about lines of ambulances waiting outside A and E, and that's simply an absurd state of affairs.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: DVT on April 14, 2016, 09:14:33 am
Fester - it sounds as if you have the same dentists as I do 😖

I was swapped to 'Marian', the Polish dentist on Deganwy Ave,  first appointment today, he seems excellent.

My wife and I have been with "Mario" since Shepherd in West Shore retired.  Have found the work done by Mario to be really good, and almost painless!
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Bosun on April 14, 2016, 11:54:21 am
One of the reasons that ambulances are stacked outside A & E departments is that besides the lack of resources in A & E (shortage of beds, staff etc) to treat the patient, when the patient enters A & E, the clock is ticking for the hospital's waiting time statistics, so it's in the hospital's interests to keep the patient in the ambulance until they can be quickly seen and dealt with.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Fester on April 14, 2016, 12:38:49 pm
Fester - it sounds as if you have the same dentists as I do 😖

I was swapped to 'Marian', the Polish dentist on Deganwy Ave,  first appointment today, he seems excellent.

My wife and I have been with "Mario" since Shepherd in West Shore retired.  Have found the work done by Mario to be really good, and almost painless!

Not sure if you are referring to someone else DVT?  I checked his name badge and my appointment slip, he is most definitely 'Marian',  it is a relatively common male name in Poland.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Michael on April 14, 2016, 06:25:38 pm
   Just got into the dentist thread. I'm an NHS patient. About six years ago the only dentist I could get was in Prestatyn. Went there, a polish lady, told her trouble i.e. toothache with one of my teeth. O.K. gone to far for fillings. Have to extract.
   Seemed to be taking a long time. Eventually she said thats finished. There you are, all bad. There alongside my head were 3 teeth. Oh. Not a lot I can do now, like cutting down a tree without planning consent. All in a row.
  Went back 12 months later for a routine inspection with the same lady. She looked briefly, and then said "they are all very old and very bad. They all need to come out." Me "ALL OF THEM?"   
   Yes. Make an appointment when you feel ready.
   Well I still had a reasonable mouthful of teeth, probably about 8 gone over the years. So I wasn't very happy,. By chance I managed to get into another dentists in Rhyl. So I transferred. Initial inspection and chat. Told him I had had a bit of general toothache.
   His advice. I will give you a prescription for a mouthwash. Use this for 4 weeks and come back to me. I went back, toothache gone. O.K. he said, see you in 6 months.
   I couldn't help myself. I told him a qualified dentist just up the road had said all out. He didn't really comment, just said there are different methods of treatment.
   I'm still going to Rhyl every year or so. Thats about five years. The same number of teeth and touch wood no toothache.
    How can two qualified dentists come up with such different treatments?
   
 
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: DVT on April 14, 2016, 09:21:37 pm
Fester - it sounds as if you have the same dentists as I do 😖

I was swapped to 'Marian', the Polish dentist on Deganwy Ave,  first appointment today, he seems excellent.

My wife and I have been with "Mario" since Shepherd in West Shore retired.  Have found the work done by Mario to be really good, and almost painless!

Not sure if you are referring to someone else DVT?  I checked his name badge and my appointment slip, he is most definitely 'Marian',  it is a relatively common male name in Poland.

It is the same guy - Marian - I've always heard him called Mario by the receptionist(s) and by others I know who are his patients!
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Hugo on April 14, 2016, 10:13:33 pm
I had a similar problem with dentists many years ago Mike.  If I had toothache then they just took the tooth out with no effort to save it and who was I to argue with their professional opinion.
Then I moved to a dentist in the Rhyl area, maybe the same one as you and they have done everything possible to save any teeth I had problems with.   Extraction of a tooth was only ever done as a last resort.
I have stayed with them for over 30 years and will continue to do so.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Fester on April 15, 2016, 12:15:37 am
   Just got into the dentist thread. I'm an NHS patient. About six years ago the only dentist I could get was in Prestatyn. Went there, a polish lady, told her trouble i.e. toothache with one of my teeth. O.K. gone to far for fillings. Have to extract.
   Seemed to be taking a long time. Eventually she said thats finished. There you are, all bad. There alongside my head were 3 teeth. Oh. Not a lot I can do now, like cutting down a tree without planning consent. All in a row.
  Went back 12 months later for a routine inspection with the same lady. She looked briefly, and then said "they are all very old and very bad. They all need to come out." Me "ALL OF THEM?"   
   Yes. Make an appointment when you feel ready.
   Well I still had a reasonable mouthful of teeth, probably about 8 gone over the years. So I wasn't very happy,. By chance I managed to get into another dentists in Rhyl. So I transferred. Initial inspection and chat. Told him I had had a bit of general toothache.
   His advice. I will give you a prescription for a mouthwash. Use this for 4 weeks and come back to me. I went back, toothache gone. O.K. he said, see you in 6 months.
   I couldn't help myself. I told him a qualified dentist just up the road had said all out. He didn't really comment, just said there are different methods of treatment.
   I'm still going to Rhyl every year or so. Thats about five years. The same number of teeth and touch wood no toothache.
    How can two qualified dentists come up with such different treatments?
 

It's disgusting isn't it?  And not at all amusing.
You don't get any more teeth, and people generally go along with what so called 'professionals' advise.
So many of them have a flagrant disregard for the quality of an individual's life.
The inconsistency beggars belief.
How would they like it if a member of their family was treated in this way?
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on May 12, 2016, 05:33:10 pm
Quote
Re: Everything to do with Conwy
« Reply #1154 on: Today at 09:44:26 AM »
I see the Doctors in Castle Street, Conwy is terminating its NHS contract:
http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/conwy-gp-surgery-terminates-nhs-11317928 (http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/conwy-gp-surgery-terminates-nhs-11317928)

Shocking to see how the NHS and Education are both in crisis in Wales....

I had a look for some info on surgeries closing and shortage of doctors etc. a bit long winded but for those interested
the general link doctor shortages     https://www.google.co.uk/webhp?sourceid=chrome-instant&rlz=1C1CHKZ_enES433ES433&ion=1&espv=2&ie=UTF-8#q=how%20many%20british%20doctors (https://www.google.co.uk/webhp?sourceid=chrome-instant&rlz=1C1CHKZ_enES433ES433&ion=1&espv=2&ie=UTF-8#q=how%20many%20british%20doctors)

And a very interesting site called Pulse ....

NHS-run GP practices handed 'an extra £29 per patient.                                                                                     
GP leaders have accused health boards of ‘double standards’ after it was revealed NHS-run practices could be funded up to a third extra per head compared to GP-run surgeries
http://www.pulsetoday.co.uk/news/wales/nhs-run-gp-practices-handed-an-extra-29-per-patient/20031321.article (http://www.pulsetoday.co.uk/news/wales/nhs-run-gp-practices-handed-an-extra-29-per-patient/20031321.article)

Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on May 13, 2016, 05:11:54 pm
This is the full article from above.....

GP leaders have accused health boards of ‘double standards’ after it was revealed NHS-run practices could be funded up to a third extra per head compared to GP-run surgeries.

LMCs in Wales were told that Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board funds LHB-run practices an additional £29 annually per patient.

North Wales-based GP Dr Alison Hughes revealed the funding differential at the the Welsh Conference of Representatives of Local Medical Committees in Chester last weekend during a debate on the issue.

She said that the ‘inequity’ was unjustifiable, but a Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board spokesperson - which runs one practice and is due to take over three others shortly - said that the funding was for extra staff.

A BMA analysis last year revealed that ten practices in Wales are now under health board control and a further eight were‘at risk’.

A motion at the Welsh LMCs meeting called for the additional resources and support put into LHB-managed practices to be ‘equitably made available to independent contractor practices to prevent them from collapsing in the first place.’ The motion was passed unanimously.

Dr Hughes said: ‘Why do LHBs think it is ok to pour money into practices that they are running but refuse to give support to employ more staff to keep practices on the brink from going under? We condemn their short-sightedness and the inequity and the double standards that we have between LHB-run practices and GMS.’

Gwent LMC vice-chair Dr Deborah Waters said of the extra £29 per patient: ‘That’s an enormous amount of money – if we all had that what could we do with it? There are double standards.’

A Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board spokesperson said the organisation is running one practice in Blaenau Ffestiniog and will take on another in Wrexham in September after the Pen-y-Maes Health Centre announced plans to close. Two practices in Prestatyn have gone under and replacement services will be run by the health board from April, he added.
‘It is not a valid comparison to look at the costs of running an LHB-managed practice with costs of running other practices. We have to put in extra money for locums, nurses and pharmacists.’
Betsi Cadwaladr is running the Blaenau Ffestiniog practice on a long term basis but wants to return the others to private contractors as soon as it can, said the spokesperson.

This site and its links gives you insight into the thinking of GPs/medical professionals and the NHS
http://www.pulsetoday.co.uk/news/wales/nhs-run-gp-practices-handed-an-extra-29-per-patient/20031321.article (http://www.pulsetoday.co.uk/news/wales/nhs-run-gp-practices-handed-an-extra-29-per-patient/20031321.article)

 
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Ian on May 13, 2016, 07:11:57 pm
It's been known for a long time that more GPs and Practice staff would be needed, and currently the service is experiencing a 'relaxed' time. If a major 'flu epidemic hits next autumn / winter then things could go seriously awry.

So what's wrong? This graphic shows the growth rate of Health and Education over 40 years.

[smg id=3348]

Unfortunately, Health and Education are lumped together but it's still easy to see that the only time during that period there was any growth in the service was 2005 - during the tenure of the Labour Parliament. Graphs tell part of the story, but detailed figures are rather more interesting...

In 2014, the Commonwealth Fund declared that in comparison with the healthcare systems of 10 other countries (Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland and the US) the NHS was the most impressive overall. The NHS was rated as the best system in terms of efficiency, effective care, safe care, co-ordinated care, patient-centred care and cost-related problems. It was also ranked second for equity.

The NHS employs more than 1.5 million people, putting it in the top five of the world’s largest workforces, together with the US Department of Defence, McDonalds, Walmart and the Chinese People’s Liberation Army.

The NHS in England is the biggest part of the system by far, catering to a population of 54.3 million and employing around 1.2 million people. Of those, the clinically qualified staff include 150,273 doctors, 40,584 general practitioners (GPs), 314,966 nurses and health visitors, 18,862 ambulance staff, and 111,127 hospital and community health service (HCHS) medical and dental staff.

The NHS in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland employs 161,415, 84,000 and 66,000 people respectively. In 2014 Populations in those nations were 5.3, 3.1m and 1.8m respectively. England has 54.3m. But we have more people living longer so births are not being offset by deaths. Additionally, there was net migration increase of around 250,000 - mainly from the EU.

However, it's pretty clear that there's something of a dilemma: to fund a growing NHS we need more income from taxation and it's not easy to see where that will come from. Although if Osborne were to abandon his unrealistic (some say batty) intention to eliminate the Government deficit by 2020 then the UK could tread the same path as the US (and just about every other economy) and run a deficit happily, whilst funding the NHS more. But there are no easy answers.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on May 17, 2016, 05:50:45 pm
I am lost for words............................

Old Colwyn gran sent 200 MILES away to hospital due to North Wales bed shortage
http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/old-colwyn-gran-sent-200-11346749 (http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/old-colwyn-gran-sent-200-11346749)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Blongb on May 18, 2016, 12:40:18 pm
I am lost for words............................

Old Colwyn gran sent 200 MILES away to hospital due to North Wales bed shortage
http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/old-colwyn-gran-sent-200-11346749 (http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/old-colwyn-gran-sent-200-11346749)


Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board isn't working yet again. It plainly obvious it needs to be broken up into smaller more accountable parts. An argument that could also apply to the EEC perhaps?
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Ian on May 18, 2016, 02:37:29 pm
I suspect it was a series of procedural issues that caused the move. I'm not defending the move, and there's no doubt that hospitals make some very stupid decisions but people need to explain why these actions were taken. 
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on June 18, 2016, 11:14:47 am
Betsi Cadwaladr health board spends £1.6m for consultants' advice.......on how to cut costs.

The troubled authority forked out £1,652,850 on money-saving experts in three years, including £1,089,819 in 2015/16, according to figures released under the Freedom of Information Act.

http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/betsi-cadwaladr-health-board-spends-11484308 (http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/betsi-cadwaladr-health-board-spends-11484308)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on July 08, 2016, 05:42:25 pm
Refurbishment of Llandudno Hospital’s physiotherapy department is to start this month.

Improvements will include modernised and redesigned clinical space, improved access, more privacy for patients and the latest technological support for staff.

The end result of the £150,000 refurbishment will mean that patients are welcomed into a brighter and more attractive space that will also make it easier for staff to provide high quality therapy care.
http://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/164121/next-stage-of-llandudno-hospital-redevelopment-to-begin-next-week.aspx (http://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/164121/next-stage-of-llandudno-hospital-redevelopment-to-begin-next-week.aspx)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Blongb on July 08, 2016, 07:41:21 pm
Refurbishment of Llandudno Hospital’s physiotherapy department is to start this month.

Improvements will include modernised and redesigned clinical space, improved access, more privacy for patients and the latest technological support for staff.

The end result of the £150,000 refurbishment will mean that patients are welcomed into a brighter and more attractive space that will also make it easier for staff to provide high quality therapy care.
http://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/164121/next-stage-of-llandudno-hospital-redevelopment-to-begin-next-week.aspx (http://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/164121/next-stage-of-llandudno-hospital-redevelopment-to-begin-next-week.aspx)

That is very welcome news Steve as the current unit is like something out of the 1950's. Fortunately the Physio's are much more up to date and I shall no doubt be much in need of their services in the near future.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on August 03, 2016, 05:24:33 pm
This is a scary story, and for this area in particular.       

Medics admit at inquest of broken hip OAP who died in hospital (Ysbyty Glan Clwyd) that they can't find specialists for elderly patients.

Two senior medics have expressed concern at the failure to fill an important post in North Wales which could help save the lives of elderly patients.
“We have been trying to recruit a dedicated geriatrician for years,”

"Pathologist Dr Mark Atkinson gave the cause of death as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), with the fall having been a contributory factor."
"Consultant orthopaedic surgeon Ian Williams said the ideal situation would be to have a “joint care philosophy”, with a dedicated physician specialising in care of the elderly."

http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/medics-admit-inquest-broken-hip-11700629 (http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/medics-admit-inquest-broken-hip-11700629)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on August 17, 2016, 12:54:33 pm
Welsh Ambulance Service appeals for public to help save lives by clearly displaying house numbers
In Wales there are still many properties that don’t have door numbers or names, which could mean that precious time is wasted by blue light services searching for the property in an emergency.

Now, the Trust is urging householders to help further reduce response times by ensuring that their properties are clearly and prominently identified, and that there is nothing obstructing them.

Head of Operations Richard Lee said: “We need to get to 999 calls as quickly as possible. Sometimes if a house does not have its name or number clearly displayed there is a delay in us reaching the patient.
“It's vital that all properties display their name or number clearly and that it is visible from the road.

“Our control rooms have digital mapping systems to find addresses but in a life threatening emergency it's a good idea to send somebody outside to flag the ambulance or response car down. In these cases sometimes seconds save lives.”

“Please remember only to use 999 in the case of a genuine life-threatening emergency.”

What can you do? Follow these simple steps:

Ensure that your house number or name is visible from the road.

Ideally, house numbers should be the same size as the figures on a number plate.

Help the numbers stand out – choose white numbers and place on a black background or vice versa.

Encourage your neighbour(s) and local shopkeepers to follow suit.
For more information, please call Communications Officer Liam Randall on 01745 532511 or 07841 840 632 or email Liam.Randall@wales.nhs.uk
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Bosun on August 23, 2016, 08:37:22 am
https://www.theguardian.com/society/2016/aug/23/seven-day-nhs-labour-demands-inquiry-as-leak-reveals-crisis-warning?utm_source=esp&utm_medium=Email&utm_campaign=GU+Today+main+NEW+H+categories&utm_term=187165&subid=7995213&CMP=EMCNEWEML6619I2 (https://www.theguardian.com/society/2016/aug/23/seven-day-nhs-labour-demands-inquiry-as-leak-reveals-crisis-warning?utm_source=esp&utm_medium=Email&utm_campaign=GU+Today+main+NEW+H+categories&utm_term=187165&subid=7995213&CMP=EMCNEWEML6619I2)

Further evidence of the lies and deceit of Jeremy Hunt. However, the Labour Party, sadly in complete disarray led by a complete disaster of a leader cannot bring their full weight to bear to bring Hunt to account. It's a sickening situation (excuse the pun), like many other issues that the Tories will be able to get away with  that will not be efficiently opposed because Corbyn has turned the Parliamentary Labour Party into the political equivalent of a train crash.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Nemesis on August 25, 2016, 04:12:37 pm
   Just got into the dentist thread. I'm an NHS patient. About six years ago the only dentist I could get was in Prestatyn. Went there, a polish lady, told her trouble i.e. toothache with one of my teeth. O.K. gone to far for fillings. Have to extract.
   Seemed to be taking a long time. Eventually she said thats finished. There you are, all bad. There alongside my head were 3 teeth. Oh. Not a lot I can do now, like cutting down a tree without planning consent. All in a row.
  Went back 12 months later for a routine inspection with the same lady. She looked briefly, and then said "they are all very old and very bad. They all need to come out." Me "ALL OF THEM?"   
   Yes. Make an appointment when you feel ready.
   Well I still had a reasonable mouthful of teeth, probably about 8 gone over the years. So I wasn't very happy,. By chance I managed to get into another dentists in Rhyl. So I transferred. Initial inspection and chat. Told him I had had a bit of general toothache.
   His advice. I will give you a prescription for a mouthwash. Use this for 4 weeks and come back to me. I went back, toothache gone. O.K. he said, see you in 6 months.
   I couldn't help myself. I told him a qualified dentist just up the road had said all out. He didn't really comment, just said there are different methods of treatment.
   I'm still going to Rhyl every year or so. Thats about five years. The same number of teeth and touch wood no toothache.
    How can two qualified dentists come up with such different treatments?
 

It's disgusting isn't it?  And not at all amusing.
You don't get any more teeth, and people generally go along with what so called 'professionals' advise.
So many of them have a flagrant disregard for the quality of an individual's life.
The inconsistency beggars belief.
How would they like it if a member of their family was treated in this way?

Just to add my rant to this.............. I have been 'mucking about' with an aching tooth for 3 months, so to cut  long story short 9 weeks ago I had a very big and painful filling done. 3 weeks ago it started to be very painful, so on the Monday morning I was on the doorstep of the dentist. Antibiotics, then an extraction she said, but it will be a while before I can find a 20 minute appointment. One was duly booked for yesterday, on the understanding that if they got a cancellation they would ring me. Yesterday arrived, so did I, 10 mins early, then waited over an hour to actually get into the chair. People were getting up and leaving they were so fed up of waiting, but I stuck it out. I actually left the place over 2 hours after I entered it. How long did the extraction take? Less than 2 minutes. Oh and the antibiotics made me itch unbearably !
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on September 07, 2016, 05:13:57 pm
'I had to ring 999 from Glan Clwyd hospital toilets because no-one responded to my alarm call'    &shake&    &shake&

A sick man who lay in agony on a hospital toilet floor for nearly half had to ring 999 because no-one was answering his cries for help.
Arthur Debney had been frantically pulling on the alarm cord in the bathroom in the emergency ward at Ysbyty Glan Clwyd after falling in there.

But when nobody responded to the alarm or his shouts for help for up to half an hour, he phoned the emergency services.
Mr Debney, 65, told the operator what had happened and the call handler got in touch with the hospital.
http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/i-ring-999-glan-clwyd-11855792 (http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/i-ring-999-glan-clwyd-11855792)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: hollins on September 14, 2016, 06:23:05 pm
This is in my view a shocking story.
My neighbour fell from some steps on the afternoon of 4 September.
He was taken to Glan Clwyd hospital with his leg broken in two places below the knee and also some damage below the knee.
No one at Glan Clwyd was able to perform the operation.
A temporary scaffold was built around his leg with bars on the outside but he is in constant pain.
He is still there and will be there until next week when he will be taken to Liverpool hospital where there is a surgeon prepared to operate.
Last week he was taken to Liverpool by ambulance to have a consultation with the surgeon and then returned the same day to Glan Clwyd.
A frightening story.......how can things have got as bad as this?
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Quiggs on September 14, 2016, 08:12:01 pm
Tories and hidden privatisation
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Hugo on September 14, 2016, 10:34:59 pm
That's a shocking example by any standard Hollins and I hope that it's not going to be the norm from now on.    I think that there is some truth in what you say Quiggs.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: alw on September 15, 2016, 02:18:19 pm
Tories and hidden privatisation

In the Labour run Welsh NHS
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on May 11, 2017, 01:16:51 pm
New report backs calls for North Wales medical school
Welsh Government says a decision over medical education and training in North Wales will be announced in the coming weeks.
http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/new-report-backs-calls-north-13018742 (http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/new-report-backs-calls-north-13018742)


Betsi Cadwaladr health chief hopeful on improvement deadline.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-39794259 (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-39794259)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: born2run on June 09, 2017, 08:49:23 am
https://www.theguardian.com/society/2016/aug/23/seven-day-nhs-labour-demands-inquiry-as-leak-reveals-crisis-warning?utm_source=esp&utm_medium=Email&utm_campaign=GU+Today+main+NEW+H+categories&utm_term=187165&subid=7995213&CMP=EMCNEWEML6619I2 (https://www.theguardian.com/society/2016/aug/23/seven-day-nhs-labour-demands-inquiry-as-leak-reveals-crisis-warning?utm_source=esp&utm_medium=Email&utm_campaign=GU+Today+main+NEW+H+categories&utm_term=187165&subid=7995213&CMP=EMCNEWEML6619I2)

Further evidence of the lies and deceit of Jeremy Hunt. However, the Labour Party, sadly in complete disarray led by a complete disaster of a leader cannot bring their full weight to bear to bring Hunt to account. It's a sickening situation (excuse the pun), like many other issues that the Tories will be able to get away with  that will not be efficiently opposed because Corbyn has turned the Parliamentary Labour Party into the political equivalent of a train crash.

Bosun I also hear a juggling ball shop is about to open in Conwy  D)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Bosun on June 09, 2017, 08:54:39 am
https://www.theguardian.com/society/2016/aug/23/seven-day-nhs-labour-demands-inquiry-as-leak-reveals-crisis-warning?utm_source=esp&utm_medium=Email&utm_campaign=GU+Today+main+NEW+H+categories&utm_term=187165&subid=7995213&CMP=EMCNEWEML6619I2 (https://www.theguardian.com/society/2016/aug/23/seven-day-nhs-labour-demands-inquiry-as-leak-reveals-crisis-warning?utm_source=esp&utm_medium=Email&utm_campaign=GU+Today+main+NEW+H+categories&utm_term=187165&subid=7995213&CMP=EMCNEWEML6619I2)

Further evidence of the lies and deceit of Jeremy Hunt. However, the Labour Party, sadly in complete disarray led by a complete disaster of a leader cannot bring their full weight to bear to bring Hunt to account. It's a sickening situation (excuse the pun), like many other issues that the Tories will be able to get away with  that will not be efficiently opposed because Corbyn has turned the Parliamentary Labour Party into the political equivalent of a train crash.

Bosun I also hear a juggling ball shop is about to open in Conwy  D)

If Corbyn could get rid of Hunt, I'd submit my CV and apply to be manager.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on July 28, 2017, 11:37:00 am
New report backs calls for North Wales medical school
Welsh Government says a decision over medical education and training in North Wales will be announced in the coming weeks.
http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/new-report-backs-calls-north-13018742 (http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/new-report-backs-calls-north-13018742)

After the Cabinet Secretary for Health, Well-being and Sport dismissed the case for a medical school  in North Wales.....
The Academy of Medical Royal Colleges Calls for More Doctors to Work in Wales.
http://businessnewswales.com/medical-school-places-wales-needed/ (http://businessnewswales.com/medical-school-places-wales-needed/)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Bosun on August 04, 2017, 04:15:02 pm
https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2017/aug/04/charlie-gard-medic-derides-soap-opera-that-stoked-abuse-of-hospital (https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2017/aug/04/charlie-gard-medic-derides-soap-opera-that-stoked-abuse-of-hospital)

This sad and unpleasant affair is a perfect example of what I meant by 'unrealistic expections' and has significantly hurt the NHS both financially and in the credability of treatment.

The only winners were, once again, leeches in the legal profession.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on August 09, 2017, 02:57:18 pm
North Wales facing GP 'recruitment crisis' leading doctor warns
Dr Eamonn Jessup says there is a 'dwindling ability' to replace or retain doctors putting practices under threat

Dr Jessup, the chairman the North Wales Local Medical Committee which represents local GPs, says Wrexham is the worst affected county with coastal towns like Conwy and Colwyn Bay and parts of rural Gwynedd not far behind.

The loss of GPs was being exacerbated by an inability to find replacements: “At the heart of all this is a dwindling ability to retain GPs in North Wales, many of whom are leaving the profession prematurely by reason of retirement, resignation or emigration.
http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/gp-surgeries-recruitment-crisis-jessup-13453024 (http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/gp-surgeries-recruitment-crisis-jessup-13453024)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on October 13, 2017, 10:41:08 am
I do not like this decision, first a ward closed, now this, I think it's time to start raising our voices, I will be contacting Councillors etc.

Medical cover removed from Llandudno minor injury unit.

http://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/home/2017/10/11/gallery/medical-cover-pulled-from-llandudno-minor-injury-unit-97080/ (http://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/home/2017/10/11/gallery/medical-cover-pulled-from-llandudno-minor-injury-unit-97080/)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: born2run on October 13, 2017, 10:51:16 am
"However North Wales Community Health Council chief officer Geoff Ryall-Harvey said people shouldn’t worry about these changes describing them as ‘fairly normal’.

Mr Ryall-Harvey said: “I don’t think people should be worried, the nurses are properly trained staff."

Absolute codswallop

If that's true then we can get rid of Doctors all together then can we?

All about blurring the boundaries of job description but still paying the lesser wage - a classic Tory trick the health bosses are using.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Fester on October 13, 2017, 03:28:38 pm
 &shake& &shake& &shake&
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Hugo on January 09, 2018, 02:37:21 pm
Immigration has been discussed a lot in recent years and Politicians keep saying how they are going to control EU immigration in the future but they seem to ignore the fact that we have more immigrants from outside the EU than from the EU itself.

Yesterday I read an article in the Daily Mirror about Health Tourists and that should surely be controlled.    The article said that a non EU  patient left a hospital with an unpaid debt of £532,498.00  last year, the highest health tourism bill ever recorded.
It was revealed under the Freedom of Information laws but the trust would not reveal where the patient came from or what treatment they had.
The previous highest debt came after a Nigerian called Priscilla, 43, flew in pregnant with quadruplets.   She admitted that she had no way of paying a £331,000.00 bill after giving birth at St Mary's in West London.  It is thought that her bill finally reached £500,000.00   
They say that Health Tourism is costing the UK £ 2 billion a year.
With the NHS struggling to deal with it's own citizens it's a practise that has to be looked at and stopped.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Ian on January 09, 2018, 02:46:17 pm
The question is how? The Nigerian woman apparently turned up, about to give birth. What could the hospital have done?
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Hugo on January 09, 2018, 05:05:51 pm
That's an interesting question Ian, but an easy one to answer.   The answer is simply, she shouldn't have been allowed into the UK in the first place.
I'm not suggesting that we use the practice that they use in other countries and that is " let us see if you have the ability to pay" before even looking at the patient, let alone treating them.    The UK treats first and asks for payment later, now that that is the more civilised way to do it, providing of course if you have the money to support such a system which obviously we haven't got

On one of the Border Security type programmes that I have seen, a heavily pregnant Nigerian woman wanted to go to the USA from Nigeria.    The USA refused entry for the person to go there so she applied for a visa to go to the UK  and then from the UK she would make her way to the USA.
The woman was interviewed in Nigeria and said that she was just so many weeks pregnant but didn't have any medical evidence to prove it and looking at her she was either a liar or just very ignorant.    Anyway the visa was refused and she was denied entry into the UK so there was no subsequent problem in the UK or USA.

When anyone from this country has a holiday outside of the EU then common sense would say that you take out an insurance policy to cover any medical emergencies that you may have in the country that you are visiting.    So isn't it fair that any visitor to this country does the same?
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Blongb on January 10, 2018, 04:35:44 pm
The Lady should have been put in a Taxi and sent straight round to the Nigerian Embassy. Your problem not ours.  &shake&
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on February 05, 2018, 04:30:10 pm
Top doctor reveals the 'pathetic' reason why GPs aren't coming to North Wales
Dr Eamonn Jessup gave up the contract to his Prestatyn practice when he and his partners found it impossible to find new recruits.

Article plus 20 comments

https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/why-would-gps-come-here-14230486 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/why-would-gps-come-here-14230486)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on February 06, 2018, 06:08:28 pm
Patients sleeping in corridors and equipment rooms at North Wales hospital....Llandudno general
Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board blamed "extraordinary ongoing pressures" for the situation.
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/patients-sleeping-corridors-equipment-rooms-14255055 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/patients-sleeping-corridors-equipment-rooms-14255055)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Meleri on February 07, 2018, 02:00:34 pm
That's an interesting article Steve. One way of solving it is to take most of the Qualified nursing staff out of the outpatients clinics at Llandudno, Glan Clwyd & especially Ysbyty Gwynedd and transfer them to Beuno Ward in Llandudno Hospital and take on nursing assistants to help with basic nursing care. It doesn't warrant a qualified Nurse to call a patient in to see a consultant, stand there observing/assisting the consultant and then show the patient out, so I don't know why they have so many Qualified nurses doing this. It's a waste of three years nurses training and costing the NHS a fortune.
Looking to the future NHS Wales should open a Nurses Training School as they used to have at Bangor. I had many friends who trained there and at Llandudno Hospital and went on to become wonderful nurses. Not one of them had a degree and I can't see why this is necessary, sadly this is the sign of the times. Bring back SEN & SRN training and we wouldn't have the problem we have today, where a lot of nurses thinks as they have a degree they are not there to give basic nursing care. I worked for the NHS during it's decline and also experienced many times during Mr M's and my stays in hospital the apathy in all three hospitals. I have actually got out of bed while in hospital myself to give a fellow patient a drink, while nursing staff are sitting at their computers and chatting around the nurses station &shake&
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on February 07, 2018, 02:29:58 pm
I agree with what you say, it seems to be a constant case of robbing Peter etc. And the medical school is a great idea, both for doctors and nurses, I think between the NHS, education and the police we are heading for a serious crisis.

Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Hugo on February 07, 2018, 04:03:30 pm
I know that certain forum members will already have read the article bur yesterday's DFM  had the front page headline
  "CAR SCHEME FOR THE DISABLED PAYS BOSS £1.7 MILLION"

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-5355225/Boss-car-scheme-disabled-1-7million.html (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-5355225/Boss-car-scheme-disabled-1-7million.html)


Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on February 07, 2018, 04:26:17 pm
Words fail me, and I do not want to be chucked off the forum .  $angry$     $angry$         $angry$
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Hugo on February 07, 2018, 04:27:29 pm
Meleri,  I couldn't agree with you more in your assessment of the situation.    It can be rectified but no one seems to have the bottle to change it.
Degrees are one thing but it doesn't make a good nurse that comes with proper training and good management.
I had a spell in Glan Clwyd hospital two years ago and kept a pair of socks on when I was in and out of bed and I didn't even shave for the 10 days I was there.   I may have looked like Father Christmas when I came out, but there was no way on earth was I going to take a chance getting any infection while I was in the hospital
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on March 21, 2018, 10:43:05 am
About time

NHS pay: Increase for 1.3 million staff expected.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-43481341 (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-43481341)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: norman08 on March 21, 2018, 10:50:49 am
Steve  let's wait and see what catches they have up their sleeves .
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: DaveR on March 29, 2018, 08:25:16 am
the standard of care in the Welsh NHS is fabulous.
I wish I could agree with you.  :'(
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Bosun on March 29, 2018, 09:49:36 am
the standard of care in the Welsh NHS is fabulous.
I wish I could agree with you.  :'(

Sadly, me neither.

Although there are some terrific staff and excellent work done in the NHS, my personal (and I stress, personal) experience of NHS Wales is not so good.

A few years I had an accident that left me unable to move my right arm. I was sent home by and A & E Consultant at Ysbyty Gwynedd NHS Wales telling me there was nothing wrong despite my protests. I went through my private medical scheme and I was found to have badly torn the rotator cuff and fractured a bone in my shoulder. It took an operation and several months to resolve.

Last year, because of the waiting list lengths of several months to be seen by a Consultant in NHS Wales, I again went through my private medical scheme. Seen within days, I was found to have an aggressive cancerous tumour that was quickly removed. I'm still undergoing cancer treatment to ensure that the cancer doesn't return. It's extremely doubtful if I'd be here now if I'd waited for NHS Wales.

I'm extremely fortunate to have private medical insurance, but shudder to think how many people without have suffered or been lost.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Fester on March 29, 2018, 01:01:35 pm
Bosun, I’m so sorry to hear of that experience... it must have been a terrible shock, and I hope you are well on the road to recovery.
Your tumour was spotted because of the work being done on your rotator cuff I assume?

What I will say is, if you arrive at your GP with symptoms of a cancer, (in Wales) there is an excellent fast track process to get it identified, and the treatment underway.  I have recently benefited from this myself.
But, not all cancers have obvious symptoms, and if one is spotted by chance, then perhaps the system is different.  I don’t know.

Moderators.... this discussion belongs on the NHS thread.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Ian on March 29, 2018, 01:11:04 pm
I'll sort them.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Bosun on March 30, 2018, 08:41:26 am
Bosun, I’m so sorry to hear of that experience... it must have been a terrible shock, and I hope you are well on the road to recovery.
Your tumour was spotted because of the work being done on your rotator cuff I assume?

What I will say is, if you arrive at your GP with symptoms of a cancer, (in Wales) there is an excellent fast track process to get it identified, and the treatment underway.  I have recently benefited from this myself.
But, not all cancers have obvious symptoms, and if one is spotted by chance, then perhaps the system is different.  I don’t know.

Moderators.... this discussion belongs on the NHS thread.

Thanks Fester, I'm recovering, but cancer treatment has some unpleasant side effects.

The two incidents are unrelated and a few years apart.

Initially, cancer was not suspected but a routine NHS referral would have taken several months which was why I went privately which was when the cancer was found. I had an MRI scan the day the cancer was found and I was operated on within a week to remove the cancer. Although a very aggressive form of cancer, luckily, it had been caught in time and had not spread and was contained in one place. The treatment now is to ensure that other cells in that area do not mutate into cancer.

If I had waited for a NHS referral and treatment, the outcome would have been very different.

I not knocking the NHS, they cannot provide everything for everyone instantly. I am fortunate in that I invested in private healthcare.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Hugo on March 30, 2018, 10:53:17 pm
I'm sorry to hear about your illness Bosun and wish you a speedy recovery.    People must speak as they find and in my case I didn't have to wait for any referral to hospital as I was taken in immediately and spent 10 days in an isolation ward but I was pleased with everything that they did for me.
Having said that, the medical staff work under sustained pressure and at night time what I did notice was that patients with dementia in the ward were taking the full attention of the nursing staff and this made it difficult for other patients who also needed attention.   I don't know what the solution is with this type of problem
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Bosun on April 10, 2018, 09:55:24 am
Thank you Hugo; my apologises for my delay in replying, but the latest tranche of treatment has laid me low for a few days, but - it's better than the alternative.

There is a continual amount of incredible work done by the NHS, I have both close friends and neighbours who at this moment are receiving perfect care from medical practitioners in both NHS England and NHS Wales.

But the myriad of problems facing the NHS are not going to go away and the politicians as in Jeremy (misspelt) Hunt are simply making the situation considerably worse.

Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on April 10, 2018, 12:34:17 pm
Bosun, Hope you feel better soon.

Reading todays article "Ambulances: 1,860 wait more than six hours over winter"  highlighting one of the problems they have.

According to statistics obtained under the Freedom of Information Act by the Welsh Conservatives, 34,768 of 68,186 calls (51%) classed as amber during the period took longer than 30 minutes.

A total of 5,706 took longer than three hours, while 1,860 took more than six hours.

Ambulance calls in Wales are given three categories - red, amber and green - under a system introduced in 2015 that saw response time targets scrapped for all but life-threatening calls.

The most serious and life-threatening calls are classed as red, with paramedics expected to reach 65% of such patients within eight minutes.
Calls that are also serious but not immediately life-threatening are classed as amber - including chest pains and strokes.

I find it a bit scary, that  "chest pains and strokes"  are not considered life threatening, and come under the Amber category.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-politics-43702518 (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-politics-43702518)

The 2015 New system for emergency ambulance services to prioritise patients in most need of care
http://gov.wales/newsroom/health-and-social-services/2015/150729patients/?lang=en (http://gov.wales/newsroom/health-and-social-services/2015/150729patients/?lang=en)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Ian on April 10, 2018, 01:43:48 pm
Strokes should be treated as the most urgent - alongside heart attacks.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on November 28, 2018, 11:40:29 am
NHS England has announced plans to curb the prescription of "low-priority" items like silk garments.

There is limited evidence the clothing helps people with eczema and dermatitis enough to justify prescribing it, a consultation document says.
Officials are proposing ending the routine prescription of eight items under plans aimed at saving £68m a year.

Full article  https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-46361639 (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-46361639)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on January 28, 2019, 12:13:26 pm
Interesting article dispelling the myths surrounding  Flu vaccinations...............

The percentage of those eligible for taking up the offer of a free vaccination is down compared with last winter.
It comes as a report found fear of a vaccine's side effects, fueled by myths on social media, is the top reason for people refusing them.

Quote......
Dr Jo McCarthy, consultant in public health microbiology at Hywel Dda, said she was one of the 100,000 people the health board has already vaccinated.

"I know from studying the evidence that vaccination works, and is the only effective way to prevent the spread of the flu virus.

"Not only is my vaccination protecting me, it is protecting those around me too - my family, friends, neighbours and patients."                                   
 Cont.  https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-46950802 (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-46950802)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on March 06, 2019, 10:46:59 am
How fast is the ambulance service where you live?

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-47362797 (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-47362797)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Bri Roberts on March 11, 2019, 09:21:55 am
Mrs R has an appointment time and date for her scan so I phoned the hospital in accordance with these instructions only to be informed Mrs R has to wait until AFTER she has had her scan before phoning to make an appointment.

Regardless what this letter says, there was no way the Orthopaedic Department would provide us with an appointment.

It is not just about a lack of funds as to why BCUHB is still in special measures !!
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Nemesis on March 11, 2019, 10:03:34 am
It must be something in the water !!

I was referred to see a specialist at the beginning of last Sept. The week before Christmas I was offered an appointment during the weekend before Christmas which I took. I'll send you a letter, (the arrangement was made on the phone) said the lady ! Being so near Christmas I had my doubts, but no letter came, so I duly set off and arrived at Glan Clwyd to find that the main reception isn't open at weekends ! A kindly chappie with a cleaning trolley took me for miles, through corridors to a reception deep within the hospital. Sit there........, well you can imagine the rest. Anyway, sufficient to say I was told by the powers that be that I would be put on the waiting list for a procedure.
About a month ago I asked the G.P. if I could find out how long I would be waiting, so she gave me a number to ring. At the 5th attempt I got through and gave my details to the person at the other end of the phone. " Oh yes" she said cheerfully, " You're on the list, It says waiting".
I rest my case !
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Bri Roberts on March 11, 2019, 10:13:28 am
Most definitely, nemesis.

I saw a consultant in Llandudno Hospital in April 2017 who informed me he would be carrying out my procedure within the next six months.

Guess what?
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Nemesis on March 11, 2019, 11:44:02 am
OMG I've no chance then !
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: snowcap on March 11, 2019, 11:26:06 pm
my local hospital has sent me a letter to tell me that my appoint time has been changed from 3-30 to 2-50 on Tuesday , only i never had an appoint letter to tell me that i had an appointment on Tuesday at 3-30, by the way the appointment is  only 3 month later than it should be.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Ian on March 12, 2019, 08:28:19 am
Mrs R has an appointment time and date for her scan so I phoned the hospital in accordance with these instructions only to be informed Mrs R has to wait until AFTER she has had her scan before phoning to make an appointment.

Regardless what this letter says, there was no way the Orthopaedic Department would provide us with an appointment.

It is not just about a lack of funds as to why BCUHB is still in special measures !!

I would be inclined to send that to the Daily Post, Bri, but it's not the first example of departmental incongruity I've seen.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Bri Roberts on March 12, 2019, 11:00:04 am
The scan appointment is next Tuesday. Ian, so Mrs R is not too bothered especially after waiting 21 months for her hip replacement during 2016-17.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Fester on April 16, 2019, 02:33:36 pm
I just wanted to say, after being in the care of Ysbyty Gwynedd and Glan Clwyd for the last 18 months for an ongoing medical issue, how fabulous the vast majority of the people in our NHS are.
That said, if you are on a waiting list for any kind of scan, operation or procedure, let the secretaries know that you can be available at any time.
Ask to be put on the cancellations list if you can.  This has served me well, without jumping the queue in any way at all.  It’s simply filling slots and using resources as efficiently as possible.
Its not an exaggeration to say that it can save your life.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Hugo on April 16, 2019, 03:45:04 pm
That's good advise Fester and thanks very much for sharing it with us all.    I hope that your medical care has helped you greatly
Title: Park and ride at Glan Clwyd Hospital to end 30 June
Post by: SteveH on June 07, 2019, 09:41:28 am
A HOSPITAL's park and ride service which is used by thousands of patients will come to a halt at the end of this month.

The scheme, which operates from the former Hotpoint factory site in Bodelwyddan to Glan Clwyd Hospital, was introduced in October 2014 to help ease parking pressures and traffic congestion while redevelopment work went on at the hospital.
The service will stop running on June 30.

The land - where the park and ride operates from - was leased initially for a period of 18 months, with an option to review the contract annually thereafter.
It is understood the contract for the land terminates at the end of the month.

Rod Taylor, Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB)'s Director of Estates and Facilities, said: “The Park and Ride service was introduced as a way of easing parking pressures at Glan Clwyd Hospital while spaces were lost due to the redevelopment project.

“A temporary site licence has been agreed with the current site owners and the present arrangement is in place until June 30 2019.

“There is no doubt the service has been well used and has been a success in mitigating the pressures on parking spaces while the redevelopment work has been taking place."

The health board have always maintained the service was always meant to temporary.

Mr Taylor added: "Since the Park and Ride service went live, Glan Clwyd Hospital has seen the creation of an additional 149 car park spaces at the rear of the hospital site. Furthermore, additional parking areas have been returned back into service as contractor’s compound areas are vacated on site.

“We will be carrying out a review of travel arrangements on site over the coming months to assess at the long-term plan for parking on site at the hospital.

"This review would help us determine the long-term parking needs on site, so that we have a sustainable solution to improving people’s access to services on site."    ref Pioneer






   
Title: NHS..... Glan Clwyd Park and Ride service extended
Post by: SteveH on June 25, 2019, 02:31:53 pm
Glan Clwyd Park and Ride service extended
The park and ride service at Ysbyty Glan Clwyd is to be extended for a further four months. The park and ride will now run until October 31.

A spokesperson for the Health Board: “By extending the service for a further four months, we will have additional time to look at ways to ease parking on site at Glan Clwyd Hospital.

“It will also give visitors to the site and our staff time to look at alternative ways of travelling to the hospital once the park and ride closes.

“It remains our intention to stop operating the park and ride after October 31.”
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on September 06, 2019, 11:28:16 am
A NEW and improved text reminder system has been introduced to help patients remember their appointment details.

The scheme is designed to reduce the number of missed appointments.
Last year alone, more than 46,000 people did not attend their appointments across the Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB).

In 2018/19 missed appointments - ‘Did Not Attend’s or DNAs’ cost the equivalent of 131 hospital beds, 169 nurses, 884 hip operations, 966 knee operations and 5,643 cataract operations.

The cost of missed appointments over this period came to £6.5m


The improved text reminders will include the first name of the patient, the date, time, specialty, and location of their appointment. Text reminders will also encourage patients to get in contact if they can no longer attend, or rearrange their appointment by sending a response.

The system has been introduced in response to an Outpatient Services Survey.

Wendy Hughes, project lead for the Hospital Reminder Service, said: “We recently amended our basic 24 hour reminder to be delivered 48 hours prior to a patient’s clinic appointment. This allows additional time to re-utilise a clinic slot if patients were unable to attend and provides further time for patients to make arrangements."

“Some patients require a number of appointments at a number of sites so having a text message reminding them which hospital they are attending will be really helpful.

“I would always urge people to get in contact with us as early as possible if they are unable to attend their appointment for any reason. This allows us to rearrange a more suitable date and time for them and we are able to provide the original appointment to someone else.”

To register for the new text reminder service visit: www.bcuhb.nhs.wales/patients-and-visitors/hospital-appointment-reminder-service (http://www.bcuhb.nhs.wales/patients-and-visitors/hospital-appointment-reminder-service)


     
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on October 07, 2019, 11:19:33 am
Last year when in hospital, I was speaking to a nurse, who lived in Rhyl, but worked in Alder hay, better money , however he was on the books of a nursing agency, and spent most of his weekends at Glan Clwyd , and hinted at four times normal rate, I also noticed the number of nurses who "specialise", which is better paid, but also takes them out of the shift system, leaving general nursing short, and it will stay that way, until they start paying them a decent wage.

The largest health board in Wales, already finding it difficult to fill vacancies, is preparing for more serious staff shortages.

Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, which covers North Wales, has almost 17,000 employees but nearly 4,000 of them are over 55 years of age and expected to retire in the next few years.

A report to be considered at a joint meeting of the Board and the North Wales Community Health Council this week reveals the scale of the problem in retaining and attracting staff.............
cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/17951266.betsi-cadwaladr-university-health-board-prepare-staff-shortages/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/17951266.betsi-cadwaladr-university-health-board-prepare-staff-shortages/)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Ian on October 07, 2019, 12:03:43 pm
...and those who voted for Brexit will have to hope they won't need NHS services any time soon...
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: norman08 on October 07, 2019, 12:49:36 pm
When you've worked in the NHS and seen what goes on, bullying by bad managment, they won't pay nurses overtime they would sooner pay agency staff at a great cost, and then you get oh I'm not allowed to do that, oh that's not my job, what gets me the goverment says the NHS gets loads of cash the NHS says we are underfunded Not one of the brains has gone in undercover and seen first hand, No because the Tories will privatise Our NHS.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on October 08, 2019, 01:35:02 pm
...and those who voted for Brexit will have to hope they won't need NHS services any time soon...

Speaking to a friend yesterday, he told me while on holiday in Ireland, one of his inhalers failed, but he managed to get one from the chemist for £100..............
.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on October 08, 2019, 03:40:57 pm
...and those who voted for Brexit will have to hope they won't need NHS services any time soon...
Speaking to a friend yesterday, he told me while on holiday in Ireland, one of his inhalers failed, but he managed to get one from the chemist for £100..............

I also use the inhaler mentioned, along with two others, so finding out the monthly cost, was quite a shock, however with these med,s it does keep the user out of hospital, cheaper in the long run, and gives a better quality of life, but the costs made me think of the waste involved by the misuse of repeat prescriptions, and also missed NHS appointments.
In 2018/19 missed appointments - ‘Did Not Attend’s or DNAs’ cost £6.5m

“Wasted medicines are a serious problem and cost the
NHS millions of pounds every year. There is also a human cost to this waste, as the money
could have been spent on potentially life-saving treatments or enabled extra healthcare staff
to be employed.
"One of the reasons for wasted medicines is when people who use repeat prescriptions
choose to stockpile their medications. Additionally, people often continue to order medication
they are no longer taking and no longer need.
"We want people to think carefully before ticking all the boxes on their repeat prescription
form. If a carer or pharmacist orders your medicine for you, make sure they know what it is
you need.
"If you are still ordering repeat prescription medication and aren’t using it yourself, please
speak to your GP or pharmacist. They won’t be annoyed or angry, in fact they’ll be pleased
to help you resolve the issue. They’ll help ensure that you have the right medicine for your
needs, which will in turn reduce the amount of wasted NHS medicines."
         

Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on October 08, 2019, 03:45:27 pm
When you've worked in the NHS and seen what goes on, bullying by bad managment, they won't pay nurses overtime they would sooner pay agency staff at a great cost, and then you get oh I'm not allowed to do that, oh that's not my job, what gets me the goverment says the NHS gets loads of cash the NHS says we are underfunded Not one of the brains has gone in undercover and seen first hand, No because the Tories will privatise Our NHS.
Part of their recruitment drive..........

A PETITION signed by more than 3,500 people opposed to controversial changes to nurse rotas in North Wales has been handed to the region’s health bosses.

Proposals by Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB) to make staff take an additional half-hour break each shift without pay have been met with anger since they were announced in August.
https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/17954707.petition-3-500-signatures-nurse-rota-changes-handed-north-wales-health-bosses/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/17954707.petition-3-500-signatures-nurse-rota-changes-handed-north-wales-health-bosses/)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on October 25, 2019, 10:22:15 am
The post above is linked to this one, both very depressing, and insulting to the nurses, is it just our local officials, or the whole country ?


A Marbella-based management consultant said to be involved in controversial cost-cutting changes to North Wales nursing rotas is being paid nearly £2,000 per day by the region's health board.

Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board's (BCUHB) interim recovery director Phillip Burns works one day a week from Spain - and is set to earn more than £350,000 for a nine-month stint.

That figure is apparently more than would be saved over the same period through controversial rota changes for nurses , according to claims.

Plaid Cymru AM Llyr Gruffydd named Mr Burns in a question tabled to health minister Vaughan Gething in the Senedd on Wednesday.

The rate would equate to a yearly reward well in excess of that of the board's chief executive Gary Doherty, who earns more than £200,000 in his role. Mr Burns will earn £360,990 for his nine-month stint at a daily rate of £1,990.   cont  https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/north-wales-health-boards-marbella-17138924 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/north-wales-health-boards-marbella-17138924)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Ian on October 25, 2019, 11:37:37 am
I suspect this should be in the Crime and Criminals topic. It's almost unbelievable.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on October 29, 2019, 02:22:52 pm
A continuation of the above.............  $angry$
HEALTH bosses in North Wales have been slammed after deciding to go ahead with controversial changes to nurses’ rotas despite widespread opposition.

Proposals by Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB) to make staff take an additional half-hour break each shift without pay were met with anger when they were announced in August.

Two separate petitions each containing more than 3,000 signatures were recently handed to officials against the plans as politicians warned it would lead to the loss of goodwill among thousands of health workers.   cont... https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/18000055.north-wales-health-bosses-slammed-unacceptable-decision-go-ahead-controversial-nurse-rota-changes/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/18000055.north-wales-health-bosses-slammed-unacceptable-decision-go-ahead-controversial-nurse-rota-changes/)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on November 04, 2019, 09:47:16 am
Royal College of Nursing Wales hits out at Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board's new rotas.

This stood out.........
"The money that the health board says it will save by implementing this change in staffing, increases the pressure on nurses and will be negated by the amount of money they will have to spend on agency staff - which currently stands at £4.1 million in the year to July 2019."

https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/18011666.royal-college-nursing-wales-hits-betsi-cadwaladr-university-health-boards-new-rotas/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/18011666.royal-college-nursing-wales-hits-betsi-cadwaladr-university-health-boards-new-rotas/)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Ian on November 04, 2019, 12:03:37 pm
It becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy. Staff in hospitals are pretty well worked to capacity, and with constant criticism and demands (and sometimes abuse) from patients, they become depressed, have to take time off, thus increasing the pressure on those in work. That, in turn, leads to more absence, more agency staff and so on. This rota change was the last straw for many. It's tempting to suggest the bloke whose idea it was it ought to be made to work a couple of weeks on the wards but he probably wouldn't last that long.

Much of this is down to the way the government has systematically starved local councils of funds, leading to social services being on their knees and unable to deal with the aged, infirm and dementia patients, who simply end up bed blocking.

I really, really hope the Tories are booted out at this next election, because almost anyone else would be better.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on November 07, 2019, 10:07:34 am
Victory for nurses as North Wales health bosses pause controversial rota changes. 

Hard-working nurses have won a battle over controversial plans by health bosses to change their rotas.

Executives at Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board , which manages health services in North Wales, had been planning to introduce rota changes which critics said would have forced nurses to work an extra unpaid shift every month.   
Cont..    https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/victory-nurses-north-wales-health-17213940 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/victory-nurses-north-wales-health-17213940)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Ian on November 07, 2019, 10:09:48 am
Good.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on November 12, 2019, 10:21:12 am
Ambulance chiefs are urging people to think twice before calling 999 as paramedics are in "high demand" across Wales today.

Bosses say not all of the 999 calls which operators are receiving are genuine emergencies, and claimed that some people are using ambulances as a "taxi service".

A Welsh Ambulance Service spokesperson said: "Demand is high across Wales today. We receive many calls from people who could use NHS Direct Wales http://www.wales.nhs.uk/sitesplus/861/page/42145 (http://www.wales.nhs.uk/sitesplus/861/page/42145) , the 111 service, their local pharmacy or a minor injuries unit, but instead chose to call an ambulance.

"Calling an ambulance when you don’t need one wastes time and resources which could have been better spent responding to someone genuinely in need of the high level clinical care ambulance crews provide.

"Ambulances are not a taxi service and arriving at hospital by ambulance does not mean you'll be seen quicker.

"If someone is seriously ill or injured and their life is at risk, you should call 999 immediately.

"For those minor illnesses and injuries which are less serious, we urge you to choose wisely by using the symptom checkers on the  www.nhsdirect.wales.nhs.uk (http://www.nhsdirect.wales.nhs.uk) website or calling NHS Direct Wales 0845 4647 / 111 for more appropriate services available."
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on December 07, 2019, 10:32:41 am
Just heard a story about someone who mistakenly took three drops of Olbas decongestion oil, on their tongue, and was surprised to be taken to hospital for an overnight stay in the Toxicology dept, and admitted that they never considered the oil poisonous, and had even left it on the children's bedside table........... Sooooooooooooooooooooooooooo  be warned.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on December 17, 2019, 11:11:40 am
Why the drop in emergency 999 calls on Xmas day ?        &shake&

"Jason Killens, chief executive of the Welsh Ambulance Service, said the figures show "people who would normally be tempted to call us inappropriately are busy opening presents and eating lunch which means suddenly their ‘emergency’ can wait".

“By Boxing Day, the calls have gone up. Sometimes this is because people are genuinely unwell, but often it’s a result of overindulgence the previous day," he said.

“People who are genuinely ill don’t choose when they are unwell and, of course, we are there for those patients 24/7, 365 days of the year. However, those people who use ambulance services as a substitute for a GP appointment or because they have a long-standing minor illness or injury seem to make different choices on Christmas Day.

“It is these people we are asking to be sensible and to make those same choices every other day of the year."
Title: Re: National Health Service..... Health Warning
Post by: SteveH on December 19, 2019, 12:52:36 pm
PUBLIC Health Wales and Conwy County Borough Council are investigating a number of linked cases of a parasitic illness in the Colwyn Bay area.

Giardia (https://www.cdc.gov/parasites/giardia/index.html) is a parasite that can infect the gastrointestinal tract. It commonly causes diarrhoea but can also cause flatulence, stomach cramps, bloating, nausea and loss of appetite.

It can be caught by eating contaminated food or drinking contaminated water and can also be contracted by dogs and cats.
It is more common in developing countries with poor sanitary conditions and a lack of water quality control.

Dr Graham Brown, Consultant in Communicable Disease Control for Public Health Wales, said: "We advise anyone in the Colwyn Bay area with symptoms of concern to contact their GP. Anyone with diarrhoea or vomiting illness should stay away from school, nursery or work until at least 48 hours after their symptoms have resolved.

“Giardia can be spread from person to person if strict hygiene is not observed and so we advise that people wash their hands after going to the toilet and before preparing food, using their own separate soap and a towel that is washed on a high temperature in the washing machine afterwards.”

More information on Giardia can be found on the NHS Direct Wales website.                         ref Pioneer

Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Ian on December 19, 2019, 01:38:26 pm
I'd add that the parasite in question has a shell that makes it almost impervious to Chlorine and can survive outside the body for a long time.  This is a nasty one and could spoil a lot of Christmases.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on January 04, 2020, 06:13:06 pm
A couple of short you tube videos I found of interest.

Why aren't European hospitals under strain like the NHS?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ukbJKWwCYM (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ukbJKWwCYM)

This is why doctors are leaving the NHS' - inside Britain's busiest A&E
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qGulU83N6Gc (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qGulU83N6Gc)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Ian on January 04, 2020, 06:29:45 pm
...and yet the voters elected a liar as PM, whose claim he'll hire thousands more nurses has already been discredited, and the government has no intention of making it free for nurses and doctors to train. And that's the best way to get more staff - quickly.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on January 09, 2020, 12:35:49 pm
NHS North Wales
Routine operations and elective surgical procedures postponed at Glan Clwyd Hospital and Abergele Hospital.

A spokesperson for BCUHB said: “As part of a planned approach to focus our resources on caring for more patients who need to be admitted for emergency assessment and treatment, we postponed routine operations at Glan Clwyd Hospital on Monday and Tuesday. These will be rescheduled as soon as possible.

Information on the best source of treatment can be found by calling NHS Direct Wales on 0845 46 47. Further advice on where to seek medical attention can be found on the Choose Well website (www.choosewellwales.org.uk (http://www.choosewellwales.org.uk)) or through the free Choose Well Wales app.

https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/18147656.routine-operations-elective-surgical-procedures-postponed-glan-clwyd-hospital-abergele-hospital/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/18147656.routine-operations-elective-surgical-procedures-postponed-glan-clwyd-hospital-abergele-hospital/)

NHS National
'Misery' for A&E patients facing record-long waits
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-51046616 (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-51046616)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on January 10, 2020, 10:07:32 am
Public health experts are raising the alarm after a rise in reported cases of Norovirus.

Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board and NHS Wales are warning anyone experiencing symptoms of the winter vomiting bug to steer clear of hospitals and GP surgeries.

Experts are warning you are most infectious in the 48 hours after symptoms have stopped.

The health board said it expected to see an increase in cases of vomiting and diarrhoea during the winter months as temperatures drop.
But after an outbreak last month closed multiple schools across the region, health experts have now issued a warning to try to combat the spread of the virus.

Gel hand sanitizer will not kill the virus, and experts encourage frequent hand washing, sticking with soap and water.


"The support of people across North Wales is absolutely vital in helping to reduce the spread of these viruses and others in our hospitals and wider communities.

"While most people will get over a case of Norovirus, for example, within a few days with rest and rehydration, it can be much more serious for people who are already ill, the very young and the elderly.

"Because Norovirus, like most viruses, may spread rapidly from person to person, our advice is to stay at home until you're feeling better.

"Even if your symptoms have stopped, you may still be able to spread the virus for the following 48 hours"

Symptoms of Norovirus include nausea, diarrhoea, vomiting, fever, headaches and aching arms and legs.

Symptoms usually start within one or two days of infection, but you should begin to feel better in a few days.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on January 26, 2020, 04:08:07 pm
Coronavirus could hit UK 'in days' as medics given advice on handling infected dead bodies
There have been 52 people tested for the disease in England and one in Wales, but no cases have yet been confirmed.
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/coronavirus-could-hit-uk-in-17634062 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/coronavirus-could-hit-uk-in-17634062)

This is the direct link to the WHO video  )without adds )  https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019 (https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on February 07, 2020, 04:07:35 pm
Both Mrs H and I, have had a senior moment, and a good laugh, after reading this headline   "North Wales patients to be given pill-sized camera that snaps as it goes in one end and out the other"   I suppose it depends on your definition of snaps, it did take us a few seconds for it to fall into place.

A clever bit of technology non the less ......
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/north-wales-patients-given-pill-17707034 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/north-wales-patients-given-pill-17707034)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on February 11, 2020, 01:49:37 pm
Reply 200 on this thread,  I posted the link below, to advise alternatives to dialing 999, which I strongly believe in, this mornings DP story is a bit disappointing, not the way to encourage the public to change their ways.....  https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/man-head-injury-hit-8-17720814 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/man-head-injury-hit-8-17720814)

"Ambulance chiefs are urging people to think twice before calling 999 as paramedics are in "high demand" across Wales today.
Bosses say not all of the 999 calls which operators are receiving are genuine emergencies, and claimed that some people are using ambulances as a "taxi service".

A Welsh Ambulance Service spokesperson said: "Demand is high across Wales today. We receive many calls from people who could use NHS Direct Wales http://www.wales.nhs.uk/sitesplus/861/page/42145 (http://www.wales.nhs.uk/sitesplus/861/page/42145) , the 111 service, their local pharmacy or a minor injuries unit, but instead chose to call an ambulance.

"Calling an ambulance when you don’t need one wastes time and resources which could have been better spent responding to someone genuinely in need of the high level clinical care ambulance crews provide.

"Ambulances are not a taxi service and arriving at hospital by ambulance does not mean you'll be seen quicker.
"If someone is seriously ill or injured and their life is at risk, you should call 999 immediately."
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Ian on February 11, 2020, 03:03:37 pm
Perhaps those who voted for Brexit could explain why the promised £350,000,000 per week is not being given to enhance the NHS?
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on March 04, 2020, 02:47:29 pm
Reading about the new price of alcohol, I found this piece which I found interesting.... bearing in mind that the government happily take the taxes from alcohol and tobacco, why not direct where it is needed.......

Increasing alcohol duties by 1% would raise around £100 million each year which, invested in alcohol treatment, could save the NHS and other public services around £300 million annually.         (and tobacco could be included for further benefits )

This would equate to just 5p more for an average bottle of wine and 3p more for a pint of beer – yet would boost alcohol treatment budgets in England alone by 50%.

https://alcoholchange.org.uk/blog/2018/pay-3p-more-for-a-beer-save-lives-the-alcohol-treatment-levy
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Ian on March 04, 2020, 08:05:44 pm
But...but...but what about the £350m per week we were promised for the NHS after Brexit? I mean–they couldn't have been lying, surely?


 $walesflag$
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Hugo on March 04, 2020, 08:42:07 pm
We'll soon have the extra 50,000 nursing staff in place too      &shake&
Title: Re: National Health Service...........Online symptom checker
Post by: SteveH on March 07, 2020, 04:35:18 pm
Check Your Symptoms, new online service from NHS Wales    not just Coronavirus, but can be used for all suspected illnesses

For general advice on the Coronavirus (COVID-19) or to find out what to do if you think you have symptoms, please visit 111 coronavirus advice. For the latest information from Public Health Wales please visit statement on Novel Coronavirus.

Last updated on: 06/03/2020 at 14:25               https://www.nhsdirect.wales.nhs.uk/selfassessments/ (https://www.nhsdirect.wales.nhs.uk/selfassessments/)


A new symptom checker for suspected coronavirus has been launched online by the Welsh NHS as attempts continue to halt the spread of the virus.
The Welsh Ambulance Service said the online service should be the "first port of call" as the NHS 111 telephone lines are "very busy".

Online symptom checker launched in Wales    https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-51782883 (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-51782883)
Title: Re: National Health Service..........Park and Ride extended
Post by: SteveH on March 11, 2020, 12:06:19 pm
A PARK and Ride service has been given yet another 12-months extension.     (which I think takes us to April 2021 ?)

Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB) is extending the free transport service, which takes patients from the former Hotpoint factory site in Bodelwyddan to Glan Clwyd Hospital, while plans for long-term improvements to parking provision at the hospital take shape.

The Park and Ride service was originally introduced as a temporary measure to support parking on site while work took place to remove asbestos and renovate the hospital, and the current arrangements had been due to cease at the end of this month.

Rod Taylor, director of Estates and Facilities, said: “We continue to ask visitors to help us to reduce the impact of traffic on site.
“Visitors are urged to consider using public transport where possible, and to take into account the time needed to find a parking space when planning a visit to the site.

“We ask staff to consider looking into car-sharing arrangements to help free up parking spaces. Staff can also access the cycle to work scheme.”
A review of parking demand and capacity at Glan Clwyd Hospital is now nearing completion.

In light of the ongoing review of parking on site, BCUHB said they will retain a park and ride service beyond March 31 2020, pending the progression of a Business Case to Welsh Government for additional new parking capacity on site.

The Park and Ride scheme was introduced in October 2014 to help ease parking pressures and traffic congestion while redevelopment work went on at the hospital.

In line with Welsh Government policy, car parking at Glan Clwyd Hospital remains free of charge. ref Pioneer
 
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on March 19, 2020, 10:30:09 am
All non-urgent appointments and procedures are being stopped as the health board gears up for the battle with coronavirus.

Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board has announced that they will begin delaying all non-urgent operations, procedures and outpatient appointments from Thursday.
"Postponements across North Wales will begin from Thursday 19 March.

"We ask that patients do not contact our hospitals or departments to find out if their procedure has been postponed. This will ensure our staff can focus on preparations to care for an expected increase in patients with Covid-19.

"We will be prioritising those patients across North Wales who are in need of the most urgent care, for example people in need of cancer treatment."

Dr David Fearnley, executive medical director of the health board said: “We know that there are many people expecting to undergo a procedure or examination over the coming weeks, who in some cases have already waited a long time. We are extremely sorry for any disruption, anxiety or discomfort this decision may cause.           ref DP

Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on March 20, 2020, 05:32:05 pm
How you can show some love to our NHS heroes during the coronavirus crisis
A campaign launches today to make sure all the amazing healthcare staff know how much they mean to the nation.

ADD YOUR SUPPORT     https://www.thanksamillionnhs.co.uk/ (https://www.thanksamillionnhs.co.uk/)    NHS gratide map


On the front lines of the nation’s battle against coronavirus stand the incredible staff of the NHS.       
From the surgeons to the porters, the nurses to the catering staff, the physios to the midwives, and the paramedics to the GPs - these heroes battle adversity each day to help us all when we’re at our most vulnerable.

From cradle to grave, the NHS, and the incredible professionals who work in hospitals, GP surgeries, clinics, care homes and more, is a part of British life.   cont  https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/how-you-can-show-love-17954950 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/how-you-can-show-love-17954950)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on March 21, 2020, 03:10:02 pm
From what I understand this is happening throughout the UK, where there are holiday homes and caravan sites, mostly affecting the coastal areas.

Coronavirus: Concern as GP reports rise in visitors trying to register with North Wales practices
Welsh Government urged to force the closure of caravan parks to protect region's health services.
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/coronavirus-concern-gp-reports-rise-17957934 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/coronavirus-concern-gp-reports-rise-17957934)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on March 28, 2020, 02:18:26 pm
RoSPA: The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidentswww.rospa.com

Coronavirus: Accident Free, Avoid A & E
The best thing that anyone can do to help our amazing NHS fight and beat coronavirus (COVID-19) right now is to stay at home.

This also means avoiding going to A &E, to take pressure off front line health services. But while heeding the advice to stay at home, we need to be aware that more accidents happen in the home than anywhere else – you could say the home is the most dangerous place to be, with 6,000 home accident deaths across the UK every year.

We need to make sure we and our loved ones are safe from serious injury, wherever they are and whatever they are doing during the pandemic emergency. That’s why RoSPA has launched the Accident Free, Avoid A&E campaign to help keep everyone free from serious accidental injury in this new world.

Advice also "Keeping kids safe"

Full details    https://www.rospa.com/Campaigns-Fundraising/Current/Coronavirus (https://www.rospa.com/Campaigns-Fundraising/Current/Coronavirus)
Title: Re: National Health Service..........FREE TRAVEL
Post by: SteveH on March 29, 2020, 11:30:34 am
Free travel for NHS workers
NHS staff will receive free travel throughout Wales as part of a deal which will see struggling bus operators get help from the Welsh Government.

Free rail travel is already available for health workers on Transport for Wales trains.

The commitment for free bus travel for NHS workers is part of a £69m hardship fund for companies struggling with dramatic drops in passenger numbers.
It follows stay-at-home rules for all but key workers due to coronavirus.    ref DP
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on May 02, 2020, 10:56:32 am
A Marbella-based management consultant said to be involved in controversial cost-cutting changes to North Wales nursing rotas is being paid nearly £2,000 per day by the region's health board.

Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board's (BCUHB) interim recovery director Phillip Burns works one day a week from Spain - and is set to earn more than £350,000 for a nine-month stint.

That figure is apparently more than would be saved over the same period through controversial rota changes for nurses , according to claims.

The rate would equate to a yearly reward well in excess of that of the board's chief executive Gary Doherty, who earns more than £200,000 in his role. Mr Burns will earn £360,990 for his nine-month stint at a daily rate of £1,990.   cont  https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/north-wales-health-boards-marbella-17138924 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/north-wales-health-boards-marbella-17138924)

 $angry$ $angry$
A consultant dubbed "Marbella Man" because he did some of his work from his Spanish home while earning almost £2,000 a day has had his contract terminated early by a health board.

Phillip Burns was installed as Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board's interim recovery director by former chief executive Gary Doherty in a bid to revive its fortunes.
The recovery programme Mr Burns was in charge of was supposed to yield savings and efficiencies for the organisation.

But the board's projected deficit to the end of the 2019-2020 financial year is expected to be around £57.72m - up from £42m in 2019.

The board is also expecting additional pressures of around £10m caused by the coronavirus pandemic as it looks to make savings of £45m this financial year.

Cont   https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/health-boards-marbella-man-who-18186655 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/health-boards-marbella-man-who-18186655)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on May 09, 2020, 02:08:33 pm
I checked Flight radar, earlier today about 11am, the sky above NW was empty, apart from the Air Ambulance, one has just flown over Llandudno, and I was surprised to see, it was the same one, calling at various points, St Asaph, Chester and Liverpool, it is now about to land back at base, I suspect a serious situation.


PS  LIVE: Two air ambulances land at scene of 'medical emergency' in Deeside
Police, paramedics and firefighters are also at the scene of the incident.

The helicopters have joined paramedics, police officers and firefighters are the incident near Deeside Leisure Centre this morning.
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/live-two-air-ambulances-land-18225226 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/live-two-air-ambulances-land-18225226)

Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on May 19, 2020, 03:45:34 pm
Reading this article, extolling the services of the newly built £40m Royal Alexandra community hospital, set to relieve pressure on emergency departments, reminds me of the importance of the Llandudno hospital which seems to be overlooked most of the time, and to my knowledge is offering exactly the same services as mentioned in the article, many of which we have used, without the need of traveling further, we need to keep reminding our decision makers how important Llandudno hospital is, and to ensure we keep it.


This is the first virtual look inside a new £40m community hospital set to relieve pressure on emergency departments and deliver "up-to-date health care" in a modern setting.

The redevelopment of the Royal Alexandra Hospital on East Parade, Rhyl, will offer a broad range of health and well-being services thanks to Welsh Government funding.

The new North Denbighshire Community Hospital will include a same day care centre, which would offer a range of treatments for minor ailments, and a ward with individual bedrooms.

It will also include a new facility to promote patient rehabilitation to help them regain the skills needed to live independently, enabling them to return home faster following a stay in hospital.

There will be a day unit for intravenous therapy, such as transfusions, and a large outpatient area including physiotherapy and services for people with dementia and memory loss.

Cont  https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/take-virtual-fly-through-rhyls-18274718 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/take-virtual-fly-through-rhyls-18274718)
Title: Re: National Health Service...........Pollen count 'explosion' predicted
Post by: SteveH on June 09, 2020, 02:19:18 pm
Pollen count 'explosion' predicted - and the NHS advice on easing hay fever symptoms
The Met Office predicts a 'very high risk' of grass pollen this week and into the weekend

Hay fever sufferers have been warned that a "huge pollen explosion" could occur this week.

It comes following dry conditions over the last few weeks, which has since been overset by rain across the UK.

The recent sunny weather means that grass pollen levels will increase.

The Met Office has warned of a "very high risk" throughout the week and into the weekend.

This could mean misery for those who suffer from hay fever.

https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/health/pollen-count-explosion-predicted-nhs-18386196 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/health/pollen-count-explosion-predicted-nhs-18386196)
Title: Re: National Health Service......NHS debts written-off
Post by: SteveH on July 07, 2020, 03:50:11 pm
Health minister to give update...12:40

NHS debts written-off
The Welsh Government has written-off debts owed by NHS organisations such as health boards.


no other details ?
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: spotty dog on July 07, 2020, 06:46:41 pm
Well they haven't they've gut been passed over to the Welsh tax payer
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Ian on July 07, 2020, 06:57:52 pm
I don't know. At the moment all three governments subscribe to what is an outmoded economic theory. Modern Monetary Theory, a heterodox, macroeconomic theory that describes currency as a public monopoly is the new and current model.

In that theory, a modern democracy is only limited in its money creation and purchases by inflation, which only accelerates once the real resources (labour, capital and natural resources) of the economy are utilized at full employment. Since no modern democracy normally achieves full employment, it can be argued that inflation won't, in fact, increase.

This theory sounds wild, until you realise there's a lot of emerging evidence underpinning it. For example, since 2008 the bank of England has been printing billions, yet inflation is now at its lowest ever level.

The entire global economy has been drop-shocked by Covid, yet inflation still seems very low.

The USA national debt is in the trillions, yet their inflation is low. So it's quite possible the Welsh government could simply write off the debts by putting a line through them. It'll be interesting see how it plays out.

Title: Re: National Health Service.............1.000.000 QUIT SMOKING
Post by: SteveH on July 15, 2020, 03:45:44 pm
More than one million people have given up smoking since the Covid-19 pandemic hit, a survey for charity Action on Smoking and Health (Ash) suggests.

Of those who had quit in the previous four months, 41% said it was in direct response to coronavirus.

Separately, University College London (UCL) found more people quit smoking in the year to June 2020 than in any year since its survey began in 2007.

Government advice says smokers may be at risk of more severe Covid symptoms.

Between 15 April and 20 June, a representative sample of 10,000 people, enrolled by pollster YouGov on behalf of Ash, were asked about their smoking habits.

The results were used to estimate the total number of people giving up smoking in the UK.

Just under half of people who had quit in the past four months said the pandemic had played a role in their decision. That may have been down to a range of factors including health concerns, access to tobacco while isolating or no longer smoking socially.

BBC news health section      https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-53403610 (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-53403610)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on July 17, 2020, 04:56:08 pm
It's vital that we spread the word about the need for new legal targets for air pollution.

Here you'll find the video for the Environment Bill action.    https://www.blf.org.uk/take-action/campaign/clean-air/environment-bill/resources/video (https://www.blf.org.uk/take-action/campaign/clean-air/environment-bill/resources/video)

Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on July 21, 2020, 02:52:22 pm
PEOPLE will be asked to phone first before going to A&E as emergency services are re-modeled to respond to coronavirus.

Wales' Health Minister Vaughan Gething revealed the changes on Tuesday, July 21.

A telephone triage service will direct to people to the right service for their condition or injury instead of everyone automatically seeking care at their local A&E department.
                                         The emergency 999 service will not be affected by the changes.

The changes, which will be trialled at Cardiff and Vale University Health Board, are modelled on a successful Scandinavian scheme, and are part of a new approach to delivering safe, person-centred health and care services.

Evidence suggests a proportion of people who come to emergency departments do not require the expert care provided by healthcare professionals in these units and would benefit from either self care or accessing advice, health or social care in other parts of the system.

There is also emerging evidence to suggest a reduction in attendances over the course of the pandemic related in a greater number to ‘lower risk’ patients, where experience and outcomes would have benefited from accessing advice or care elsewhere.

Full report  https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/18596410.patients-wales-will-asked-phone-first-going-e-says-wales-health-minister/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/18596410.patients-wales-will-asked-phone-first-going-e-says-wales-health-minister/)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on July 27, 2020, 10:14:24 am
Welsh Ambulance Service want you to download this app, and it could save your life
The service can even pin down remote areas such as trails in Snowdonia.

The free app features ‘ground-breaking’ location technology which can be used in even the most remote areas with unreliable data connection.

The service can even pin down locations on trails in the Snowdonia National Park, which are popular with walkers and hikers.

https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/welsh-ambulance-service-want-you-18641942 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/welsh-ambulance-service-want-you-18641942)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on August 01, 2020, 10:22:06 am
Plans have been submitted for a new staff car park serving one of the region’s major hospitals.

Plans were registered with Denbighshire council on July 13 for 184 “long term” parking spaces for Ysbyty Glan Clwyd staff.

It will be situated on land near the Costa Coffee drive-thru and SPAR convenience store off Rhuddlan Road, Bodelwyddan – although the agent has labelled it as land off Abergele Road in its supporting letter to planners.

Car park lighting will be installed and trees planted within the end bays of the facility.
A separate pedestrian access is also proposed from Rhuddlan Road to enable hospital staff and visitors to safely access and leave the site.

https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/18622042.parking-plans-see-184-spaces-ysbyty-glan-clwyd-staff/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/18622042.parking-plans-see-184-spaces-ysbyty-glan-clwyd-staff/)
Title: Re: National Health Service...Think before calling 999
Post by: SteveH on August 27, 2020, 12:24:57 pm
THE Welsh Ambulance Service is appealing to people to use 999 responsibly this Bank Holiday weekend.

Traditionally, the service will see an increase in demand on Bank Holidays as people take advantage of the long weekend – and this weekend is expected to be no different.

Lee Brooks, the Trust’s Director of Operations, said: “More people are out and about socialising with family and friends on the Bank Holiday weekends, and this can lead to more people becoming ill or suffering injuries and requiring medical attention.

“While there are plans in place to deal with the increase in demand, we only have a limited number of crews and vehicles available which means that we need to prioritise those sickest patients first.

“It also means that people not facing a serious or life-threatening emergency could wait longer for a response or be asked to seek alternatives to an ambulance response.     cont  https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/18679727.think-calling-999-bank-holiday-weekend-say-welsh-ambulance-service/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/18679727.think-calling-999-bank-holiday-weekend-say-welsh-ambulance-service/)
Title: Re: 999 Day remembers emergency service workers who died in line of duty.
Post by: SteveH on September 09, 2020, 03:52:11 pm
999 Day remembers emergency service workers who died in line of duty.

THE chief executive of the Welsh Ambulance Service has paid tribute to ambulance personnel and blue light partners across the UK as part of Emergency Services Day.

The event, also known as 999 Day, starts at 9am on the ninth day of the ninth month with a national two-minute silence to mark the 7,000 emergency workers who have lost their lives in the line of duty.

Chief executive Jason Killens praised the “fantastic people” across the Welsh Ambulance Service and colleagues from the military who have supported the Trust through the Covid-19 pandemic.

cont   https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/18707785.999-day-marks-day-remembrance-emergency-service-workers/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/18707785.999-day-marks-day-remembrance-emergency-service-workers/)
Title: Re: National Health Service........FLU JAB
Post by: SteveH on October 02, 2020, 03:48:09 pm
Demand for this year's flu vaccine has hit "unprecedented levels" as people do their bit to prevent a surge in winter hospital admissions.

Members of the public have been urged to get the annual vaccine if eligible this year as the Welsh Government attempts to avoid a surge in cases combined with the coronavirus.

There have been fears that the combination of a bad flu season with a second wave of Covid-19 could heap huge pressure on the NHS this winter.

Public Health Wales [PHW] said the huge take-up of the vaccine meant many were struggling to get appointments, and they are now urging people to be patient.

“Some of those eligible for a flu vaccine are having to wait longer than usual to secure an appointment, but I would like to reassure everyone that sufficient stocks are available for those recommended the vaccine.

cont  https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/demand-flu-vaccine-unprecedented-levels-19036204 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/demand-flu-vaccine-unprecedented-levels-19036204)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Blongb on October 03, 2020, 10:31:26 am
I'm having to wait 3 weeks for my appointment to get my flu jab, which I got through the Doctor. However when my prescription was delivered there was a leaflet included informing me that I could make an appointment with my Chemist and get the jab at the pharmacy. It might be worth an ask if you can't get an early slot.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Hugo on October 03, 2020, 11:36:29 am
When we asked our Doctor's Surgery about the flu jab they told my wife that they had not received any instructions from the NHS so they were unable to make an appointment for us
We phoned Lloyd's Pharmacy in Llandudno and had our flu jab on Thursday.     Apparently you now have to go online to book with Lloyd's Pharmacy
Title: Re: National Health Service................flu vaccine
Post by: SteveH on October 10, 2020, 05:07:15 pm
A POLITICIAN claims he has been contacted by residents in Conwy and Denbighshire who are struggling to access flu vaccine appointments.

Darren Millar, Clwyd West MS, has called on Vaughan Gething, Wales' health minister, to ensure there is sufficient flu and pneumonia vaccines this year.

He terms the lack of access to appointments as "completely unacceptable".

Speaking in the Welsh Parliament, Mr Millar said: "The increase in demand for vaccines, is very, very welcome, as is the extension of the eligibility criteria, but, unfortunately, I've have people in my constituency who have been told they cannot schedule a flu jab appointment with their GPs until a month hence, which is clearly completely unacceptable, particularly for those in those vulnerable categories.

“And it's not just the flu vaccine that some people need to access; there's also the vaccine to protect vulnerable people against pneumonia, and I'm aware that there are shortages of that vaccine across Wales too."

cont   https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/18782709.clwyd-west-ms-raises-concern-told-patients-may-asked-wait-flu-vaccine/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/18782709.clwyd-west-ms-raises-concern-told-patients-may-asked-wait-flu-vaccine/)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Hugo on October 10, 2020, 10:14:04 pm
I wonder if the people who haven't been able to get a flu jab at their GP's surgery have actually contacted a chemist before going to the trouble of contacting their MS?
We couldn't get in at our GP'S so we contacted Lloyd's Chemist and an appointment was soon arranged.    There didn't seem to be a problem with the vaccine or getting an appointment
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Blongb on October 10, 2020, 10:49:41 pm
I got mine this morning at Ysbyty'r Enfys - the Rainbow Hospital at  Venue Cymru it was a full production line with at least 10 ushers showing you the way to the empty Covid equipped Ward where 8 Bays had been reset just to give flu jabs, I was in at my allocated time of 9:30 and out by 9:34. Make an appointment through your GP and get it done.  {}{}
Title: Re: National Health Service........ hidden call charges
Post by: SteveH on October 22, 2020, 01:25:23 pm
North Wales mum hit with £10 in 'hidden' charges after phoning free NHS helpline when son took ill
Gemma Kerans from Llandudno was directed by the service to call an 0845 premium rate number

A mother who dialled the NHS helpline for advice when her three-year-old took ill says people need to know about 'hidden' charges after being billed almost £10 for a 13-minute call.

It advised the toddler could have had an infection and to call the NHS' 111 line - a free service for people living in many parts of Wales - which Miss Kerans did.
She was then directed by the service to call another number - 0845 4647 - and had a conversation with an operator which lasted 13 minutes.

She said: "I called 111 for reassurance and the first indication I had was when the phone made a noise and it said your call will be disconnected in one minute.
"I told the lady on the line it was about to be disconnected and she said 'could it be your bill'."
Miss Kerans then realised she had put an alert on her phone capping premium rate call charges.
She said: "I'm only allowed £10 of extra charges each month before it cuts me off."
The charge for 13 minutes speaking to the 111 service was £9.87, so she went onto the internet to see why Llandudno wasn't in the coverage area.

The 'free' helpline service was trialled in Abertawe Bro Morgannwg Health Board and Carmarthenshire areas from October 2016 and Welsh ministers announced it would be rolled out nationally in early 2018.

However that roll-out was not due to be completed until 2021 with Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board area being the last one in the country to receive it.

The Welsh Government has confirmed it will now be the first quarter of 2022 before people in North Wales can access free calls to the service.

Full story  https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/north-wales-mum-hit-10-19144693 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/north-wales-mum-hit-10-19144693)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on October 31, 2020, 09:48:06 am
Plans for a “world class” multi-million pound mental health unit and multi-storey car park have been lodged with Denbighshire council.

The scheme, which will see a replacement, 63-bed building constructed for the Ablett unit at Ysbyty Glan Clwyd, will cover a 2.8 hectare area adjacent to the current pathology labs.

A multi-storey car park, capable of accommodating more than 601 vehicles inside and 128 externally, will be built on the open car park site opposite the hospital’s renal and diabetes unit.

cont   https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/18834644.multi-million-pound-hospital-plan-will-world-class/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/18834644.multi-million-pound-hospital-plan-will-world-class/)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on November 05, 2020, 04:05:55 pm
Interesting article on BCUHB ..........

A health board which has been in Special Measures for five-and-a-half years has been guaranteed an £82m a-year boost despite continued “poor performance”.

Health and social care minister Vaughan Gething announced the package of “strategic assistance” cash for Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board to the Senedd on Tuesday.

He said the money, which will be given annually over the next three-and-a-half years, would “enable the health board to reset and plan sustainably for the future”.

The cash will be for:
Covering the deficit of up to £40 million a year
Funding to improve unscheduled care and build a sustainable planned care programme, including orthopaedics, of £30 million a year

£12 million a year to support performance improvement and implementation of the mental health strategy in partnership; and support to build broader capability and capacity in the organisation.

Cont  https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/18849766.betsi-cadwaladr-health-board-get-82m-annual-spending-boost-despite-remaining-special-measures/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/18849766.betsi-cadwaladr-health-board-get-82m-annual-spending-boost-despite-remaining-special-measures/)
Title: Re: National Health Service... Colwyn Bay
Post by: SteveH on November 12, 2020, 08:44:51 am
Two dental practices to shut forcing thousands to find new dentist
The Caernarfon and Colwyn Bay Bupa private practices will close in early 2021.

Thousands of dental patients will be forced to find a new dentist after a private health company announced the closure of two North Wales practices.

Bupa told staff this week it would be closing practices on Prince's Drive, Colwyn Bay, and on Cibyn Industrial Estate, Caernarfon, in February of next year.

It is believed more than 20 staff work across the two sites and the closures will reportedly affect more than 20,000 patients, although the company declined to say precisely how many.

cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/two-dental-practices-shut-forcing-19265252 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/two-dental-practices-shut-forcing-19265252)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on November 19, 2020, 06:08:29 pm
See above story..........

A North Wales Dental Training Unit will be established as part of wide ranging plans to improve access to dentistry services across the region.

Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB) are progressing plans to introduce a training unit in Bangor while more immediate action is being taken to improve dentistry provision across parts of Anglesey, Gwynedd and Conwy.

The health board is working in partnership with Health Education Improvement Wales (HEIW), Bangor University and Welsh Government on its plans, which would boost the number and skillset of dentists and dental care professionals working across the region.

The plans are being developed in response to difficulties recruiting and retaining dentists in North Wales – which has resulted in the closure of a number of practices across Anglesey, Gwynedd and Conwy in recent years.

cont   https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/18884597.north-wales-first-dental-training-unit-established/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/18884597.north-wales-first-dental-training-unit-established/)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on November 24, 2020, 03:41:14 pm
THE ambulance service has said a person dialled 999 because they couldn’t sleep and another because a pigeon had injured its wing.

More than 450,000 calls were made to the Welsh Ambulance Service in the last year and almost a quarter were non-essential.

The service has urged people only to call 999 in a serious or life-threatening emergency as it enters its busiest period over the winter months.

Other calls ranging from the unnecessary to the ridiculous also included someone with onion juice in their eye, a person suffering with toothache and someone who had trapped their finger in a door.


“Our ambulance service exists to help people who are seriously ill or injured, or where there is an immediate threat to their life," said chief executive Jason Killens.

“That’s people who’ve stopped breathing, people with chest pain or breathing difficulties, loss of consciousness, choking, severe allergic reactions, catastrophic bleeding or someone who is having a stroke.

“Non-essential calls represent nearly a quarter of our 999 calls, and time spent dealing with these could be time spent helping someone in a life or death situation.”

More suitable alternatives to the 999 emergency line include the NHS 111 Wales, the pharmacist, dentist, optician, GP and minor injuries unit.

cont  https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/18894540.welsh-ambulance-service-urges-real-emergency-calls-busy-winter-months-ahead/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/18894540.welsh-ambulance-service-urges-real-emergency-calls-busy-winter-months-ahead/)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on November 29, 2020, 04:04:11 pm
The message behind this Daily Post story is.... check with your local chemist, before visiting A&E

Everything you need to know to avoid spending hours in busy emergency departments this winter
With the dreaded winter season upon us the professionals reveal how to avoid being trapped in emergency departments

As our health board gears up for the annual winter rush, there are worries a perfect storm of seasonal and Covid pressures could overwhelm major hospital emergency departments (EDs).

Every year it seems Betsi Cadwaldr University Health Board suffers its busiest ever winter period, with an ever-increasing number of frustrated people who see emergency departments as a starting point to their treatment, rather than the emergency resource it is.

Throw Covid into the equation and the recipe for this year becoming unmanageable for staff, with increased social distancing and a need to clean down thoroughly between patients, is easy to visualise.

So the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) has teamed up with Betsi Cadwaladr to assess how best to avoid interminable waits in ED and leave the service free for the most serious cases - but where to start?

Well the answer to that may be closer to your local high street than your local hospital, get in touch with a pharmacy first.

People should make sure they are prepared for minor ailments by having paracetamol and any prescription drugs they need on hand and ordered in plenty of time, so they're not left short. He's also urging people who qualify, which now includes anyone over 50 years old, to get their flu vaccine arranged as soon as possible.

"If people feel they aren’t able to treat themselves, or need advice on something they don’t have a remedy for at home, then I would encourage people to get in touch with a pharmacy first. For minor illnesses, we really should be the first port of call."

cont    https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/everything-you-need-know-avoid-19361694 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/everything-you-need-know-avoid-19361694)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on December 10, 2020, 10:05:36 am
The First Minister has blamed a dentistry crisis in North Wales on the effects of Brexit.

It came after Darren Millar, MS for Clwyd West, asked Mark Drakeford to step in and sort out "the pickle we're currently in" with dentistry in his constituency.

He said the closure of the Bupa Dental practice in Colwyn Bay left patients "extremely worried" about how they will get treatment after it closes in February next year.

https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/first-minister-blames-north-wales-19427215 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/first-minister-blames-north-wales-19427215)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on February 03, 2021, 10:06:19 am
Hardly encouraging young people to train in nursing.............

Calls have been made for student nurses in Wales to be paid while on clinical placements.

This was the case during the first wave of the pandemic last year as emergency standards were brought in by the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NCM).

The emergency standards remove the students’ supernumerary status and makes them part of the rostered workforce for a period of time.
This is not currently implemented in Wales, but the emergency standards are active in England where student nurses continue to be paid for their placement work.

Some student nurses in Wales have been left with no means of income as a result.
One student nurse said she is unable to undertake part time work or bank work on other wards because she has been placed on a Covid ward.

The only income she has is her student loan, which she says is not enough to cover her bills.

https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/student-nurses-wales-arent-paid-19743981 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/student-nurses-wales-arent-paid-19743981)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on February 25, 2021, 02:13:13 pm
AS part of a four-nations agreement, Health Minister Vaughan Gething has today (Thursday 25 February) announced the ending of a ban on using UK plasma to manufacture medicines.

The lifting of the ban follows a review by the Commission on Human Medicine (CHM) and the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA).

It was introduced in the UK in 1999 in response to the variant Creutzfeld–Jakob (vCJD) epidemic, believed to be associated with the consumption of meat products infected with BSE, commonly known as "mad cow disease".

Since the introduction of the ban, plasma-derived medicinal products have had to be imported, with the main source at present being the USA.

Health Minister Vaughan Gething said: “The need to import plasma into the UK has meant NHS Wales has had to prioritise supply of medicines to patients with the highest clinical need.

“The pandemic is placing further pressures on this supply due to the increased need for blood plasma in the development of new Covid-19 medicines coupled with the falling numbers of blood plasma donations.

“Following multiple reviews of the evidence, we have been advised that plasma sourced in the UK is safe for the manufacture of these medicines and as such, I along with the other health ministers across the UK have lifted the ban to potentially save their lives and help people to manage their conditions.”

Director of the Welsh Blood Service, Alan Prosser, said: “The Welsh Blood Service welcomes the decision to safely end the ban on using UK plasma to manufacture medicines.

cont  https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19117026.ban-lifted-using-uk-plasma-donations-make-medicines/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19117026.ban-lifted-using-uk-plasma-donations-make-medicines/)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on March 04, 2021, 02:19:34 pm
A NEW Targeted Intervention framework for the Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board has been published following its de-escalation from special measures in November last year.

Minister for Health and Social Services, Vaughan Gething has set out four key areas that require improvement within the health boards, they are –

Mental Health (adult and children)
Strategy, planning and performance
Leadership (including governance, transformation and culture)
Engagement (patients, public, staff and partners)

These areas aligns with the recommendations from the work undertaken by professional bodies and general feedback about the health board over the last 12 months.

Welsh Government will work closely with the health board throughout the process of Targeted Intervention ensuring that progress is being made and agreeing appropriate interventions where necessary. A further assessment will take place in May and any changes will be added to the framework.

cont   https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19135291.health-minister-outlines-improvement-plans-betsi-cadwaladr-university-health-board/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19135291.health-minister-outlines-improvement-plans-betsi-cadwaladr-university-health-board/)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on March 05, 2021, 03:05:28 pm
WALES' health minister Vaughan Gething has said he understands why NHS staff are “hurt and upset” by the UK Government’s proposed 1% pay rise.

Mr Gething told Friday's coronavirus briefing in Cardiff: “We’re waiting to see the outcome of the pay review body.

“We expect to publish the evidence that we’ve provided to that pay review body if not today, then in the very near future.

“We certainly have not done what the UK Government has done and tried to set an artificial ceiling on the pay rise that should be provided.

“We think that our staff do deserve a pay rise. We’re asking the pay review bodies for evidence for our determination, and advice on what that should be.

“We want to make sure that the UK Government are in a position to properly fund that pay rise.

“I understand why so many staff across our NHS will be feeling hurt and upset and a little angry at the evidence that the Department for Health and Social Care at the UK level have provided.

cont   https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19139172.welsh-health-minister-says-our-nhs-staff-deserve-pay-rise/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19139172.welsh-health-minister-says-our-nhs-staff-deserve-pay-rise/)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Ian on March 05, 2021, 07:14:23 pm
MPs awarded themselves 3.1% last year. Wonder how they will grab more, this?
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on March 13, 2021, 10:26:49 am
Betsi Cadwaladr: Health board's new chief pledges lessons from Australia

Wales can learn from Australia in how to deliver healthcare in rural areas, the new boss of the nation's largest health board has said.

Wrexham-born Jo Whitehead has returned to Wales as chief executive of the troubled Betsi Cadwaladr health board after working in northern Queensland.

She pointed to virtual outpatient appointments "to save a five-hour road trip" as one idea which could work.

Mental health services were also a key priority, Ms Whitehead added.

She took up her new post on New Year's Day, shortly after the board was taken out of special measures, having been subject to the highest level of Welsh Government intervention for more than five years.

cont  https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-56378980 (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-56378980)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on May 20, 2021, 10:01:19 am
NORTH Wales will benefit from the largest slice of NHS investment that Welsh Government has announced today, Thursday.

Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board will receive an extra £20m to kick-start the national health and care system’s recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.

The newly appointed minister for health and social services, Eluned Morgan MS, has set-out plans for £100m worth of investment across the nation's health boards.

The money for new equipment, staff, technology and ways of working will help medics improve services across primary, community and hospital care, by increasing capacity and cutting waiting times as they begin resuming non-emergency care following the pandemic.

cont  https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19315366.20m-help-post-covid-recovery-nhs-north-wales-announced/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19315366.20m-help-post-covid-recovery-nhs-north-wales-announced/)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on May 24, 2021, 11:50:13 am
North Wales’ new medical school could be ready by 2025 and we’ll know what it costs by the summer, a health board chief executive has revealed.

Jo Whitehead, CEO of Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, revealed the news in her report to the board’s monthly meeting on Thursdsay.

The new Medical and Health Sciences School will be a collaboration between the health board and Bangor University, if it gets approval from Welsh Government.

A study of what the capacity of the school should be is in the final stages and proposals should be lodged with Minister for Health and Social Care Eluned Morgan by the end of July, said Ms Whitehead.

In her report, she said: “BCUHB and Bangor University are working in partnership and have established programme arrangements in order achieve the shared ambition of developing a transformational Medical and Health Sciences School in North Wales by 2025.

“Work to develop capital investment plans is progressing with an ambition initial estimates expected to be completed in June 2021 and final estimates to be available in July 2021.”

An economic impact assessment will also be completed at the same time to help the business case for the new venture.

cont  https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19323754.new-medical-school-north-wales-ready-2025/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19323754.new-medical-school-north-wales-ready-2025/)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on June 03, 2021, 10:40:54 am
MILLIONS of pounds is being invested in Glan Clwyd Hospital and Wrexham Maelor to try and speed up the diagnosis and treatment of cancer and other diseases.

More than £25million is being invested overall in hospitals across Wales to make sure the NHS in Wales has access to the latest technology.

The funding will help health boards upgrade equipment, including MRI and CT scanners. It will also increase the resilience and reliability of diagnostic equipment available to the NHS in Wales.

cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19347052.glan-clwyd-hospital-wrexham-maelor-hospital-benefit-huge-cash-injection-upgrade-vital-technology-equipment/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19347052.glan-clwyd-hospital-wrexham-maelor-hospital-benefit-huge-cash-injection-upgrade-vital-technology-equipment/)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on June 08, 2021, 02:49:15 pm
NHS and social care staff burnout at an emergency level - report

NHS and care staff in England are so burnt out that it has become an "emergency" and risks the future of the health service, MPs have warned.

A highly critical report said workers were exhausted and overstretched because of staff shortages.

It said the problems existed before the pandemic - although coronavirus has worsened the pressures.

Doctors' and nursing unions welcomed the report, saying it highlighted the stress and anxiety facing staff.

It has already been well documented that the NHS is short of staff.

Last July, the health and social care committee - made up of MPs and chaired by former health secretary Jeremy Hunt - launched an inquiry to look at the issue, including how burnt out NHS staff were.

Its report, published on Tuesday, said one of the main problems was that there was no accurate forecast of how many staff the NHS needed for the next five to 10 years - something it called "workforce planning".

It said there needed to be a "total overhaul of the way the NHS does workforce planning" - and there should be annual reports published on how many workers the NHS would need for the next five, 10 and 20 years.

"It is clear that workforce planning has been led by the funding envelope available to health and social care rather than by demand and the capacity required to service that demand," said the report.

And it said that NHS workers needed to know there was a solution on its way to fix the staff shortages.

cont  https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-57395232 (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-57395232)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Hugo on June 08, 2021, 05:25:00 pm
Amongst Boris' many promises didn't  he promise an extra 20,000 or so staff for the NHS?        If Boris honours those promises those staff still need to be trained so it will still be hard on those NHS staff anyway. 
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on June 12, 2021, 02:59:09 pm
NHS in Wales: 'Culture of bullying' among staff

NHS workers said they had witnessed or experienced institutionalised racism and sexism and also faced obstacles when reporting incidences of bullying.

It is claimed that raising concerns has led to bullying, and numerical targets were often put before staff well-being.

The Welsh NHS Confederation said it was "saddened" by the allegations and the NHS took bullying reports seriously.

The 2020 NHS Wales staff survey found 16% of workers had experienced bullying, harassment or abuse by another colleague, while 10% said they had experienced the same from a manager.

Meanwhile, 14% said their health board did not take effective action if staff were bullied or harassed by other members of staff or the public.

cont  https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-57413875 (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-57413875)
Title: Re: National Health Service...NHS non-emergency 111 now free
Post by: SteveH on June 23, 2021, 10:08:49 am
The NHS non-emergency 111 service is now available for free in North Wales from today (June 22).

The service allows people in need to access non-urgent medical advice and access to their out of hours service.

Managed by a team of health professionals, the 111 lines will be available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to help you get the right treatment.

Advice is also available online at www.111.wales.NHS.uk (http://www.111.wales.NHS.uk).

“The 111 service will support people to receive the most appropriate services for their needs, and reduce the pressure on our 999 services

“When the NHS is experiencing high demand the service is particularly useful in ensuring people are directed to the most appropriate services.

“Supported by the 111 websites, this easy to remember free phone service will make it easier for anyone to access the support they need.”
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on June 24, 2021, 01:24:53 pm
I appreciate the need but it does seem a large expensive project, just to help four children and two emergency places.

Groundbreaking scheme to stop vulnerable children being sent hundreds of miles away
Bwthyn y Ddol will be a tree-lined haven for vulnerable children needing assessment next to Eirias Park

It will be able to assess four children at a time with complex needs, for up to 12 weeks, under a team of two social workers, two family support workers, a psychologist and team manager who is also an occupational therapist.

There will be two additional "emergency beds" for children who need immediate respite from challenging situations, when family relationships break down and children require a safe space.

cont  https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/groundbreaking-scheme-stop-vulnerable-children-20875500 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/groundbreaking-scheme-stop-vulnerable-children-20875500)
Title: Re: National Health Service... high levels of pollen
Post by: SteveH on June 28, 2021, 10:09:01 am
Hayfever sufferers may want to prepare for high levels of pollen in parts of North Wales over the next few days.
Levels are due to be 'high,' and in some cases 'very high,' across the region this week
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/high-pollen-levels-set-trigger-20913374 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/high-pollen-levels-set-trigger-20913374)

Conwy
The data listed below was given for Conwy, though it's unclear if this is the town or the county. Either way, other locations in the area, like Llandudno, had similar figures.

Today (June 28):

Grass: High (333 PPM)
Trees: High (224 PPM)
Weeds: High (170 PPM)
Tomorrow (June 29):

Grass: Very High (349 PPM)
Trees: High (236 PPM)
Weeds: High (179 PPM)
Wednesday (June 30):

Grass: High (202 PPM)
Trees: Moderate (136 PPM)
Weeds: High (103 PPM)
Thursday (July 1):

Grass: High (281 PPM)
Trees: Moderate (187 PPM)
Weeds: High (140 PPM)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on July 08, 2021, 02:12:18 pm
ONE in three calls to GP services in North Wales are going unanswered, figures show.

Members of the Senedd have raised concerns that just 58 out of 97 GP practices in the region have achieved General Medical Services (GMS) In Hours Access Standards.

The standards, introduced by the Welsh Government in March 2019, provide guidance over what is expected of patients and professionals, including a prompt response to their contact with a GP practice via telephone and that systems are in place to avoid repeat patient calls.

cont  https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19428459.north-wales-mss-raise-concerns-gp-access-across-region/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19428459.north-wales-mss-raise-concerns-gp-access-across-region/)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on July 12, 2021, 10:23:57 am
GP surgery staff who have played a key role in Wales’ world-leading vaccination roll out. - up until the start of June, primary care had given almost two-thirds (385,000) of the total COVID-19 vaccinations across North Wales.

But these hard-pressed GP practice staff have borne the brunt of an increase in abusive behaviour over recent months.

Dr Chris Stockport, BCUHB Executive Director of Primary and Community Care, said: "Please be polite and respectful to our primary care reception staff and call handlers, who are doing their very best to help you in often difficult circumstances.

"We have seen a rise in abusive behaviour towards GP practice staff in recent months and this is totally unacceptable.”

cont  https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/nhs-staff-facing-patient-abuse-21018894 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/nhs-staff-facing-patient-abuse-21018894)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on July 12, 2021, 03:39:18 pm
Tourists visiting North Wales with health concerns asked to avoid A&E - unless it is an emergency.........Hope they read this ! !


AN NHS leader has asked tourists and day tripped to 'think twice' before attending an emergency department or calling 999 with non-life-threatening conditions.

A lot of people are opting for 'staycations' in the UK rather than travelling abroad in response to the pandemic.

However, this means the region’s population will rise significantly, putting added strain on hospital workers.

Visitors and day trippers with health concerns are being encouraged to call 111 free from a landline or mobile phone if they need 24-hour support and guidance. There is also the NHS 111 Wales website: www.111.wales.nhs.uk (http://www.111.wales.nhs.uk)

Dr Chris Stockport, executive director of Primary and Community Services, said: "As Covid-19 restrictions ease and we approach the school holidays there will be a major increase in the number of people in this region.

“Throughout the Coronavirus pandemic we have embraced digital technology and virtual services, and with the 111 phone number now available to patients in North Wales there are several ways people can get in touch to access the NHS safely.

https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19436850.tourists-visiting-north-wales-health-concerns-asked-avoid-e---unless-emergency/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19436850.tourists-visiting-north-wales-health-concerns-asked-avoid-e---unless-emergency/)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on July 20, 2021, 10:26:54 am
ACTIONS have been put in place to deal with unprecedented demand, the Welsh Ambulance Service has confirmed.

On Monday, the Welsh Ambulance Service confirmed they are receiving an increased demand on services.

Sonia Thompson, Interim Assistant Director of Operations Response at the Welsh Ambulance Service said: “This afternoon we have declared a Business Continuity Incident as a result of increased demand on our services.

“Actions are underway to deal with the demand but we would urge the public to work with us on this.

“If your call is less urgent then you will wait longer for help or be asked to make an alternative arrangement, including making your own way to hospital if necessary.

“We’re hopeful that the actions we have put in place will start to take effect but until then, help us help you and only call if it’s a genuine emergency.”
Title: Re: National Health Service......Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) infection
Post by: SteveH on July 23, 2021, 04:44:58 pm
Four signs your child may have a respiratory infection as cases in Wales rise sharply
Public Health Wales have issued a warning over the Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) infection - cases of which have increased over the last four weeks

Surveillance shows positive samples for Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) infection in Wales have increased over the last four consecutive weeks from 1.9 per cent to 9.9 per cent.

Parents are being encouraged to look out for symptoms of severe infection in at-risk children.

They include:
A high temperature of 37.8°C or above (fever)
A dry and persistent cough
Difficulty feeding
Rapid or noisy breathing (wheezing).

“RSV is a common respiratory illness which is usually picked up by children during the winter season, and causes very few problems to the majority of children. However, very young babies, particularly those born prematurely, and children with heart or lung conditions, can be seriously affected and it’s important that parents are aware of the actions to take.

more https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/four-signs-your-child-respiratory-21128243 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/four-signs-your-child-respiratory-21128243)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on July 30, 2021, 09:43:53 am
Appeal for public to use 999 responsibly as calls hit New Year's Eve levels every day

There had been more than 100,000 calls to the emergency line every day for over a month, placing significant pressure on control rooms.

Recent unnecessary calls to police on 999 include from a man who was being followed home by a cat, a man asking to speak to Sting, the lead singer of The Police, about a broken vinyl and a woman asking when her next train would be.

Abuse of the service can result in criminal action.

https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19479732.appeal-public-use-999-responsibly-calls-hit-new-years-eve-levels-every-day/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19479732.appeal-public-use-999-responsibly-calls-hit-new-years-eve-levels-every-day/)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on August 11, 2021, 02:48:31 pm
A&E queues mean Wales' ambulances 'can't take 999 calls'

As lockdown restrictions have eased ambulance staff are having the busiest summer of their lives.

But the pressure on hospitals to find free beds can mean long waits outside for the paramedic crews until their patients can be admitted.

Some say they are "broken" after spending so much time queuing outside A&Es - unable to respond to new calls.

BBC Wales' health correspondent Owain Clarke has been given special access to crews, and 999 call managers.

BBC report cont...............   https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-58161914 (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-58161914)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on August 27, 2021, 02:17:45 pm
A GP surgery has said only "essential blood tests" will be booked for the foreseeable future.   (Lucky me, I had mine yesterday)

This comes after the Welsh Government confirmed there is a supply issue when it comes to products used for blood collection.

All four UK nations are affected.

Mostyn House Medical Practice, Llandudno, posted on Facebook: "We have been informed by the Welsh Government there is a UK wide shortage of blood bottles due to a problem with the manufacturer.

"Only essential blood tests will be booked for the foreseeable future. Please note if you have a blood test already booked it is unlikely to be affected but we will contact you if there is a problem.

cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19542003.blood-test-tube-shortage-temporary-expected-last-three-months/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19542003.blood-test-tube-shortage-temporary-expected-last-three-months/)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on August 31, 2021, 10:12:56 am
This reminds us of the additional strain/costs on medical facilities in holiday areas, a bit like the emergency services nobody, seems to check ahead before their visit, and turning up on holiday without your prescription medications, or insufficient supplies is ..........

Strains on the NHS and medical services are real and with increased tourism, there are worries that this could become tighter as we head into the winter months.

People are facing long waiting times for an ambulance and pressures on A&E are increasing. The winter period is also looking particularly bleak as the public is being urged to play their part to help ease the burden.

Suggestions have been made that holiday parks could be affiliated with their own GP surgery, which could prevent visitors attending already stretched practises and hospital departments in North Wales.

cont https://www.leaderlive.co.uk/news/19544960.increase-staycations-significant-pressures-emergency-services---answer/?ref=rss&IYA-reg=a05105fc-304d-4c50-9807-edab51f779a4 (https://www.leaderlive.co.uk/news/19544960.increase-staycations-significant-pressures-emergency-services---answer/?ref=rss&IYA-reg=a05105fc-304d-4c50-9807-edab51f779a4)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on September 01, 2021, 12:36:47 pm
An expensive but "game-changing" anti-cholesterol drug could soon be offered to hundreds of thousands of people in England and Wales on the NHS.

NHS England says inclisiran, given as a twice-a-year injection, could save about 30,000 lives within a decade.

It normally costs nearly £2,000 per dose but Novartis, which makes it, has agreed an undisclosed discount.

It can lower bad fat in the blood when other cheaper drugs, like statins, have not done enough, says draft advice.

The health watchdog NICE is recommending it as an option for people who have already had a stroke or heart attack and are not responding to other cholesterol-lowering treatments.

Experts hope it will help to cut their risk of further life-threatening cardiovascular events.

Although there is no long-term proof of this yet from studies, they believe it is worth recommending based on existing evidence.

cont  https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-58393866 (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-58393866)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on September 10, 2021, 09:57:03 am
MORE students will be able to undertake their entire training in North Wales as plans push ahead to establish a medical school.

The North Wales Chronicle reported earlier this year that the medical school could be ready by 2025.

Eluned Morgan, Wales' Health Minister, said: “I want to give even more students the opportunity to study while embedded in our North Wales communities because we are committed to delivering care as close to people’s homes as possible.

We know there are challenges to recruiting staff to North Wales, which is why we want to nurture medical students educated here and encourage them to stay, first through the extremely successful C21 North Wales Programme, and longer term, through a North Wales medical school.

“The North Wales Medical School Task and Finish Group have reported back to me and I will be establishing a Programme Board to implement their recommendations and to work to establish an independent north Wales medical school.”

The C21 North Wales programme, which is delivered in partnership by Bangor and Cardiff Universities, allows students to study for all of their medical degree in North Wales, with a greater focus on community medicine and a wide range of placements including a full year at a GP surgery.

This year the programme will be expanded from 20 students to 25 and to 40 students in next year’s intake.

cont  https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19571868.investment-students-next-step-north-wales-medical-school/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19571868.investment-students-next-step-north-wales-medical-school/)

Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on September 16, 2021, 10:15:54 am
Nurses reject 3% pay offer for NHS Wales staff as ballot for strike action edges closer
A whopping 93.9% of RCN Wales members who voted said the pay award from the Welsh Government was 'unacceptable'

cont  https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/health/nurses-reject-3-pay-offer-21574310?IYA-reg=a05105fc-304d-4c50-9807-edab51f779a4 (https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/health/nurses-reject-3-pay-offer-21574310?IYA-reg=a05105fc-304d-4c50-9807-edab51f779a4)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on September 21, 2021, 02:29:23 pm
PROPOSALS to build a £67.7 million replacement for the Ablett mental health unit at Glan Clwyd Hospital are being discussed this week.

Members of the Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB) will be asked on September 23 to approve the Business Case - for the Adult and Older Person’s Mental Health Unit - ahead of submission to Welsh Government.

The facility, which aims to improve the quality of patient care, will not only replace the existing Ablett Unit at the Bodelwddan based hospital but the Older People’s Mental Health inpatient facility at Bryn Hesketh in Colwyn Bay.

cont  https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19593986.case-new-67m-adult-older-persons-mental-health-unit-glan-clwyd-hospital-go-front-board/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19593986.case-new-67m-adult-older-persons-mental-health-unit-glan-clwyd-hospital-go-front-board/)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on September 27, 2021, 09:57:48 am
The DP and the Pioneer have three paramedic stories this morning..........

North Wales paramedic on the 'tidal wave' of pressure facing ambulance crews
Dermot O'Leary said people unable to get through to GP surgeries were calling them instead
cont  https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/north-wales-paramedic-tidal-wave-21683433 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/north-wales-paramedic-tidal-wave-21683433)


IT is soul destroying turning up late to patients in need, says a deflated and exhausted paramedic, but demand is significantly increasing.
She says she is seeing unprecedented demand and fears for the public and the future as she pleads with people to play their part.

She told the Leader: “The public can save the NHS from this crisis we are in. Back in the pandemic we were only going to life threatening and urgent emergencies, we weren’t going to people who couldn’t get in touch with their GP or minor injuries.
cont  https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19602983.exhausted-paramedic-makes-heart-breaking-plea-winter-months/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19602983.exhausted-paramedic-makes-heart-breaking-plea-winter-months/)


AMBULANCE pressures are real, they are now, and unless action is taken, there are dark days in the pipeline.
After being afforded the privilege of seeing these unsung heroes right from the front seat of a paramedic car, blue lights blaring, I fully understand the concerns.

I joined Senior paramedic Sally Bottomley at 7am as she began a new day on the frontline of medical care

My first thought was yet again, TV hasn’t been very truthful. As we raced to the call, I was struck but how many people failed to move out of the way, despite time being of the essence.

All calls that day were graded as amber, serious but not life-threatening, but I couldn’t stop thinking just how many didn’t need an ambulance – which leaves people waiting hours, with hundreds of people descending on A&E.

cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19603020.spent-day-paramedic-pressures-experienced/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19603020.spent-day-paramedic-pressures-experienced/)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on September 28, 2021, 03:05:06 pm
A POLITICIAN believes the Welsh Government needs to urgently update their guidance on the resumption of face-to-face GP appointments.

Janet Finch-Saunders, MS for Aberconwy, has written to 14 practices in the area to ask how she can assist with the demands on Primary Care providers.

In a Welsh Conservative debate on the strain felt by the Welsh Ambulance Service NHS Trust last week, Mrs Finch-Saunders made clear that a compounding factor locally was the inability for some patients to access face-to-face GP appointments. Her intervention comes as the Community Health Council (CHC) told BBC News Wales that many patients have been left waiting for up to an hour on the phone to speak to someone.

cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19609970.ms-calls-return-face-to-face-gp-appointments/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19609970.ms-calls-return-face-to-face-gp-appointments/)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Hugo on September 28, 2021, 04:30:01 pm
Well done  Janet Finch Saunders for speaking out about the lack of face to face GP appointments.    I've heard a lot of people saying that as there is such a lack of seeing the GP's face to face what exactly are the GP's doing?
I'm fortunate that I was able to see a GP in January 2020 but wouldn't fancy my chances of seeing one now.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: spotty dog on September 28, 2021, 05:59:35 pm
We are very lucky to have such a proactive AM to bring to light the failing of our NHS in Wales.
She was most helpful in getting my surgery when NHS management were doing their best to stop anything that would impinge on their bottom line.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Hugo on September 28, 2021, 06:29:55 pm
I'm pleased that she was able to help you Spotty Dog and hope that you have recovered from your surgery.     I just wish that all the AM's and MP's were as pro active as her
I had to push my GP but thankfully he referred me immediately to Glan Clwyd Hospital which I appreciated
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Nemesis on September 28, 2021, 06:54:31 pm
We cannot grumble at the treatment my OH has had since last October. He had kidney failure then and to cut a long story short his last stay in hospital involved Sepsis. We are contacted regularly by his GP and he is monitored regularly.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: norman08 on September 28, 2021, 07:55:45 pm
Why did she not get in touch with her own GP surgery and ask what the problem is, 🤔 Oh yes still trying to score political points,I've had no problem at my surgery, maybe if people didn't go to the GP for some parocetomal, let's not forget this is a uk problem over 5 mill paitients waiting for surgery in England.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Hugo on September 29, 2021, 10:59:06 am
You're very fortunate with your GP surgery Norman, but I don't think that that is the norm nowadays ( excuse the pun )
What normally happens is that you phone the surgery up and can wait 20 minutes or more to get a reply.   You then get to speak to someone who isn't your GP.   
They ask certain questions about your condition and depending on the answers you give, you may then be listed for a phone call back from a medical person but again not necessarily your GP.      They then inform you that they cannot give a time to expect a ring back but do say that it can be any time up to 6.30 pm
So in the meantime you wait in and wait for the call

I must add that I'v found out that once you have got over the problems with the GP's surgery and are on the hospital list things progress much better
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on September 29, 2021, 11:48:30 am
Hot off the press.............worth reading the full article

Doctor gives passionate defence of under fire GPs and warns general practice is at 'breaking point'
GP's have come under fire in recent weeks for not offering more face to face appointments

A North Wales doctor who robustly defended fellow GP's in a post on social media says he feels 'touched' by the hundreds of messages of support he's since received.

GP's have come under fire for not seeing more patients face-to-face in recent weeks with patients taking to social media to air their frustrations.

Pre pandemic, 80% of patients saw their doctors in person.
This number has now dropped to around 56% which has attracted criticism from some patients and politicians.

Dr Mike Bloom, who runs three surgeries in Glan Conwy, Llandudno Junction and Llandudno, told North Wales Live he works between 50 to 70 hours per week and says hasn't had a week off in two years, as he can't find cover.

cont  https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/doctor-gives-passionate-defence-under-21700883 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/doctor-gives-passionate-defence-under-21700883)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Fester on September 29, 2021, 11:58:41 pm
Whilst I get where that GP is coming from, there are some really glaring problems I would with what he says.
Amongst them, he says that GPs have stopped doing things like ear syringing at their surgeries.
Well, who IS doing that then?   Because I’m stone deaf in one ear, and if the good one gets blocked or infected, then I’m in terrible trouble.
It might seem trivial to the GP, but not to the sufferer.
Also, these guys are on over £100k per year, and 50 to 70 hours a week in their chosen vocation doesn’t sound TOO ridiculous for that remuneration.
No one forces them to choose that career, and their conditions are a damn sight more pleasant and safe than many lesser paid occupations that we all rely on.










Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Nemesis on September 30, 2021, 08:33:12 am
Well, who IS doing that then?

Specsavers are I read, but at a cost !
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Ian on September 30, 2021, 08:37:31 am
Whilst I get where that GP is coming from, there are some really glaring problems I would with what he says.
Amongst them, he says that GPs have stopped doing things like ear syringing at their surgeries.
Well, who IS doing that then?   Because I’m stone deaf in one ear, and if the good one gets blocked or infected, then I’m in terrible trouble.
It might seem trivial to the GP, but not to the sufferer.

That's interesting, because it was done in stages, by stealth.  I used to need to have my ears syringed every two or three years but around the turn of the century GPs decided it ought to be done by practice nurses. Around six years ago they'd started suggesting ear syringing wasn't a good idea and a better and safer option was to put two or three drops of virgin olive oil in each ear once a month.

Now, although that does seem to work it's hard to know if it's as efficacious as syringing in removing all the wax, since without an auriscope it's impossible to know.

I also noticed that Amazon has started selling ear syringing kits, which I found curious.

Having gone over all the evidence I could find it does appear that there is a small risk of damage to the ear drum with syringing but it's close to negligible.

Medicine has long been a tightly closed profession and it's hard to escape the feeling that some GPs believe some tasks are simply too mundane.  A surgeon pal has very little time for GPs, so it seems we're not alone. Of course, having said all that some GPs still go to the ends of the Earth for their patients.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Fester on September 30, 2021, 09:16:54 pm
This kind of sums up my view, although it isn’t exactly helpful.   $lol$ $lol$
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Ian on October 01, 2021, 08:48:10 am
I've experienced 'fuel shortages' on three occasions during my life time. That reads very like the most recent one - the Tanker drivers' blockade. Somewhere I still have the coupons I was issued during the '74 Suez blockade (or something...).
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Hugo on October 01, 2021, 09:41:00 am
Funny you should mention the petrol coupons of 1974 Ian, because I've also kept mine but I've just had a look for them but can't find them.  That year I swapped my Ford Capri for a Mini Clubman partly due to the fuel shortage.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on October 05, 2021, 03:19:08 pm
I suppose a few of us have a good chance of meeting this fella, hopefully not to soon...........

Care of the elderly consultant at Llandudno Hospital honoured with award for 'Professional Excellence'

Responding how he reacted to the honour, Dr Mane, who has been based at Llandudno General Hospital for the last three years, said: “It was a moment of immense pleasure. I felt I was recognised for all the hard work that has gone in for the last 35 years in profession.

Though a consultant in care of the elderly, Dr Mane has a keen interest in cardiology, neurology and acute medicine. His clinical sub specialty is ‘falls in elderly’.

He set up the ‘falls clinics’ for the first time in year 2005 and is now working with Cardiff University to set up the courses for the ‘falls in elderly’.

cont  https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19626093.care-elderly-consultant-llandudno-hospital-honoured-award-professional-excellence/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19626093.care-elderly-consultant-llandudno-hospital-honoured-award-professional-excellence/)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on October 07, 2021, 10:14:37 am
Concerns the 'NHS can't cope' as pressures continue to significantly increase

CONCERNS have been raised that the NHS will 'break completely' as immense pressures continue.

It is no secret that demand on NHS services in Wales is significantly increasing which is leaving much worry for the winter months.

There have been ongoing reports of patients waiting for hours in ambulances outside of hospitals, 'atrocious' waiting times in A&E departments and a 'significant' number of 999 calls made.

It has also been highlighted more needs to be done with primary care services in a bid to stop the 'roundabout of hell'.

In a special report published by the Leader, Senior Paramedic Sally Bottomley said she she is seeing unprecedented demand and fears for the public and the future as she pleads with people to play their part.

She said it is soul destroying turning up late to patients in need and staff are 'deflated and exhausted', but yet demand still rises.

cont  https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19631217.concerns-nhs-cant-cope-pressures-continue-significantly-increase/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19631217.concerns-nhs-cant-cope-pressures-continue-significantly-increase/)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on October 19, 2021, 10:43:17 am
Advanced Audiology Practitioners to be introduced at surgeries to free up GPs

PEOPLE with hearing difficulties across North Wales will find it easier to access specialist support in their GP surgery, thanks to investment.

Over the next three years, Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB) will introduce Advanced Audiology Practitioners into GP surgeries across the region.

Their introduction will ensure that more people with hearing, tinnitus and balance difficulties can receive specialist care sooner and closer to home, while releasing up to 22,000 GP appointments every year.

Hearing difficulties are thought to affect around 130,000 people in North Wales, including seven in 10 people over the age of 70.

Advanced Practice Audiologists (APAs) are currently in place in 36 GP Practices across North Wales, supporting around 25 per cent of the region’s population.

"Once established, APAs will also oversee the delivery of an earwax removal service, supporting the four per cent of the population who suffer from problematic earwax."

cont  https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19656596.advanced-audiology-practitioners-introduced-surgeries-free-gps/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19656596.advanced-audiology-practitioners-introduced-surgeries-free-gps/)
Title: Re: National Health Service....Colwyn Bay Dentist
Post by: SteveH on October 23, 2021, 10:33:09 am
A DENTIST who uprooted his family to make sure NHS patients in North Wales receive the treatment they need says he intends to “see it through”.

Dr Mostafa Hassaan took over the Eirlys practice on Princes Drives, Colwyn Bay, in February.

He was met with premises which needed upgrading and, under new rules for dental surgeries, couldn’t complete aerosol generating procedures (AGP) until sophisticated ventilation was installed.

“The surgeries needed investment,” he said. “We’ve changed the ventilation (at a cost of more than £13,000) and reduced the time between appointments.

“We’ve made an investment of £300,000 on equipment and maintenance – everything my family has and more.”

The immediate focus was on cutting down the huge patient waiting list for treatment which had amassed before and during the Covid pandemic.

“We’re trying to help people who haven’t been seen for years,” said Dr Hassaan, 38. “Regulations mean we are working at a slower pace than before the pandemic but we are doing everything possible to see as many patients as we can.

“In Colwyn Bay we’ve completed 5,000 treatments which means everyone in pain has been handled and that’s something I’m very proud of.

“There’s still a huge backlog and we are prioritising patients by clinical need but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t call us if you’re in pain or discomfort.

“However please accept staff are working as hard as they can in very difficult circumstances and they will get to you. So please have patience when you call us.”

cont  https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19666955.colwyn-bay-dentists-tackle-huge-backlog-practice-takeover/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19666955.colwyn-bay-dentists-tackle-huge-backlog-practice-takeover/)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on November 05, 2021, 02:53:37 pm
THERE is currently an unprecedented demand on health and social care services across North Wales.

This demand is leading to significant delays in care provision and pressure on our emergency services.

It has led to those providing health and social care services to make a joint statement today (Friday).

It reads: "Our social care and health teams are doing everything possible and using a number of services to support people who are well enough to leave hospital but need ongoing care.

"We recognise there is a national shortage of care workers but it’s particularly challenging in North Wales and despite doing everything we can to recruit, we need more people in these positions and quickly.

"We would urge anyone who has an interest to work for the care sector to contact their Local Authority or visit https://wecare.wales/ (https://wecare.wales/) to explore the opportunities available.

"Our priority is always to ensure that every patient is discharged from hospital at the right time, because of the current challenges this is increasingly difficult which results in patients experiencing protracted delays in hospital beds.

cont  https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19697488.plea-health-care-services-face-unprecedented-demand-north-wales/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19697488.plea-health-care-services-face-unprecedented-demand-north-wales/)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on November 12, 2021, 10:41:48 am
The number of North Wales pharmacies where people can receive assessment, diagnosis and prescribed medication for minor illnesses is set to more than double over the winter months.

Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board has announced that the number of pharmacies providing an NHS independent prescriber service will increase from 11 to 25, as primary care services across the region prepare for their busiest winter on record.

The increase will enable more people to access face-to-face assessments, free of charge, as well as receive prescribed medication for a range of minor illnesses, including ear, nose and throat problems, skin conditions and urinary infections.


All pharmacies in North Wales are currently able to provide free expert advice and guidance on treating common conditions and their symptoms, often without the need for an appointment, offering a quick and convenient alternative to seeking support from a GP surgery.

For access to free health advice, 24 hours a day, including details on your nearest community pharmacy, please visit the NHS 111 Wales website.

For further information on how to access the most appropriate healthcare services please visit the BCUHB website.

cont  https://www.denbighshirefreepress.co.uk/news/19710854.nhs-prepared-busiest-winter-ever-pharmacy-boost/?ref=rss&IYA-mail=a05105fc-304d-4c50-9807-edab51f779a4 (https://www.denbighshirefreepress.co.uk/news/19710854.nhs-prepared-busiest-winter-ever-pharmacy-boost/?ref=rss&IYA-mail=a05105fc-304d-4c50-9807-edab51f779a4)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on November 22, 2021, 10:56:25 am
Two stories worth reading in full...............both from the Pioneer

OVER 20 different organisations have come together to call for a complete overhaul of the national health service in Wales.
It comes after the worst ever performance figures for hospital emergency departments and the ambulance service in Wales were published, and warnings from doctors in North Wales that patients are dying in ambulances and waiting rooms due to overcrowding.

A group of 22 organisations working across health and social care have come together to call for a single national body with strategic oversight of NHS Wales to drive improvements in patient care and hold health boards to account.

cont  https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19732494.calls-major-overhaul-welsh-nhs/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19732494.calls-major-overhaul-welsh-nhs/)


The Welsh Ambulance Service is still feeling the affects of the pandemic as pressure continues to increase in Emergency Departments.
In documents shown to the committee, the Betsi Cadwaladr Health Board lost 6,000 handover hours because of delays, almost double the nearest health board and just under 48% of urgent emergency calls had been responded to in the eight minute time frame, almost 20% below the Ambulance service target.

"We have impacts of the pandemic still playing out, the pandemic very much hasn't gone away," he said.

"We've got high levels of community prevalence of covid. Our people, our staff, our volunteers are the community, so with high community prevalence we have higher than usual sickness or absence rates. Double what we'd expect them to be."

cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19732492.no-let-pressure-welsh-ambulance-service/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19732492.no-let-pressure-welsh-ambulance-service/)

Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on November 24, 2021, 02:56:09 pm
"NHS staff have run off adrenalin for the past year and that adrenalin is running out. We're all coming to the point where we're all just crashing and burning out."

Emily Moorhouse is one of thousands of NHS staff who have either left the profession or changed roles this year.

Although the Nursing and Midwifery (NMC) register shows the number of nurses, midwives and nursing associates has grown by 1.8% to just under 745,000, it also shows the number of people leaving the profession is at its highest rate since 2017 with 13,945 quitting between April and September this year.

The NMC and NHS England do not collate data on staff leaving departments so it is not easy to establish how many have left intensive care units or A&E during the pandemic.

An A&E nurse for four years, Emily has now moved to community nursing.
"I just knew that my mental health mattered more," she said.

"Sometimes you feel like you have to push on for the sake of your colleagues. It's not even like people are making you feel like that, it's just inside of you because you work as a team and you don't want to feel like you're letting your team down because you know it's going to make the situation worse if you're not there.

cont  https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-london-59104738 (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-london-59104738)

They need more than just applause now...............
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on November 28, 2021, 02:53:09 pm
Wales had the longest waiting times and caused the highest level of 'any harm' of all ambulance services in England, Scotland and Wales, a report has found.

The report, compiled by the Association of Ambulance Chief Executives (AACE) focused on a structured clinical review, undertaken to assess the potential harm that patients experience as a result of extended delays in their handover from an ambulance crew to hospital staff.

All ambulance services in the three countries participated in the review, which took place on January 4 2021 and results were discussed during a Welsh Ambulance Service Trust board meeting this week.

The AACE report found that in England, Scotland and Wales, over 8 out of 10 patients whose handover was delayed beyond 60 minutes were assessed as likely to have experienced some level of harm, with just under 1 in 10 being classified as potentially experiencing severe harm.

In Wales, the harm identified was higher than the overall combined findings above, with 9 in 10 people assessed as experiencing harm with a quarter of these being either moderate or severe.

With waiting times in Wales, especially North Wales very high. It was no surprise to see that Wales had the longer waiting times out of the three countries, both at handover and in the emergency departments.

cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19747077.ambulance-audit-sorry-reading-welsh-service/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19747077.ambulance-audit-sorry-reading-welsh-service/)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Hugo on November 28, 2021, 05:13:01 pm
Just as an add on to what Steve has posted, these delays are happening throughout the UK.     My walking buddy Tellytubby who is in hospital in Bodelwyddan at this moment was told by a member of the nursing staff that there were 12 ambulances waiting outside now.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: norman08 on November 28, 2021, 07:20:44 pm
That review was done in January, nowEngland is just as bad if not worse, I notice it's the pioneer Quoting this, the rag that gets its stories off Facebook, it's a shame the local Tories can't have a look inside the hospitals first hand, having worked in the local hospital I seen it all.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on December 01, 2021, 09:50:03 am
The daily scramble for GP appointments, often relying on perseverance and blind luck, is to come to an end in Wales, according to the Welsh Government.

Constant re-dialing and automatic call-backs by frustrated patients should become a thing of the past under a new GP contract agreed this week.

Cardiff has put up an extra to £12m to increase GP pay and to change the way doctor’s appointments are booked.

According to the Welsh Government, the revised contracts will “make it clear the practice of releasing appointments daily at 8am is no longer acceptable”.

“I want to see an end to the 8am bottleneck where patients have to telephone their practice numerous times, day after day, to get an appointment,” said health minister Eluned Morgan.

Instead, people will be triaged – assessed by medical staff – and given an appointment "if needed".

This screening process will see some people signposted to other services or healthcare professionals, rather than their GP.

cont  https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/unacceptable-morning-scramble-gp-appointments-22324013#comments-wrapper (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/unacceptable-morning-scramble-gp-appointments-22324013#comments-wrapper)

one of the 18 comments........."So we will then be in the position of the lines being clogged whilst triage takes place"
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on December 08, 2021, 09:43:18 am
We are biased, living close to this hospital, and have used it quite a few times, we would like to see it improve and continue its good work..........

AN MS is calling for the health board to “maintain and restore” ambulatory care services at Llandudno General Hospital after they were suspended during the pandemic.

Janet Finch-Saunders has submitted a request for a meeting of the Llandudno Hospital Action Group (LHAG) to discuss the need for the services since staff were relocated to Llandudno’s Rainbow Hospital at Venue Cymru, which was decommissioned in May.

Mrs Finch-Saunders will also formally raise her concerns about the hospital in her submission to the Senedd’s Health and Social Care Committee consultation on hospital discharge and patient flows.

Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board last month said there was “low” demand for the unit before the pandemic and that it is reviewing how it will resume services “as part of a joined-up model across North Wales”.

Mrs Finch-Saunders said the hospital could provide “greater assistance and around the clock care” to tackle North Wales’ backlog in appointments.

Recent figures showed more than 320,000 appointments and 11,000 operations were cancelled between April last year and this September as the health board focused its resources on treating and vaccinating people for Covid-19.

“I have long believed that Llandudno Hospital is being underutilised,” she said. “Many constituents would automatically, and rather sadly, feel they had little choice but to drive to Glan Clwyd or Gwynedd because the emergency department has been downgraded in Llandudno.

“With entrenched concerns about prolonged waiting times for patients to receive diagnosis and appropriate treatment, the ambulatory care unit must reopen at the earliest possible opportunity.

With a central location along the North Wales coast, maintaining and restoring the services can help to relieve the strain on other sites in the region.”   ref pioneer
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: norman08 on December 08, 2021, 03:39:24 pm
Well we'll wonder where she has been all these years, this goes back before devolution, shame she's gone missing all these years, from Our hospital having every service you could have to being like a cottage hospital.
Title: Re: National Health Service....Llandudno
Post by: SteveH on December 20, 2021, 03:43:56 pm
First story..........AN MS met with the chief executive of Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB) to discuss the "potential" of Llandudno General Hospital.

Janet Finch-Saunders, MS for Aberconwy, undertook a site meeting with Jo Whitehead after discovering that no patients had been seen at the Ambulatory Care Unit (ACU) since 2021.

She also feels that delayed hospital discharged could be partially alleviated at the three district general hospitals in North Wales if patients were transferred to community hospitals such as Llandudno.

BCUHB recently revealed that Llandudno Hospital has adopted a winter initiative to help ease bed pressures at other sites.

Mrs Finch-Saunders said: "Having set about a chain of interventions to acknowledge and combat the local belief that the excellent healthcare facilities at Llandudno Hospital are being firmly underutilised, I was pleased to meet with Jo Whitehead at this site to make clear my belief that this centrally situated establishment can help to relieve the strain on other sites in the region.

“My hope is that the recent creation of a transition ward here in Llandudno will now form part of a broader reversal trend against the centralising services in the three district general hospitals.

“Importantly, Llandudno Hospital continues to host the only bone centre in North Wales and there are no plans to move or reduce this service. I now wish to see the health board build on this commitment by reviewing the list of responsibilities for the Minor Injury Unit to determine whether it can offer greater assistance and around the clock care.

“With Llandudno MIU already performing excellently, the hospital has great potential.

cont  https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19796562.ms-meets-betsi-chief-raising-concerns-llandudno-general-hospital-underutilised/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19796562.ms-meets-betsi-chief-raising-concerns-llandudno-general-hospital-underutilised/)


Second story....
STAFF are hoping a winter initiative at Llandudno Hospital will help ease bed pressures at other sites around North Wales.

The 'Bridging Service' will see patients who are medically fit to be discharged and have a suitable care package in place "stepped down" to the specially configured Aberconwy ward in Llandudno.

The six-month project will be aimed mainly at easing pressures on beds in main acute sites by offering what has been described as a “transitional” space between treatment and being discharged.

cont  https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19770944.new-initiative-hospital-will-see-patients-discharged-care-package-place/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19770944.new-initiative-hospital-will-see-patients-discharged-care-package-place/)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: norman08 on December 20, 2021, 08:02:02 pm
She's a belter, Where has she been all these years that our Once general hospital has been down graded, it is just like a care home now, we had every service up there, the reason the unit isn't open is because the staff have been redeployed else where no doubt.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on December 23, 2021, 09:32:06 am
Sounds good, but it is people who need the help, pointless having new equipment, without staff, and why does the military support cost eight million ?

Welsh Ambulance Service gets millions more funding to get through winter as pressures build
Health Minister Eluned Morgan said the emergency service is under 'great strain'

The plans include a £15m investment in a new fleet of 111 emergency vehicles "to improve fleet reliability and availability."

The new fleet will include 39 replacement emergency ambulances, 12 new emergency ambulances and 23 rapid response vehicles.

£11m will be spent to extend the military support for ambulances until the end of March and will see the number of staff increase from 100 to 250 early next year.

More than £8m has also been made available to support emergency ambulance services, and non-emergency patient transport services.

A £5m investment directly into the Welsh Ambulance Service NHS Trust will see 36 additional frontline ambulance clinicians, doubling the number of existing clinical support desk capacity to provide advice over the phone to 999 patients.

cont  https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/welsh-ambulance-service-gets-millions-22543295 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/welsh-ambulance-service-gets-millions-22543295)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Ian on December 23, 2021, 09:46:53 am
Quote
why does the military support cost eight million ?

I was wondering that, too. We already pay for the military out of our taxes, as we do with the NHS. Seems a bit rich for them to be shuffling funds around, given this is a pandemic.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on December 23, 2021, 09:58:54 am
Quote
why does the military support cost eight million ?

I was wondering that, too. We already pay for the military out of our taxes, as we do with the NHS. Seems a bit rich for them to be shuffling funds around, given this is a pandemic.

Sorry I misquoted the military support cost, should read eleven million, as in the article.  :(
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Ian on December 23, 2021, 10:05:23 am
Makes it even worse :-)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on January 05, 2022, 09:49:23 am
IMPORTANT MESSAGE FROM THE HEALTH BOARD BELOW
Our Emergency Departments across all three Hospitals are extremely busy at present. These departments have to prioritise the most seriously injured patients who need urgent care.
Minor injuries and illnesses can be treated:
• at your local Pharmacy
• at a Minor Injury Unit
• by contacting the NHS Direct Wales helpline, open 24/7, dial 111
By choosing the most appropriate health care service for you needs, you will not only be helping your local NHS services during this pandemic, but you might also be seen quicker.
               ref  Craig Y Don Surgery

The above message hit social media yesterday on many sites................

Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB) has warned that the emergency departments at three major North Wales hospitals are "extremely busy" at present.

Amid rising pressure on emergency departments in Ysbyty Gwynedd, Ysbyty Glan Clwyd, and Wrexham Maelor, the health board has urged the public to try and use community services rather than visiting A&E.

In a post on Facebook, BCUHB said: "Our emergency departments across all three hospitals are extremely busy at present.

"These departments have to prioritise the most seriously injured patients who need urgent care.

"By choosing the most appropriate health care service for you needs, you will not only be helping your local NHS services during this pandemic, but you might also be seen quicker."

With the pressures of the pandemic rising in the region once more, the health board is calling for the public to support local NHS services.

Patients are advised to utilise community services for minor injuries and illnesses, and choose the "most appropriate" healthcare service for their needs.

Those with minor injuries and illnesses can visit a local pharmacy, Minor Injury Unit, or contact NHS 111 symptom checker.

More information about local services can be found on the BCUHB website.           ref DP
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on January 08, 2022, 10:00:02 am
The Welsh Ambulance Service Trust (WAST) has shared some of the most inappropriate and ludicrous calls that they received in 2021.

Call 1
Caller: Basically, I had a piercing a few weeks ago in my ear. Everything’s been fine but last night I woke up and the piercing had gone. I can’t find the piercing and it feels like it might be in my eardrum.
Operator: Right, OK.
Caller: Normally I would go to A&E myself but I don’t actually have any money. A lift to A&E would be amazing.

Call 2
Caller: My neighbour came here and she gave me a sandwich, cheese and tomato. Anyway, I feel quite sick now. I looked at the tomatoes and there’s mildew on them.
Operator: OK, is that why you’re requiring an ambulance?

Call 3
Caller: I was mucking about with my plaster cast and it’s coming apart. I don’t know whether to get a taxi or an ambulance.
Operator: From the information you’ve given, you require a more detailed assessment by a nurse. An ambulance will not be sent at this time.
Caller: Oh, you’re joking. Are you being serious?
Operator: We’re extremely busy at the moment.
Caller: I’ll get a taxi.

Call 4
Caller: I cut my arm, my arm’s cut.
Operator: How did you do that?
Caller: I sliced it on a piece of paper.
Operator: When did this happen?
Caller: About half an hour ago.
Operator: Is there any serious bleeding?
Caller: No.

Call 5
Operator: Tell me exactly what’s happened.
Caller: Basically, my mum drank apple vinegar but mixed it with water and lemon. Now she has diarrhoea.

Call 6
Caller: Oh, hi there. Basically, I’ve got my hand in a cast. It’s been in there for three weeks and I’ve got it wet.
Operator: OK.
Caller: It’s not an actual emergency, I just need to get to hospital.

Call 7
Caller: What it is, right, I’ve got different medication and I don’t know whether I can take these or not now.
Operator: What’s your telephone number?
Caller: I don’t want an ambulance, I just don’t know if I can take my meds or not.

https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/7-most-shocking-ambulance-999-22680706 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/7-most-shocking-ambulance-999-22680706)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on January 11, 2022, 09:53:59 am
o help the NHS recover from the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, alleviate waiting times and reduce winter pressures, a further £12.5million has been pledged to support people to live independently following a hospital stay and help pharmacies support more people to stay well without needing to see a GP.

The funding will help relieve pressures on the social care system and pharmacists still feeling the effects of the pandemic.

Increased access to pharmacies will reduce pressures on GPs and other NHS services by encouraging patients to speak to a participating community pharmacist rather than their GP for advice and free NHS treatment for a range of common ailments.

“Simple things like visiting local pharmacies or minor injuries units for advice on minor health concerns, checking symptoms online using the NHS 111 Wales website or getting a COVID vaccine can make a high difference to our NHS and help people look after their health this winter.

“The funding announced today will help tackle the hospital and work force pressures within community services and social care by avoiding unnecessary hospital admissions and supporting people who currently cannot be discharged from hospitals due to insufficient care capacity return home.”

cont  https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19836973.funding-announced-support-nhs-minister-says-help-us-help-you/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19836973.funding-announced-support-nhs-minister-says-help-us-help-you/)

Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on January 22, 2022, 10:02:26 am
Update on meeting with the Llandudno Hospital Action Group (LHAG) to discuss a plan of action, in which Chairman Councillor Carol Marubbi committed to organising an LHAG annual general meeting.

Furthermore, it was agreed that the Health Board should look to undertake additional long term strategic planning to understand what staff they need in a year from now.

Mrs Finch-Saunders added: “I have long believed that Llandudno Hospital is being underutilised.

“It is incredibly sad that many constituents feel they have little choice by to choose to drive to Glan Clwyd or Gwynedd because the emergency department has been downgraded in Llandudno.

“I was pleased, therefore, to find support among members of the LHAG today that the list of responsibilities for the Minor Injury Unit at Llandudno should be reviewed to determine whether it can offer greater assistance.

“We also agreed that the Ambulatory Care Unit must reopen to patients at the earliest possible opportunity.

“Part of the problem in expanding any provision at the site is an entrenched recruitment crisis.

“This is why I will continue to urge the Welsh Government to plant the seeds for beanstalk-sized growth in recruitment through maximising the potential of a North Wales Medical School.”

cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19866216.aberconwy-ms-backs-plans-restore-services-llandudno-general-hospital/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19866216.aberconwy-ms-backs-plans-restore-services-llandudno-general-hospital/)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on February 01, 2022, 03:47:23 pm
JANET Finch-Saunders MS for Aberconwy visited Craig Y Don Medical Practice in Llandudno to learn more about the pressures being faced by primary care workers.

Mrs Finch-Saunders met with Dr Paul Emmett and Practice Manager Sue Fairburn, to further examine how to support the resumption of services at practices in the region.

The visit highlighted how the surgery have implemented a new telephone system to better handle the volume of calls that the practice receives daily, while they are also actively training their receptionists as care navigators which will help them re-direct patients to more appropriate services where required, such as opticians and dentists.

It was also outlined that services such as the Ambulatory Care Unit at the Llandudno General Hospital could be of great assistance to primary care providers as it allowed them to send those patients who required additional investigative work but may not need hospital admission.

“It appears that the reduction of these services have had a significant impact on our GP Practices, potentially and needlessly increasing number of patients admitted to hospital.

“Whilst I join with the Practice in welcoming the announcement of the new transitional ward at Llandudno Hospital, given that the scheme is scheduled to last only for 6 months, it is clear that it is merely a sticking plaster to a more entrenched issue.

“If we are to better address demand on our GPs, it is vital that the ACU reopens to patients at the earliest possible opportunity.”
(And stop the continuing depletion of local services)

full https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19887863.gp-surgery-visit-underlines-concerns-llandudnos-acu-closure/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19887863.gp-surgery-visit-underlines-concerns-llandudnos-acu-closure/)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: norman08 on February 01, 2022, 07:21:39 pm
Where has JFS been all these years that they have been downgrading Llandudno hospital 🤔  Our once great Llandudno general hospital that had every service, and now it's like a cottage hospital and offices, she must be desperate for these local elections.
Title: Re: National Health Service.....Health Warning
Post by: SteveH on March 26, 2022, 10:11:09 am
A health warning has been issued for six parts North Wales ahead of a heatwave expected this weekend. Temperatures across North Wales are set to soar over the next few days, but health experts have warned those with certain medical conditions may be adversely affected.

The Met Office has predicted North Wales could rival Ibiza this weekend, with temperatures set to reach as high as 18C. However, Public Health Wales has warned that some parts of the region will also experience high levels of air pollution, which can be dangerous for those with health problems.

The air quality in some parts of the region is set to decrease on Saturday (March 26), which means people who suffer from heart are lung conditions are at a greater risk of becoming unwell. The areas set be be worst affected are Prestatyn, Rhyl, Colwyn Bay, Llandudno, Conwy and Bangor, according Public Health Wales.

In a tweet, Public Health Wales said: "If you have breathing or lung problems, a heart condition or are elderly, remember to carry and use your medication as needed." They also shared advice from the UK Air's Daily Air Quality Index (DAQI).

cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/spring-heatwave-weekend-sparks-health-23500860?IYA-mail=a05105fc-304d-4c50-9807-edab51f779a4 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/spring-heatwave-weekend-sparks-health-23500860?IYA-mail=a05105fc-304d-4c50-9807-edab51f779a4)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on April 05, 2022, 09:58:30 am
BETSI Cadwaldr University Health Board will be tasked with making £105m in savings over the next three years. 

At a health board meeting this week, the Integrated Medium Term Plan (IMTP) 2022/25 was presented to board members for approval.

The document sets out the health board’s priorities and objectives for the next three years, including a financial plan, which must be approved by Welsh Government. 

The associated report revealed that the health board has a budget of around £1.9 billion each year for 2022/23, 2023/24, and 2024/25 – or £1,874m, £1,870m, and £1,907m for each respective year. 

Board members discussed how £40m of Welsh Government funding had enabled Betsi to ‘break even’ and balance the books for the past financial year. 

But according to the plan, Betsi must find £35m savings a year for the next three years. 

The report, though, doesn’t detail exactly how the savings will be made, although opportunities for savings are listed in the areas of planned care, unscheduled care, mental health, and other. 

cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/20043720.north-wales-betsi-make-105m-savings-next-three-years/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/20043720.north-wales-betsi-make-105m-savings-next-three-years/)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on April 06, 2022, 02:55:41 pm
THE unpredictability of Covid and future waves continues to pose a significant risk to the NHS in North Wales, says Betsi’s financial director.

Board members voted to back the Integrated Medium Term Plan (IMTP) 2022/25, which was presented at a Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board meeting.

The plan sets out the health board’s priorities and objectives for the next three years –  including £35m of financial savings to be made each year for the next three years – and will now go before Welsh Government.

But the pandemic and future waves of Covid are still seen as a major risk factor when adopting the plan. And board members heard how the virus is estimated to cost around £80m over the course of the next year.

The £80m cost includes £39m for the test, trace, and protect scheme, mass vaccinations, PPE, and long Covid .

The report concludes that 15% of people testing positive for coronavirus will have symptoms for 12 weeks or more.

cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/20046765.covids-80m-cost-north-wales-health-board/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/20046765.covids-80m-cost-north-wales-health-board/)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on April 26, 2022, 10:10:37 am
Experts have highlighted the potential reason behind a concerning outbreak of hepatitis affecting children under the age of five.

Scientists have warned children are more at risk to the disease due to lockdown amid the coronavirus pandemic.

Speaking to the European Congress of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases in Lisbon, Dr Meera Chand, head of infectious diseases at the UK Health Security Agency highlighted “something unusual”.

Dr Chand said: “Clinicians realised we were seeing something unusual… they felt this was exceptional, something you would very rarely see in this age group.

 “So I think our leading hypothesis...would probably be that we have a normal adenovirus circulating.

“We may not have seen as much of it as we have for the past couple of years. But we have a co-factor affecting a particular age group of young children, which is either rendering that infection more severe or causing it to trigger some kind of an immunopathology.”

She added: “Co-factors include a lack of prior exposure of that particular age group during the formative stages they've gone through during the pandemic. Alternatively, a prior infection with Covid or another infection. Or another co-factor could be a toxin drug or an environmental exposure interacting.”

Hepatitis symptoms parents need to look out for

Hepatitis symptoms include:

– dark urine.
– pale, grey-coloured poo.
– itchy skin.
– yellowing of the eyes and skin (jaundice).
– muscle and joint pain.
– a high temperature.
– feeling and being sick.
– feeling unusually tired all the time.
– loss of appetite.
– tummy pain.

Most of the cases of liver inflammation were in children under five, though a small number of cases in children over 11 are also being examined, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said.

Of the confirmed cases, 81 live in England, 14 are in Scotland, 11 are in Wales and five are in Northern Ireland.

The cases are predominantly in children under five who showed initial symptoms of diarrhoea and nausea followed by jaundice.

The number of children who have required a liver transplant has risen to 10 in the UK. There have been no deaths, the UKHSA added.
ref pioneer
Title: Re: National Health Service...BCUHB
Post by: SteveH on May 18, 2022, 04:15:39 pm
THE Emergency Department (ED) at Ysbyty Glan Clwyd has been rated an area of extreme concern by Health Inspectorate Wales (HIW), with calls for Welsh Government to take immediate action.

On May 9, in accordance with its escalation process, HIW held a service of concern meeting to discuss the Emergency Department at Ysbyty Glan Clwyd in Bodelwyddan at which the service was considered and consequently identified as a “Service Requiring Significant Improvement”.

Areas highlighted for urgent improvement in the HIW report included “several patient safety concerns being identified”, and the report added: “During the most recent inspection (3-5 May 2022) we identified areas where the health board’s actions in response to the previous Quality Check had not led to improvement.

cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/20147021.patient-safety-risk-glan-clwyd-amid-damning-report/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/20147021.patient-safety-risk-glan-clwyd-amid-damning-report/)

PS
BBC report

A health board watchdog has said a report into the emergency department at Ysbyty Glan Clwyd in Denbighshire is the "worst" it had ever seen.

The report by Healthcare Inspectorate Wales (HIW) has highlighted concerns around patient safety and says the department needs significant improvement.

Issues include "lengthy delays" in patients being seen by doctors.

Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board said "it must and will do better".

In a statement, the health board also apologised to patients who did not receive the care they deserved.

HIW began gathering evidence at the Bodelwyddan hospital in January.

cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-61495170 (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-61495170)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on June 08, 2022, 09:39:42 am
Welsh Government intervenes at North Wales hospital due to 'serious' concerns
Ysbyty Glan Clwyd in Bodelwyddan is now subject to 'targeted intervention' measures

full story https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/welsh-government-intervenes-north-wales-24167389?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on June 12, 2022, 09:34:56 am
North Wales GP pleads 'We're working harder than ever but the NHS is broken'
Dr Kate Davies has shared the realities of working as a GP following the pandemic

A North Wales doctor has responded to public criticism aimed at GPs in Wales amid record-high NHS waiting times. Dr Kate Davies, a GP at Abergele Surgery, said she and her colleagues are working harder than ever before but are facing unfair backlash over issues which are out of their control.

cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/north-wales-gp-pleads-were-24195380
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on June 13, 2022, 02:14:13 pm
A bit of a follow up on the last post.....

How to get the most out a GP appointment - the do's and don'ts to be treated seriously
We're currently facing two social crises, health and cost of living

GP waiting times are on the rise and many in-patients haven't been seen by a doctor in person since before the pandemic. Since Covid-19 hit, everything moved online and over the phones in a bid to still accommodate everyone safely.

However, there have been reports of overworked GP's struggling enormously to provide adequate care and support to their patients.

They posted guidance and advice for those struggling to get an appointment, and when you do, exactly how to act and what to say:

Full list of do's and dont's  https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/how-most-out-gp-appointment-24175131


Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on July 05, 2022, 09:52:26 am
Welsh Government have revealed they are working on a 'specific workforce plan' to focus on the recruitment and retention of NHS staff.

Sam Rowlands MS for North Wales has called on Welsh Government to take measures to reduce waiting lists for hospital treatment, including addressing staffing issues in the region.

Read more https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/20255871.welsh-government-working-plan-address-nhs-staff-issues/
Title: Re: National Health Service......... Precautions during the hot weather
Post by: SteveH on July 14, 2022, 09:55:58 am
THE Welsh Ambulance Service is urging the public to take precautions during the hot weather expected this week.

Warm weather generates an increase in calls to people with breathing difficulties, and with 999 demand already high, and Covid-19 infections continuing to rise, the Trust is asking the public to take extra precautions to reduce pressure on the service.

Lee Brooks, the Trust?s Executive Director of Operations, said: ?We had almost 2,000 calls to 999 on Sunday alone, which is roughly one call every minute.

?We expect demand to remain high with the increase in temperature, so we need the public?s help to ensure that the pressures we face are not exacerbated by the weather.

?Hot weather means your body has to work harder to keep its core temperature to normal levels, and this puts extra strain on your heart, lungs and kidneys.

?This means that you can be at greater risk if you have a pre-existing heart or respiratory condition, like asthma or angina.

?It?s really important to keep cool and stay hydrated, and if you?re out and about, please look after yourself and those with you.

?If you do fall victim to the sun, take one of our NHS 111 Wales symptom checkers for bites and stings, breathing difficulties, hay fever and sunburn ? it?ll help you determine the best course of action.?

Protecting yourself in the heat
Drink lots of water ? it?s important to keep hydrated as you lose more fluid than you take in during hotter temperatures and this is especially true if drinking alcohol
Keep out of the sun ? it?s best to stay in the shade between 11am-3pm when the sun is at its hottest
Wear sun cream and sunglasses ? apply a sun cream of at least factor 30 that includes UVA protection and make sure your sunglasses have UV protection lenses
Loose clothing ? wear light, loose fitting cotton clothes along with a hat
Look out for others ? keep a check on those vulnerable to the effects of heat, especially the elderly, young children and babies and those who have a heart or respiratory condition such as asthma
Never leave babies, young children or animals in a parked vehicle ? temperatures can soar very quickly in a parked car, and children under two are particularly at risk of getting heatstroke or heat exhaustion
Take care around water ? always supervise children in and around pools and seriously consider whether open water areas (rivers, lakes, etc.) are safe
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on July 18, 2022, 10:23:43 am
Ambulance delays could ? be cut at Ysbyty Glan Clwyd if a new building gets the green light, says the NHS. Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board has applied to Denbighshire County Council?s planning department, seeking permission to erect a new building.

Described as a permanent modular building, to provide an ambulance escalation facility at Glan Clwyd Hospital, the health board hope the facility will provide extra space, allowing for more patients to be admitted, freeing up ambulances and their crews. The cost of the building and its funding have not yet been revealed by the health board, but the planning application has now been registered by Denbighshire?s planning department.

cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/new-building-planned-north-wales-24504448
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on July 21, 2022, 10:07:08 am
Seems a good deal, 100 additional staff for 3 million  &shake&

THE Welsh Government has today (Thursday, July 21) announced that it will invest a further ?3 million to help improve ambulance response times in Wales.

The funding will also be used to recruit more emergency ambulance staff to help those most seriously ill or injured.

This additional funding will enable the Welsh Ambulance Services NHS Trust (WAST) to recruit around 100 additional frontline staff and introduce a new ?Cymru High Acuity Response Unit? (CHARU) service.

cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/20293669.3m-funding-aims-help-improve-ambulance-response-times/
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on July 22, 2022, 10:02:36 am
Readers comments on the above story....

Our readers have been getting in touch with us to give us their thoughts on the ?3 million funding announcement. Some think the money could be better spent elsewhere within the health service ...

Katie Jane said: "Its the hand over to hospital that's the problem, if i had a magic wand I'd make ambulance admissions separate to walk in A&E, so patients are seen straight away, and the ambulances are available pretty quick again."

Nia Lloyd added: "More hospitals! It?s not rocket science. More ambulances won?t make more space in hospitals."

Sarah Taylor added: "It?s more beds and hospital staff that are needed."

Tom Davies told us: "Throw money at it and see what happens, the root cause of the ambulance situation is the staffing at hospitals and shortage of beds, ?3m for the whole of Wales is a drop in the ocean as far as money goes."

Carol Williams said: "Yes but not only the Ambulances. It's when they get to hospitals cause they haven?t got enough staff on A&E departments so patients are sitting on the Ambulances. Can?t win."

David Cooper posted: "I don?t think 3 million will be enough."            ref pioneer
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on July 23, 2022, 10:04:28 am
A few years ago, I was in hospital and witnessed this situation, two elderly gentlemen had been there for three weeks waiting for acceptable conditions for them to leave hospital.

A recent article....
"CARE home bosses have warned the care sector staffing crisis is only getting worse and that it will inevitably cause more bed blocking problems for the NHS."

A second North Wales council has broken ranks with a fee setting group for care homes with a big hikes in the rates it will now pay. Care Forum Wales (CFW) has been pressuring councils in North Wales to raise fees which were lagging some local authorities in South Wales by thousands of pounds a year.

Earlier this year it left the North Wales Fee Setting Group ? which included representatives from the six local authorities in North Wales and the Health Board - in protest at the rates paid, with a pan region approach taken. Many care homes said they could not provide care at the rates being offered - particularly after the recent price spikes.

cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/second-north-wales-council-breaks-24556502


CONWY and Denbighshire County Councils have been slammed for paying ?unrealistically and irresponsibly? low care home fees by Care Forum Wales (CFW).
An investigation by Care Forum Wales (CFW) has revealed the local authorities are among the worst payers in Wales.
The figures are contained in a table published by CFW of the postcode lottery of fees paid across Wales.
They say the rates set by the councils were ?budge-driven? and were not based on the true cost of providing care.

Read more https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/20300912.north-wales-councils-accused-stealth-tax-care-home-fees/
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on July 26, 2022, 10:15:15 am
Surgeons have warned of year-round pressure facing the health system in Wales, as waiting lists hit a record high.

Recent data published by Stats Wales showed 722,147 ?patient pathways? in May 2022.

The ?patient pathway? data covers the time a patient waits from their referral until they are admitted to the hospital for treatment. The data includes time spent waiting for any hospital appointments, tests, surgery, scans, or other procedures.

The data show there were 260,859 waiting nine months or more for treatment, which is an increase of 2,670 on the previous month.

Professor Jon Barry, interim Director for Wales at The Royal College of Surgeons of England, said: ?The NHS in Wales is facing one of its toughest challenges yet. An unprecedented heat wave, ongoing COVID-19 pressures and escalating backlogs paint a grim picture.

?We can no longer be under any illusion that NHS pressures are confined to the winter months. We face year-round pressures so a new approach is needed.

"We need to support our surgeons and the NHS? hard-working staff by increasing surgical provision. Regional surgical hubs, or elective centres, must be rolled out across Health Board boundaries in Wales to improve the pace of recovery.

"We urge the Welsh Government to separate planned care from urgent and emergency care. If they fail to do so, patients will continue to suffer.?

cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/20574359.changes-needed-tackle-waiting-times-wales-says-health-chief/
Title: Re: National Health Service.......Dentistry
Post by: SteveH on July 27, 2022, 10:15:07 am
I cannot remember the last time I went every 6 months ?

Most adults in Wales will only visit the dentist only once a year, instead of every six months.

Wales' new chief dental officer said the change allows dentists to focus on patients who most need help.

Andrew Dickenson also said it allowed practices to take on up to 112,000 new NHS patients a year.

But the British Dental Association (BDA), which represents dentists, said the plan looks like it's "been cobbled together on the back of an envelope".

Prof Dickenson, who has been in the post since April, said improvements in oral health mean routine six-monthly check-ups are "outdated".

cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-62306931
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on August 03, 2022, 03:54:37 pm
A second English hospital is to take some of north Wales' vascular patients due to the service's "fragility".

Some already go to Liverpool for surgery but now more could go to Stoke-on-Trent.

Betsi Cadwaladr health board's vascular services are at Ysbyty Glan Clwyd, under Welsh government targeted intervention following criticism.

The board said it faced "operational challenges" caused by staff sickness and recruitment problems.

Patients are already sometimes sent from Ysbyty Glan Clwyd, in Bodelwyddan, Denbighshire, to Liverpool.

cont  https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-62398345
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on August 10, 2022, 10:17:24 am
THE Chief Executive of the Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, Jo Whitehead, has said it is ?most disappointing? that areas highlighted for improvement at Ysbyty Glan Clwyd have still not been addressed.

It comes after a report by Health Inspectorate Wales (HIW) released on Monday (August 8) gave details of areas in which the responsible health board, Betsi Cadwaladr, had still yet to make improvements by the time of a surprise inspection in May.

This follows "patient safety concerns" identified at the Bodelwyddan hospital earlier in the year, with an inspection of its A&E service back in March finding that vulnerable and severely ill patients were being left unchecked for hours at a time, and vital risk assessments were missed.

Read more  https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/20613611.health-board-unreservedly-sorry-letting-glan-clwyd-patients/
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on August 10, 2022, 11:09:28 am
Re above ...Sorry, but my computer reads 8 and closed brackets as  8)
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on August 12, 2022, 10:13:52 am
People 'crying out for more doctors not more politicians' as Senedd plans to increase member numbers
The Welsh Assembly is set to gain more MSs - but one reader argues its more doctors we need

A Daily Post reader has complained about the thousands 'languishing on waiting lists' while the Senedd plan to increase its number of members from 60 to 96.

https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/people-crying-out-more-doctors-24730647
Title: Re: National Health Service...Llandudno Hospital
Post by: SteveH on August 13, 2022, 02:17:59 pm
THE MS for Aberconwy, has urged Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board and Eluned Morgan MS, minister for health and social services, to ?unleash Llandudno General Hospital?s potential?.

This follows a visit to Llandudno Hospital, where she met with consultant surgeon Graham Whiteley, his team, and other medical professionals.

Mrs Finch-Saunders has long campaigned for more services and responsibilities to be given to Llandudno Hospital.

She was delighted to see the Bridging Service trial undertaken at the Aberconwy ward, and the operating theatre re-open.

 ?I would like to thank all the team at Betsi Cadwaladr for giving me their time at Llandudno Hospital.

?They are truly inspirational people and give me reason for hope.

?I have maintained for years that our local health facility is underutilised and has the potential to reduce pressure on the three major hospitals in North Wales.

?From listening to those who work on the ground this week, my view has been reinforced.

?What we need to see is the health board leadership and minister for health and social services take decisive action to unleash Llandudno Hospital?s potential.

?What greater sign of lack of priority given to our local hospital than the disclosure to me that there is a second theatre, but that it has sat unused since before the pandemic because it needs a ventilation system.   ........[Blxxdy disgraceful]

?Well, one should be fitted as a matter of urgency.

Read More https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/20625557.aberconwy-ms-makes-calls-unleash-llandudno-hospitals-potential/

Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Hugo on August 14, 2022, 11:54:17 am
Roughly 55 years ago they were trying to close Llandudno Hospital permanently as they were building Base Hospitals at Bangor and Bodelwyddan.      My next door neighbour at the time was Sam Owen a nice guy and a lover of Llandudno, well Sam and another man called Fred from Llanrhos campaigned in all types of weather to save the hospital and thankfully they were successful
Why are they now not taking full advantage and improving the facilities at the hospital
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SAJ on August 14, 2022, 06:32:51 pm
Hugo, whilst exploring the content of local newspapers online at Find my Past some time ago and searching for ?Cwm Place? where some of my relatives lived,  I was interested to discover numerous articles/letters relating to Mr Sam Owen. He was indeed an ardent supporter of the hospital and also campaigned for the removal of gas storage tanks sited in Maesdu Road.

I was very impressed by his commitment to issues that were of concern to the local community and wonder if he received appropriate recognition for his efforts.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Hugo on August 14, 2022, 09:43:07 pm
SAJ,  your family of Nain & Taid Thomas lived in a semi detached property which was no 34.    Adjoining them was my family the Hughes' at No 33.
Next door were two flats No's 32 and 31 and one was upstairs and the other down stairs and Sam at some stage lived in both the flats.  I have mentioned this before but will repeat it in case you hadn't read the piece.    Sam was a scrap metal merchant and he had a horse and cart and stabled the horse in his back garden in a stable he built from Fish boxes.   It didn't smell too sweet especially in the Summer. 
My Dad often borrowed the horse to keep the grass down in the back garden
Cwm Place was surrounded by fields in those days and it wasn't unusual for animals to wander into the street.   At the time Sam was living in the upstairs flat when a black and white cow ventured into the street.    Sam always kept his front door wide open and a group of lads, including at least one from the Thomas family rounded the cow up and drove it up the stairs.  At the time Sam was in the kitchen and opened his door to find the Cow in his lounge knocking every thing over
Many years later I read an article saying that although Cows can walk upstairs they cannot walk down them so it's a mystery as to what happened to the Cow
I believe that there is a plaque on the wall of Llandudno Hospital dedicated to Sam's efforts to save the hospital so it's a fitting tribute to a man who dedicated a lot of time to saving the hospital
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Hugo on August 15, 2022, 09:38:04 am
Just an add on from my previous post,    Sam was always the driver of the Horse and cart but a guy called Alfie who worked for sam used to walk the horse.
During the 1850's business must have picked up for Sam because one evening the lads from the Cwm Place area went to the Savoy cinema.    They would be Spud,  Derek, Jeff me and about half a dozen others.
Before the film came on the adverts appeared and I clearly remember the advert now.    It said " Sam Owen now changed over from horse drawn vehicle to motor vehicle" and when the Ad appeared there was a massive roar from everyone
That's how well Sam was thought of
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SAJ on August 15, 2022, 12:02:47 pm
Hugo, thanks for the interesting information and insight into life in and around Cwm Place. Sam sounds like quite a resourceful character. It?s good that his efforts on behalf of the hospital have been recognised with the plaque.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Hugo on August 15, 2022, 02:15:06 pm
Sam was indeed a resourceful character and he and Fred appeared on TV,      Bill Grundy who had a programme called People and Places interviewed the pair about the Save the Hospital Campaign, really good publicity for the cause.
Life in Cwm Place was a good place to grow up and Sam's wife Nellie was a good organiser too.   Nellie and Mrs Rawling used to arrange coach holidays for the families in and around Cwm Place and they even collected weekly payments from the families because in those days people didn't have the money to pay in full

Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on August 18, 2022, 10:23:55 am
A SHAKE-UP of the Air Ambulance could see it reach hundreds more patients thanks to analysis

The Wales Air Ambulance Charity is currently working on a world-leading, in-depth analysis which is revealing that it could attend over 500 more lifesaving missions across Wales every year.

The analysis is one of the most comprehensive conducted by any air ambulance in the world and is looking at the most efficient use of the Service?s existing resources.

The results are showing that with a reconfiguration of base locations and medical shift patterns, Wales Air Ambulance could attend up to 583 additional missions every year.

This would see the Welshpool base in mid Wales close, and the base in Caernarfon possibly moved to another location in North Wales.

At present, Wales Air Ambulance meets 72% of the total demand for its service. That could rise to 88%.

Read more https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/20668300.major-shake-up-air-ambulance-can-reach-hundreds-patients-wales/
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on August 19, 2022, 10:17:31 am
Two NHS stories this morning................I don't think any of us blame the medical staff for the mess, but it's good to be reminded, and a warning about the effect of the cost of living crisis on the already stretched NHS


This damning report is not the fault of A&E staff... they are at breaking point' says retired nurse

A retired nurse has penned an emotional letter sharing her thoughts after healthcare inspectors said they had 'serious concerns' about Ysbyty Glan Clwyd's Emergency Department

A woman who worked as a ward sister at Ysbyty Glan Clwyd's Emergency Department for 34 years says a recent report on the department's failings left her "shaken to the core". During her 50-year career in the NHS, Mair Dowell became a passionate advocate for both her patients and colleagues.

When a report by Wales' Healthcare Inspectorate expressed "serious concerns" about the state of the Bodelwyddan ED, Mair felt strongly that people should know the reality of the situation from her perspective. Mair said she was heartbroken to read such a "damning report" about a place where she was once so proud to work.

Cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/this-damning-report-not-fault-24768526?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589


NHS bosses warn of sickness and illness outbreaks in UK unless action taken over soaring energy bills

The country is facing a 'humanitarian crisis' unless the Government does more to help people, the NHS Confederation says

NHS bosses have made an ?unprecedented? appeal to the Government to take action on rising energy prices as the UK faces a ?public health emergency?. The NHS Confederation sent a letter to ministers on Friday, warning that surging costs mean people will have to choose between skipping meals to heat their homes or living in cold and damp conditions this winter.

cont https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/cost-of-living/nhs-bosses-warn-sickness-illness-24797248?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on August 20, 2022, 10:22:33 am
Ambulance services are using taxis to take thousands of patients to hospital following calls initially categorised as urgent.

Freedom of Information Act figures indicate the practice is increasing as trusts struggle with pressures.

Patients ranged from a three-day-old baby in Yorkshire to a 103-year-old in Wales.

However, the NHS said only a tiny proportion of patients were taken to hospital in this way.

Trusts told the BBC cabs are used in such circumstances only when it was clinically safe to do so.

Across England, Scotland and Wales between April 2021 and the end of January 2022, there were more than 24,000 journeys where a taxi was sent following a 999 or 111 call.

This was more than 23% up on the previous year, based on figures supplied.

In Scotland and Wales, urgent calls are categorised differently, but those services provided equivalent figures.

cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-62165808
Title: Re: National Health Service Llandudno Hospital
Post by: SteveH on September 01, 2022, 10:18:26 am
At last a bit of common sense, this is a good start in keeping the hospital alive.

New multi-million stroke unit to be based at Llandudno Hospital
It will be one of three set to open in North Wales the health board confirmed and will give patients the 'maximum opportunity to recover'

The unit will help with the rehabilitation of people who have suffered a stroke but no longer need acute care. The other unit at Ysbyty Eryri opened earlier this year, and a third is set to be announced.

Steven Grayston is the acting clinical director for therapy services at Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board and said: "We are delighted to be opening a Stroke Rehabilitation Centre in Llandudno Hospital. ?This is one of three centres we are opening in North Wales, with one in Ysbyty Eryri that opened earlier this year, and another in the East area that will open in early 2023.

Read more https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/new-multi-million-stroke-unit-24895039?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on September 06, 2022, 10:16:12 am
THE MP and MS for Clwyd West have both welcomed the news that a new multi-million-pound stroke unit will be based at Llandudno Hospital.

This unit will help with the rehabilitation of those who have suffered a stroke but no longer need acute care.

David Jones, MP for Clwyd West, called the news ?a very positive development?, while Darren Millar, the constituency?s MS, labelled it a ?much-need facility?.

Mr Jones said: "This is very welcome news for North Wales stroke patients and their families.

"Rehabilitation is vital for people who have experienced a stroke.

?I have no doubt that my constituents who need this service will be delighted to hear of the establishment of the unit at Llandudno Hospital.

"After quite a long period of adverse news about health care locally, this is a very positive development."

Cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/20908234.clwyd-west-mp-ms-welcome-new-stroke-unit-llandudno-hospital/?ref=rss&IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on September 07, 2022, 10:11:55 am
I could not agree more, well said Mr Cowell...........

A North Wales Live reader has claimed the NHS focusses too much on "system's business" such as hiring diversity and inclusion managers rather than on patients and their needs. Gareth Cowell claims Britain is suffering a "managerial disease" which has proliferated over the last 25 years as "management begets management and so on - ad infinitum!"

The Bangor resident cites the news of numerous NHS trusts hiring diversity and inclusion managers budgeting up to ?1 million, including one post at Liverpool University Hospital NHS Trust searching for a manager with a ?77k pay packet, as a symptom of the issues the UK is experiencing. Mr Cowell added: "No wonder everyone wants to be a manager...It's time for a cull of management and bureaucracy throughout Management Britain - and that includes the NHS."

Read more  https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/time-cull-nhs-management-says-24941071
Title: Re: National Health Service..Flu Jab
Post by: SteveH on September 08, 2022, 10:07:37 am
An annual flu jab is a simple way of reducing the risk of stroke, according to a ?compelling? new study. Researchers said they have found ?yet another reason? for people to get their yearly flu shot after discovering participants were 12 per cent less likely to suffer a stroke if they'd had the jab.

Study author Dr Francisco de Abajo ,of University of Alcal? in Madrid, Spain, said: ?Studies have shown that getting the flu increases your risk of having a stroke, but research is still being collected on whether getting the flu vaccine can help protect against a stroke. This observational study suggests that those who have a flu shot have a lower risk of stroke.

"To determine whether this is due to a protective effect of the vaccine itself or to other factors, more research is needed.?

The team looked at ischemic strokes, the most common type of stroke, which is caused by a blockage of blood flow to the brain. They studied a Spanish healthcare database looking at 14,322 over-40s who had a stroke, and 71,610 people of the same age who did not have a stroke.

Of this group, the team looked at whether people had received the flu vaccine at least 14 days before the stroke. More than two in five (41.4 per cent) of those who had a stroke had had a flu shot in those 14 days, compared to 40.5 per cent who did not have the illness.

cont https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/uk-news/stroke-research-breakthrough-annual-flu-24960863?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
Title: Re: National Health Service.......Colwyn Bay
Post by: SteveH on September 27, 2022, 10:24:19 am
THE BETSI Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHC) has confirmed that two GP surgeries in Colwyn Bay will be merged at the end of the year.

The Rhoslan and Rysseldene surgeries will continue to operate until December 5, when they will merge to form the new practice called West End Medical Centre.

In the meantime, the practices will be supported to do the work necessary to merge and to ensure that all patients benefit from being part of a single, larger practice.

https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/22644842.two-colwyn-bay-surgeries-merged-health-board/
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on September 28, 2022, 10:30:22 am
Patients in North Wales will have to 'accept new normal' when getting GP appointments
'Community pharmacies will also increasingly be a place to be seen if you have a minor ailment'

As the iconic Bob Dylan song says ?the times they are a-changing? and this rings especially true at Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board.

Full article  https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/people-north-wales-accept-new-25108309?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on September 29, 2022, 09:59:29 am
MORE than 700,000 people in Wales are waiting for NHS treatment following a huge increase in the past year.

The number of people on an NHS waiting list in Wales has exploded by 100,000 people in just one year, recent figures show.

The latest Welsh NHS data for July showed the highest ever number of patients waiting for treatment with 743,229 on patient pathways ? up from 644,463 the same time in 2021 ? leaving well over a fifth of the Welsh people on the waiting list.

The number of people waiting over two years is now 60,557 ? up from 15,790 a year ago ? while the number is fewer than 3,000 in both England and Scotland.

cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/22835045.nhs-waiting-list-huge-increase-past-year/
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on September 30, 2022, 10:29:39 am
Two important stories today............

The Welsh Ambulance Service is doing all it can to play its part in reducing handover times to emergency departments, to under four hours.

Good progress had been made under its new immediate release directions policy.

This policy is to deal with ?red? (immediately life-threating) or ?amber one? (serious but non-immediately life-threatening) call-outs, were there is no ambulance available to immediately respond to that patient locally because the fleet is delayed at an emergency department handover.

What that situation happens, the service makes a request to that emergency department for the vehicle to be released immediately and the trust is monitoring compliance with those directions.

cont  https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/22952831.welsh-ambulance-service-aiming-reduce-handover-times/


Record numbers of nurses are quitting the NHS in England, figures show.
   I am assuming Wales is the same, if not worse ?

More than 40,000 have walked away from the NHS in the past year - one in nine of the workforce, an analysis by the Nuffield Trust think tank for the BBC revealed.

It said many of these were often highly skilled and knowledgeable nurses with years more of work left to give.

And the high number of leavers is nearly cancelling out the rise in new joiners that has been seen.

There were just 4,000 more joiners than leavers in the year to the end of June.

But a Department of Health and Social Care spokesman said progress was being made and the government was already halfway to meeting its target to increase the numbers of nurses working in the NHS in England during this Parliament by 50,000.

cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-63080462
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Ian on September 30, 2022, 10:41:19 am
Is this a surprise? The government has, over the part 12 years, persistently underfunded the NHS while heaping more and more 'targets' on the organisation. People are realising that there are far, far more rewarding, lucrative and infinitely less stressful ways of  earning a living.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on October 06, 2022, 09:58:13 am
Councillors hope a development of over 100 new homes at Glan Clwyd could attract doctors and nurses to Ysbyty Glan Clwyd. Today Denbighshire?s planning committee voted in favour of granting permission for 108 homes on land opposite Glan Clwyd hospital on Rhuddlan Road.

The application was submitted by Mr. D Wilkinson of Pure Residential and Commercial Ltd who sought full planning permission for the homes and construction of new vehicular access and associated works. Cllr Andrea Tomlin said she hoped the application would attract staff needed at the nearby hospital.

"Having read the full report, I see no reason for this not to go through, but I do see an added reason for this to go through in view of the massive shortage of doctors and nurses at the hospital and key workers and our problems enticing them to come and work at Ysbyty Glan Clwyd,? she said. ?I think this development will help towards that cause."

cont  https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/100-homes-north-wales-village-25187353
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on October 09, 2022, 10:24:57 am
They should not be put in this position ................   &shake&

'Please support us': One nurse's powerful message as strike ballots begin over better pay

Nurses have received a wave of support after the Royal College of Nursing in Wales, England and Scotland began balloting its members over strike action. It is the first time in its 106-year history that the union has balloted and comes at a time of intense pressure for the NHS.

Yet most clearly seem to be in support of the 300,000 nurses who are threatening to walk out over pay. The result of the ballot is due next month.

cont  https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/health/please-support-us-one-nurses-25210333?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589


North Wales health board has more than 600 nursing vacancies amid call for better pay and conditions
The number of vacancies in Wales has risen from 1,719 to at least 2,690 in the last year, according to the Royal College of Nursing


There are currently 636 nursing vacancies within Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, according to the Royal College of Nursing. Since 2021, the number of registered nurse vacancies across Wales has risen from 1,719 to at least 2,690.

Within that same period, there has also been a deficit in in social care nursing staff, with 319 [experienced] leaving the profession in 2021 and only 204 [Trainees] joining. The figures paint an alarming picture of the pressure and retention issues facing the nursing workforce across Wales, and North Wales in particular.

cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/north-wales-health-board-more-25204285
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Helig on October 10, 2022, 10:35:04 am
There was a report in Saturday's paper that they are going to do to doctors what they have done to dentists. That is you will  only get to see a doctor if you pay and go privately. There are firms setting up in England which provide a doctor for people to pay to see. They cannot access a GP otherwise. It is thought the NHS GP service will collapse due to so few GPs being available now.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on October 14, 2022, 10:01:42 am
Life in A&E at Glan Clwyd Hospital after scathing reports and ?two years of hell?

MIDWAY through a bright autumnal morning at Ysbyty Glan Clwyd, Bodelwyddan, in its less-than-half-full emergency department (ED) waiting area, head of nursing Sali Williams warns not to tempt fate by breaking one of the hospital?s golden rules.

?Don?t say the Q word!? she smiles, having already seen too much in her seven months at Glan Clwyd to take anything for granted.

It?s a sensible stance to take, not least while such perennial headaches as COVID-19, staffing shortages, and demand outweighing discharges persist.

cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/23044484.life-e-glan-clwyd-hospital-scathing-reports-two-years-hell/
Title: Re: National Health Service.......Flu comes early
Post by: SteveH on October 22, 2022, 10:38:36 am
Flu comes early, with hospital cases rising

Cases of flu have climbed quickly in the past week, suggesting the season has begun earlier than normal, say officials.

People may have little immunity to flu after a break from the disease during Covid pandemic restrictions.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) says hospital and ICU admissions for the respiratory disease are rising the fastest in children under five.

Hospital rates are going up among the elderly too.

It's not clear how big a wave the UK might be in for - levels are still relatively low overall.

But health experts are urging anyone who is eligible for a flu shot to get one.

Many southern hemisphere nations have just had their most rampant influenza season for years and officials have been warning that the UK must prepare for a big, early wave of flu too.

More than 40 million people, including young children, in the UK are being offered a flu vaccine.

The over-50s and younger adults with health conditions are also being offered a Covid booster jab this autumn and winter.

Vaccination can help prevent people getting very sick.

Both shots are recommended for those at higher risk of illness.

cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-63341574
Title: Re: National Health Service.....Jobs
Post by: SteveH on October 24, 2022, 10:16:55 am
The NHS has launched its annual nationwide drive to recruit more nurses as it tries to fill tens of thousands of vacancies

The role as a ?life-changing profession? where people can make a difference to someone?s life, but the drive comes as NHS staff are preparing for a challenging winter with the combined impact of flu, Covid and record vacancies.

The campaign ? called We Are The NHS ? spotlights the varied NHS nursing roles on offer and features patients who tell of how nurses helped them towards recovery.

NHS points out that more than six in 10 people are considering a career change over the next year, and nursing degrees offer strong employment prospects. It states that 94% of nursing graduates are able to find jobs within six months

Helping people from different walks of life and settings could be offered by the available nursing roles.

https://www.wales.nhs.uk/nhswalesaboutus
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on October 26, 2022, 10:28:54 am
'Friends and neighbours' needed to help 'stranded' patients get home from hospital
Betsti Cadwaladr chairman Mark Polin believes 'community spirt' can be enlisted to prevent 'winter pressures' overwhelming the NHS

At a time when there is so much economic uncertainty, we are all going to have to help each other a lot more ? and galvanise our sense of community spirit. Research tells us such financial hardships impact directly on people?s wellbeing, including the elderly.

Coming into a winter period when we are expecting a double whammy of a virulent flu strain and the new normal of Covid infection, Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board is exploring every way of reducing the strain on services. I have spoken before about how Covid and flu can affect our workforce.

A reduced workforce inevitably means services are impacted, so we are currently asking staff to get vaccinated against both flu and Covid. I would implore every member of the public who is eligible to get their jabs when invited as well.

cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/friends-neighbours-needed-help-stranded-25352916
Title: Re: National Health Service ....Recruitment Open Day
Post by: SteveH on October 29, 2022, 10:42:11 am
NURSES at Glan Clwyd Hospital have reacted to staff shortages by arranging their own recruitment day.

The nursing professionals are busy finalising plans for the open day on Saturday, November 12, which begins at 10am and finishes at 3pm.

Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB) currently has a staffing problem; the health board has been too reliant on locum and agency staff, in common with most health boards in Wales, because of staff vacancies.

It is hoped the day will attract those interested in applying for qualified nursing roles as well as the Apprenctice Healthcare Assistant programme.

The scheme lasts for two years and apprenctices gain NVQ qualifications plus, hopefully, a full-time job on completion.

Jane Woollard, Glan Clwyd Hospital?s director of nursing, said: ?We want people aged between 18 and 25, who have an interest in healthcare, to come along and see what a rewarding career this can be.

?Nursing is a tough job, though really rewarding, and the support given by our healthcare assistants is vital. We need more and we can offer on the job training and career advancement to those who want to make it their vocation.

?We?ve seen healthcare support workers make that transition into Band 5 nursing and it fills us with pride to see their progression.

?We also want to see registered nurses on our open day. It doesn?t matter whether you are newly qualified or experienced ? it?s about compassionate care for the people of North Wales.

?We need you to work either in our acute sites or out in the community and our links with colleges and universities afford plenty of opportunity for development ? even up to PhD level if that is your aim.?

For more information about the opportunities on offer email Rhian Jones, lead recruitment nurse for Glan Clwyd Hospital, at Rhian.Jones9@wales.nhs.uk or Jane Woollard, IHC associate director of nursing, at Jane.Woollard@wales.nhs.uk
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on November 07, 2022, 10:12:13 am
Nurses are traumatised and fed up..........

Concerns about patient care and staff shortages are among the reasons nurses are backing a strike, a nurse has said.

Leanne Lewis voted in favour of a walkout in the Royal College of Nursing's (RCN) ballot, the results of which are due in a few days' time.

Ms Lewis, 47, who trained as a nurse in 1995, said: "I felt we needed to take action. Enough is enough."

The Welsh government called on the UK government to provide more funding for public sector pay rises.

The UK government said it had followed the NHS Pay Review Body's recommendations.

cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-63539587
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on November 11, 2022, 10:38:06 am
In 2018 whilst in hospital, I got talking to a nurse from Liverpool, who was an agency nurse, and was traveling over to Wales for a few weeks, because it would pay for the new kitchen his wife wanted.

Desperate NHS pays up to ?2,500 for nursing shifts

NHS bosses are increasingly paying premium rates for agency staff to plug holes in rotas, the BBC has found.

Spending in this area rose by 20% last year to hit ?3bn in England.

For many shifts, bosses have been so short-staffed they have been willing to breach the government pay caps for these agency workers, most of whom are doctors and nurses.

Separate data supplied by Labour showed some NHS trusts had paid as much as ?2,500 to nurses to fill shifts.

Out of 60 responses from trusts, 10 reported the most expensive shift cost over ?2,000, and for another 13 it was between ?1,000-2,000.

Doctors are likely to be getting even more.

The BBC spoke to one cancer doctor who was offered work for ?130 an hour - well above the cap for his role - and described the fees available as "astonishing" and a reflection of "desperation by management".

cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-63588959
Title: Re: National Health Service............Dentist academy
Post by: SteveH on November 26, 2022, 10:44:01 am
Maybe not local, but good for the area............

A new ?2.2m dental academy is hoping to fill Wales' "chronic" dental shortage by "doing something different".

The aim of the development, at Ty Glyder in Bangor, Gwynedd, is to attract new dentists and make it easier for patients to get treatment.

Betsi Cadwaladr health board has among the lowest dental treatment figures in Wales.

The recently opened facility will provide eight dental clinics and, from 2023, will house a dental academy.

This would double the capacity of the four clinics that were lost when dental practices in Bangor and Menai Bridge closed in recent years.

The practice has received more than 8,000 enquiries in three weeks and has had to freeze registration until more dentists are recruited.

"In Bangor we've had no NHS dentist provision for four years now, so rather than opening a standard practice, we've done something different" said the health board's Peter Greensmith.

Peter Greensmith said the facility will increase opportunities for training for dentists
The building, which contains a high street dental practice, training academy and a community dental service, will replace the former clinic at Ysbyty Gwynedd.

"The capacity which we bring through the practice was much needed, but we also needed something to attract people to stay in north Wales and to come and work in north Wales," explained Mr Greensmith.

Dr Joanna Smith has just been appointed as one of the new practice dentists, and one of the things that attracted her was the ability to work and study at the same time.

"I actually got offered the job today and got the great news that I'm going to be able to work in general dental practice here in this beautiful location, and do a master's degree," she said.

"As a dentist you tend to pick between going into general practice, so being like a high street dentist, or going into hospital. To be able to have almost a hybrid of both of those here is excellent."

cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-63755892
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on November 29, 2022, 09:59:25 am
Healthcare services across North Wales are facing a "perfect storm" of winter pressures, according to the health board. With a peak in Covid and flu cases expected in early December, Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB) has stressed the importance of reducing the risk of infection to lessen the impact on services across the region.

Betsi Cadwaladr faces increased pressure on services every winter, but this year they are up against unprecedented demands. The so-called "triple threat" of respiratory infections - Covid, flu, and RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) is expected to peak over the coming week.

Combined with infection rates, the recently announced nursing strike in December is set to add to pre-existing staffing issues across the region. Alongside wider issues such as the cost of living crisis, soaring energy costs, and fuel shortages, the health board has warned it's facing a "perfect storm."

BCUHB says contingency planning for winter 2022/23 has been months in the making, to ensure that patients and staff are protected. Part of this planning included re-introducing face coverings to healthcare settings on November 14, after there was an increase in Covid-19 transmission within hospitals.

cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/perfect-storm-winter-pressures-facing-25620133
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on November 30, 2022, 02:12:42 pm
Cost of living 'another stress' for NHS staff with many 'feeling the pinch'
Betsti Cadwaladr chairman Mark Polin says financial hardship amongst healthcare staff is 'of real concern'

It seems all four nations in the UK are starting to feel the bite of recession and here in Wales we are no exception. Obviously, this affects the health of society as a whole, with plenty of research showing how the physical and mental wellbeing of those enduring financial hardship is disproportionately affected.

Inflation is also having an effect on the health board. As just one example, we are expecting to pay an extra ?30m in energy costs in this financial year. Yet, the effect on those who care for our communities is of real concern to me.

We know many of our staff are feeling the pinch as prices rise and it is another stress on top of nearly three years of coping with Covid. The subsequent huge influx of patients, often with severe illness as an effect of the pandemic, has only served to put them under more pressure.

As a board we are committed to helping our colleagues, who consistently go above and beyond the call of duty to try and keep the population safe and well. We have a dedicated group looking at what assistance we can give to staff to help them through this most trying of times ? and pay is currently a huge issue for nurses, as it is for many workers.

We cannot control the pay rise our nursing staff receive. This is something dictated by Central Government - and I understand only too well the pressures upon finances. What we do know for sure is Royal College of Nursing members have voted for industrial action across most health boards in Wales - and Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board is one of those which could be affected in some way.

cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/cost-living-another-stress-nhs-25630897
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on December 01, 2022, 10:40:29 am
More than 11,000 ambulances a week are caught in queues of at least an hour outside A&E units in England, a BBC News analysis shows.

The total - the highest since records began, in 2010 - means one in seven crews faced delays on this scale by late November.

Paramedics warned the problems were causing patients severe harm.

Ambulance system 'facing perfect storm'
Both ambulance response times and A&E waits have hit their worst levels on record in all parts of the UK in recent months.

They are thought to be among the worst delays in the country but none of England's ambulance services is close to the target, while Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland are all missing their targets.

cont / stats https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-63808516
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on December 08, 2022, 10:55:10 am
FROM treating patients in cupboards and corridors to working 12-hour shifts without breaks, doctors have laid bare their experiences to highlight the risks to patient and staff safety.

The doctor?s union BMA Cymru Wales has released the findings of their NHS pressures portal, a place where doctors from across Wales have shared accounts of the state of their working conditions and the pressures they face on a daily basis.

One account from the portal, by a doctor at Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB), said: ?Waiting for 12-14 hours in the emergency department is now the norm. Practices such as using corridors, which was stopped during the first waves of Covid, unfortunately has now restarted.?

cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/23176592.doctors-describe-working-conditions-wales-pressures-faced/
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on December 13, 2022, 10:22:18 am
Welsh budget for NHS and public services to be revealed
The Welsh government is giving councils and the NHS ?70m so social care workers can receive the current real living wage rate.

It was a Labour manifesto commitment, but workers will not get the benefit of the ?10.90 wage rate until June 2023.
The Welsh government has said it will do all it can to protect frontline public services in its budget.

cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-politics-63945892


The nurses strike planned for Wales will go ahead after the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) and Welsh government failed to come to a pay agreement.
Nurses in all but one health board in Wales will be striking on Thursday and 20 December.

The RCN said Health Minister Eluned Morgan had failed to put forward an increase to the current pay award.
The Welsh government said it could not make an increased pay offer without extra funding from the UK government.

cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-63950032
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on December 15, 2022, 10:15:27 am
Three stories this morning ...........

The GMB, the largest union in ambulance services, is suspending its participation in the process used by the Government to set pay in the NHS.
Thousands of its ambulance members are set to strike next week in a bitter dispute over pay. Talks to avert the walkouts have stalled as the Government insists it is sticking to the recommendations of the independent pay review body and refuses to move on pay.
cont https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/uk-news/gmb-loses-faith-nhs-pay-25755657?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589

BETSI Cadwaladr University Health Board's executive director of nursing has issued a statement ahead of strike action taking place tomorrow (Thursday, December 15).
Angela Wood has thanked members of the public for their understanding, and said there had been extensive negotiations with the Royal College of Nursing over staffing levels ahead of the action.

She also reiterated members of the public should not call the health board enquiring about any planned appointments on the day of action.
cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/23190980.nursing-strikes-betsi-cadwaladr-health-board-issues-statement/


Public urged don't dial 999 unless it's life-threatening as nurses strike in Wales for first time
Routine appointments and elective surgery likely to be cancelled as NHS prepares for day of disruption

The Welsh Ambulance Service is urging people only to dial 999 if they have life threatening injuries or illnesses as nurses take strike action in a row over pay for the first time in history. Hospitals and NHS services Wales face major disruption as members of the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) stage a two walk-out today and on December 20
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/cost-of-living/public-urged-dont-dial-999-25755356
Title: Re: NHS .....BCUHB updates ahead of second nurses' strike
Post by: SteveH on December 17, 2022, 10:25:34 am
BETSI Cadwaladr University Health Board have put out a message to patients ahead of expected strike action next week.
Members of the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) in England, Wales and Northern Ireland took part in strikes on Thursday, December 15.

The second strike is set to go ahead on Tuesday (December 20).

In a statement, BCUHB said: "We anticipate that Industrial action will once again take place within BCUHB on, Tuesday, December 20 2022. We will provide further updates as and when necessary over the coming days. At present, our guidance on attending appointments and treatment remains the same: Patients due to attend an appointment or treatment at one of our sites on Tuesday, December 20 should attend as normal, unless told otherwise.

cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/23197379.bcuhb-updates-patients-ahead-second-nurses-strike/


Hospitals told to free up beds for ambulance strike
Hospitals should free up beds to prepare for "extensive disruption" caused by ambulance staff strikes in England, NHS bosses have urged.

They said patients would need to be safely discharged where possible ahead of a "very challenging" period.

Ambulance staff are to walk out on 21 and 28 December in a dispute over pay.

Business Secretary Grant Shapps said pay rises for ambulance workers and nurses were decided by independent pay review bodies.

The co-ordinated walkout in England and Wales by the three main ambulance unions - Unison, GMB and Unite - will affect non-life threatening calls only.

Unison, Unite and GMB are taking action on 21 December. GMB union members will go on strike again on 28 December.
The walkouts will involve paramedics as well as control room staff and support workers.
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-64005274
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on December 18, 2022, 10:14:57 am
As England announce that 1,200 troops to cover for ambulances and Border Force https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-64012800

Wales has said........ Military will not drive ambulances in Wales

The military will not to be asked to drive ambulances in Wales during strikes, the Welsh government has said.

It comes as the UK government announces plans to cover for striking ambulance staff over Christmas in England.

Citing public safety concerns, it said arrangements had been made to deploy 1,200 members of the military and 1,000 civil servants.

But the Welsh government said it had "no plans" to use the military for frontline ambulance services.

A spokesman said: "Assistance from the armed forces has been agreed for logistical support, helping ensure that available ambulance capacity is used to the best effect."

In England the NHS has also asked hospitals to free as many beds as possible.

The Welsh government said NHS Wales and the Welsh Ambulance Service were "continuing to work closely on arrangements with staff and unions ahead of the strikes".

Some 10,000 ambulance staff are striking across most of Wales and England

cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-64014901
Title: Re: National Health Service ...Information for pregnant women
Post by: SteveH on December 19, 2022, 10:29:43 am
A first-of-its-kind mobile App has been launched to help support pregnant women with information from NHS professionals. 

The App called Foodwise in Pregnancy, includes six sections to work through at your own pace with recipes, shopping tips and a meal planner, as well as step-by-step exercises ideal for pregnancy.

The App also allows people to set goals throughout their pregnancy, record food and exercise activity, and includes interactive games, quizzes, and tools.

Public Health Dietitian Andrea Basu and dietetic colleagues from Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB) have been working with Nutrition Skills for Life, which is an organisation made up of dietitians and nutritionists from Health Boards across Wales, to help plan, develop and review content for the App.

cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/23199451.north-wales-health-board-release-app-help-mums-pregnancies/
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on December 20, 2022, 09:45:40 am
North Wales health board declares 'critical incident' over unprecedented winter demand
'We have postponed all but the most urgent procedures in our hospitals'

North Wales health board bosses have declared an 'internal critical incident' amid unprecedented winter demands. Betsi Cadalwadr University Health Board says the service is struggling with winter viruses, concerns over Strep A, cold weather injuries and more nurse strike action.

As a result, all but the most urgent procedures have been postponed in hospitals across the region, in a bid to mitigate the impact.

BCUHB interim chief executive Gill Harris, said: "The demand on services right across the health system over recent days has been unprecedented due to a combination of winter viruses, parents seeking help due to concerns about Strep A and injuries associated with the cold weather.

"This has meant extremely long waits for patients to be seen ? particularly at our hospital Emergency Departments. The Royal College of Nursing industrial action that is due to take place again tomorrow and the Wales Ambulance Service action on Wednesday will limit our ability to respond even further."

https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/betsi-health-board-declares-internal-25787456


LIVE BBC report     Government refuses to negotiate pay with striking nurses
Why aren't nurses striking in Scotland?

cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/live/health-64027867

Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Helig on December 20, 2022, 10:39:06 am
The nurses in Scotland have settled their pay award with an offer of 7.5% increase and up to 11.24 % for the bottom pay bands.

The strikes which were set to hit the Scottish Ambulance Service and the wider NHS are now off.

https://inews.co.uk/opinion/covid-origin-debate-now-murkier-than-ever-2035901
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on December 21, 2022, 10:27:51 am
'Nurses are for life, not just for Covid' North Wales strikers hear on second day of action
'For change to happen and for the government to listen to us, this was the only option'
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/nurses-life-not-just-covid-25800933?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589


Nurse strikes Wales: Pay dispute 'beginning of end for NHS'
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-64027344


Welsh Government urges everyone to do four things ahead of ambulance service strikes
'It?s vital that all of us, as users of our NHS, do all we can to minimise pressure on our health service'
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/welsh-government-urges-everyone-four-25801768?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589


Live BBC reporting
Don't get so drunk you need A&E during strike - NHS boss   
Advice for the public during the strikes today
The NHS has issued guidance to the public amid strikes today held by ambulance workers, including paramedics and call handlers, in England and Wales:

Use NHS services "appropriately" - they advise using 111 online as the first port of call for health needs and only using 999 if it is a life-threatening emergency
Patients with non life-threatening conditions will have to wait longer than usual for an ambulance and may be asked to make their own way to hospital - although it is important that they get medical advice from 111 or 999 before doing so
The public are asked to take "sensible steps" to keep themselves and others safe during the disruption, such as drinking responsibly or checking up on a vulnerable family member or neighbour
The NHS says it will contact anyone whose medical appointment has to be rescheduled due to strikes. Anyone who has not been contacted is asked to attend appointments as planned
People are reminded that general practice, community pharmacies, and dentistry are not impacted by the strikes

cont Live report           https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/live/health-63991278
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Hugo on December 21, 2022, 03:37:18 pm
The nurses in Scotland have settled their pay award with an offer of 7.5% increase and up to 11.24 % for the bottom pay bands.

The strikes which were set to hit the Scottish Ambulance Service and the wider NHS are now off.

https://inews.co.uk/opinion/covid-origin-debate-now-murkier-than-ever-2035901

That's really positive news for Scotland and nice to hear that something constructive is being done up there.     I felt so sorry and upset to see the Nurses having to go on the picket line after all the front line work that they have done, especially over the last 3 years during lockdown
Boris' promises of ?350 million a week going to the NHS and 40 new hospitals to be be built plus 50,000  new nurses has been shown to be nothing but lies
The shortage of staff in the NHS means that more work has to be contracted out to the private sector and this way the Tories will be dismantling the NHS bit by bit

https://www.theguardian.com/society/2020/jul/09/boris-johnson-pledge-to-recruit-nhs-nurses-in-doubt


Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on December 22, 2022, 10:34:13 am
Major disruption as Welsh Ambulance staff strike but 'demand is manageable'
Only life-threatening calls were being responded to for the first of two planned strike days over the Christmas period

People were advised to only call 999 if they are seriously ill or injured and there is a risk to life with calls also expected to see major delays and wait times. In some cases it was reported that staff were asking patients to make their own way to hospital if treatment was required.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/major-disruption-welsh-ambulance-staff-25811586


Ambulance strike: A&Es braced for influx of post-strike patients
Hospitals were quieter than normal during Wednesday's ambulance strikes, but Thursday is likely to be "very challenging" with lots of patients turning up, health bosses say.

Only the most serious 999 calls were responded to.
But there was no evidence of people going to A&E in taxis or their own cars, NHS Providers told the BBC.

Thousands of paramedics, call handlers and technicians took action in England and Wales on Wednesday.

Chief executive of the NHS Confederation, Matthew Taylor, said while there had been a reduction in 999 calls on Wednesday there had been an increase in people phoning 111, as well as more people being referred to out-of-hospital services.
Cont  https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-64053080


Doctors in Wales consider striking for the first time
Almost two-thirds of hospital doctors surveyed by the British Medical Association (BMA) Cymru said they would be willing to take some form of industrial action.

The BMA's Welsh Council chairwoman, Dr Iona Collins, said the result of the survey was "upsetting to all".

The Welsh government said it understands the strength of feeling among doctors about the pay offer.
Dr Iona Collins added that it was "gut-wrenching for doctors to consider walking away from work".

"Without action now, patients will continue to suffer as a direct consequence of an under-funded NHS with insufficient direct clinical care."
cont  https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-64062631
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on December 23, 2022, 10:37:57 am
A multi-million pound fraud investigation has begun at Wales' largest health board.        ))*

Specialist investigators have been called in to Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board after auditors discovered at least ?122m was allegedly not properly accounted for.

Audit Wales is also conducting a "high level review of board effectiveness" to understand what went wrong and how.

The Welsh government said it was unable to comment on an active investigation.

Issues were first uncovered earlier in the year when auditors found a number of "significant errors" in the health board's account for the 2021-22 financial year.

They allegedly found there was ?72m of unpaid invoices and bills listed in the accounts, but could not find evidence that they existed.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-64068921
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on December 24, 2022, 10:28:14 am
An ambulance strike that was planned for Wednesday, December 28 has been suspended by the GMB union.

In a statement, the GMB said this gesture was done as a "thank you to the public" after the "incredible support" they gave striking ambulance workers on Wednesday, December 21.

Three unions - Unison, Unite and the GMB union - were involved in the strike action, which was taken because of disputes over pay and working conditions.

Rachel Harrison, GMB National Secretary said: ?We are overwhelmed by Wednesday?s amazing public support for our paramedics and ambulance staff.

?People across the country have been wonderful in backing us and we care so much about them too. That?s why we are suspending the proposed GMB industrial action on the 28th December.

?We know the public will appreciate being able to enjoy Christmas without any additional anxiety. They support us and we support them.?

cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/23211583.ambulance-strikes-gmb-union-suspends-planned-action-december-28/
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on December 31, 2022, 11:35:47 am
Last week a neighbour required an ambulance due to a recurring problem, this was a last resort, after no replies from the locum or the 111 service, he was quoted an 8 hour wait, which caused a lot of worry, but all ended well.

Hospitals in Wales are in an unprecedented situation as they tackle flu, according to the country's top doctor.

Dr Sir Frank Atherton said all health boards are "at the highest level of escalation" and described the system as the busiest he had seen.

The pressures mean staff feel "wiped out" and "destroyed" at the end of their shifts with many left in tears, according to one consultant.

It comes as flu cases are rising.

For the week from 19-25 December, there were 1,877 cases recorded by Public Health Wales, with 369 of these leading to hospital treatment.

The week before, the figure was 236 leading to hospital admissions, and it was 53 a month before.

"Traditionally people have called 111, but even that is under significant pressure," Dr Atherton said.

"We have had double the number of calls in a week compared to the same time last year."

cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-64126632
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on January 02, 2023, 11:17:14 am
Not an update on above, but connected, speaking with a senior NHS member, I said I hope you get the rise you all deserve, the surprising reply .............its not the money ..........North Wales cannot get staff to the area ? !!

Some A&E departments are in a "complete state of crisis", the Royal College of Emergency Medicine has said, as it highlighted the extreme pressures facing the NHS this winter.

Dr Ian Higginson, the college's vice-president, said he was in "no doubt" there was a risk to patients.

Hospitals are facing soaring demands, which experts believe is in part driven by winter illnesses like flu and Covid.

The government said it recognised the pressures faced by the NHS.

According to the Royal College of Emergency Medicine (RCEM) - which monitors standards of care in UK A&E departments - the NHS is facing the worst winter for A&E waits on record.

A number of hospitals have declared critical incidents in recent days, meaning they cannot function as usual due to extraordinary pressure.

Other trusts have told patients to avoid emergency departments unless their condition is life-threatening.

Emergency consultant Dr Higginson told BBC Radio 5 Live the waits being experienced by patients in emergency departments were "appalling" - and said he had heard of waits of up to four days.

"Emergency departments are in a really difficult and in some cases a complete state of crisis right now... and in many cases we are unable to provide care at the standard we would like.

cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-64142614
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: DVT on January 02, 2023, 11:27:34 am
It does seem that the media make it the big thing that the various unions are pressing for more money, which is not totally the case as per above.  Yes, many do deserve more money but the amounts demanded are probably impractical and will only serve to increase everyone's cost of living as price of goods and services will increase..

My brother-in-law works for the railway and the big issue there is not the money, but the conditions and the management are planning a 5% reduction in maintenance, with work normally carried out every 3 months now going to be every 6 months, so halving much of the work and a percentage of the employees, as well as increasing safety risks.  Also doing away with guardsmen, leaving the driver to look after everyone on board.

The media should report facts correctly, not sensationalise things.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Ian on January 02, 2023, 11:35:36 am
It does seem that the media make it the big thing that the various unions are pressing for more money, which is not totally the case as per above.
The media should report facts correctly, not sensationalise things.

I absolutely concur. The major issue is that almost all the tabloids are extreme right wing (Mail, Express, Sun etc.) and of the broadsheets most charge for viewing, unlike the Guardian and the Observer.

Incidentally, all the newspapers except for two are owned by 'Media Tycoons', who are generally extremely wealthy or landed gentry.  How we ever manage to get a Labour government given the massively Tory-backed news media is astonishing. And a lot are owned by wealthy individuals who aren't even British.

What makes the Guardian and Observer unique, however, is they they're both owned by Trusts and thus don't have to make the owners lots of money.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on January 02, 2023, 02:25:02 pm
Posted by: DVT
? on: Today at 11:27:34 am ?Insert Quote
It does seem that the media make it the big thing that the various unions are pressing for more money, which is not totally the case as per above.  Yes, many do deserve more money but the amounts demanded are probably impractical and will only serve to increase everyone's cost of living as price of goods and services will increase..

My brother-in-law works for the railway and the big issue there is not the money, but the conditions and the management are planning a 5% reduction in maintenance, with work normally carried out every 3 months now going to be every 6 months, so halving much of the work and a percentage of the employees, as well as increasing safety risks.  Also doing away with guardsmen, leaving the driver to look after everyone on board.

The media should report facts correctly, not sensationalise things.

Whats the answer ?

North Wales' health board has postponed all non-urgent procedures after declaring another internal critical incident. Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB) has postponed all but the most urgent procedures and appointments in hospitals on Tuesday, January 3, to try and cope with the unrelenting demand.

The health board was forced to take similar measures last month, when services were hit by unprecedented winter pressures. However, despite already putting hundreds of appointments and procedures on hold in December, the health board says it is still struggling to cope with "prolonged, unprecedented demand across the health and social care system."

The health board has apologised for the disruption and said those affected will be contacted to reschedule as soon as possible. Patients with appointments from January 4 onwards have been told to assume they are still going ahead, unless they are contacted directly by the health board.

cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/north-wales-hospitals-declare-another-25877271
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on January 03, 2023, 10:19:06 am
Ministers are under mounting pressure to respond to "intolerable and unsustainable" pressure facing the NHS.

Senior doctors described the NHS as on a knife edge, with some A&Es in a "complete state of crisis".

Labour criticised the government's management of the health service, while the Liberal Democrats called for Parliament to be recalled early.

Transport Secretary Mark Harper said he recognised staff were under "tremendous pressure".

But he said the government had offered more resources to the NHS and social care to help services cope.

Hospitals are experiencing soaring demand, which experts believe is in part driven by winter illnesses like flu and Covid.

Some 13% of hospital beds in England are filled with people with Covid or flu, NHS England figures showed.

In some places, like Shropshire and Gloucestershire, people are being advised to only visit A&E in extreme circumstances.

In recent days, a number of hospitals have declared critical incidents suggesting they cannot function as usual due to extraordinary pressure.

cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-64148967
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on January 05, 2023, 10:18:23 am
I agree with their views, I find the Ambulance programme very informative, and it would go a long way to help our understanding of their work.

BBC One's Ambulance a 'TV show everyone should be made to watch' as many viewers make same point about NHS
'Everyone should be made to watch Ambulance so people have a small insight into what the ambulance service do'

"Everyone should be made to watch ambulance so people have a small insight into what the ambulance service do and how many time wasters there are!
cont https://www.walesonline.co.uk/lifestyle/tv/bbc-ones-ambulance-tv-show-25897932?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589


'Pay carers more to ease NHS crisis in North Wales'
Mary Wimbury, the chief executive of Care Forum Wales, says sector can help relieve the pressure on hospitals

This week the Betsi Cadwaladr Health Board said that 15% of current patients are medically fit for discharge but can?t be sent home due to gaps in social care. This means that hundreds of patients are well enough to go home but lack of resources in the community mean they are unable to do so.
cont  https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/pay-carers-more-ease-nhs-25897919


Disabled parking at a North Wales hospital has been branded "abysmal". There are around 20 disabled parking spaces on the near side of the car park opposite the entrance to Ysbyty Glan Clwyd in Bodelwyddan.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/disabled-parking-situation-north-wales-25891498


GP Surgeries across North Wales are 'under significant pressure' says Betsi Cadwaladr Health Board.
On Monday, January 2, Betsi Cadwaladr Health Board declared a critical incident due to prolonged and unprecedented demand.

The North Wales health board has said that it has a ?very high volume? of patients with flu, COVID and other respiratory viruses, which had led to increased pressure.

Dr Jim McGuigan, GP and Deputy Director of Primary Care at Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, said:  ?GP surgeries across North Wales are currently working under significant pressures and experiencing high levels of demand for appointments due to a combination of winter viruses, concerns over Strep A and other conditions.
cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/23229777.gp-surgeries-across-north-wales-experiencing-high-level-demand/
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on January 06, 2023, 09:25:52 am
NHS Wales: Patients can be sent home without care package
Senior NHS staff have been advised by the Welsh government to discharge people who are well enough to leave, even without a package of care.

But one GP called the announcement "terrifying" and warned that patients could deteriorate and end up back in hospital.

The seven health boards in Wales have nearly 1,800 patients medically well enough to leave hospital.
The Welsh government has called the NHS situation "unprecedented".

The message comes after one health leader said the NHS was on a "knife-edge" in terms of its ability to cope.

The letter from the chief nursing officer and the deputy chief medical officer to the health boards offered "support and advice to ensure patients are kept as safe as possible, and services are kept as effective as possible over the next period".
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-64160868


NHS Wales: Health boss apologises to patients for 'poor' experience
Wales' NHS chief executive has apologised to patients who suffered a poor experience as hospitals struggled with demand.

Judith Paget denied that the service had underprepared for the "unprecedented" pressure in the service.
Her comments come after a man spoke of having to carry his grandfather into A&E after he suffered a cardiac arrest.
Ms Paget apologised to him for the "hugely distressing" situation.

She said a controversial decision to support the discharge of people without a care package was taken to "try to improve things" for patients, their families and staff.

Meanwhile First Minister Mark Drakeford denied there was a lottery for emergency care.
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-64172367
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on January 07, 2023, 10:36:46 am
A day in the life with the Welsh Ambulance Service

"I've been spat at and shouted at, but I'm just trying to help people."

It seems that most emergency service workers have experienced some form of abuse while working, and for advanced paramedic practitioner (APP), Ema Geddes, it is no different.

Mum of two, Ema has been with WAST for 16 years but a paramedic for 12. Having started in the Welsh Ambulance Service control room, she was inspired to take up a career on the front line.

Now, she plays an important role in trying to reduce ambulance waits across Flintshire and Wrexham.
https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/23229853.day-life-welsh-ambulance-service-wrexham/

PM Rishi Sunak to hold crisis meeting over NHS pressures
The prime minister, health secretary and Treasury ministers are to meet health experts to help tackle crucial challenges facing the NHS in England.

Reports have emerged of patients spending days on trolleys because of shortages of beds in some hospitals.

Rishi Sunak has promised to cut long waiting times for routine operations within two years.

But Labour says patients deserve "more than a talking shop" and the Lib Dems say it is "too little too late".

Representatives from the public and private sectors are attending Saturday's forum at Downing Street, alongside chief executives and clinical leaders of NHS organisations, local areas and councils from across the country, plus medical and social care experts.

Amanda Pritchard, chief executive of NHS England, and Sir Chris Whitty, chief medical officer for England, are also taking part in the meeting.

Senior doctors say the NHS is on a knife-edge, with long waits for emergency care, routine operations, GP appointments and care for patients when they are discharged from hospital.

High levels of flu and Covid, a wave of strike action and a cost-of-living crisis are also putting huge pressure on the health service.
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-64189116
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on January 08, 2023, 10:28:04 am
NHS pay dispute: Health secretary hints at pay boost offer to unions

Health Secretary Steve Barclay has suggested health workers could get a bigger pay rise in April - if they agree to "efficiencies" in the NHS.

Writing in the Sunday Telegraph, Mr Barclay said he remains "ready to engage" with striking unions on how the government can "support the workforce".

The NHS has seen widespread strikes in a dispute over this year's pay offer.

Union leaders say ministers must act on the current dispute, and this month's walkouts will go ahead.

Meanwhile, shadow health minister Andrew Gwynne said a decade of underfunding by Tory governments had stretched the NHS.

It comes a day after health leaders held talks with the government about tackling the challenges faced by the NHS - which Prime Minister Rishi Sunak described as "highly valuable".

On Monday, health unions have been invited to meet Mr Barclay to discuss pay for 2023-24 from April - and in his Telegraph opinion piece he argued "we should be moving forward and having constructive conversations about what is affordable this coming year, rather than going back retrospectively".

But speaking to the BBC's Today programme on Saturday, Royal College of Nursing General Secretary Pat Cullen said the pay increase nurses would receive in 2022-23 was "fundamental" to the ongoing dispute.

cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-64201200
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on January 09, 2023, 10:23:19 am
Welsh ambulance workers to strike for two days this month
Unite the union members at the Welsh Ambulance Service will walk out on January 19 and 23 for 24 hours

cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/welsh-ambulance-workers-strike-two-25915899?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589


NHS to buy care beds to make space in hospitals
Thousands of NHS patients in England will be moved into care homes as part of the government's plan to ease unprecedented pressure on hospitals.

The NHS is being given ?250m to buy thousands of beds in care homes and upgrade hospitals amid a winter crisis.

The move aims to free up hospital beds so patients can be admitted more quickly from A&E to hospital wards.

Labour's shadow health secretary, Wes Streeting, said the announcement was "another sticking plaster".

The plans will be included in an emergency package to be unveiled by Health Secretary Steve Barclay.

Later in the day, Mr Barclay will outline a series of measures to address pressures on the NHS, including long waits for emergency care and delays to discharging patients who are medically fit to leave hospital.

cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-64204367
Title: Re: National Health Service...........Health Care
Post by: SteveH on January 10, 2023, 10:54:29 am
With all the bad news at the moment, nice to see something positive for a change, I wish them success, and hope their training methods spread to others...........

Llandudno care home staff experience being in residents' shoes

STAFF members at a care home experienced first-hand what it might feel like to be a resident.

The team at RMBI Home Queen Elizabeth Court, in Llandudno, were presented with various challenges such as wearing a wet incontinence pad [as part of a training session] and were tasked to assist each other with personal hygiene - washing face and neck.

The activities were carried out twice to demonstrate good and poor practices.

The aim of the training programme Experiential Learning, was to help staff develop a better understanding of how residents should be cared for, and develop a greater sense of empathy.

Queen Elizabeth Court?s Training Manager, said: ?All staff at our Home, at every level, have been through this training. It?s part of our induction process. We feel it makes such a difference when we get to experience being in the residents? shoes, rather than to read or hear about it.

"It really emphasises people?s understanding of each individuals? needs.?

Staff members also took part in a variety of scenarios, such as being pushed in a wheelchair with artificially impaired vision; Being supported to eat a meal by another trainee; Being left on their own in an empty room whilst unable to move from their chair.

The programme was first launched in 2014 and has been refined and expanded with different scenarios in recent years.

Louise Bateman, Group Human Resources Director at RMBI Care Co, says: ?Learning through experience can be very powerful; this programme has become a vital tool in supporting new staff members to empathise with residents and to care with compassion. We want to ensure that we recruit individuals not solely upon their technical skills or abilities, but on the basis of their values and attitudes to care.?

Home Manager, Michelle Beer, said: ?This training emphasises the importance of being in someone else?s shoes and treating others the way you want them to treat you.?

cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/23237153.llandudno-care-home-staff-experience-residents-shoes/?ref=rss&IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on January 14, 2023, 10:13:02 am
North Wales residents told to get flu vaccine as cases still on rise

BETSI Cadwaladr has called on residents in North Wales to get their 'crucial' flu vaccines this winter.

Children and eligible adults will be able to get a free flu vaccine at one of the health board's mass vaccination centres from Monday.

The health board says flu is circulating in North Wales, with hundreds of patients admitted to hospital in recent weeks.

From Monday, January 16, everyone eligible for a flu vaccine will be able to walk into a vaccination clinic without an appointment. Many GP surgeries and community pharmacies will also continue to offer the vaccine.


The vaccine can prevent you from getting the flu, reduce your chances of passing it on, and can lessen the severity of symptoms if you do catch the virus.

All school-age children have been offered the flu vaccine at clinics in school during the autumn term, but it is not too late to catch up.

Betsi Cadwaladr immunisations coordinator Leigh Pusey said: ?If you are in a priority group then getting your flu vaccine is crucial, and it?s so important to protect our children too.

?Please help to keep yourself and your loved ones well by making sure you take up the opportunity to get the flu vaccine ? at your GP surgery, your local community pharmacist or at one of the health board?s vaccination centres.?
Title: Re: National Health Service...Care Home Closure
Post by: SteveH on January 18, 2023, 10:42:22 am
'Absolute nightmare' as another North Wales care home announces closure
Karen Jones says the Bay Court Care Home in Kinmel Bay was hit by a triple whammy of staff shortages, inadequate fees and red tape

A distraught care home director has spoken movingly about the heartbreak of having to close and the elderly residents with dementia having to move out. Karen Jones, who has run the 16-bed Bay Court Care Home in Kinmel Bay for the past seven years, says the home was hit by a triple whammy of staff shortages, inadequate fees and red tape.

cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/absolute-nightmare-another-north-wales-26003434
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on January 21, 2023, 10:27:59 am
Not local, but it could happen here...............

Welsh Government?s Health Minister Eluned Morgan........

The Minister has come under fire after the Welsh Government told health boards that some patients may need to be sent home from hospital without care packages in place as demand for bed space soared.

In response to intense pressure, which has resulted in ambulances sitting outside of A&E for hours and incredibly low morale among staff, she announced that the Welsh Government has secured an additional 500 community beds for step-down care.

In a speech on the floor of the Senedd, Llyr Gruffydd criticised the Welsh Government for closing community hospitals in Flint, Blaenau Ffestiniog, Prestatyn, and Llangollen and argued that it was now trying to ?recreate and rebuild? capacity that it had lost.

He told Senedd members that the Welsh Government had been ?warned? that it would ?regret? closing the hospitals, and asked if the Minister accepted that doing so was a ?mistake?.

The closures, which were part of a shake up by Betsi Cadwaladr Health Board, were fiercely protested by local communities at the time.

cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/23264066.concerns-community-hospital-closures-north-wales/
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Hugo on January 21, 2023, 01:33:00 pm
Ex-Tory health minister says patients should be charged for GP and A&E visits Sajid Javid pointed towards models in Ireland and Sweden as he says current model is 'unsustainable'

I'll say this for the Tory Government, they are doing their best to privatise the NHS

https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/ex-tory-health-minister-says-26037795
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on January 23, 2023, 10:33:01 am
Nearly 350m needed to bring North Wales health board's hospitals up to scratch
Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board report reveals only 62% of the estate is considered to be operationally safe

Over 348m needs to be spent to bring NHS buildings in North Wales up to an acceptable standard.

A report to be considered this week by the Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board reveals that only 62% of the estate is considered to be operationally safe, the all-Wales average being 72% and the national target 90%.

The Board occupies 238 properties across the region with an annual running cost of ?73m. The oldest property is Denbigh Infirmary which was built in 1813. The estate strategy for the next 10 years show that the maintenance backlog costs have risen from 142m in 2019 to 348m.

Approximately 73% of the costs relate to the three acute hospitals, Ysbyty Gwynedd, Ysbyty Glan Clwyd and Wrexham Maelor Hospital, with Abergele Hospital, Rhyl?s Royal Alexandra Hospital and Bryn y Neuadd Hospital in Llanfairfechan also requiring millions spent on them.

cont  https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/nearly-350m-needed-bring-north-26044323

That figure rings a bell........... _


Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on January 25, 2023, 10:27:39 am
THE Welsh Ambulance Service will host its bi-monthly board meeting this week.

The public can join on Zoom to hear senior leaders discuss the recent industrial action by ambulance workers, as well as performance and plans for the future.

There will also be an opportunity for the public to pose a question to the board.

?The board meeting will be an opportunity to hear more about this, as well as our plans to improve the way we deliver services to patients and improve the workplace for our people.?

People can go to https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_vz36_QliQcOTuxQaY5e5bg to watch the Board meeting.

It will be held on Thursday, January 26 from 9.30am.

To pre-submit a question, people should email AMB_AskUs@wales.nhs.uk by no later than close of play on Wednesday, January 25.

The meeting will also be streamed live to the Welsh Ambulance Trust?s Facebook page, and an agenda will be available on the trust?s website in the coming days.

full article https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/23271770.welsh-ambulance-service-set-hold-latest-board-meeting/
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on January 26, 2023, 10:29:26 am
Three stories this morning, mostly good news for a change............

New North Wales medical school set to train hundreds of country's future doctors
The Welsh Government will fund up to 140 medical student placements each year at the new school


Training will begin in 2024, with student numbers increasing until reaching capacity from 2029. A gradual increase in students will allow time to assess and evaluate the quality of tuition and student experience at the new school.

"Our new north Wales medical school will help us train the medical staff we need for the future. I?m proud so many students will be able to study in north Wales and I hope they stay to work in those communities following their studies.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/new-north-wales-medical-school-26072800


ADVANCED Paramedics Practitioners (APP) across Wales are helping to treat more people in the community and avoid unnecessary hospital admissions.
Data from the Welsh Ambulance Service shows that up to 70 per cent fewer people needed to be taken to emergency departments when responded to by an Advanced Paramedic Practitioner, compared to traditional crews.

Providing a link between primary and secondary care, APPs are paramedics who also care for patients in a primary care setting through a rotational working model and are based in General Practitioner surgeries, community care centres and on the road in Rapid Response Vehicles in the community. They have undertaken additional education to respond to 999 calls, make advanced clinical decisions, undertake medicine reviews and in some cases prescribe medication.
cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/23277180.advanced-paramedics-reducing-hospital-admissions-north-wales/


Welsh Ambulance Service facing up to ?15m in cuts
Union says the service is 'on its knees' and that further cuts would be 'catastrophic' as Welsh Government blames Westminster

?Health boards and trusts across the UK have now received their budgets for the year 2023-24 and they have not been increased in line with inflation, so that means the budgets are immediately in deficit,? the union boss said. ?So they?re all being told they?ve got to make millions of pounds? worth of efficiency savings.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/welsh-ambulance-service-facing-up-26074613
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on January 29, 2023, 10:43:55 am
Plans to open more so-called virtual wards for patients in England are to be announced by the government.

The measures will enable some, particularly the frail elderly, to be monitored at home by doctors using video and other technology.

There will also be more community teams to visit people in their homes.

It comes amid intense pressure on the health service and a dramatic deterioration in waiting times for urgent care.

In December, the average ambulance response time for emergencies like heart attacks exceeded 90 minutes - five times longer than the target - while over a third of patients waited more than four hours to be seen at A&E.

On Monday, the government and NHS England will publish the Urgent and Emergency Care Plan, outlining steps intended to bring waiting times back down.

The aim of virtual wards is to support mostly elderly patients, as well as those with respiratory conditions, in their own homes rather than hospitals.

Doctors and other health staff review their cases each day and patients using wearable devices can report daily readings and results so they can be remotely monitored.

Patients can receive home visits where necessary, and the technology can also be used to reduce the risk of falls.

There will be a target of up to 50,000 people being supported in this way each month, up from around 10,000 at the end of last year.

There will also be more community response teams aiming to get to vulnerable patients within two hours - officials say up to 20% of hospital admissions are avoidable with the right care in place.

cont. and stats.  https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-64439121
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on January 30, 2023, 10:17:26 am
Thousands of extra hospital beds and hundreds of ambulances will be rolled out in England this year in a bid to tackle the long emergency care delays.

The 5,000 new beds will boost capacity by 5%, while the ambulance fleet will increase by 10% with 800 new vehicles.
Details of the ?1bn investment will be set out later in a joint government and NHS England two-year blueprint.

Questions have also been raised about how the extra resources will be staffed - one in 10 posts in the NHS is vacant.

The King's Fund health think-tank said until that issue was addressed it was "hard to see" how the plan would have an impact.
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-64448354


Thousands of NHS staff across the UK are facing pay cuts because of a change in Covid sickness policy.
Analysis by BBC Panorama suggests that between 5,000 and 10,000 NHS workers could be off sick with long Covid.

Unions are accusing the government of failing to support health staff who worked during the coronavirus pandemic.

The government says the Covid-19 public inquiry will examine these issues when it begins taking evidence in May.

Changes to special sick pay rules introduced during the pandemic mean that some NHS staff unable to work due to long Covid may soon no longer receive full pay.
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-64405899
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on February 01, 2023, 10:35:52 am
Four important stories this morning............I recommend reading all four.

Demand on GP practices in North Wales is 'unrelenting'
New figures have revealed the critical role that pharmacies and GP practices have played in supporting the NHS during the busiest period in its history.

With the health service experiencing record demand in recent weeks, thousands of people across North Wales have turned to their local pharmacies and GP practices to access care.

NHS leaders have thanked the North Wales public for playing their part by choosing the most appropriate ways to access care, protecting a health service which has been at ?breaking point? in recent weeks.
cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/23287982.demand-gp-practices-north-wales-unrelenting/


An army of NHS reservists is being planned in Wales to ease periods of extreme pressure.
Just as volunteers were part of the Covid vaccination programme, a new plan will formalise their role and recruit more into health and care roles.

A long-awaited workforce plan also aims to address over-reliance on agency staff by allowing staff to work more flexibly.

An overseas recruitment drive for nurses is also planned later this year.

Efforts to reduce spend on agency staff are part of ongoing discussions with unions to avoid industrial action.
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-64475376


THE WELSH Government has today (Wednesday, February 1) set out its plans to address the challenges of staffing the Welsh NHS.
The National Workforce Implementation Plan has been published in response to the additional demands on the NHS workforce since the COVID-19 pandemic.

The NHS Wales workforce is at record levels, with over 105,000 staff directly employed currently.

However, there is expected to be increasing demand globally for healthcare workers, with the World Health Organisation predicting a shortfall of 10 million health workers globally by 2030.
cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/23290986.welsh-government-outlines-plans-address-nhs-workforce-challenges/


SIGNIFICANT pressures on the Welsh Ambulance Service resulted in concerning performances during December.
In a report to the Welsh Ambulance Service Trust board, Chief Executive Jason Killens shared data and figures on how WAST fared last month.

The report included the hours lost during handover delays, the quantity of fleet unavailable at times throughout the month as well as response times to varying calls.

In December, WAST lost 32,050 hours to handover delays, which equates to 37 percent of its conveying capacity.
cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/23288008.welsh-ambulance-service-lose-32-000-hours-handover-delays/
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Ian on February 01, 2023, 10:48:37 am
Yep; very concerning, and moreover symptomatic of a Tory administration that's been around for too long and also Brexit.

We weren't ready for Covid but then, neither was the rest of the developed world. If Brexit hadn't happened, we would have had a better supply of medical staff, however.

The handover item is a major concern, but increasingly burdensome regulations have caused the problem, which have made it impossible for hospitals to release patients who need care packages in place. Oh yes, and then there's Brexit.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on February 04, 2023, 11:16:05 am
BBC report.......Welsh NHS strikes: Most health unions suspend industrial action

Welsh NHS staff have suspended strike action following an improved offer from ministers.

Health Minister Eluned Morgan has offered eight health unions an extra 3% on top of the ?1,400 already promised.

The Royal College of Nursing (RCN), Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP), Royal College of Midwives (RCM) and GMB union ambulance staff have put walkouts next week on hold.

However strikes by other union members, including Unite, are still going ahead.

The Welsh Ambulance Service has said 20 military personnel will be drafted in to help drive ambulances during the upcoming Unite strike on 6 and 7 February.

Chief executive of the ambulance service, Jason Killens, said: "We understand the reasons for strike action and thank the Welsh government for their commitment to finding a resolution which has got us this far.

"That said, with two days of action still planned by Unite, we would ask the public to think very carefully before calling 999 next week."

The Welsh government has tabled a new deal of an extra 3% - backdated to April 2022, of which 1.5% is consolidated.

This means they will receive 3% this year and 1.5% extra pay the year after.

"Included in this revised package are a number of non-pay commitments to enhance staff wellbeing, on which negotiations will continue next week," a spokesperson said.

"Whilst there is currently no improved pay offer on the table for NHS staff in England, it was also agreed that any resulting Barnett consequential following any improved offer to staff in England would result in a further pay offer to staff in Wales."

The Welsh government said it was awaiting formal responses from each union - who will put the offer to members - and said it hoped strike action planned for next week would be called off.

The enhanced package has been welcomed by the Welsh NHS Confederation.

Read more https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-politics-64512159
Modify message
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on February 07, 2023, 10:15:40 am
New bid for ?84.5m mental health unit and multi-storey car park at North Wales hospital
Earlier plans were rejected after complaints from nearby residents

Plans for a ?world class? mental health unit and multi-storey car park have been revealed at a North Wales hospital. If built, the 63-bed facility will replace a controversial unit for mental health patients at the hospital.

People are invited to share their feedback on the proposed development at Ysbyty Glan Clwyd, Bodelwyddan. It will cater for patients from Conwy, Denbighshire and parts of Flintshire.

It is the second time such plans have been drawn up for the site following a failed bid in 2021. Betsi Cadwaladr, the North Wales health board, is aiming to submit a full planning application to Denbighshire Council in March.

The new in-patient unit, costing up to ?84.5m, will replace the hospital?s Ablett Unit, previously labelled ?unfit for purpose? by a health watchdog. It will also replace the older people?s mental health in-patient facility at Bryn Hesketh, Colwyn Bay.

cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/new-bid-845m-mental-health-26171363?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on February 16, 2023, 10:31:25 am
Not local BUT.............

A new way of screening ambulance calls is to be introduced across England in an effort to improve response times.
NHS England is asking ambulance crews to review which emergency calls other than those classed as immediately life threatening can be treated elsewhere.

The calls - known as category two - include emergencies such as heart attacks and strokes.

But the category also covers some that may not need such a fast response, such as burns and severe headaches.

About 40% of these lower priority calls classed as category two by call handlers will now receive callbacks from a doctor, nurse or paramedic to see whether there is an alternative to sending an ambulance.

In trials in London and across the West Midlands, nearly half of those receiving a callback were advised to go instead to an urgent treatment clinic, their GP or a pharmacist.

cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-64653483


NHS Wales: Patient in hospital for weeks due to social care backlog
"It would be much better if I was out there than in here," said Roger.
The 69-year-old looked wistfully across Newport from the window next to his bed at the Royal Gwent Hospital.

He has been here for three weeks after being admitted with an infection.

But although he is now well enough to leave and desperate to do so - he can't.

"I've still got a smile on my face, but I'm feeling a bit down," he said.
"I haven't got the foggiest when I'll be able to go home. I'm keeping my fingers crossed... because it will make a big difference."

cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-64639338
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Nemesis on February 16, 2023, 07:07:33 pm
After 5 1/2 weeks in a combination of Glan Clwyd and Colwyn Bay Hospital my only grumble was the awful food in Colwyn Bay,  but the number of elderly people trying to get discharged was enormous. 4 in my last ward were taken into isolation with Covid which hampered their release and put more work onto the overstretched staff. People could not be allowed home without a care plan in place either, so some were just stuck there.
































mble was that the food in Colwyn Bay
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on February 17, 2023, 09:28:24 am
Nemesis, sorry to hear you have been unwell, hope you feel better soon......... 


Care homes being 'forced out of business' by 'unlawfully low' council fees
'There are a lot of care homes out there who are on the brink of financial meltdown'

Council bosses have been warned to prepare for a raft of care home closures in Conwy putting elderly residents with dementia at risk. At an emergency meeting around 30 worried care providers told senior figures at Conwy County Council that homes were being forced out of business by ?irresponsibly and unlawfully low? fees.

They say the deepening crisis in social care is the worst in living memory and that chronic underfunding poses even more of a threat to the sector than Covid did. The warning follows news in recent weeks that four other care homes in North Wales ? Trewythen Hall in Gresford, Bay Court in Kinmel Bay, Gwastad Hall in Cefn y Bedd, and Morfa Newydd in Greenfield - have already closed or are in the process of shutting, with the combined loss of 163 beds.

Following the meeting, Conwy has delayed a decision on the rates for the coming year and referred the matter to their finance and resources overview and scrutiny committee next Monday (February 20) to have another look at the proposed fees. Among those at the meeting was Clive Nadin, the owner of the 29-bed Abbey Dale House Care Home in Colwyn Bay, who is also a leading member of sector champions Care Forum Wales.

cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/care-homes-being-forced-out-26255776
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on February 18, 2023, 10:10:28 am
NHS strikes not just about pay, says union official

Improving NHS workers' pay conditions could be key to settling strike action, according to a union official.

Ambulance technician Giles George said shift workers received up to 20% more on their pay which was lost for six weeks if they had to take sick leave.

Mr George, a GMB official in Knighton, Powys, said removing that could "sway" workers who have rejected a 3% offer.

The Welsh government said it would consider the next steps once other unions had considered the pay offer.

GMB ambulance staff will be joined on the picket line on Monday by colleagues represented by the union Unite, which is holding a three-day walk out.

The GMB said 66% of its members voted against the offer for 2022-23, which meant an extra 3% - 1.5% of which will be in pay every year - on top of an average 4.5% that was paid to health workers last autumn.

Mr George said part of the talks with the government had been about changing some pay conditions.

"It's unfair that if you are ill through no fault of your own that you then lose part of your pay," he told BBC Radio Wales Breakfast.

cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-64687760
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on February 27, 2023, 10:17:16 am
The health safety watchdog has said that doctors, ambulance dispatchers and other NHS staff in England have faced "significant distress" and harm over the past year as a result of long delays in urgent and emergency care.

The Healthcare Safety Investigation Branch (HSIB), which monitors safety in the health service in England, said many staff it interviewed for a national investigation "cried or displayed other extreme emotions" when asked about their working environment.

"The bad sides [of my job] give me nightmares, flashbacks and fear, but they can also make me hyperactive, sleepless and sometimes not care about the danger I put myself in," one paramedic told the BBC.
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-64727516


Dentists could give up NHS work in Wales, group warns
NHS dentistry in Wales could disappear, the British Dental Association has warned.

Dentists have described being on the brink of handing back NHS contracts due to stress and concerns about patients' care after changes in Wales.

Welsh government reforms aim to make 112,000 appointments for new patients.

It said it was "always disappointing" when a dentist returned their contract and it was investing ?2m annually to improve access to dentists in Wales.

A Senedd committee expressed fears earlier this month that too many people were unable to access an NHS dentist in Wales.
cont  https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-64761201


Betsi Cadwaladr: NHS leadership dysfunctional, report saysThe leadership of Wales' largest health board is dysfunctional, a damning report from the spending watchdog has said.

Auditor General Adrian Crompton wants urgent Welsh government intervention after finding "fractured working relationships" at the top of Betsi Cadwaladr, which covers north Wales.

Several board members have shown "signs of emotional distress", he said.
Health Minister Eluned Morgan said the findings gave her "serious concerns".

Mr Crompton said the problems were "fundamentally compromising" the health board's ability to deal with "the significant challenges" it faces.

The health board said it would take immediate action ahead of an action plan to be submitted to its board in March.
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-politics-64743171
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Ian on February 27, 2023, 11:12:25 am
I may be wrong, but is this not exactly what a large portion of the Tory Party want?  They can then point to the wonders of the Private sector to say how much better that is. The only 'dysfunctional leadership' around is the UK government.
Title: Re: National Health Service....Betsi Cadwaladr back in special measures
Post by: SteveH on February 28, 2023, 10:23:31 am
Betsi Cadwaladr back in special measures as board 'agrees to quit'
Health and Social Services Eluned Morgan took the drastic action after she expressed 'serious concerns' over the North Wales health board's performance

Read more https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/betsi-cadwaladr-back-special-measures-26341867?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on March 02, 2023, 10:25:16 am
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has said that the Welsh Government should focus on "cutting waiting lists" after Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board was placed back into special measures on Monday.

In a question to Mr Sunak during PMQs, Sarah Atherton, Conservative MP for Wrexham, claimed that Welsh Health Minister Eluned Morgan had told her that it was not the fault of the Welsh Government that the health board had been put into special measures for the second time.

She asked: "Given that Labour run the NHS in North Wales, can [the PM] suggest to the people of North Wales whose fault it is [that BCUHB is back in special measures] and who should put it right?"

cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/rishi-sunaks-message-welsh-government-26360927?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
Title: Re: Llandudno Hospital New stroke rehabilitation centre opens
Post by: SteveH on March 03, 2023, 10:18:11 am
Excellent news for Llandudno Hospital, a great asset to the community............

A NEW stroke unit has opened at Llandudno General Hospital, and has received praise from one of its first patients.

The unit is the second of three new specialist community inpatient rehabilitation centres to open in North Wales for patients who no longer need specialist stroke treatment at an acute hospital, but still require stroke rehabilitation that cannot be delivered at home.

One of the first patients in the rehabilitation centre is Ann Ellis, 78, from Bagillt.
Ann had a stroke on Christmas Eve and was taken to Ysbyty Glan Clwyd and then transferred to Llandudno three weeks later.

When Ann first arrived she found it difficult to talk, walk and move her right arm, but thanks to the support from a full range of multidisciplinary specialist staff, she can now communicate again and is learning to walk with an aid.

?When I first got here I couldn?t talk, I?m still a bit jumbly, but I'm getting better and better,? said Ann.
?I?ve been seeing all the therapists every day, here in the rehab centre we get a lot more time with the therapists, they?re really good.

?I?m learning to walk along on the bars now too, I?m determined, you have to be don?t you, the therapists keep me busy and keep me going.?

Ann?s daughter Caroline Pritchard and sister Sue Toplass have also praised staff, adding: ?They?ve been fantastic, we can go home after visiting and have no worries, because the staff are so lovely, and we know she?s being well looked after.?

cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/23358923.new-stroke-rehabilitation-centre-opens-llandudno/
Title: Re: National Health Service........Betsi Cadwaladr: Major change forecast
Post by: SteveH on March 06, 2023, 10:13:29 am
A former NHS boss expects "pretty major changes" in the leadership team of north Wales' troubled health board.

Prof Marcus Longley said he believed fresh faces at the top of Betsi Cadwaladr's executive team would give the health board a chance "to reset".

Health Minister Eluned Morgan has said she read the "riot act" to executives but didn't have the power to sack them.

She has just placed the health board back under direct Welsh government control.

The organisation spent 1,996 days under direct government oversight after being placed in special measures in 2015.

Last week, a damning report from the public spending watchdog found Betsi Cadwaladr's leadership to be dysfunctional.

The health board manages the region's NHS care and is led by a board of executive directors and independent members, with the report finding "clear and deep-seated fractures within the executive team that are preventing that team from working effectively".

cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-64847135
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on March 10, 2023, 10:50:54 am
NHS Wales: Falls project avoids 50 needless ambulance callouts

A new scheme to help people who have suffered falls has prevented 50 ambulances being unnecessarily sent this year.

St John Ambulance Cymru works with Hywel Dda health board, Pembrokeshire to send its people for 999 calls.

Sandra Davies, whose husband Teifion fell at home, said it was "marvellous" as he did not want to go to hospital.

The pilot has been used 96 times since January but it needs more health board funding to continue after March.

Ageing Well in Wales estimates that between 230,000 and 460,000 over 60s fall each year.

When people dial 999, it can be directed to the St John Ambulance Cymru falls response team, who are sent to perform an assessment and identify whether the person can stay home or needs an ambulance to take them to hospital.

cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-64902736
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on March 11, 2023, 10:16:35 am
Welsh Government 'shuts down' the 'voice' of North Wales NHS patients
An independent watchdog which has operated for half a century will be abolished at the end of the month

The move to axe the body which "gave patients a voice" was slammed by politicians and the former North Wales Crime Commissioner Arfon Jones. The volunteer-led scrutiny body will be reorganised under the Welsh Government's "Llais" initiative, operational from April 1, 2023.

NWCHC will be replaced by the Citizen?s Voice Body (CVB) for health and social care. It will be chaired by university Professor Medwin Hughes and seven board members.

"It will be a new independent organisation to representing the voices of the people of Wales for health and social care matters," the Welsh Government's website states. Minister for Health and Social Services Eluned Morgan said she "looked forward" to seeing how they will help shape the new body.

cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/welsh-government-shuts-down-voice-26442215
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on March 15, 2023, 10:27:16 am
BETSI Cadwaladr Health Board say they have a "zero-tolerance approach" to abuse following an increase in incidents.

The health board in North Wales, which was placed back into special measures last month, has had a rise in incidents of abuse towards primary care staff.

They state that GP surgeries remain under pressure, yet are still aiming to do their best to help patients.

They have warned that the police may be contacted depending on the nature of the abuse or comments.

cont  https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/23387004.north-wales-health-board-seeing-rise-abuse-towards-staff/
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on March 17, 2023, 10:54:07 am
Betsi Cadwaladr: New NHS chair not sure if brand can be repaired
Dyfed Edwards said Betsi Cadwaladr health board had to get to a "good place" before reorganising or rebranding.

It is in special measures again after a damning audit report.
Since then, ministers have been under pressure to sack executives after the report criticised how the organisation was run.

Mr Edwards said executives need to "take stock" of their place in the organisation and decide if its best they consider "other options".
He assured the public that the board is safe, but acknowledged that it has to improve "in a number of areas" and that safety should be at the top of its priorities "at all times".

As well as reports on its leadership, Betsi Cadwaladr health board has been criticised over its health services, particular in vascular and emergency medicine.
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-politics-64975977



A health body is urging people affected by long treatment waits exacerbated by Covid-19 to share their stories and help secure funding for improvements.
North Wales Community Health Council said the numbers waiting more than 52 weeks had increased dramatically.

It wants to gather information before it is disbanded at the end of March and replaced by a new body, Llais.
A number of in-person events are being held in Wrexham, Colwyn Bay and Porthmadog along with online ones.

The council published a report, Our Lives on Hold, in 2018, describing the effect of long waits on patients, including losing jobs, relationships and being left in agony, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said.

Chief officer Geoff Ryall-Harvey said it had contributed to the pressure on the Welsh government to reduce waiting times and fund initiatives.
He wants to produce a 2023 version, saying: "As a result of the pandemic, the number of people waiting over 52 weeks has increased dramatically.

"The NWCHC wants to hear how this is affecting lives and well-being so that we can build the case for additional resources to clear these waiting lists and return to pre-pandemic waiting times (and hopefully better) within two years."
Read more ps://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-64941044
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Helig on March 17, 2023, 11:03:43 am
I remember Geoff Ryall- Harvey used to be head of the Community Health Council in Chester up until they abolished it. He was very dedicated and worked hard to get improvements for patients.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on March 18, 2023, 10:06:52 am
I was told by CYD chemist of the ?40 charge for delivery, which is dearer than Bryson charge for garden waste disposal, nothing like kicking the public while they are down..........

A NORTH Wales MS has demanded that a Welsh Government minister explain why delivery charges are being imposed on the prescriptions of vulnerable constituents.
Llyr Gruffydd MS said: ?May I ask for a statement from the health minister on the issue of charging for delivering prescriptions from pharmacies?

?It's entirely reasonable to charge in a scenario where an individual can't be bothered to collect a prescription, but I've been contacted by some people in my region who, because of their medical condition, can't go and fetch their prescriptions, and have now found that they are required to pay for that.

?In the first instance, many of them can't afford to do so, and the inevitable upshot of that is that they will not, therefore, be receiving the medicines that they need.

?And that, of course, undermines the policy that we're all proud of, that prescriptions are free of charge in Wales.

?So, I think we need some clarity from the Minister on what the Government expects from pharmacies: do the pharmacists or the individuals trying to access prescriptions need support?

?And I think we need more consistency across Wales, because in some areas they charge, and in others they don't.?

cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/23393539.north-wales-ms-urges-explanation-prescription-delivery-charges/?ref=rss&IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on March 19, 2023, 10:17:17 am
MS for Aberconwy, has spoken of her delight after receiving an update on dental care services by Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB)

In January, BCUHB responded to a letter she sent and advised that it had submitted proposals to Welsh Government, in an effort to secure funding to increase dental services in priority areas.

Some of these areas are within Aberconwy, namely Betws-y-Coed, Conwy and Llandudno.

As the health board notes, the procurement will be for additional activity in existing practices or for set up of new practices, and has a total combined value of ?1.3million that is recurrent funding.

?BCUHB, along with Welsh Government, must now ensure that these plans come to fruition.?

cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/23393611.increased-dental-services-promised-across-aberconwy-constituency/
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on March 22, 2023, 10:19:55 am
The Welsh Conservatives will force a vote of no confidence in Wales' health minister on Wednesday.

They accuse Eluned Morgan of trying to dodge responsibility for failings at Betsi Cadwaladr health board.

Special measures were imposed on the north Wales health board for the second time earlier this year, following a damning audit report.

Defending the health minister, Welsh Labour said Ms Morgan "is doing a great job".

While the Conservatives and Plaid Cymru will support it, Labour Senedd members are expected to back Ms Morgan.

The move puts more pressure on the health minister, but with the Welsh Lib Dems also planning to reject the no confidence vote, it's expected the Conservatives will lose.

cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-politics-65026015
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Ian on March 23, 2023, 11:19:32 am
It's clear there are issues with BCUHB, mainly based around arguments and disagreements between senior managerial staff. But I do wonder just how much conditions have been aggravated by the distribution of finance from the UK government dominated (lest we forget) by the Tories who are no supporters of the NHS.

Health care is a difficult issue and N Wales, in particular, is a long way from Cardiff. Add to that we have the most rapidly ageing socioeconomic profile in Wales, so it's not difficult to see why there are arguments at BCUHB. It's uncomfortably similar to the Behavioural Sink (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Behavioral_sink) experiments  of John B. Calhoun's, the main findings of which were deprive an overcrowded population of resources and the results are life threatening.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on March 24, 2023, 10:28:36 am
Readers agree that Betsi board were right to resign but aren't confident for the future
Former chairman Mark Polin had his say on the situation surround health service in North Wales earlier this week - this time it was your turn

The full results are below:   see link
Is it the right decision to put Betsi Cadwaladr into special measure?

82% said yes (65 out of 79)

10% said no (8 out of 79)

8% said I don't know (6 out of 79)

Should the existing board have resigned?

56% said yes (44 out of 79)

33% said no (26 out of 79)

11% said I don't know (9 out of 79)

cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/readers-agree-betsi-board-were-26541020
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on March 29, 2023, 10:31:04 am
85 dental practices to close amid national shortage in dentists - full list................  locally Total Orthodontics Colwyn Bay under revue.

The British Dental Association said that the service is ?approaching the end of the road

Bupa Dental Care is set to cut 85 dental practices in a move that will affect 1,200 staff across the UK, amid a national shortage of dentists and ?systemic? challenges across the industry.

The healthcare group said patients at the affected practices have not been able to access the NHS dental service they need.

cont https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/uk-news/85-dental-practices-close-amid-26582102?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on March 30, 2023, 10:47:14 am
Mark Drakeford defends Welsh Government after criticism of North Wales health board
The First Minister was repeatedly challenged about the health board's failings after it was placed into special measures again

He has leapt to the defence of his ministers after criticism from the former chair of Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board. It happened during a heated debate at First Minister?s Questions.

cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/mark-drakeford-defends-welsh-government-26583166
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on March 31, 2023, 10:39:01 am
THREE newly appointed assistant practitioners have been making sure elderly patients get continuity of care at Glan Clwyd Hospital.

Annette Mason, Care of the elderly ward manager, decided to take them on Dawn Eccles, Kelly Jones and Jade Riding after encountering difficulties recruiting Band 5 registered nurses to cover maternity leave.

The three additions to the team were all Band 2 healthcare assistants who had completed their Level 4 health and social care training.

The role is similar to a Registered Nurse.

This is another step on the path to undertaking a nursing degree. If they go down that route then they will get paid because it?s funded by the health board and you?re paid while you study.?

Dawn, Kelly and Jade do not administer medications in their role but they do take part in ward rounds, multi-disciplinary team meetings and shift handovers, under the supervision of registered nurses.

https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/23425120.new-assistant-practitioners-filling-nursing-gap-glan-clwyd/?ref=rss&IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on April 18, 2023, 10:16:11 am
New Betsi chairman in 'your health board needs you' plea to public to fill jobs
Dyfed Edwards wants to fill a shortage of registered nurses and healthcare assistants can help bridge the gap

Since taking on the role as chairman of the Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board it has crystallised my belief it is the people of North Wales who are the key to our future success. Of course, we will want to attract the best people wherever they are from ? and we continue to try to do that.

However I firmly believe, with the development of the Medical School, the Dental Academy and other initiatives, we are well placed to nurture the talent in our communities. A little over two years ago the health board celebrated the 20th anniversary of our intake of Filipino nurses, who have given everything to guarding our population?s health.

We employ staff from dozens of different countries and from areas all across the UK but it?s our own population which will always be the bedrock of our services. Our staff, their friends and extended families are the population we serve.

cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/new-betsi-chairman-your-health-26713656
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Hugo on April 18, 2023, 05:41:41 pm
I had to go to the outpatients reception at Ysbyty Glan Clwyd this morning and arrived early so I could get a parking space
I have never seen it so busy and after about 20 minutes of driving around and finding nothing, Mrs H dropped me off and went looking around  for a parking space herself,    She gave up after another 20 minutes and ended up parking by the Marble Church
The hospital was full and how the NHS staff have coped with working under sustained pressure is beyond me.    I hope the present dispute over pay can be resolved asap for every ones sake
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Nemesis on April 18, 2023, 06:53:51 pm
I went to a clinic at Llandudno hospital yesterday and it was just the opposite.-------------a bit like ghost town !
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on April 23, 2023, 10:18:27 am
NHS Wales is not functional, says BMA head Iona Collins

Wales does not have a functioning NHS and people do not have faith in it, claims the head of a doctors' union.

Dr Iona Collins, of the British Medical Association in Wales, said people suffering with chest pain "don't even know" if an ambulance will come.

Latest figures show a higher percentage of people are waiting two years or more for treatment in Wales than England.

The Welsh government said it's spending more to help the NHS recover from the pandemic and cut waiting times.

One patient who has given up waiting for a hip replacement will travel to Lithuania for treatment on Monday, paying 10,000 pounds

cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-65361431
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on April 29, 2023, 10:01:18 am
A social care champion has called for an urgent Welsh Government inquiry into a massive North-South divide in care home fees. According to Mario Kreft MBE, the chair of Care Forum Wales (CFW), the difference in the amount paid by local authorities for the care of individual residents can be more than ?10,000 a year per person.

An investigation carried out by CFW has revealed the rates paid for residential care by the six councils in North Wales are the lowest in Wales. He?s so concerned about the seriousness of the situation that he?s written to North Wales Minister Lesley Griffiths MS, urging her to launch an official inquiry to establish the cause of the disparity.

Mr Kreft says the daily rate of just over ?100 paid in North Wales for residential care is a lot less than the ?123 a day councillors can claim in expenses while on council business. In addition to being ?unjust and unfair?, Care Forum Wales believes the fees paid in North Wales are also unlawful because they do not reflect the true cost of providing care as they are required to do.

cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/north-south-divide-home-fees-26801213
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on May 01, 2023, 10:09:09 am
THE Welsh Ambulance Service has unveiled more high-tech additions to its fleet.

The new vehicles have taken pride of place in the Trust?s Non-Emergency Patient Transport Service, which takes people to and from their routine hospital appointments and discharges people home after a stay in hospital.

The latest features include USB ports, patient call buttons and entertainment systems to improve the experience of those on board.

New handrails make it easier for patients to get on and off the vehicle, and new tail lifts mean crews no longer need to push patients up a ramp, reducing the risk of injury.

Among the new additions is a Toyota RAV4 self-charging hybrid car, a custom Ford Transit small ambulance and two refreshed Renault Masters to cater for wheelchair users and patients requiring a stretcher.

The majority of vehicles are speed-limited to improve fuel consumption, and almost all vehicles in the 270-strong non-emergency fleet have been installed with solar panels to minimise the need for mains charging.

cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/23488805.welsh-ambulance-service-unveils-new-additions-vehicle-fleet/
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on May 04, 2023, 09:46:42 am
Betsi Cadwaladr health board: Concern at dropped fraud probe

Ex-independent members of north Wales' health board are "flabbergasted" that a fraud probe into the body has been dropped, a Senedd committee has heard.

Specialist investigators concluded last month that no further action was needed after auditors discovered ?122m was not properly accounted for.

One ex-board member said an accountancy firm had found a "range of financial irregularities".

cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-politics-65468738
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on May 08, 2023, 10:08:50 am
The number of pharmacies in England has fallen by 160 over the last two years, BBC analysis shows.

There are now 11,026 community chemists, according to data from NHS Business Services Authority - the lowest number since 2015.

Rising operational costs, staff shortages and reduced government financial support have been blamed.

This is despite rising patient demand, and plans for pharmacists to provide more services to ease pressure on GPs.

Pharmacists are warning that many more local businesses could close, without help.

Online services are available, but many rely on a local chemist for advice and to pick up prescriptions.

cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-65481473
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on May 09, 2023, 10:09:03 am
Bearing in mind the above story..........

More people will be able to access health services without needing to see a GP under a plan launched by officials in England.

It asks patients to use high street pharmacies for some common drug prescriptions and routine tests to ease the pressure on busy doctors.

NHS England says its plan will free up 15m GP appointments over the next two years - around 2% of the total.

But some are concerned about how pharmacies will cope with extra demand.

Data shows there are now fewer local chemists than at any time since 2015. Rising operational costs, staff shortages and reduced government financial support have been blamed.

Pharmacists warn that many more local businesses could close without help.

cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-65488030
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on May 13, 2023, 10:13:19 am
NHS Strikes: Unison NHS Wales staff vote to accept pay offer
Published
17 hours ago

NHS workers in Wales belonging to the Unison union have voted to accept the latest Welsh government pay offer.

The offer consisted of a 5% wage increase and an additional one-off payment for 2022-23, worth between ?900 and ?1,190.

However, the Royal College of Nurses (RCN) Wales voted to reject the latest offer earlier this week.

The union said although the offer had been accepted it would not solve "significant workforce issues".

The offer is in addition to an earlier one-off payment of 1.5% of their annual salary from the Welsh government in February.

Unison members accept Scottish government pay deal
Nurses in Wales set to strike again in summer
Nurses offered one-off payment to end pay strikes
The lowest paid workers in NHS Wales will receive an annual salary of ?22,720, with the new hourly rate of pay rising from ?10.90 to ?11.62, the union said.

Jess Turner, of Unison Cymru, said: "Of course, NHS staff want and deserve more, but they've opted to accept this offer and the certainty it brings them.

"The most pressing is tackling the growing staffing emergency and health worker burnout.

"NHS staff have told us they need money in their pockets now to deal with the worsening cost-of-living crisis.

"If this deal goes through NHS staff will receive their pay rise much sooner than in previous years. This sets an expectation for the way NHS pay is approached in future in Wales," she said.

The union said 78% of members voted to accept the Welsh government's offer.

Other health unions in Wales are also consulting their members on the offer.

They will discuss their results later this month ahead of a meeting with the Welsh government.

cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-65574633
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on May 14, 2023, 10:29:30 am
Bed spaces at Rhyl?s Royal Alexandra Hospital should be reinstated to help ease bed blocking at Ysbyty Glan Clwyd, says a concerned councillor. At a Denbighshire County Council meeting this week, Cllr Brian Jones tabled a motion, proposing that the authority takes advice from a group known as the ?Alex Angels?.

The Alex Angels is a small group of retired medical professionals who originally trained at the Royal Alexander Hospital. Cllr Jones says the Alex Angels have decades of experience working within the health service in North Wales and believes they can help the current situation.

The Rhyl councillor wants the authority to pressure Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board to conduct a feasibility study, looking at restoring bed spaces at the Rhyl hospital. The motion was backed by an online petition with over 700 signatures, calling for bed spaces to be reinstated at the hospital on Marine Drive.

cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/community-hospital-beds-should-reinstated-26905050?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Ian on May 14, 2023, 10:36:13 am
Bed blocking continues to present the NHS with its most pressing issues. Of course, creating a service to replace BB will take money, so what chance of that with the current government?
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on May 16, 2023, 10:21:46 am
NHS Wales: Healthcare apps trialled to ease pressure

Healthcare apps are being used across Wales to help reduce pressure on NHS frontline services.

Hospital visits should decrease as patients receive care at home in a timely manner, according to health professionals.

Nurse Paige Calved said the technology means patients get specialised care quicker.

The Welsh government said it's invested ?65m in digital health and social care services since 2019.

cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-65600040
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on May 17, 2023, 10:24:05 am
Decision not to push for study into return of beds at North Wales hospital slammed
Last week Cllr Brian Jones argued the move could help relieve bed blocking issues

A decision by Denbighshire County Council not to push for a feasibility study into reinstating beds at Rhyl?s Alexander Hospital has been criticised by an outspoken councillor. Last week Cllr Brian Jones put forward a motion proposing the council ask the health board to consider using the Royal Alexander to relieve bed blocking.

The Conservative councillor put forward the motion, arguing using the Rhyl hospital to treat "frail" patients could free up beds at Ysbyty Glan Clwyd. The council agreed to talk to a group of retired professionals known as the Alex Angels about the future of the Rhyl hospital but rejected talk of attempting to persuade Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board to reinstate beds at the Marine Drive hospital.

cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/decision-not-push-study-return-26925929?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on May 23, 2023, 10:21:53 am
Someone is using their head for a change........

Visitors to the seaside are being targeted in an urgent bid to recruit nurses for a local hospital. In April, Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board closed the inpatient ward at Tywyn Hospital because of unsafe staffing levels and patients were transferred to Dolgellau.

The move was criticised by local politicians and councillors who urged the board to restore the service as soon as possible. In a report to this week?s board meeting the interim chief executive Carol Shillabee, who is standing in for Gill Harris, who is off sick at present, says: ?Immediate actions to enhance recruitment in the South Meirionnydd area include the use of recruitment banners, leaflets and postcards which have been developed to advertise posts and target those visiting the area.

https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/health-board-targets-tourists-bid-26967337
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on May 24, 2023, 10:11:53 am
A senior official from a troubled and heavily criticised north Wales health board has moved to a new job representing NHS organisations.
Sue Green, former executive director of workforce and planning, is now director of NHS Wales Employers.

She resigned from Betsi Cadwaladr shortly before an audit report said the executive team there was dysfunctional.

A senior Conservative strongly objected to the move. Ms Green has declined to comment.

Darren Millar, of the Welsh Conservatives, questioned how Ms Green could be in a senior Welsh NHS role following the recent findings, and said she had been part of a dysfunctional executive team that "let down patients".

Plaid Cymru's Rhun ap Iorwerth said the news was "strange" and warned against a "revolving door" of people from failing organisations taking jobs elsewhere in the NHS.
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-politics-65399696


Work pressures are driving thousands of nurses and midwives a year away from the profession, the regulator says.
The Nursing and Midwifery Council said retention was becoming a major concern despite an overall growth in the register.

Its annual report found 27,000 professionals had left the register in the UK in the year to the end of March.

While retirement appeared to be the most common reason for leaving, health and exhaustion were cited as the next.
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-65687230
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on May 26, 2023, 10:31:18 am
A translation error on a Welsh language sign at a hospital has had people in stitches with the notice sending out a very different message. The sign was spotted by a visitor to Llandudno Hospital earlier this week and the Facebook post received several comments, many of which poked fun at the mistake.   

The sign reads (in English): "To raise alarm please ring bell", with the Welsh translation underneath saying: "Codi braw ffoniwch gloch." Unfortunately, the Welsh roughly translates as: "Raise a fright, phone the alarm."  :-[ :-[ :-[

https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/wales-news/hospital-gets-welsh-language-sign-26996489?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on May 29, 2023, 10:06:19 am
'Key individuals' named in latest scathing BCUHB report 'suspended'

Mr Millar, who said he was given an anonymous copy of the report, said the findings include "false accounting and the manipulation of documents, which amount to fraud".

He said: "These were done in the knowledge of senior members of staff at the health board, including the chief executive and the Finance Director. The junior staff who pushed back against these appalling practices were overruled by their superiors and there, then, were deliberate efforts to hide those actions from Audit Wales and the forensic investigators from Ernst and Young. It absolutely stinks."

cont https://www.leaderlive.co.uk/news/23549304.key-individuals-named-latest-scathing-bcuhb-report-suspended/?ref=rss&IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589

PS.
A leaked version of the report said finance officials at Betsi Cadwaladr deliberately made incorrect entries in their own accounts.
Betsi's interim chairman said the health board had not yet published the report so as not to incriminate people.

Dyfed Edwards said there was a "process in place to deal with the specifics".

Accountancy firm EY's report, shown to BBC Wales, said Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board wrongly accounted for millions of pounds.

It alleged EY's work was "hindered" by the alteration of a document and the deletion of a recording of a meeting.

cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-65739247
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on June 06, 2023, 10:11:37 am
Nurses across nearly all parts of Wales will strike for 12 hours on Tuesday and Wednesday in an ongoing dispute over pay.

The industrial action means thousands of planned care appointments will be impacted.

Aneurin Bevan health board, in south east Wales, is the only one not to be affected.

The Royal College of Nursing (RCN) Wales' chief said members needed "more commitments" from the Welsh government.

She added that the ballot for further action would reopen in July.

The Welsh government said it was "disappointed" that strike action was continuing.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-65815004
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on June 07, 2023, 10:18:27 am
The UK government has called on Wales' health minister to publish a report that alleges financial mismanagement at the NHS board for north Wales.

Welsh Secretary David TC Davies has written to Eluned Morgan "expressing serious concern" about a report by accounting firm EY.

It said Betsi Cadwaladr health board wrongly accounted for millions.

The report said that there had "been systematic cultural failings in the finance team and leadership".

The Welsh government has so far refused to publish the document, saying "Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board is awaiting legal advice on whether or not they can release the report".

The investigation, seen by the BBC, said finance officials at the board deliberately made incorrect entries into the accounts.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-politics-65821814
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on June 12, 2023, 09:42:27 am
A troubled health board has seen one of its independent board members resign just one week after being appointed.

Lesley Singleton's name only appeared on Betsi Cadwaladr health board's website last week.

The previous 11 independent board members controversially resigned in February, claiming Health Minister Eluned Morgan forced them to quit.

Concerns were raised after Newyddion S4C revealed Ms Singleton was employed by the health board until last year.

Ms Singleton had sat around the board table during her time as director, meaning in her new role she would be scrutinising decisions made by the health board she recently worked for.

cont from BBC report 31st May  https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-politics-65770052
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on June 13, 2023, 10:00:21 am
The decisions made in Cardiff and London that have left the Welsh NHS 'on its knees'
'Deliberate underfunding' has starved Wales' health service of funds for over a decade

The NHS in Wales is in dire straits thanks to deliberate underfunding from both the Welsh Government and Westminster. A special report from WalesOnline has found that political decisions made by the Welsh and UK Governments have starved Wales' health service of funds for over a decade.

The investigation found that since 2010 the UK Government has cut the cash coming to Wales while simultaneously the Welsh Government failed to pass on equivalent amounts of funding to the NHS that was being spent in England. Whether you are a patient waiting up to six years for a procedure, a member of staff watching your real terms year-on-year pay plummet as you?re asked to do more work with less resource or simply someone who has even a cursory look through the data - Wales? health service is in a serious trouble.

https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/decisions-made-cardiff-london-left-27104835
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on June 14, 2023, 10:10:34 am
Health bosses are warning of major disruption and pressure on the NHS in England, as the hot weather combines with the latest junior doctor strike.

British Medical Association members will walk out for 72 hours from 07:00 on Wednesday.

It is the third strike in the pay dispute and is expected to lead to the cancellation of much routine care.

And with the heat placing extra demands on A&E units, bosses urged people to use services sensibly.

Junior doctors, nearly half the medical workforce, will walk out of both routine and emergency care.

cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-65896395
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on June 16, 2023, 10:11:22 am
Betsi Cadwaladr: Health board struggles to find new boss

A troubled health board has failed to recruit a new chief executive, despite "an intensive search" and offering a salary of ?225,000.

Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, covering north Wales, has had four leaders in the past four years.

The Welsh government put it back into special measures in February over patient safety concerns.

But management said a search for a new chief executive has so far proved unsuccessful.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-65925608
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: DVT on June 16, 2023, 02:08:14 pm
Ss they have carried on for part 6 months or more without someone in that role it does beg the question of what does that person actually do for that amount of money.

Surely 225k would be better spent on some more nursing staff who are the people that actually do the work in hospitals?
Title: Re: National Health Service.......White Gables Dental Practice in Colwyn Bay
Post by: SteveH on June 23, 2023, 10:18:08 am
White Gables Dental Practice in Colwyn Bay has notified patients that it is relinquishing their "small NHS contract".

It states: "We have taken the decision to relinquish our small NHS contract, which means that the provision of your dental care will change from September 1 2023.

"We will only be offering private or Denplan dental services from that date onwards.?

cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/23602674.colwyn-bay-dental-practice-end-nhs-servies-go-private/?ref=rss&IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on June 25, 2023, 09:27:03 am
This raises the question of how much tourism costs the local NHS services, BCUHB in particular, and are they compensated proportionally, I doubt it  :(

Summer tourism surge sees North Wales hospital plan extra heli-pad
Existing helicopter landing site could be removed and two new landing pads built at Ysbyty Gwynedd

It comes amid reports that the the hospital's catchment area "doubles" in the summer months - due to an increase in holiday makers visiting the Eryri mountains and North Wales beaches. The application has been made by Jason Dean of Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board through agent Mathew Roberts of TACP Architects Ltd.

cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/summer-tourism-surge-sees-north-27188835

Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on June 26, 2023, 09:53:40 am
UK's high rate of avoidable deaths linked to NHS woes

People in the UK are less likely to survive treatable conditions, such as breast cancer and stroke, than those in other rich nations, a study has found.

The review, by the King's Fund think tank, said the problem may be directly linked to the performance of the NHS.

It said below-average spending on the UK health service led to fewer staff and equipment than systems elsewhere.

But the study showed the NHS was very efficient within its budget, with less cash spent on admin than other nations.

The government says the NHS is one of the most efficiently run healthcare systems, and that investment is happening to further improve services.

Ahead of the 75th anniversary of the creation of the NHS next month, the think tank compared the UK's health service with the performance of 18 other health systems, including those in Europe as well as Japan, the US and Australia.

cont stats  https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-65992173
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on June 27, 2023, 10:21:40 am
Betsi health board heading for 134m deficit in 'ambitious' plan for year
The under-fire board were discussing the annual plan for 2023/24

The under-fire North Wales health board faces a ?134m deficit in its budget this year - although this will be an "ambitious" reduction on the last financial year. Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board made its budget projection in an annual report it will present to health minister Eluned Morgan.

Last year the budget had a 196m deficit and a plan has been put in place to reduce that. Chris Stockport, Executive Director of Transformation, Strategic Planning and Commissioning, said the plan was "ambitious" but that it would still mean a projected deficit of 134m.

cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/betsi-health-board-heading-134m-27201314
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on June 28, 2023, 08:20:23 am
NHS in Wales and GPs face collapse, BMA union says

GP services "will collapse in Wales and the NHS will follow" soon after unless urgent support is provided, the British Medical Association (BMA) has warned.

As patient levels rise, numbers of GP surgeries and doctors are falling amid inadequate resources and unsustainable workloads, BMA Cymru Wales has claimed.

It has written to the Welsh government, urging more funding and staff help.

The Welsh government said it was acting to cut pressure on GPs and increasing services by community pharmacists.

Launching its Save Our Surgeries campaign, the BMA said the number of GP practices in Wales had decreased by 18% in the past decade from 470 to 386.

It said the equivalent number of full-time GPs had also dropped by 456 (21.7%), from 1,901 to 1,445.

cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-66030700
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on June 30, 2023, 11:07:44 am
Medical degrees could be shortened by a year and there will be thousands more university places for medical students, in a major plan to boost the NHS workforce in England.

The plan, which has been delayed for more than a year, has been called "historic" by NHS leaders.

But Health Secretary Steve Barclay admitted patients would not see some of the benefits for several years.

Critics say poor working conditions in the NHS could undermine the plan.

The NHS has been beset by strikes this year, and the dispute with doctors is still continuing.

Pay does not feature in the plan - instead, it focuses on increasing training places for medical and nursing students and a new apprenticeship scheme for doctors.

A consultation on whether five-year medical degrees could be shortened by a year will also be launched.

cont   https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-66052274
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on July 01, 2023, 10:20:42 am
Will Rishi Sunak's plan to tackle NHS staffing shortages work?

Will it work?
That answer is yes for recruitment, though with a caveat.

The plan is funded for the first five years but for 10 years after that there is an assumption that future governments will find the money to keep up with the required growth in training places.

It is hard to believe a new administration would dilute NHS workforce growth and the training of thousands more doctors and nurses.

But, never say never when it comes to public finances.

Expanding the number of clinical staff to the extent which is envisaged in the plan will eventually have a positive impact for patients - but retention will be a bigger ask.

The plan's policies to improve morale and hang on to staff look a little vague. Recruitment will not achieve much if there is a continued exodus at the same rate as now.

Is it the right approach?    cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-66070467
Title: Re: National Health Service....Love it or hate it, the NHS is here to stay
Post by: SteveH on July 02, 2023, 10:39:45 am
Love it or hate it, the NHS is here to stay

The British have a love-hate relationship with the NHS.

According to researchers at the King's Fund, the public gave the NHS its worst rating since records began 40 years ago. Just 29% said they were satisfied with the NHS in 2022.

And yet we still love it. A whopping 90% of the public agrees the service should be free and available to everyone.

But with more than seven million people on waiting lists, almost everyone knows someone who isn't getting the care they need.

As the NHS approaches its 75th anniversary, politicians are falling over themselves to praise the service.

But when the cameras aren't rolling, the message you hear can be a very different one. Just like us, politicians have a love-hate relationship with the NHS.

"The whole system is paralysed and not improving - all the progress is going backwards." That's not the kind of thing you're likely to hear a minister say in public but it is the candid verdict of a former health minister talking privately.

They say the NHS chief executive has become the "rationer-in-chief" tasked with "spreading the jam more and more thinly" as the demand for care races ahead of what's available.

cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-66068224
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on July 05, 2023, 09:21:26 am
'I've worked in the NHS for 48 years and the future is apps and AI'
Dr Hasmukh Shah has worked in the NHS for almost 50 years. He has witnessed people live longer because of it and watched the NHS prosper thanks to overseas doctors. Now he is sharing his thoughts on what he thinks the future holds for the health service

cont https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/health/ive-worked-nhs-48-years-27255117?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on July 07, 2023, 09:50:25 am
NHS Wales: Ex-soldiers part of staff training course

Dr Jonathon Gray of Cardiff and Vale health board said new challenges needed "different forms of leadership".

Despite pulling together to open the Dragon's Heart field hospital in the Principality Stadium during the pandemic, those in charge realised their team members were unprepared to deal with the situation.

The Climb programme culminates in a three-day event with tasks such as co-ordinating a full-scale emergency operation, rescuing bodies from collapsed buildings and dealing with unexpected emergencies.

Participants are guided through this by members of an international rescue team and former SAS soldiers.

Dr Gray, the health board's director of improvement and innovation said the challenges facing NHS staff were "ever more complex".

He added: "When could possibly be better than the 75th anniversary of the NHS to be investing and growing the young leaders who will create the future NHS?"

cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-66095882
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on July 09, 2023, 10:25:05 am
WALES' Health Minister has provided an update on the ongoings at Betsi Cadwaladr Health Board, five months after putting it into special measures.

On February 27, Eluned Morgan MS, placed BCUHB back into special measures following 'serious concerns' about the way the health board was being run.

The Health Minister referenced concerns over board effectiveness, organisational culture, service quality and reconfiguration, governance, patient safety, operational delivery, leadership and financial management.

Read more https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/23641804.health-minister-provides-update-betsi-special-measures-call/
Title: Re: National Health Service...........Car parking BCUHB
Post by: SteveH on July 13, 2023, 09:55:26 am
Glan Clwyd to issue Infringement Notices to 'inconsiderate' parkers

FROM next week - emergency double red lines around Glan Clwyd Hospital will be protected.

This means, any vehicles parked on them will be issued with Parking Infringement Notices.
The action will be taken from Monday, July 17.

The level of "inconsiderate" parking at Glan Clwyd Hospital is said to have increased "considerably" over the past few months. It is now causing "chaos" on site.

In response to this, it is understood site managers have decided to act.

The Journal and Pioneer has learnt that this is not only affecting emergency vehicles, but it is also causing potential problems for those trying to attend outpatient appointments.

Non-emergency ambulances are also said to be reporting "difficulties" accessing dedicated spaces at the front of the Bodelwyddan based hospital.

It is believed the hospital is looking at various options to manage parking on site but in the meantime, bosses have ordered the infringement notices to be placed on any vehicles parked on routes lines with red lines, plus on any vehicles parked across the zebra crossing and in allocated disabled sections without the necessary blue badge displayed.

The notices do not carry a penalty but it is hoping the move will appeal to the better of nature of drivers.

Patients and visitors to Glan Clwyd Hospital are being urged to explore other options when travelling to the site such as using public transport or being dropped off and picked up for appointments or when visiting friends and relatives in hospital.
Title: Re: National Health Service..............Care homes
Post by: SteveH on July 14, 2023, 10:56:47 am
There are around 500 fewer places in care homes in Wales than there were in 2015, figures show.

It comes as the number of people aged over 65 in Wales increased by around 100,000 in the 10 years to 2021.

Care Forum Wales said funding must be urgently overhauled as the number of homes closing due to costs has created a "really difficult" situation.

The Welsh government said it was a council and health board matter but added it was providing ?70m this year.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-66195044
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on July 18, 2023, 10:02:15 am
'Line and death': Crackdown on 'inconsiderate' parkers at Glan Clwyd

On Monday, July 17, emergency double red lines around the Bodelwyddan based hospital became protected; Any vehicles parked on them will be issued with Parking Infringement Notices.

Red lines have been refreshed and signs have gone up around the hospital site warning patients and visitors not "stop".

Hospital bosses have been left no choice but introduce the measures as the amount of people parking on double red lines has become "chaotic".

Read more https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/23661388.line-death-crackdown-inconsiderate-parkers-glan-clwyd/?ref=rss&IYA-mail=d2a6ee64-29aa-4d6b-be9e-e1a0d906a347
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on July 22, 2023, 10:31:21 am
A new hospital extension and multi-storey car park are planned at Ysbyty Glan Clwyd. Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board has applied to Denbighshire County Council, seeking permission to build an adult and older persons? mental health unit at the hospital on Rhuddlan Road, Bodelwyddan.

The health board wants to build the new unit and the multi-storey on two plots of land, both currently used as car parks on the hospital grounds. If the development gets the go-ahead, the purpose-built mental health unit will provide a replacement for the existing Ablett Unit.

cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/ysbyty-glan-clwyd-multi-storey-27369041?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on July 24, 2023, 10:00:57 am
Hundreds of patients are taking up hospital beds across England and Wales every day despite being ready to leave, according to NHS data.

Figures show the biggest obstacle to speedy discharge is lack of beds in other settings, such as care homes.

Other reasons include hold-ups in sorting transport, medicines and paperwork.

The government said it wanted to "ensure patients leave hospital as soon as they are medically fit".

It is the first time data has been published which breaks down the reasons for discharge delays.

The need to install specialist equipment in a person's home or disagreements between a patient, their family and medical staff are among other reasons given.

The figures showed that, among patients in England in June who had been in hospital at least 14 days, an average of 1,791 a day were unable to be discharged due the lack of a bed in a residential or nursing home

cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-66284404
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on July 25, 2023, 10:37:20 am
Surge in ill health will have major impact on NHS

The number of people living with major illnesses in England will rise nine times faster than the healthy working age population, projections show.

By 2040 nearly one in five will have health conditions such as dementia and cancer, up from one in six in 2019.

The Health Foundation, which did the analysis, said the population shift would have a major impact on the NHS.

The think tank said it would require a radical shift, with more care in the community, rather than hospitals.

The projections suggest there will be 9.1 million people with a major health condition by 2040, a 37% rise in the latest data from 2019.

By comparison, the number of healthy working-age people will increase by just 4%.

cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-66295170
Title: Re: National Health Service...............Care Homes
Post by: SteveH on July 27, 2023, 10:07:48 am
A ?DOUBLE whammy? of rock bottom fees and soaring costs will inevitably lead to more care home closures across North Wales, it?s been warned.

Care homes in the region are struggling with increases of up to 100 per cent for utilities and insurance, along with hikes of more than 20 per cent for things like food and incontinence products.

At the same time, the fees providers receive in North Wales can be up to ?10,000 a year less per person than those given to their counterparts in South Wales for providing exactly the same level of care.

cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/23680488.chief-executive-warns-care-homes-north-wales-will-face-closure/
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on July 28, 2023, 10:21:58 am
Dangerous allergic reactions are rising in England and now cause some 25,000 NHS hospital stays a year, data shows.

Health officials say the rate has more than doubled over 20 years, prompting them to issue advice reminding people how to recognise allergies and respond.

For severe food-related allergic reactions, the rise in admissions is even greater.

Provisional figures show admissions rose from under 2,000 twenty years ago to more than 5,000 in 2022/23.

The data, gathered by the NHS and analysed by the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency, does not include people who visited outpatient or Accident and Emergency departments with allergies and were discharged without requiring a hospital stay.

The figures suggest anaphylaxis is on the increase, though some of the rise could be attributed to the growth in population.

How to treat an allergic reaction
Knowing what to do could mean the difference between life and death.
Signs of a severe allergic reaction, also known as anaphylaxis, include:

swelling in the throat or tongue
wheezing
breathing difficulties
dizziness
tiredness
confusion

cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-66330268
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on July 30, 2023, 10:54:48 am
ORTHOPAEDIC surgical teams at a North Wales hospital have now performed 100 robotically assisted knee replacement surgeries.

Ysbyty Gwynedd in Bangor is the first NHS hospital in Wales to perform robotic knee replacements.

Using the ROSA system, surgeons are able to personalise the knee replacement which provides more precise operations, potentially shorter hospital stays and quicker recoveries.

cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/23687799.surgeons-ysbyty-gwynedd-clock-robotic-milestone/?ref=rss&IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
Title: Re: National Health Service......new North Wales Medical School
Post by: SteveH on July 31, 2023, 09:58:38 am
AN EXPERT panel from the General Medical Council (GMC) visited Bangor University earlier this month and confirmed that the North Wales Medical School is ready to recruit students.

Bangor University is now actively recruiting students for its September 2024 intake, marking a significant step in its journey towards formal accreditation of the new North Wales Medical School.

It has been delivering Cardiff University?s C21 medicine programme in North Wales since 2019, in collaboration with Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board and GPs from across the region, with the first cohort graduating this year.

cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/23689346.go-ahead-recruit-students-new-north-wales-medical-school/

Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on August 03, 2023, 10:07:14 am
THE leadership of North Wales? health board face making ?hard choices? as it grapples with its deteriorating financial position.

Russell Caldicott, recently appointed interim director of finance at Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, gave an update on the health board?s ongoing financial deficit at its meeting this week.

He said: ?In terms of our current performance we see a ?2.9m deterioration in our position on the back of a ?1 million deterioration in April so it?s 3.9m. That deterioration has continued.

?We are now at a cumulative 9.3 million deficit. You can see we?re going beyond a plan that committed more cash resource and having to find that additional cash as well is going to be incredibly challenging for us. It?s a very difficult position.?

Mr Caldicott said pay award increase costs were a contributing factor towards the deficit.

He added: ?Every month that becomes more difficult to recover from, every month we delay taking those challenges on board we face a bigger challenge in the remaining months of the calendar year.

?Unfortunately it?s a position that shows we are deteriorating in terms of financial performance, certainly in revenue and there is a real concern for us as we move forwards just in terms of our cash projections.?

The meeting heard that the health board had earmarked 7m just to cover agency costs through June.

cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/23695780.north-wales-health-boards-deteriorating-finances/
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on August 04, 2023, 09:51:02 am
We need every incentive to get medical staff into Wales, there is going to be a revolt soon.

Doctors have rejected a Welsh government offer of a 5% pay rise.

It would have covered consultants, junior doctors, and specialist doctors on contracts dating to 2008.

The British Medical Association Cymru said those on 2021 specialist contracts would get no increase other than that already in their multi-year pay deal.

The BMA's Iona Collins called it the "worst offer in the UK", but the Welsh government said there were limits without more UK government money.

BMA committees will meet within the next fortnight to decide whether to enter a dispute with the Welsh government and ballot for industrial action.

"A 5% uplift represents yet another pay cut in real terms and serves only to increase the losses faced by doctors, after more than a decade's worth of sub-inflation pay awards," said Dr Collins, who chairs the BMA's Welsh council.

The offer, she said, did "not comply with Welsh government's formal commitment to the principle of full pay restoration".

cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-66399552
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: DVT on August 04, 2023, 01:04:20 pm
Just highlights the useless Welsh government ... millions spent on changing road signs, plenty of money to finance asylum seekers ... but complaining about lack of funds for the essential people in the NHS.

They really need to consider just how they use the money that the UK government give us - if it's not enough, as claimed, then spend what you have wisely.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Hugo on August 04, 2023, 02:52:57 pm
A friend told me that on a Colwyn Bay forum it was reported that a number of complaints about the West End Medical Centre were made to Darren Millar the MS for Clwyd West.    He then arranged a meeting with the Medical Centre hoping to sort out the issues raised only to be told by the centre that Betsi Cadwaladr had issued instructions to the centre not to talk to Mr Millar
Now if they won't discuss issues with the MS what chance does  the ordinary person have?
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on August 11, 2023, 10:13:34 am
We can't take any more, says NHS as doctors strike
Junior doctors have started a four-day walkout, with health bosses warning the NHS cannot take any more disruption.

The strike by members of the British Medical Association (BMA) began at 07:00 BST and lasts until Tuesday.

It is the junior doctors' fifth strike in the pay dispute in England.

NHS Providers said services were at tipping point because covering the junior doctor strikes had cost an estimated ?1bn, as well leading to thousands of postponed treatments.
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-66463694

How much do junior doctors really get paid in England?
Junior doctors in England are starting their fifth round of strike action with no sign of a breakthrough in their bitter pay dispute with the government.

The doctors' union, the BMA, made headlines earlier this year when it said pay had fallen so far behind inflation that its members would be better off serving coffee than treating patients. The government described that as misleading and said the average junior doctor earns between ?20 and ?30 an hour.

In reality, that term - junior doctor - covers someone fresh out of medical school right up to those with a decade or more of experience. And pay is complicated, with salaries varying massively as medics move up grades when they become more skilled and start to specialise.

BBC News asked two junior doctors, at different stages of their careers, to show us their wage slips and explain exactly how much they earn.
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-66360656
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on August 13, 2023, 10:29:50 am
NHS: UK government offers to help cut Wales waiting times
The UK government has said it wants to work with the Welsh government to help reduce NHS waiting times.

UK Health Secretary Steve Barclay has invited Welsh and Scottish ministers to discuss how to "get patients seen more quickly".

He said he would be "open to requests" for Welsh and Scottish patients who were "waiting lengthy periods" to be treated in England.

The Welsh government declined to respond directly to the offer of talks.

Welsh ministers previously said long waiting list times were "falling every month in Wales".

The health service in Wales is run by the Welsh government but some NHS patients travel to England for treatment.
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-66488586


The health secretary has invited the Welsh and Scottish governments to discuss how best to tackle NHS waiting lists, as millions wait for hospital treatment across the UK.
Steve Barclay accused them of having worse delays than England in some cases - but they disputed the figures.

Hospital waiting lists in England hit a record 7.57 million people in June.

Mr Barclay also said he was open to Scottish and Welsh patients being treated in England.

NHS services are devolved, meaning Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland control them in those nations, while the UK government runs them in England.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has made cutting waiting lists one of his "five priorities", and he's said people should hold him to account if NHS waiting lists in England do not fall by January 2025.

So far the numbers are not moving in the right direction.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-66490038

Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on August 15, 2023, 09:56:25 am
The government has announced ?250m in funding to provide an extra 5,000 NHS hospital beds in England this winter.

Ministers say 900 new beds should be ready by January, with the remainder to follow soon after, boosting capacity and helping lower record waiting lists.

The increase will mean nearly 100,000 permanent beds on wards and in A&E, available at the busiest time of the year - a 5% rise on current levels.

NHS Providers said the extra capacity was needed "before winter begins".

Miriam Deakin, director of policy and strategy at NHS Providers, said trusts would welcome the support but cautioned any new beds would need to be staffed.

cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-66499997
Title: Re: National Health Service....Is Wales worse than England
Post by: SteveH on August 16, 2023, 10:23:49 am
A row has broken out about hospital waiting lists in Wales and England.

The Welsh Health Minister Eluned Morgan accused her English counterpart Steve Barclay of a "naked political hit".

Mr Barclay said he was open to requests to help treat long-waiting Welsh patients over the border.

Ms Morgan said England had issues of its own, but admitted NHS Wales was "challenged in terms of waiting lists".

But what can we tell about the two?

Can NHS waiting times in Wales be compared England?    cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-66511635
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on August 24, 2023, 10:12:13 am
NHS consultant strike: How pay compares globally

Senior hospital doctors are taking part in their second strike of the year in England in a dispute over pay.

The two-day walkout begins at 07:00 BST with NHS bosses warning patients to expect significant disruption.

But as the strike begins, an analysis by the Nuffield Trust has shed fresh light on their pay levels.

It has found while salaries have not kept up with inflation, NHS senior doctors are still earning more than counterparts in a number of countries.

The analysis, which takes into account the cost of living in different countries, placed them above those in France, Spain and Italy as well as New Zealand last year.

cont plus stats https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-66595839
Title: Re: National Health Service....Llandudno Hospital new plans
Post by: SteveH on August 30, 2023, 04:11:02 pm
Potentially good news for a change, fingers crossed.........................

Plans to build new operating theatres at Llandudno Hospital considered
Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board said a business case was being finalised

More surgeries could soon be carried out at Llandudno Hospital if plans submitted to Conwy Council are approved. Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board has submitted two planning applications to Conwy?s planning department for the general hospital on Hospital Road.

If the plans get the go-head, existing operating theatres will be extended and the health board will build new theatres, together with ancillary accommodation for staff. An extension to the existing X-ray department will also see services potentially improved, providing extended X-ray facilities with mammography rooms.

cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/plans-build-new-operating-theatres-27618477
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on August 31, 2023, 10:20:54 am
An executive director at an under-fire health board was paid more than three times the maximum allowed for her role, a report has revealed.

Gaynor Thomason was paid equivalent to a ?469,500 annual salary as interim director of nursing and midwifery at Betsi Cadwaladr.

It is the latest financial issue raised at the health board, which was returned to special measures in February.

The health board said it was "determined to improve".

An Audit Wales report said Ms Thomason's wage was more than three times what was allowed under Welsh government rules.

The Welsh government states the role should come under pay band 14, which offers a maximum annual salary of ?149,334.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-66665499
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: mondie on September 04, 2023, 01:29:08 pm
Betsi Cadwaladr is in terminal decline, it is difficult to see how it will ever recover. The system is utterly broken and needs to be fixed from the top down by strong leadership, lots of money, and the attraction of hordes of experience from elsewhere, and where is all that going to come from? Two members of my immediate family work for the NHS and the unending daily examples they tell of poor management, negligence and blase attitudes, negligent patient care, and the general day-to-day incompetence that is not only tolerated but covered up by the system, is staggering.

We have lived in the area since 2017 and I will be retiring next year. BC is one of the main reasons we will not be staying in the area.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on September 04, 2023, 04:10:17 pm
Mondie........Sorry to hear you are leaving the area, but best wishes for a good retirement.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Hugo on September 05, 2023, 08:59:10 am
Mondie,    I was sad to read your post, sad too because every word you have said is true and it's not likely to get better unless some drastic measures are introduced.
Gone forever are the days when you could walk in to a GP's surgery, sign a register and be seen by the GP that day.  Gone too are the Matrons who used to run the hospital wards effectively and efficiently.    Where are the nurses homes that the nurses lived in and had their training on site?
I believe that other areas have problems too but I'd like to wish you a happy and healthy retirement wherever that may be
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: mondie on September 06, 2023, 07:41:44 pm
Thanks, Steve and Hugo, I will be around for a while yet. Just need to ensure I don't get seriously ill  :P
Title: Re: National Health Service.........Air Ambulance
Post by: SteveH on September 12, 2023, 09:49:21 am
A scheme to develop two new helicopter landing pads at a North Wales hospital - prompted by a surge in summer tourism has been given the green light. Cyngor Gwynedd's planning committee unanimously agreed to a proposal to remove an existing helicopter landing site (HLS) and to construct two new landing pads at Ysbyty Gwynedd in Bangor, when it met today, Monday September 11.

It comes after an assessment of the existing service by Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board. It had reported "the need to upgrade and improve the provision for landing helicopters" at the Penrhosgarnedd site in Gwynedd.

The "existing service has been very busy, particularly taking into account the fact that the county's population doubles during the summer months, as well as the presence of Eryri National Park in the area."

A planning document had stated from December 1, 2020 to November 30, 2021, the 444 bed hospital had accepted 158 patients via Wales Air Ambulance / Bristow Search and Rescue: "Of this total, approximately 60% were HEMS / Air Ambulance tasks whilst the remaining 40% were SAR aircraft operations."

cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/north-wales-hospital-two-new-27694688

Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on September 13, 2023, 10:04:07 am
NHS leaders and ministers will meet in Downing Street on Wednesday to discuss planning for winter.

The summit will involve the prime minister, health secretary and NHS England boss Amanda Pritchard.

The focus will be on what else the NHS needs to help it through the winter.

With a record number of people on the hospital waiting list, the threat of continued strikes by doctors and long waits for emergency care, concern is growing over how the NHS will cope.

The event comes after the launch of the winter flu and Covid vaccination campaign earlier this week.

An extra 5,000 hospital beds are already in the process of being opened - increasing capacity by about 5%.

And there will be at least 10,000 "virtual" hospital beds, where doctors provide remote monitoring of patients - who would otherwise have to be admitted to hospital - in their homes.

These have been used in recent years for patients with conditions such as respiratory infections and heart problems.

cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-66790618
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on September 15, 2023, 01:47:35 pm
Frustrated Denbighshire councillors were told there was no time scale for the re-development of Rhyl?s Royal Alexander Hospital. Whilst the business case was agreed back in March 2021, the project has remained frozen and awaiting Welsh Government approval and the allocation of funds.

At a partnerships scrutiny committee meeting on Thursday, councillors had the chance to question Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board director Alyson Constantine about the delay. Mrs Constantine explained that the health board were now awaiting a decision from Welsh Government on whether the plans would be taken forward.

cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/frustration-over-delays-multi-million-27716545
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on September 21, 2023, 10:00:59 am
Some time ago, my medication was changed, which left me with a good supply of my old ones, when I returned them to the chemist, I was advised they could not be reused, and would be destroyed despite being well in date and totally sealed, I was also aware how expensive these meds were, ridiculous waste money.........  :-X

The public in Northern Ireland disposes of an estimated 165 tonnes of unused medicines through community pharmacies, the Department of Health has said.
Most of these medicines were prescribed for patients.

The Department of Health has previously estimated that medicines wasted in Northern Ireland are valued at ?18m annually.

This is compounded by a further cost of ?650,000 to safely dispose of these unused medicines.

The figures have been released in a drive to reduce the amount of money that is spent unnecessarily on prescribed medicines across health and social care.

The department said Northern Ireland uses more of almost every type of medicine than in other parts of the UK and the number of prescriptions written for patients is rising each year.

cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-northern-ireland-66838617
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on September 27, 2023, 10:03:31 am
Police conclude North Wales health board review
North Wales Police say they are now preparing a 'final report' after being asked to probe financial irregularities

It followed accountancy firm Ernst & Young writing a scathing report over financial dealings at Betsi Cadwaladr, including deliberately incorrect entries into their own accounts as well as finding "systematic cultural failings" in the organisation's finance team.

cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/police-conclude-north-wales-health-27792130
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on September 28, 2023, 10:05:08 am
Student loans in England should be written off for certain health staff once they have completed 10 years of NHS service, experts say.

The Nuffield Trust said the financial incentive was needed to stop a "dropout crisis" among nurses, midwives and other front-line staff.

It warned huge numbers were failing to finish training, or leave the NHS soon after starting.

But ministers rejected the idea, saying support was already in place.

The report by the Nuffield Trust is the most comprehensive look at what is happening to those who start training and begin their careers in the NHS.

It looked at a host of different groups from doctors and nurses to midwives and allied health professionals, including physios, occupational therapists and radiographers, who carry out scans.

cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-66939864
Title: Re: National Health Service ...................Llandudno Hospital
Post by: SteveH on September 29, 2023, 09:55:52 am
Multi-million pound plans to redevelop Llandudno Hospital backed
Two new operating theatres are set to be built, while a ward will be refurbished

Plans for the multi-million pound redevelopment of a hospital have been backed by health bosses. Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board backed a business case to redevelop Llandudno Hospital during a board meeting on Thursday.

The proposals will see two new operating theatres built, while the hospital's Aberconwy Ward will be refurbished. The refurbishment will provide 19 beds for patients who need non-complex orthopaedic surgery who might need a short hospital stay ? if funding is successful.

The business case for the multi-million-pound centre of excellence will now be considered by Welsh Government later this year. If agreed, these theatres would be built outside the radiology department, allowing current Llandudno theatre activity to continue.

cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/multi-million-pound-plans-redevelop-27806069?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on October 04, 2023, 10:14:29 am
Betsi chief not happy with waiting times and also gives update on Rhyl hospital
She announced that Rhyl Alex could be regenerated in stages

The interim chief executive of North Wales? health board has admitted hospital waiting times are not good enough but says things are improving. Interim chief executive Carol Shillabeer also said plans for the regeneration of Rhyl?s hospital might need to be scaled down or completed in stages.

Ms Shillabeer spoke to the Local Democracy Reporting Service at Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board?s AGM last week. When asked if she was happy with current waiting times, she said she was not.

cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/betsi-chief-not-happy-waiting-27827723
Title: Re: National Health Service....Use public transport to cut hospital car parking
Post by: SteveH on October 05, 2023, 10:04:57 am
North Wales: ?Use public transport to cut hospital car parking?

THE chairman of North Wales? health board is encouraging staff and patients to car share and use public transport in a bid to solve problems at busy hospital car parks.

Speaking at Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board?s AGM in Llandudno, chairman Dyfed Edwards said simply increasing the size of hospital car parks was not the right way forward.

The Local Democracy Reporting Service asked Mr Edwards what the health board was doing about people struggling to park ? specifically at Wrexham?s Maelor Hospital as well as Ysbyty Gwynedd in Bangor.

cont https://www.leaderlive.co.uk/news/23835072.north-wales-use-public-transport-cut-hospital-car-parking/?ref=rss&IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on October 10, 2023, 10:28:46 am
The sickness timebomb set to hit Wales
A new report has laid bare the huge problems facing the Welsh NHS in the coming years.

During the next 15 years almost 20% of the population will be aged 70 and over with 22% more people expected to have diabetes. Meanwhile the number of people with four or more long-term conditions could double. These are among the huge problems facing the Welsh NHS in the coming years which are laid bare in a new report.

The Welsh NHS is already on its knees with huge waiting list backlogs and staffing shortages. WalesOnline recently published this special report into how both the UK and Welsh Governments had underfunded the health service.

cont https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/wales-news/sickness-timebomb-set-hit-wales-27872232?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Hugo on October 10, 2023, 12:22:21 pm
I have been with the same dentist practice for well over 20 years and last week my wife and I both received letters  The practice says that a high level of dental care within the NHS has been provided for me  and this has been made possible DUE TO my continued loyalty towards them and the trust I have placed in them as my dentist.
Then the crunch comes after a load of waffle.     From the 1st January 2024 the practice will no longer accept anyone for treatment on the NHS.    Instead if you want to continue using the same dentist you must register with them and then opt for an annual care or routine care package and complete a direct debit to cover the charges.
In other words they are going private like many before them have already done.
The way things are going I wouldn't be surprised if they introduced a nominal charge to see your GP
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Ian on October 10, 2023, 02:45:50 pm
That's the way the Tories operate. We watched Caught Red Handed (BBC1) and were unsurprised by the problems directly caused by Tory policy.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Helig on October 11, 2023, 10:21:42 am
In the south of Scotland you cannot get an NHS dentist anywhere. It isn't possible to register with one as a private patient either. Very many dentists have retired, or left. Those who remain have full patient lists and long waiting lists to become a patient. It has deteriorated significantly since I came up here 8 years ago.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Hugo on October 11, 2023, 12:44:49 pm
That's not a great situation to be in Helig but it's a sign of the decline of the NHS, certainly in dentistry.    Mrs H called at the surgery yesterday and found out that the surgery has 16,000  NHS  patients at the moment but from the 1st Jan 2024 they will only accept 6,000 private patients so I'll have to apply online asap
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on October 16, 2023, 10:16:16 am
The true picture of A&E waiting times in Wales has been seriously under-reported for a decade, the BBC can reveal.

The Royal College of Emergency Medicine (RCEM) has established thousands of hours are missed from monthly figures.

Senior A&E doctors have been raising the issue for months.

The Welsh government said it would ask health boards for assurances they were following the guidance "to ensure the data is absolutely transparent".

The RCEM said it could not measure "how bad" things were because thousands of patients subject to so-called "breach exemptions" were not included in the overall A&E waiting times.

The Welsh government initially disputed the RCEM's claim, but after seeing detailed figures - which were obtained through freedom of information (FOI) requests to health boards - it changed its position.

Wales' health minister has repeatedly claimed A&E waiting times in Wales have "bettered English performance".

But once the missing data is taken into account, it suggests the performance in Wales is worse.

cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-67056279
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on October 18, 2023, 09:51:52 am
A levy on gambling companies that would bring in ?100m a year to fund NHS treatment is being considered by the UK government.

It wants all operators "to pay their fair share", instead of the current voluntary scheme.

The money will be invested in treatment and support for people harmed by gambling in England, Scotland and Wales, ministers say.

The body that represents the industry said it supported the new levy.

But the Betting and Gaming Council also said funds from the levy must be given only to "genuine" charities and organisations tackling problem gambling and related harms.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-67132720
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on October 23, 2023, 10:06:02 am
Welsh Ambulance Service declares extraordinary incident due to delays

An ambulance spent 28 hours outside a hospital after an "extraordinary incident" was declared due to delays.

The Welsh Ambulance Service said 16 ambulances had waited outside the emergency department at Morriston Hospital, Swansea, at one time.

It said multiple sites across Wales were affected, "specifically" in the Swansea Bay health board area.

Lee Brooks, director of operations, told BBC Radio Wales Breakfast the situation was "heart-breaking".

The service said people should only call 999 if their emergency was "life or limb threatening".

Judith Bryce, assistant director of operations at the Welsh Ambulance Service, said on Sunday the service was experiencing "patient handover delays outside of emergency departments".

"This is taking its toll on our ability to respond within the community," she said.

cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-67190297
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on October 26, 2023, 10:22:25 am
What latest NHS Wales figures on staffing, vacancies and sickness tell us
New statistics have been released on the health service in Wales

New figures have come out today that shine a light on staffing, sickness and vacancy figures in the Welsh NHS. The country's health service is facing huge challenges right now with long waiting lists and targets being missed on A&E waits and ambulance response times.

Wales's health minister Eluned Morgan is under pressure to address the current situation and in North Wales the Betsi Cadwaladr health board is in special measures due to its failings.

Today new statistics were released looking at the numbers in the current NHS Wales workforce, how often people are ill and how many vacancies there currently are:

Here we breakdown those figures:    https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/what-latest-nhs-wales-figures-27979864?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589

Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on October 31, 2023, 09:37:20 am
NHS waiting lists predicted to exceed 8m by summer
This figure is regardless of whether or not healthcare workers take further strike action

A new analysis warns that NHS waiting lists could reach a staggering eight million by next summer, regardless of ongoing medical strikes. Even as healthcare professionals continue to strike over pay, this staggering figure represents a significant challenge for the UK's healthcare system.

The Health Foundation's report outlines four different scenarios, all indicating that NHS waiting lists could peak at eight million by August 2024 if healthcare workers don't engage in further strike action. If strikes persist, the list could swell by an additional 180,000 individuals.

Earlier this month, it was revealed that 7.75million people were waiting for NHS treatment as of August, marking the highest figure recorded since data collection began in 2007. Charles Tallack, director of data analytics at the Health Foundation, said: ?Behind these numbers are people anxious for a diagnosis, patients in avoidable pain and lives put on hold.?

cont https://www.inyourarea.co.uk/news/nhs-waiting-lists-predicted-to-exceed-8m-by-summer/
Title: Re: National Health Service...NHS Wales makes plea to 'Help Us, Help You'
Post by: SteveH on November 06, 2023, 09:47:04 am
NHS Wales makes plea to 'Help Us, Help You' get treatment as fast as possible this winter
Everyone 'can play a part' in reducing winter pressure on emergency care services in Wales

As winter approaches and demand on GPs and emergency care services rises, NHS Wales? Chief Executive Judith Paget is reminding everyone of the different services available across Wales for quick and quality treatment. The Welsh Government?s ?Help us, Help You? campaign highlights the other local services and health professionals working in NHS Wales, that are available to ensure those with urgent care needs can be treated quickly - without needing to go to their GPs or nearest emergency department.

NHS Chief Executive, Judith Paget said: ?If you?re unwell, injured or have an urgent care need, there are many ways to access the NHS in Wales instead of through emergency departments. This includes the NHS 111 Wales online and telephone service, mental health helplines, pharmacists, minor injuries units, and more.

Urgent Primary Care Centres (UPCCs) and Same Day Emergency Care Services (SDECs) are now up and running across multiple sites in Wales, as a result of the Welsh Government?s ?Six Goals for Urgent and Emergency Care? programme - helping to safely prevent trips to emergency departments or hospital admissions. UPCCs treat people with urgent primary care needs on the same day, and SDECs help people access diagnostics and treatment for emergency care needs and return home on the same day.

full article https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/nhs-wales-makes-plea-help-28048634
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on November 09, 2023, 10:10:13 am
Welsh health boards asked to make even more spending cuts
They are asked to reduced their expected deficits by 10% as the Welsh Government moves money to 'prioritise health'

Health boards in Wales have been asked to make even more savings for this financial year. Health minister Eluned Morgan says they need to reduce their deficits by 10%.

In total it is projected health boards in Wales are heading for deficits of at least ?650m as a result of high inflation, a rise in the cost of medicine, and additional pay pressures. Last month it was announced that the health budget would receive an extra ?425m after cuts were made to other ministerial departments in order to reallocate the money.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/welsh-health-boards-asked-make-28070256?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589


Plans for new mental health unit at Glan Clwyd approved
A SECOND bite of the cherry has proved successful for Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB) after plans for a "world class" inpatient mental health unit and multi-storey car park at Glan Clwyd Hospital were approved.

The new fit for purpose unit, which could cost up to ?84.5m [up to ?80million from Welsh Government] and will benefit from 59 patient-beds in four new inpatient wards, was given the green light by Denbighshire County Council's Planning Committee today (Wednesday, November 8).
cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/23910345.plans-new-mental-health-unit-glan-clwyd-approved/?ref=rss&IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
Title: Re: National Health Service...........UK faces rural and coastal ageing crisis
Post by: SteveH on November 10, 2023, 10:10:33 am
The UK faces an ageing crisis and healthcare must step in, England's chief medical officer, Prof Sir Chris Whitty, warns in his annual report.

People are living longer but some spend many of their later years in bad health - and that has to change, he said.

Based on projections, the elderly boom will be in rural, largely coastal, areas and these places are often poor cousins when it comes to provision.

In deprived regions, age-related issues emerge 10 years earlier, on average.

While young people flock to wealthy cities, areas such as Scarborough, North Norfolk or the south coast of England are going to age "rapidly and predictably", says the report - Sir Chris's fourth in the role.

He told me: "We've really got to get serious about the areas of the country where ageing is happening very fast, and we've got to do it now.

"It's possible to compress the period of time that people spend in ill health...because otherwise we will end up with large numbers of people leading much more dependent lives."

Providing services and environments suitable for older adults in these areas is an absolute priority, the report says.

cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-67367051
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on November 13, 2023, 10:23:48 am
Attracting skilled overseas-trained doctors to the UK will remain "crucial", despite plans to train more healthcare staff here, the doctors' regulator has said.

The General Medical Council (GMC) found that nearly two-thirds (63%) of new doctors in 2022 qualified abroad.

The government launched a major plan in June to train and recruit more healthcare workers in England.

But it will take many years for this to take effect, the GMC says.

NHS England says it currently has 10,855 full-time doctor vacancies - a rate of 7.2%.

Under NHS England's Long Term Workforce Plan, it hopes to recruit and retain "hundreds of thousands" more healthcare staff over the next 15 years. The plan includes spending ?2.4bn on additional training places for healthcare workers, with the number of medical school places for student doctors set to double to 15,000 a year.

Trainee doctors must study for five years before they qualify and must then undertake further training.

cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-67378621
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on November 14, 2023, 10:25:55 am
NHS struggling to open extra winter beds and fill staffing gaps

The warning, from NHS Providers, which represents managers, came after the Treasury rejected pleas for an extra ?1bn to cover the cost of strikes.

Recruitment to plug gaps in the workforce was also having to be put on hold, NHS Providers said.

But the government said winter planning was on track.

It pointed out the goal to open 10,000 "virtual" hospitals beds had been met. This is where doctors remotely monitor patients with conditions such as respiratory and heart problems who would otherwise have to be in hospital.

Progress was also being made on opening 5,000 new permanent hospital beds - a 5% increase in numbers, the government said.

"We recognise the challenges the NHS faces over the coming months, which is why we started preparing for winter earlier than ever," a Department of Health and Social Care spokesman added.

cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-67408446
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Hugo on November 14, 2023, 02:54:30 pm
Diabetes warning as patient numbers increase.     It seems to be more common than I realised and my walking buddy Old Uncle Albert and I have both been diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes.    No chocolates and cakes for me anymore and I'm slowly losing the will to live


https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-67407132
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: DVT on November 14, 2023, 04:43:40 pm
Diabetes warning as patient numbers increase.     It seems to be more common than I realised and my walking buddy Old Uncle Albert and I have both been diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes.    No chocolates and cakes for me anymore and I'm slowly losing the will to live

Hugo ... just keep going, be sensible with the chocolates and cake and you'll be fine, you certainly seem to get enough exercise so that is good.  I have been Type 1 insulin-dependent for 55 years, and hope to keep going for quite a while longer!
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Hammy on November 14, 2023, 06:02:31 pm
Diabetes warning as patient numbers increase.     It seems to be more common than I realised and my walking buddy Old Uncle Albert and I have both been diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes.    No chocolates and cakes for me anymore and I'm slowly losing the will to live


https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-67407132
Hugo,
Don't worry, just eat everything in moderation. I gave up 'puddings' and biscuits but still have chocolate as a treat. You also have to watch the citrus food trap, but moderation and exercise are the keys.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: norman08 on November 14, 2023, 09:24:53 pm
Join the club Hugo, I went to the docs few years ago for something they did bloods & x rays. When I went back they told me I was diabetes,, they told me to cut things out, not a chance. 😂,,,,  see you met the 2 lads last week wish I?d known,  middle bro goes back tomorrow he said.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Hugo on November 14, 2023, 10:45:26 pm
Thanks everyone for your support, the more I speak to people the more I realise that I'm not the only one with diabetes.    A lifetime of being a chocaholis and a cakeaholic and now old age have finally caught up with me.

Norman it was nice seeing your boys at the club last week, they are certainly a chip off the old block,   At least I had a couple of pints there but that was my limit and it's everything in moderation  but no chocolates or cakes any more.     Mrs H did make a cake for me recently but it had no added sugar but all healthy ingredients and a good amount of whisky too.   It was scrumptious.      ;D
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on November 15, 2023, 10:01:06 am
Mrs H, recently diagnosed as pre diabetic, with the advice given above, plus easy on the salt............ there go MY cakes and chocs.  ???
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Helig on November 15, 2023, 10:07:38 am
Sorry to hear of your diabetes diagnosis, Hugo. It sounds as though we all qualify for membership of the old crocs club. I discovered I was Coeliac last year and have had over 12 months being gluten free. Although my health has improved, it is hard doing without all the goodies. It is surprising how much of what we eat has gluten in it. No cakes, or biscuits for me either. The gluten free varieties are not very nice and not the same at all.
Title: Re: National Health Service...............Llandudno Hospital New Orthopaedic Hub
Post by: SteveH on November 23, 2023, 10:17:44 am
Excellent news for the hospital and the area

THE Welsh Government has agreed to fund a new Orthopaedic Hub at Llandudno Hospital.

Up to ?29.4million will be provided for the new hub that is set to transform elective orthopaedic services at Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB) and provide benefits for patients, staff and the wider North Wales community, by delivering a planned 1,900 procedures a year.

Specializing in high volume, low complexity care, the hub will increase annual surgical activity by providing orthopaedic services away from hospitals, it will reduce the effects unscheduled care can have on elective treatment and reduce the chance of surgeries being postponed.

full article https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/23942304.new-orthopaedic-hub-built-llandudno-hospital/

PS
Official government  announcement  https://www.gov.wales/new-orthopaedic-hub-llandudno-hospital
Title: Re: National Health Service...........North Wales Medical School in Bangor
Post by: SteveH on November 26, 2023, 10:24:21 am
PREPARATIONS are well underway for the first intake of students who will study at the new, independent North Wales Medical School at Bangor University.

In January, the First Minister confirmed that Welsh Government would fund up to 140 students a year at the facility, and the first 80 are due to start in September next year.

The medical school will admit and train hundreds of medical students in its first decade through both five-year school and four-year graduate entry routes, and will help ensure increased training opportunities for qualified doctors to stay and work within NHS Wales.

cont https://www.northwaleschronicle.co.uk/news/23946203.north-wales-medical-school-bangor-gearing-first-students/?ref=rss&IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
Title: Re: National Health Service........ Doing everything to avoid winter crisis
Post by: SteveH on December 03, 2023, 11:35:05 am
The NHS is doing "everything" it can to avoid a winter crisis in the health service, the health secretary has said.

There are signs the NHS could face extra pressure this winter with record waiting lists and warnings about fewer extra beds..

Speaking to the BBC, Victoria Atkins said avoiding a crisis was her "number one priority this winter".

Planning for winter "started much earlier than usual", creating an extra 5,000 beds, she added.

Speaking on BBC One's Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg, Ms Atkins said: "The NHS has been working very hard to prepare for this winter."

The waiting list for planned NHS treatment in England rose to a record high of 7.77 million in September.

Ms Atkins blamed industrial action over for adding to delays. She said strikes by doctors and nurses had led to "1.1 million appointments having to be rescheduled".

cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-67605947
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on December 12, 2023, 10:09:36 am
The government is beginning a legal process to set new rules around the NHS roles of physician associates (PA) and anaesthesia associates (AA).

There have been calls for regulation of the non-doctor jobs for patient safety.

People in these roles are fully trained, but do not currently undergo the types of mandatory checks that doctors and nurses do.

With no obligatory register, any who malpractice cannot formally be struck off, for example.

PAs can already join a voluntary register with the Royal College of Physicians.

The future plan though is for PAs and AAs to be regulated by the General Medical Council, which also oversees doctors, to set standards of practice, education and training, and operate fitness-to-practise procedures.

The government will lay legislation this week so the change can be brought in by the end of 2024.

What do PAs do?       ..............  https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-67682080
Title: Re: National Health Service.....repeat medication requests over Christmas
Post by: SteveH on December 16, 2023, 10:29:40 am
Too many repeat medication requests over Christmas could harm sick patients and potentially risk lives, NHS 111 out-of-hours advice service has warned.

It had a big increase in such requests over last year's festive period.

Its director Dan Ainsworth told the BBC this was "avoidable" and puts the service under "significant" pressure.

Prescriptions are often requested because a patient has run out of long-term medication and failed to organise a fresh supply with their GP before Christmas,

Urged people in need of repeat prescriptions to organise them before the Christmas break.            BBC
Title: Re: NHS........'Surely to God they can get an ambulance here quicker
Post by: SteveH on December 18, 2023, 10:41:41 am
Ambulance staff are being forced to book taxis to take patients to hospital when having suspected strokes or while experiencing chest pains.

And there are times when no ambulances at all are available across all of north Wales, according to a senior paramedic.

This is because so many crews are tied up outside full A&E departments.

The Welsh government said it expected health boards to make "urgent improvement" to reduce the delays.

The Welsh ambulance service insists it is trying hard to find solutions, including creating new paramedic roles dedicated to only the most serious calls.

But some staff feel they are swimming against the tide, with the most difficult weeks of winter still to come.

I spent two days with the ambulance service in north Wales and witnessed the relentless pressures first-hand.

'Surely to God they can get an ambulance here quicker'
Arriving in Llandudno with paramedic Aled Williams, it is obvious that Jenny Evans, 80, is in considerable distress.

"I've been lying on the floor here for over an hour," she says, her head being cradled by a passer-by.

"Surely to God you can get an ambulance here quicker."

The ex-nurse and midwife is lying in the road after slipping outside her friend's home while delivering jigsaw puzzles for charity

A policeman is diverting traffic and it is feared Jenny has broken her thigh bone.

cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-67726545
Title: Re: National Health Service........NHS Tracker
Post by: SteveH on December 24, 2023, 10:34:53 am
NHS Tracker: Find out about hospital waiting times in your area this winter

The NHS is entering another difficult winter period. Staff face similar pressures to last year, with ambulances queuing outside hospitals and people waiting in A&E or for routine operations.

Enter a postcode to find out what is happening in your area with A&E, ambulances and hospital waiting lists across the UK.

cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-59549800
Title: Re: Health Minister reacts to latest NHS Wales performance data
Post by: SteveH on December 26, 2023, 10:42:59 am
THE HEALTH Minister says the NHS has 'built on learning from last winter' as the latest performance data for Wales is released.

Eluned Morgan, the Minister for Health and Social Services, has spoken about the data released for the period of October to November.

She says the NHS has 'placed a clear focus on tackling both those patients with an urgent need and those that have waited the longest'.

She added that they have 'continued to see the number of patients waiting over two years fall' ? down by 64 per cent since its peak.

The minister said: "Every day our heroic NHS staff provide a quality service under record levels of demand.

"I?m pleased to see that despite increasing high levels of demand for our cancer services, performance against the cancer target has increased this month to 56 per cent, alongside a record number of people being told that they did not have cancer in October.

"Nearly 2,000 people started treatment for cancer this month, an increase of 8 per cent compared to the same month last year and the second highest figure on record."

Commenting on current waiting times, the health minister added: "I previously tasked health boards with ensuring 97 per cent of those waiting at the end of December 2023 will be waiting less than 104 weeks.

"We were extremely close to achievingin October (96.6 per cent) with four health boards already having achieved that target.

"Over the last three years, we have reduced the average wait time for planned care patients by a third, with the median wait now stable at around 20 weeks.

"Demand for emergency care services remains significant, with the ambulance service now dealing with around 80 per cent more red calls daily than they did before the pandemic. The average number of daily red calls made in November was the third highest on record.

"Despite this, 75 per cent of these calls received a response within 13 minutes. And we saw an increase from last month in the proportion of red calls being responded to within the 8 minute target.

cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/24011209.health-minister-reacts-latest-nhs-wales-performance-data/
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: DVT on December 26, 2023, 12:39:25 pm
Quote by Health Minister ... "I previously tasked health boards with ensuring 97 per cent of those waiting at the end of December 2023 will be waiting less than 104 weeks."

I was found to have a large cancer growth in my kidney in October.  I am waiting for an appointment to have the kidney removed and was quoted 2 to 3 months - the surgeon I saw said he would be happy to do it but has no back-up staff due to NHS cuts in Wales ... my appointment will be in London but I am waiting for the call.

Waiing 2 years for action means many will no longer be with us to have the procedure carried out, or is that the plan to reduce waiting lists?
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on December 26, 2023, 01:00:16 pm
Dave, sorry to hear your news, hope the phone rings soon.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Hugo on December 26, 2023, 07:30:02 pm
I'm sorry to hear that news DVT,  it's bad enough to have to wait 2 years for such an urgent operation, let alone having to go to London for it.
I hope that you have the operation as soon as possible and preferably nearer home in Wales.    I'll be keeping my fingers crossed that every thing goes well for you.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Ian on December 27, 2023, 08:23:34 am
Very sorry indeed to hear that, Dave.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on December 30, 2023, 10:12:26 am
Up to a third of all staff sickness in NHS Wales is due to stress, depression or anxiety, figures show.

At its peak, in the aftermath of Covid, there were 14,500 staff absences due to one of these mental health conditions.

Figures obtained by BBC Wales suggest numbers have still not returned to pre-pandemic levels.

One union said the numbers were "sobering" and fatigue built up in recent years continued to place a strain on staff.

There were also 10,000 stress-related absences at five health boards and the Welsh ambulance service in the first nine months of 2023.

The six main health boards in Wales which have general hospitals and the ambulance service gave details in freedom of information request responses.

These showed up to 33% of all staff sickness was due to stress, anxiety, depression or other psychiatric illnesses.

cont plus stats  https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-67719830
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on January 02, 2024, 09:43:36 am
The NHS England could be facing one of its most difficult starts to the year since it was founded in 1948, one of its most senior executives has said.

Medical director Sir Stephen Powis warned that a six-day strike planned by junior doctors from Wednesday will have a significant impact on routine care.

Hospitals are also having to deal with rising rates of flu, Covid and other winter infections, he added.

The doctors' union, the BMA, said patient safety remains a top priority.

If it goes ahead as planned, the latest strike will see the longest continuous stretch of industrial action in the history of the NHS.

Junior doctors make up around half of all doctors working in hospitals.

cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-67858854
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on January 04, 2024, 09:01:32 am
Could this money be put to better use ?

EMERGENCY departments and minor injury units in Wales are to get share of ?2.7m to enhance environments for better patient and staff experience.

The split funding, from the Welsh Government, will support different proposals submitted by every health board in Wales for wide ranging matters such as:

Improved accessibility
Better access to information
Infection prevention and control measures
Enhanced safety and security
Adaptations to better utilise space and general estate improvements

cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/24026337.2-7m-improve-emergency-departments-across-wales/?ref=rss&IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on January 05, 2024, 09:32:57 am
THE Welsh Ambulance Service is appealing to the public to use 999 responsibly following a high number of calls in recent days.

The Trust has confirmed that almost 13,000 calls have been made to 999 across Wales since Boxing Day, and almost 36,000 calls to the NHS 111 Wales service.

More than 116,000 visits have been made to the NHS 111 Wales website in the same period, where more than 7,500 symptom checkers were completed.

Lee Brooks, the Trust?s Executive Director of Operations, said: ?Like our partners across health and social care, our ambulance service is also extremely busy.

?Pent up demand from the Christmas and New Year period, coupled with the seasonal illnesses we see at this time of year, means there are lots of people across Wales trying to access health services currently.

cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/24026655.welsh-ambulance-appeals-public-use-999-appropriately/
Title: Re: National Health Service....ALERT sustained pressure' as 17 hour waits in A&E
Post by: SteveH on January 06, 2024, 09:51:57 am
North Wales NHS alert due to 'significant and sustained pressure' as 17 hour waits in A&E
Betsi Cadwaladr health board warned of "extremely long waits" in emergency departments

An alert has been issued due to "significant and sustained pressure" on the NHS in North Wales. Betsi Cadwaladr health board posted a message shortly before 5pm.

They warned of "extremely long waits" in emergency departments. Health bosses urged people to call NHS 111 Wales to get advice about the most appropriate service.

cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/north-wales-nhs-alert-due-28399256
Title: Re: National Health Service....People who go abroad for weight-loss surgery
Post by: SteveH on January 15, 2024, 10:37:25 am
People who go abroad for weight-loss surgery, and then need urgent medical care back in the UK, cost the NHS more than it costs to carry out the operation itself, according to new research.

A study featuring five London hospitals recorded the details of 35 people who had suffered complications after travelling abroad for gastric surgery during 2022.

The data, shared with the BBC's Disclosure programme, shows the patients suffered from a range of symptoms including severe malnutrition, vomiting, sepsis, hernias and haemorrhaging. Five of them needed feeding tubes inserted, while the average stay in hospital was 22 days.

The interventions at the five hospitals for the 35 patients cost the NHS a total of ?560,234, or ?16,006 per patient, in 2022.

The equivalent amount would have covered the cost of about 110 bariatric surgeries in UK hospitals.

cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-london-67946049


Also
Weight-loss surgeon told patient to 'eat, eat, eat'


A Turkish doctor selling weight-loss "holidays" abroad told an undercover BBC reporter to gain weight so she could have gastric sleeve surgery.

Dr Og?n Erşen told the reporter to "eat some snacks" so she could increase her body mass index (BMI) to qualify for his weight loss surgery.

The BBC reporter had a BMI of 24.4, which is within the healthy weight range.

"You must eat, eat. Eat something and reach 30," Dr Ersen said.

The reporter gave the weight-loss clinic information which would have meant her BMI was 29 but she was not weighed and no medical checks were carried out during her consultation.

Instead, Dr Erşen offered to book her in for surgery in three months' time and told her to try to put on weight.

cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-glasgow-west-67949149
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on January 24, 2024, 10:26:44 am
Three health boards are being put under increased Welsh government scrutiny.

Aneurin Bevan, Swansea Bay and Hywel Dda all face extra intervention.

Health Minister Eluned Morgan said it was not a "punishment" but "a recognition" that working "collectively" could "make things better".

The Conservatives said it was "eye-brow raising" while Plaid Cymru said it "begs the question" of how much control the Welsh government has over the NHS.

Speaking in the Senedd, Ms Morgan said the NHS was "under intense pressure" but it was her job to make sure that it "delivers the best possible care".

cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-68074515
Title: Re: Welsh Ambulance Service reveal most inappropriate 999 calls
Post by: SteveH on January 25, 2024, 09:41:47 am
THE Welsh Ambulance Service has revealed some of the inappropriate calls made to 999 in the past year, including ringing after eating too much kebab!

Of the 414,149 calls to the ambulance service last year, 68,416 were not a life-or-death emergency ? an average of 188 calls a day.

Some of the most inappropriate calls also included someone losing their false teeth, someone losing their voice and someone's hand being stuck in a door.

The Trust is reminding people only to call 999 if someone is seriously ill or injured.

Andy Swinburn, executive director of paramedicine, said: ?Inappropriate calls put additional strain on an already over-stretched service and may delay help for others.

cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/24071585.welsh-ambulance-service-reveal-inappropriate-999-calls/
Title: Re: National Health Service...Find out about hospital waiting times in your area
Post by: SteveH on January 26, 2024, 10:30:19 am
A very interesting article, assuming the stats are accurate...............

NHS Tracker: Find out about hospital waiting times in your area this winter

The NHS is entering 2024 and a challenging winter period. Staff face similar pressures to last year, with ambulances queuing outside hospitals and people waiting in A&E or for routine operations.

Enter a postcode to find out what is happening in your area with A&E, ambulances and hospital waiting lists across the UK.

cont/ tracker     https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-59549800
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on January 31, 2024, 10:11:29 am
A NEW chair of Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB) has been appointed.

Dyfed Edwards, who has been in post as interim chair since February 2023, was formally appointed to the post by Wales' Health Minister, Eluned Morgan MS, on Tuesday, January 30.

Dyfed said: "Health, and the health and care system touches all our lives at different times and is a key part of the social fabric that sustains our communities in North Wales. We know that the health board has been underperforming and falling short in terms of delivering world-class public services for our communities but in the last year, I have met many incredible staff and seen some fantastic services.

cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/24083863.new-chair-special-measures-health-board-appointed/

Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on February 07, 2024, 10:08:45 am
Dentists who set up practice in areas of England with poor access to NHS care will be offered a ?20,000 bonus.

The government has also announced higher payments for dentists who take on new patients and teeth-cleaning in schools as part of a plan to expand levels of dental care.

The plans have been criticised as not going far enough by dental leaders and Labour.

The British Dentistry Association said this is "rearranging the deckchairs".

The ?20,000 "golden hello" payment will be available to up to 240 dentists, about 1% of the workforce, with the aim of getting more people to work for three years in the so-called dental deserts where there is the poorest access to NHS care.

cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-68171171
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on February 15, 2024, 09:53:56 am
Troubled Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board is making progress to move on from dysfunctionality found within its board one year ago, a report has found. After a period of significant disruption during 2023, the board is in a more stable position and working relationships amongst senior leaders are more positive overall, a report by Audit Wales said.

However, it says there are still fundamental challenges to address, including building a high performing executive team, recruiting substantively to remaining posts on the board, and ensuring the new board demonstrates a unified and effective leadership to tackle the challenges the organisation faces.

cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/health-board-moving-dysfunction-significant-28630240
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on February 16, 2024, 10:39:30 am
The number of patients waiting more than 12 hours for a bed on a ward after being seen in A&E in England was 19 times higher this winter than it was before the pandemic, figures show.

There were nearly 100,000 12-hour waits in December and January - compared with slightly more than 5,000 in 2019-20.

A decade ago these waits were virtually unheard of - in the four winters up to 2013-14 there were fewer than 100.

The King's Fund said long delays were at risk of becoming normalised.

It said the pressures this winter had received little attention compared with last winter, despite no significant improvement in performance.

cont plus stats https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-68306477
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Ian on February 16, 2024, 10:48:23 am
We need more hospitals and staff. The second is the extremely difficult issue. 
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on February 17, 2024, 10:18:25 am
The government is considering plans to allow dentists from abroad to work in England without taking an exam to check their education and skills.
The proposal, which is subject to a three-month consultation, aims to address the severe shortage of NHS dentists.
It is hoped a quicker process would attract more dentists.

The British Dental Association has accused the government of avoiding the issues "forcing" dentists to quit.
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-68325203


Nearly 1,000 people with advanced Parkinson's disease are to benefit from a new treatment that involves wearing a portable kit 24 hours day.

NHS England is to roll out the treatment, Produodopa, which uses a pump to steadily release medicine into the bloodstream round the clock.

Many people currently need to take more than 20 pills a day to control their symptoms - with an inconsistent effect.
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-68316877
Title: Re: National Health Service...........NHS Tracker
Post by: SteveH on February 23, 2024, 09:56:43 am
NHS Tracker: Find out about hospital waiting times in your area this winter

The NHS is entering 2024 and a challenging winter period. Staff face similar pressures to last year, with ambulances queuing outside hospitals and people waiting in A&E or for routine operations.

Enter a postcode to find out what is happening in your area with A&E, ambulances and hospital waiting lists across the UK.

How are your local NHS services coping this winter?

Enter a postcode to find out. ...............  https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-59549800

Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: DVT on February 23, 2024, 11:28:20 am
I have to admit I have nothing but praise for the English NHS that I have had dealings with this week.

During a scan for something else last year, at Ysbyty Gwynedd, a growth was found on my left kidney.  It was then investigated further and yes, cancer.  Unfortunately, although a local surgeon at YGC could carry out the removal there was insufficient backup, that's at a major hospital.

So, on Monday I was taken by taxi to London, had the kidney removed along with the cancer on Tuesday, and came home yesterday, again by taxi.  The service and attention I got in London cannot be faulted.  I lost count of the number of different people I saw, and also lost count of different nationalities, but all were always very pleasant.  The actual surgery was carried out by an Irish female surgeon who explained everything to me afterwards - it had not been as straight-forward as first anticipated.

This does beg questions of the Welsh NHS ... there was 4 months between confirming the problem and actually having the offending part removed, which had grown 15mm in that time.  Insufficient back-up in the theatre was the reason I was sent to London, the local surgeon suggested I write to the management to complain - and apparently there are 2 or 3 patients a week going from Wales to the same London Free Hospital as I did, plus others going to other hospitals depending on the propblem.

Whilst our beloved Senedd won't put money into the Welsh NHS they seem happy to pay for my taxi there and back, there was also the pre-op three weeks earlier.

No, they waste money on 20-mph stuff, farmers, trees in Uganda, Drakeford's helicopter trips and as for Lee Waters and Systrans, well no comment, along with a long list of wasteful projects  And they are still pressing on with spending "our" money onthese proposals.

Senedd really need a huge wake-up call.  I have been one of the lucky ones, there will be many not to be so.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on February 23, 2024, 01:40:20 pm
I have to admit I have nothing but praise for the English NHS that I have had dealings with this week.

During a scan for something else last year, at Ysbyty Gwynedd, a growth was found on my left kidney.  It was then investigated further and yes, cancer.  Unfortunately, although a local surgeon at YGC could carry out the removal there was insufficient backup, that's at a major hospital.

So, on Monday I was taken by taxi to London, had the kidney removed along with the cancer on Tuesday, and came home yesterday, again by taxi.  The service and attention I got in London cannot be faulted.  I lost count of the number of different people I saw, and also lost count of different nationalities, but all were always very pleasant.  The actual surgery was carried out by an Irish female surgeon who explained everything to me afterwards - it had not been as straight-forward as first anticipated.

This does beg questions of the Welsh NHS ... there was 4 months between confirming the problem and actually having the offending part removed, which had grown 15mm in that time.  Insufficient back-up in the theatre was the reason I was sent to London, the local surgeon suggested I write to the management to complain - and apparently there are 2 or 3 patients a week going from Wales to the same London Free Hospital as I did, plus others going to other hospitals depending on the propblem.

Whilst our beloved Senedd won't put money into the Welsh NHS they seem happy to pay for my taxi there and back, there was also the pre-op three weeks earlier.

No, they waste money on 20-mph stuff, farmers, trees in Uganda, Drakeford's helicopter trips and as for Lee Waters and Systrans, well no comment, along with a long list of wasteful projects  And they are still pressing on with spending "our" money onthese proposals.

Senedd really need a huge wake-up call.  I have been one of the lucky ones, there will be many not to be so.
[/b]

Dave, Glad to hear your operation went well, and best wishes for a speedy recovery.

The rest of your post has left me speechless.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on February 25, 2024, 10:46:24 am
Physician associate law may confuse patients, says BMA

The House of Lords is being urged to throw out plans for non-doctor associate roles to be licensed by the same body as doctors.

Under a planned new law, physician associates (PAs) will be regulated by the General Medical Council (GMC).

The British Medical Association (BMA) believes this could lead to patients confusing the different roles, which it says could have "tragic consequences".

The Department of Health and Social Care has been approached for comment.

There are about 3,200 PAs working in GP surgeries and hospitals in England, with 10,000 more planned in the next decade or so.

They were introduced to help doctors with their work - examining and diagnosing patients and discussing treatments with them - although PAs are currently unregulated.

Unlike doctors, they do not have to hold a medical degree, but they usually have a degree in a life science and have to undertake a two-year training course.

cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-68384747
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Ian on February 25, 2024, 11:28:06 am
You can tell there's an election in the offing. Yes - there's a shortage of GPs, skilled nurses and a great deal more including actual hospitals. The big question is why this wasn't planned for.

The massive baby boom in 1946/50 has resulted in a correspondingly massive demand for hospitals and medical services. It's hardly a surprise. So who was in power from 2010 until now, I wonder?
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Hugo on February 25, 2024, 11:46:40 am
I wish that my living room temperature was 21C  because at this moment an electrical fault means that the electrics leading to the central heating boiler have been turned off and will hopefully be sorted out on Tuesday when the electrician comes.   So no hot water or central heating at this cold spell of weather.
We'll manage ok with a gas fire and a small electric fire and improvise on suitable clothing.      I did buy my wife an Oodie last year and she wore it last night and was as warm as toast
Quite honestly our expectations seem to increase as the years go by,  when I was a child we had one coal fire in the lounge and if it was cold the coats were put on top of the bed for extra warmth.  I can also remember drawing things on the frost on the windows and that was on the inside windows!
I also remember my best friend in the 1970's telling  me that during a very cold spell one Winter the flannel in his bathroom froze but he never complained about it because that's what life was like in those days
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Hugo on February 25, 2024, 12:07:02 pm
DVT,   I'm sorry for all that you have gone through with your health problem and that you had to go outside of Wales to have it.  The important thing is that you have now had the operation and that it was successful and  I wish you a speedy recovery.         A  bit of rest and TLC and hopefully you'll be back in Bodnant later in the year.
I am on the waiting list for a Gallstone operation and they have advised me that it could be in England so I'm not too pleased about that but I'm not losing sleep over it because someone I know has been on that list for 4 years.      I have also been on the list for about 8 months for minor surgery on skin cancer but that will be dealt with locally thank goodness
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on March 02, 2024, 09:44:59 am
A TOTAL of 250 nurses and doctors will be coming to Wales under a new agreement between Welsh Government and the Kerala Government.

As part of Wales in India - a 12-month series of events celebrating the links between the two countries, health minister Eluned Morgan signed an agreement with the Government of Kerala to bring qualified healthcare professionals from India to work in NHS Wales.

During a visit to Kerala, Ms Morgan met with some of the nursing and medical professionals, and their families who will soon be taking up roles in Wales.

cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/24156694.250-healthcare-professionals-india-coming-wales/


Data from the latest General Medical Council workforce report published in 2022 shows that a total of 4,843 doctors left the UK to work abroad between May 2021 and May 2022.
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: Hugo on March 02, 2024, 04:27:47 pm
I wonder how many Doctors were recruited to the Uk between May 2021 and May 2022?

This is Boris'  Pledge: 50,000 more nurses and 6,000 more GPs
The Conservatives promised this for England by March 2025.   Are they anywhere near this figure?
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on March 05, 2024, 10:14:52 am
Medical leaders support a planned increase in the number of physician associates (PA) in the NHS, but they warn guidelines must be clear.

The Academy of Medical Royal Colleges welcomed more PAs but the BMA voiced concerns that a new law risked blurring the line between PAs and doctors.

PAs assist healthcare teams and can conduct physical examinations and develop treatment plans.

cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-68194718
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on March 17, 2024, 09:57:53 am
Need an op? The hospitals with the worst waits revealed

stats...... How are your local NHS services coping this winter?....Enter a postcode to find out, see link below

cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-68479414
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on March 18, 2024, 09:45:01 am
Betsi Cadwaladr chairman in 'trust, openness and understanding' plea
Dyfed Edwards wants to hold 'open and honest' discussions with the public about the future of health services in North Wales

It is 12 months since I first joined Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board as interim chair. Recently the Minister for Health and Social Services, Eluned Morgan, announced that I am to be the substantive chair of the Health Board going forward.

I took the decision to apply for the Chair position after considerable consideration ? the role is not without its challenges and requires significant commitment. I have served in the public sector in one way or another for the majority of my life.

I feel passionate about public services, seeking to create excellent and forward-thinking public services that provide support, assistance and guidance to the people of Wales. For me, this is part of the agenda to create a Fairer Wales and a way to enable people to live their lives to their full potential. Health, and the health and care system are an important cornerstone in this regard.

Read more .......... https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/betsi-cadwaldar-chairman-trust-openness-28809474
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on March 20, 2024, 10:22:32 am
'Pay dentists 25% more for NHS work' to stem exodus

Paying dental practices 25% more to see patients would help keep dentists in the NHS, the profession's leaders say.

The British Dental Association said increasing the activity rate from ?28 to ?35 in England would be just enough to stem the flow of dentists to the private sector in the short term.

They warned government plans set out in February did not go far enough.

But ministers defended the reforms and said they were working on a wider overhaul of the whole dental contract.

They said the measures set out in the dental reform plan last month had already increased payments as well as introducing premium rates to take on new patients and a ?20,000 golden hello for dentists to work in the areas with the worst access.

cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-68608157
Title: Re: National Health Service....Fury as health board revises 40m Rhyl hospital p
Post by: SteveH on March 23, 2024, 10:08:02 am
This decision will not help the situation at Glan Clwyd hospital............which will affect Conwy residents.........

Fury as health board revises ?40m Rhyl hospital plans over 'spiralling costs'
Denbighshire councillors say the move 'beggars belief' as the board insisted the project had not been shelved

"Spiralling costs" have caused the Betsi Cadwaladr health board to revise now "unaffordable" proposals for a new hospital in Rhyl ? but officials insist the plans have not been shelved. Angry Denbighshire councillors however slammed the board over the revelation at a scrutiny committee meeting this week, with one councillor branding the scaled-down proposals for the Royal Alexandra as "a waste of time".

The plans for a then ?60 million new hospital were first proposed around 13 years ago, but the project has remained frozen whilst awaiting Welsh Government funds. A business case was finally agreed in March 2021, and Denbighshire councillors again vowed to back the project in May 2023 with a motion supporting another full business case being made for the hospital.

cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/fury-health-board-revises-40m-28870281?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
Title: Re: National Health Service....Dental charges in Wales being hiked
Post by: SteveH on March 26, 2024, 10:12:27 am
NHS dental charges in Wales being hiked by huge amount in days
Ministers have blamed budgetary pressures for the big rises

The cost of NHS dental treatment in Wales are set to rocket next month. Charges for some treatments will double as the Welsh Government looks to address ?extreme pressure? on its health budget.

From April 1, 2024, the three standard dentistry charges will increase to between ?20 and ?260, depending on the treatment required. The cost of urgent and out-of-hours dentistry will more than double to ?30.

Health and Social Care Secretary Eluned Morgan stressed that, for most treatments, dentistry charges in Wales will remain below those in England. She pledged that all revenue generated from the increased charges will be re-invested back into NHS dentistry services.

cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/nhs-dental-charges-wales-being-28881215
Title: Re: National Health Service
Post by: SteveH on March 28, 2024, 10:05:47 am
Public satisfaction with NHS at lowest ever level, survey shows

Public satisfaction with the NHS has dropped again, setting a new low recorded by the long-running British Social Attitudes survey.

Just 24% said they were satisfied with the NHS in 2023, with waiting times and staff shortages the biggest concerns.

That is five percentage points down on last year and a drop from the 2010 high of 70% satisfaction.

The poll - the gold-standard measure of the public's view of the health service - has been running since 1983.

read more  https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-68669866