MedWorm provides a medical RSS filtering service. Over 6000 RSS medical sources are combined and output via different filters. This feed contains the latest medical blog items that have been tagged with 'equity'. Sat, 03 Sep 2011 02:10:24 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5062226&cid=t_119156_87_f&fid=36438&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FCato-at-liberty%2F%7E3%2FFGsoGrS2IEA%2F I’ve argued that the Dodd-Frank financial reform bill does not end “too-big-to-fail”, that is the belief that certain companies are implicitly backed by the government because policy-makers are unlikely to let said institutions actually fail. By naming some companies as ”systemically important” — as required by Dodd-Frank — the government is actually sending a signal as to who is likely to be bailed out. As evidenced by regulators’ behavior during the financial crisis, the prime beneficiaries would be the creditors of these companies, as even when shareholders and management suffered, creditors generally did not. This should allow such firms to borrow at a cost lower than firms not deemed systemically important. Given this funding... Cato-at-liberty blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5062226 Mon, 25 Jul 2011 12:53:37 +0100 5062226 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4482741&cid=t_119156_87_f&fid=36438&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FCato-at-liberty%2F%7E3%2FL1MuKwILD7g%2F By Mark A. CalabriaOn Friday the Obama Administration released its report on "reforming America's Housing Finance Market."  The report claimed that the Administration would work toward "winding down Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac on a responsible timeline."  While the report was silent on what a responsible timeline would be (surprise, no details); I assumed, perhaps naively, that a reasonable timeline would be 5 to 6 years.  So you can imagine my surprise while reading the Administration's budget proposal (see Table S-12 of the summary tables), released Monday, that the Administration is projecting that the government will be receiving, between 2012 and 2021, $89 billion in dividend payments from Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.  In 2021 alone the White House projects $8 billion in dividend p... Cato-at-liberty blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4482741 Wed, 16 Feb 2011 14:18:18 +0100 4482741 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4441966&cid=t_119156_87_f&fid=34765&url=http%3A%2F%2Fhcrenewal.blogspot.com%2F2011%2F02%2Fnew-steward-health-care-will-superbowl.html Some recent publications raise interesting questions about the leadership of a regional health care organization which now seems to have intentions of going national.  A Superbowl Ad for Steward Health CareThe millions watching the Superbowl, maybe the biggest single US sports event, expect to be dazzled by the new, extremely expensive advertisements to be aired during the television coverage of the event.  The Boston Globe reported that the glitzy offerings by Volkswagen and Budweiser will have an odd companion, at least in the Boston area:The local television audience for Super Bowl XLV on Sunday will get the usual array of high-impact commercials, from the suds of Budweiser to the sedans of Kia Motors. But amid all the elaborate productions, one quieter spot might stand out �... Health Care Renewal blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4441966 Sun, 06 Feb 2011 22:46:00 +0100 4441966 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4309593&cid=t_119156_87_f&fid=36438&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FCato-at-liberty%2F%7E3%2FlJ-i99qAM7I%2F By Michael F. CannonNew York’s budget problem is actually a Medicaid problem.  In Sunday’s New York Post, I offer advice to New York Governor Andrew Cuomo (D) on how to fix a budget gap that will grow to $17 billion during his term: Gov. Cuomo can’t fix Medicaid by himself. He needs the help of Congress. There is a solution… Block grants are how President Bill Clinton and a Republican Congress reformed welfare back in 1996, to spectacular success. Welfare reform forced New York to be smarter about welfare spending, just as a block grant would force New York to rededicate Medicaid to its original mission — providing necessary medical care to the truly needy. There’s one place Gov. Cuomo can start on his own: Close the loopholes that allow well-to-do New Yorkers to f... Cato-at-liberty blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4309593 Tue, 04 Jan 2011 14:00:47 +0100 4309593 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4073991&cid=t_119156_87_f&fid=34765&url=http%3A%2F%2Fhcrenewal.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F10%2Fmore-contaminated-heparin-but-who-leads.html We have posted multiple times over the last two years about the deadly contaminated heparin from China. (See the case summary and link at the end of this post.) One of the key players in this case was a company called Scientific Protein Laboratories (SPL). The company that sold the heparin in the US under its logo, Baxter International, had outsourced production of the active ingredient to a long, and ultimately mysterious supply chain. Baxter got the active ingredient from Scientific Protein Laboratories, which in turn obtained it from a factory in China operated by Changzhou SPL, which in turn was owned by Scientific Protein Laboratories and by Changzhou Techpool Pharmaceutical Co. Changzhou SPL, in turn, got it from several consolidators or wholesalers, who in turn got it from numerous ... Health Care Renewal blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4073991 Fri, 15 Oct 2010 20:56:00 +0100 4073991 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3721719&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F07%2F02%2Ftackling-inequalities-in-life-expectancy-in-areas-with-the-worst-health-and-deprivation%2F Title: Tackling inequalities in life expectancy in areas with the worst health and deprivation (Executive Summary) Skinny: National Audit Office report that identifies the best, cost-effective interventions in Tackling inequalities in life expectancy in areas with the worst health and deprivation. The report suggests these be employed on a larger scale in order to have a greater impact and improve value for money. The Department of Health should target its efforts on the most deprived areas of the country and develop costed proposals to maintain or increase investment in preventative interventions to tackle the conditions which lead to health inequalities. Three cost effective interventions are identified increase the prescribing of drugs to control blood pressure increase the prescribing... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3721719 Fri, 02 Jul 2010 10:33:29 +0100 3721719 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3644711&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F06%2F09%2Fa-high-performing-nhs-a-review-of-progress-1997-2010%2F Title: A high-performing NHS?: A review of progress 1997-2010 The Skinny: King’s Fund report assesses how much progress the NHS has made in the following eight areas: access safety health promotion and management of long-term conditions clinical effectiveness patient experience equity efficiency accountability. It identifies important achievements, including major reductions in waiting times and rates of health care associated infections and progress in reducing smoking rates. There has been a concerted effort to implement national standards of care for major diseases across the NHS which has contributed to the continued falls in deaths from cancer and cardiovascular disease. There are less obvious changes too, including improvements in data collection and reporting, at a national and ... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3644711 Wed, 09 Jun 2010 06:56:24 +0100 3644711 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3625448&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F06%2F03%2Fquality-in-primary-care-2010-volume-182%2F This article identifies the need to align it to the objective of reducing health inequalities. Additional research is needed to understand whether the QOF ensures that those who are the most difficult to reach and those whose need of care is greatest are getting access to high quality primary care and whether in turn it will succeed in reducing health inequalities. Requires an NHS Athens Password for full text access. Filed under: Athens Password, E-Journals, Equity, Primary Care, Public Health, Quality Tagged: Athens Password, Current Awareness, E-Journals, Equity, Outcomes, Primary Care, Public Health, QOF, Quality, Quality and Outcomes Framework (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3625448 Thu, 03 Jun 2010 14:17:36 +0100 3625448 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3581565&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F05%2F19%2Finclusion-health-improving-primary-care-for-socially-excluded-people%2F Title: Inclusion Health: improving primary care for socially excluded people Skinny: A practical guide to support PCTs in commissioning improved primary care services for socially excluded people. Publisher: DH Size of Publication: 68p. Published: 22/03/2010 Filed under: Commissioning, Equity, Health Needs, Inequalities in Health, Interagency Relations, NHS, Poverty, Practice Based Commissioning, Primary Care, Quality, Social Capital, Social Exclusion, Social Inclusion, Voluntary Sector Tagged: Commissioning, Contracts, Deprivation, Equity, Good Practice, Grey Literature, Interagency Relations, Outcomes, Poverty, Practice Based Commissioning, Primary Care, Procurement, Social Exclusion, Social Inclusion, Voluntary Sector (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3581565 Wed, 19 May 2010 18:44:23 +0100 3581565 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3577326&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F05%2F19%2Freducing-cancer-inequalityevidence-progress-and-making-it-happen-a-report-by-the-national-cancer-equality-initiative%2F Title: Reducing cancer inequality:evidence, progress and making it happen: a report by the National Cancer Equality Initiative Skinny: Summarises the progress made by the National Cancer Equality Initiative (NCEI) to date, and sets out the next steps for tackling inequalities in cancer, as well as promoting greater equality. It identifies a range of activity to be taken forward nationally and activity to be considered locally. Publisher: DH Size of Publication: 101p. Published: 19/03/2010 Filed under: Cancer, Deprivation, Equity, Grey Literature, Health Needs, Inequalities in Health, Poverty, Quality, Social Exclusion, Social Inclusion Tagged: Cancer, Deprivation, Equity, Ethnicity, Grey Literature, Poverty, Quality (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3577326 Wed, 19 May 2010 15:11:13 +0100 3577326 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3533771&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F05%2F05%2Fage-equality-in-health-and-social-care-a-report-on-the-consultation%2F Title: Age equality in health and social care. A report on the consultation (Executive Summary) Skinny: Following publication of Age equality in health and social care the Department of Health (DH) undertook a consultation on the review’s non-legislative recommendations and the DH Impact Assessment and Equality Impact assessment, and invited comments on these. The consultation involved over two hundred people attended the consultation events, and around ninety written responses were made to the consultation paper. Publisher: DH Size of Publication: 75p. Published: 09/03/2010 Filed under: Equity, Grey Literature, Inequalities in Health, Legislation, NHS, Older People, Social Inclusion, Social Policy Tagged: Ageism, Consultations, Equity, Grey Literature, NHS, Older People, Social Care (So... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3533771 Wed, 05 May 2010 09:49:35 +0100 3533771 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3429130&cid=t_119156_87_f&fid=34765&url=http%3A%2F%2Fhcrenewal.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F04%2Fmore-doubts-about-private-equity-taking.html Last week, we posted about how buy-outs of not-for-profit hospital systems by private equity firms seemed to be a new fashion in health care.  Since then, new doubts have been raised about whether this is a good idea.Detroit Medical Center, Vanguard Health, and the Blackstone GroupLetters to the Detroit Free Press raised concerns,As a nonprofit corporation, DMC's mission is to provide quality health care to the community. Management is accountable to Detroit area citizens and health care consumers, not to profit-motivated investors.As a private, for-profit corporation, its mission will be to provide profit for its shareholders. Management will be accountable to shareholders and will be rewarded in relation to the rate of return on their investments.Also, the Free Press reported that a... Health Care Renewal blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3429130 Thu, 01 Apr 2010 15:14:00 +0100 3429130 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3408329&cid=t_119156_87_f&fid=34765&url=http%3A%2F%2Fhcrenewal.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F03%2Fnow-private-equity-jumps-into-health.html And now for an early report on what may be the latest fashion in the ongoing commercialization of US health care in the US.  In the last few weeks we spotted three stories that appear to be closely related.  (And thanks to one of our ever vigilant scouts for finding the first of these.)Psychiatric Solutions and Bain CapitalThe first story was in BusinessWeek in early March:Psychiatric Solutions Inc., the operator of psychiatric facilities in 32 states, said it has been approached by a potential buyer.A special board committee will consider possible responses and Goldman, Sachs & Co. has been hired as a financial adviser, the Franklin, Tennessee-based company said today in a statement.Earlier today, the Wall Street Journal reported the company was in buyout talks with Bai... Health Care Renewal blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3408329 Thu, 25 Mar 2010 20:26:00 +0100 3408329 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3346411&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F03%2F09%2Fthe-social-determinants-of-health-and-the-role-of-local-government%2F Title: The Social Determinants of Health and the Role of Local Government Skinny: Collection of articles assessing what local government can do to tackle the social conditions that lead to health inequalities.  Some of the articles are deliberately challenging and provocative; some of them present a picture of what is already happening in local government; some look to what more local authorities could do, either with additional powers or by using their existing powers and remit. The report challenges and extends current thinking. What makes people healthy and what makes them ill? Using the concept of ‘place’ to understand and reduce health inequalities Embedding health in a vision of ‘Total Place’ Local Government – what does it mean for the frontline? Local p... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3346411 Tue, 09 Mar 2010 03:35:20 +0100 3346411 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3193665&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F01%2F21%2Fgetting-the-measure-of-quality-opportunities-and-challenges%2F Title: Getting the measure of quality: Opportunities and challenges The Skinny: King’s Fund Report that considers how information about how quality is defined and how quality measures can be used – and misused.  Identifies key debates and choices relating to measuring and using data on quality.  Practical issues that could be considered in choosing and using quality measures are detailed. The repoort identifies that the scope of quality measurement is widened to include measures of productivity, efficiency and inequality and that: improving measures used for performance management and external assessment to reduce ‘gaming’ ensure clinicians are engaged in the development of performance measures and are empowered to use data to understand where and how to improve their own pe... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3193665 Thu, 21 Jan 2010 10:02:45 +0100 3193665 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3193667&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F01%2F21%2Fchildren-in-out-of-work-benefit-households%2F Title: Children in Out-of-work Benefit Households Skinny: Statistics from the Department for Work and Pensionss showing the numbers of children living in households where at least one parent or guardian claimed one or more of the following out-of-work benefits: Job Seekers’ Allowance, Income Support, Incapacity Benefit/Severe Disablement Allowance, or Pension Credit at May 2008. The key points from the latest release are: There were 2.40 million children living in an out of work benefit household at May 2008. They represented 1.27 million households. 1.9 million children lived in households claiming Income Support. 193 thousand children lived in households claiming Jobseekers’ Allowance. 699 thousand children lived in households claiming Incapacity Benefit or Severe Disablem... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3193667 Thu, 21 Jan 2010 09:42:31 +0100 3193667 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3189095&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F01%2F20%2Ffunding-and-performance-of-healthcare-systems-in-the-four-countries-of-the-uk-before-and-after-devolution%2F Title: Funding and performance of healthcare systems in the four countries of the UK before and after devolution (Summary Briefing) Skinny: Examines the impact of devolution by studying key performance indicators for the NHS in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland at three time points – 1996/7, 2002/3 and 2006/7. in doing so it undertakes a completely new comparison of NHS performance in the English regions and the devolved countries. Performance was tracked against a number of key indicators, including expenditure, staffing levels, activity (outpatient appointments, inpatient admissions and day cases), crude productivity of staff and waiting times. The report suggests the NHS in England spends less on healthcare and has fewer doctors, nurses and managers per head of population ... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3189095 Wed, 20 Jan 2010 08:40:48 +0100 3189095 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3178743&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F01%2F16%2Fall-i-want-for-chistmas-somewhere-to-call-home-a-report-into-the-plight-of-the-82000-homeless-children-in-england%2F Title: All I Want for Chistmas… Somewhere to Call Home: A report into the plight of the 82,000 homeless children in England. The Skinny: Report by Grant Shapps of the Conservatives on the state of homeless children in England. It finds that: 82,780 children in England will be in temporary accommodation on Christmas Day 2009 6,500 of the families leaving temporary accomodation have waited over 3 years to do so Poor health is twice as prevalent in children in temporary accomodation 33% of children in temporary accomodation have no school to go to One in four households are in temporary accommodation for over a year and 4 percent are in temporary accommodation for over 5 years before a permanent settlement can be found. One in three homeless children will develop a major mental disorde... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3178743 Sat, 16 Jan 2010 11:17:33 +0100 3178743 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3175821&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F01%2F15%2Fsupervision-support-and-safety-analysis-of-the-2008%25e2%2580%25932009-local-supervising-authorities%25e2%2580%2599-annual-reports-to-the-nursing-midwifery-council%2F Title: Supervision, support and safety: Analysis of the 2008–2009 local supervising authorities’ annual reports to the Nursing & Midwifery Council Skinny: Nursing and Midwifery Council report that finds that there have been increases in midwifery ratios in some areas and good practice regarding service development for some of the most vulnerable families. It express’ concerns regarding: Rise in birth rates and increasing complexity of births in many LSAs Increasing numbers of experienced midwives and supervisors of midwives (SoMs) who may leave the workforce as they approach retirement age Quality and variability of maternity data which is used to monitor trends and public health outcomes, and which is collected either manually or by multiple maternity information systems In... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3175821 Fri, 15 Jan 2010 16:38:23 +0100 3175821 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3171838&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F01%2F14%2Fa-healthier-nation-policy-green-paper-no-12%2F Title: A Healthier Nation:  Policy Green Paper No.12 The Skinny: Conservative Party policy document that identifies the  importance of public health and expresses a commitment to improving health outcomes across the board – from improving the quality of maternity care, to lowering rates of childhood obesity, and cutting rates of smoking and alcohol abuse later in life.  Identifies policies that they believe will deliver on key priorities. Key priorities identified are: Reducing health inequalities through locally led public health strategy and government support. Evidence based national public health policy in areas that are universal e.g.  immunisation programmes, emergency planning or behaviour change campaigns. Decentralised responsibility for improving public health. Rewards sho... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3171838 Thu, 14 Jan 2010 09:38:17 +0100 3171838 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3171890&cid=t_119156_87_f&fid=36438&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FCato-at-liberty%2F%7E3%2FrBfejxnclPI%2F By Mark A. CalabriaPerhaps I am a little confused, but didn’t the Obama Administration tell the American public only months ago that TARP was turning a profit?   But now the same administration is proposing to assess a fee on banks to cover losses from the TARP. Maybe President Obama is coming around to the realization that the TARP has indeed been a loser for the taxpayer. He appears, however, to be missing the critical reason why: the bailouts of the auto companies and AIG, all non-banks. This is to say nothing of the bailout of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, whose losses will far exceed those from the TARP. Where is the plan to re-coup losses from Fannie and Freddie? Or a plan to re-coup our rescue of the autos? If the effort is really about deficit reduction, then it completely misses ... Cato-at-liberty blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3171890 Wed, 13 Jan 2010 16:29:00 +0100 3171890 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3142484&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F01%2F04%2Fthe-prince%25e2%2580%2599s-trust-yougov-youth-index-2010%2F This report reveals how unemployed young people living in the UK today are already less happy with their friendships, family life and health than those in work. They are also more likely to feel ashamed, rejected and unloved.This report reveals how unemployed young people living in the UK today are already less happy with their friendships, family life and health than those in work. They are also more likely to feel ashamed, rejected and unloved. Publisher: Princes Trust Size of Publication: 10p. Published: 29/12/2009 Posted in Alcohol, Deprivation, Drugs of Abuse, Employment, Equity, Grey Literature, Health Economics, Health Needs, Inequalities in Health, Mental Health, Motivation, Personal Identity, Poverty, Psychology, Smoking, Social Capital, Social Exclusion, Social Inclusion, Substan... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3142484 Mon, 04 Jan 2010 22:00:37 +0100 3142484 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3142485&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F01%2F04%2Fconservatives-draft-manifesto-2010-chapter-one-our-reform-plan-for-the-nhs%2F Title: Conservatives Draft Manifesto 2010 Chapter One Our Reform Plan for the NHS The Skinny: First shot in the general election campaign as the Conservative Party issue Chapter 1 of their draft manifesto which details proposed NHS Policy.  Widely presaged in the mass media over the weekend.  If elected they plan to: Scrap process targets Ensure innovation by ensuring NHS Providers become autonomous NHS Foundation Trusts Make NHS data on performance freely available to all Focus on key areas such as cancer/stroke survival and infection control Enable patient rating of the quality of services Ensure patients have choice of providers meeting NHS standards Putting patients in charge of their own records and which providers they wish to share them with Open up the NHS to private and third ... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3142485 Mon, 04 Jan 2010 21:48:24 +0100 3142485 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3133555&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F12%2F31%2Fdisabled-childrens-access-to-childcare-pilot-activity%2F This report has been published to share information and learning to date and to make early information about Disabled Children’s Access to Childcare (DCATCH) pilot activity available to a wider audience. It summarises learning from DCATCH pilot areas for the information of local authorities and children’s trusts as they prepare new childcare sufficiency assessments for 2011 and develop strategies to expand the range, quality, and affordability of childcare available to families with disabled children. Publisher: DCSF Size of Publication: 36p. Published: 30/12/2009 Posted in Children, Disabilities, Grey Literature, Quality Tagged: Aiming High for Disabled Children, Childcare, Children, Disability, Equity, Financial Management, Grey Literature, Health Economics (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3133555 Thu, 31 Dec 2009 10:49:36 +0100 3133555 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3133557&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F12%2F31%2Fwhich-doctor-putting-patients-in-control-of-primary-care%2F Title: Which Doctor? Putting patients in control of primary care Skinny: Report from the think tank Policy Exchange that recommends that the majority of NHS funding (£84.4 billion in 2010–11) should be distributed on the basis of a patients’ age and postcodes, and that GPs be financially incentivised to set up practices in areas of most need through a ‘patient premium’. Publisher: Policy Exchange Size of Publication: 73p. Published: 22/12/2009 Posted in Demand, Financial Management, Grey Literature, Health Economics, Inequalities in Health, NHS, Primary Care, Quality, Stakeholder Engagement Tagged: Choice, Equity, Financial Management, Grey Literature, Health Economics, NHS, Primary Care, Quality, Stakeholder Engagement (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3133557 Thu, 31 Dec 2009 09:57:49 +0100 3133557 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3115036&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F12%2F23%2Fage-equality-in-health-and-social-care-2%2F Title: Age equality in health and social care Skinny: Review of age discrimination and age equality in the health and social care sector.  Analyses evidence about the nature, extent and variability of age discrimination in health and social care services. Considers reforms are already in train to tackle age discrimination and support greater age equality.  This has led to the current consultation Age equality in health and social care: a consultation on preparing the NHS and social care in England for the age requirements in the Equality Bill that affect the provision of services and exercise of public functions. Publisher: DH Size of Publication: 63p. Published: 22/10/2009 Posted in Equity, Grey Literature, Health Needs, Inequalities in Health, Local Authorities, NHS, Public Sector, Soc... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3115036 Wed, 23 Dec 2009 14:30:17 +0100 3115036 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3111363&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F12%2F22%2Funderstanding-liverpool-better-the-joint-director-of-public-health-annual-report-2008%25e2%2580%25932009%2F Title: Understanding Liverpool Better: The Joint Director of Public Health Annual Report 2008–2009 Skinny: This year’s public health annual report from Liverpool PCT focusing on: Improving Health 2010 Year of Wellbeing and Innovation Workplace Wellbeing Charter Impact of Recession on Mental Health Policies that impact on reducing Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) Reducing smoking rates in Liverpool Obesity in Liverpool Dental public health Protecting Health Seasonal and swine flu Measles, mumps and rubella vaccination (MMR) Chlamydia Tuberculosis (TB) Understanding Liverpool Better Alcohol CVD Audit Cancer Inequalities Dementia Using Data to Improve Understanding Progress on Recommendations from 2008 Publisher: Liverpool PCT Size of Publication: 74p. Published: 21/12/2009 Pos... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3111363 Tue, 22 Dec 2009 16:20:44 +0100 3111363 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3104976&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F12%2F19%2Fidea-recession-case-studies-health-focus%2F Link: IDeA recession case studies: health focus The Skinny: Good practice examples for local authorities of coping with the health aspects of recession from Bristol, Gloucesteshire, Newcastle and Wigan. Posted in Economics, Equity, Grey Literature, Health Economics, Local Authorities, Poverty, Public Health, Social Exclusion, Social Inclusion, Social Services Tagged: Economics, Employment, Grey Literature, Health Economics, Local Authorities, Recession, Social Services, Unemployment (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3104976 Sat, 19 Dec 2009 05:33:16 +0100 3104976 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3096796&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F12%2F17%2Fnhs-operating-framework-for-201011-letter-to-social-partnership-forum-and-national-stakeholder-forum%2F Title: NHS operating framework for 2010/11 (letter to Social Partnership Forum and National Stakeholder Forum) Skinny: Letter introducing the NHS operating framework 2010/11 to the Social Partnership Forum and National Stakeholder Forum Publisher: DH Size of Publication: 3p. Published: 16/12/2009 Posted in Acute Services, Ambulance Services, Decision Making, Demand, Equity, Financial Management, Governance, Grey Literature, Health Economics, Hospitals, Inequalities in Health, Management, NHS, Poverty, Primary Care, Quality, Social Exclusion, Social Inclusion Tagged: Access, Deprivation, Equity, Grey Literature, H1N1, Hospitals, Inequalities, Infection Control, Influenza, NHS, Pandemic, Patient Experience, Poverty, Primary Care, Priorities, Quality, Staff Satisfaction, Stakeholder Engagemen... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3096796 Thu, 17 Dec 2009 08:30:38 +0100 3096796 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3096797&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F12%2F17%2Fthe-operating-framework-for-201011-for-the-nhs-in-england%2F Title: The operating framework for 2010/11 for the NHS in England Skinny: Letter introducing the NHS operating framework 2010/11 to Chief Executives in the NHS. Publisher: DH Size of Publication: 3p. Published: 16/12/2009 Posted in Acute Services, Decision Making, Financial Management, Governance, Grey Literature, Management, NHS, Primary Care, Quality Tagged: Access, Deprivation, Equity, Grey Literature, H1N1, Hospitals, Inequalities, Infection Control, Influenza, NHS, Pandemic, Patient Experience, Poverty, Primary Care, Priorities, Quality, Staff Satisfaction, Stakeholder Engagement, Waiting Times (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3096797 Thu, 17 Dec 2009 08:00:21 +0100 3096797 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3092643&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F12%2F16%2Fthe-nhs-operating-framework-for-england-for-201011%2F Title: The NHS operating framework for England for 2010/11 Skinny: Establishes the priorities for the NHS for the year ahead to enable them to begin their planning. For the third year in a row, the national priorities in the operating framework remain the same, providing important stability. The five priorities continue to be: improving cleanliness and reducing healthcare associated infections; improving access through achievement of the 18-week referral to treatment pledge and improving access (including at evenings and weekends) to GP services; keeping adults and children well, improving their health and reducing health inequalities; improving patient experience, staff satisfaction, and engagement; and preparing to respond in a state of emergency such as an outbreak of pandemic flu, lea... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3092643 Wed, 16 Dec 2009 15:39:24 +0100 3092643 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3092648&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F12%2F15%2Flearning-from-the-past-tackling-worklessness-and-the-social-impacts-of-the-recession%25c2%25ad-%25e2%2580%2593-briefing-paper%2F Title: Learning from the Past: Tackling worklessness and the social impacts of the recession­ – Briefing Paper Skinny: Paper that argues that beating the social impacts of recession is crucial in preventing the downward spiral into long-term worklessness that the country has seen in the past. It is published alongside an evidence pack that sets out the data related to the past and current economic context.  It outlines how previous recessions have resulted in not just rising unemployment, but also increases in crime, mental health problems and family and relationship breakdown. It highlights the social impacts of previous recessions and how this time round despite steeper falls in GDP, labour market effects have been less severe than in the past. Publisher: Cabinet Office Size of Publ... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3092648 Tue, 15 Dec 2009 18:14:59 +0100 3092648 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3083023&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F12%2F13%2Fequality-impact-assessment-eqia-18-weeks-referral-to-treatment-standard%2F Title: Equality Impact Assessment (EqIA) :18 Weeks Referral to Treatment Standard Skinny: This Equality Impact Assessment (EqIA) provides an assessment of the impact of the 18 weeks referral to treatment standard on the six key equality dimensions of ethnicity, disability, gender, age, sexual orientation and religion or belief Publisher: DH Size of Publication:21p. Published: 13/11/2009 Posted in Demand, Equity, Grey Literature, Legislation, NHS, Quality Tagged: Equity, Grey LiteratureWaiting Times, Legislation, Referral (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3083023 Sun, 13 Dec 2009 00:01:13 +0100 3083023 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2930903&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F10%2F27%2Fhealthy-child-programme-the-two-year-review%2F Title: Healthy Child Programme: two year review Skinny: The two year review aims to optimise child development and emotional wellbeing, and to reduce inequalities..  It provides practitioners, particularly health visitors, with information and tools to use with parents. Publisher: DH Size of Publication: 50p Published: 27/10/2009 Posted in Children, Grey Literature, Health Visiting, Infants, NHS, Parenting, Primary Care Tagged: Child Development, Equity, Grey Literature, Health Visitors, Parenting (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2930903 Tue, 27 Oct 2009 16:42:25 +0100 2930903 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2924773&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F10%2F25%2Fage-equality-in-health-and-social-care%2F Title: Achieving age equality inhealth and social care Skinny: Report that considers what health and social care organisations should do to ensure that people are not discriminated against by services because of their age. It looks at evidence about the nature, extent and variability of age discrimination in health and social care services. It also details reforms that are already in train to tackle age discrimination and support greater age equality. Evidence is taken from a wide variety of sources, including academic research, stakeholder submissions, personal testimony and the conclusions of a number of workshops and engagement events. Publisher: DH Size of Publication: 63p Published: 22/10/2009 Posted in Equity, Grey Literature, Health Needs, Inequalities in Health, Local Authorities... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2924773 Sun, 25 Oct 2009 11:00:44 +0100 2924773 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2890577&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F10%2F14%2Fwomen-doctors-making-a-difference-report-of-the-chair-of-the-national-working-group-on-women-in-medicine%2F Title: Women doctors: making a difference Skinny: Considers the current situation, reviews existing work and recommends a programme of action to improve opportunities for women in medicine. Publisher: DH Size of Publication: 73p Published: 13/10/2009 Posted in Equal Opportunities, Gender, Grey Literature, NHS Tagged: Equal Opportunities, Equity, Gender, Grey Literature, Medical Staff (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2890577 Wed, 14 Oct 2009 09:03:05 +0100 2890577 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2890587&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F10%2F13%2Fdont-write-me-off%2F Title: Don’t Write Me Off Skinny: Report that identifies those with autism are not getting the support they need to find a job, and many more cannot access the benefits they need to live on.  Finds that: one third are currently without work or benefits over half have spent some time without work or benefits, some for as long as 10 years just 15% have a full-time job but 79% of those on Incapacity Benefit told us that they want to work. Publisher: National Autistic Society Size of Publication: 46p Published: 13/10/2009 Campaign Website: Don’t Write Me Off Posted in Adults, Autism, Employment, Equity, Grey Literature, Learning Disabilities Tagged: Autism, Employment, Grey Literature, Social Security (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2890587 Tue, 13 Oct 2009 19:20:23 +0100 2890587 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2875966&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F10%2F09%2Fcommissioning-local-breastfeeding-support-services%2F Title: Commissioning local breastfeeding support services Skinny: Commissioning guidance aiming to assist commissioners and primary care trusts (PCTs) in providing coherent services that will promote breastfeeding and reduce inequalities, as set out in Healthy Lives, Brighter Futures: the strategy for children and young people’s health It aims to: consolidate the case for breastfeeding care and support as an integral part of local strategies to improve child health and reduce health inequalities; signpost commissioners to sources of policy, practice and evidence; and set out some key considerations in relation to World Class Commissioning competencies within the three phases of the commissioning cycle. Publisher: DH Size of Publication: 58p Published: 07/10/2009 Posted in Breast Fee... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2875966 Fri, 09 Oct 2009 12:24:22 +0100 2875966 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2846315&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F09%2F30%2F6148%2F Title: Monitoring poverty and social exclusion in Northern Ireland 2009 The Skinny: Details indicators of poverty and social exclusion in Northern Ireland, providing a comprehensive analysis of trends. The study includes analysis of trends relating to: low income; worklessness and unemployment benefit; young adult unemployment; housing; and migrant workers. Publisher: Joseph Rowntree Foundation Size of Publication: 6p Published: 29/09/2009 Posted in Deprivation, Equity, Grey Literature, Inequalities in Health, Poverty, Social Capital, Social Exclusion, Social Inclusion Tagged: Economics, Grey Literature, Income, Pay, Social Deprivation, Social Inclusion (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2846315 Wed, 30 Sep 2009 13:35:12 +0100 2846315 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2846316&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F09%2F30%2Fa-minimum-income-standard-for-northern-ireland%2F This study asks if this standard is applicable for Northern Ireland and whether it is possible to have a ‘UK-wide MIS’.The study: is based on what members of the public think people need for a minimum, socially-acceptable standard of living; compares standards for Great Britain and Northern Ireland for selected household types; and examines how prices compare and whether what people need differs between the two places. Publisher: Joseph Rowntree Foundation Size of Publication: 24p (4p) Published: 29/09/2009 Posted in Deprivation, Equity, Grey Literature, Health Economics, Inequalities in Health, Poverty, Social Capital, Social Exclusion, Social Inclusion Tagged: Economics, Grey Literature, Income, Pay, Social Deprivation, Social Inclusion (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2846316 Wed, 30 Sep 2009 13:31:04 +0100 2846316 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2828140&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F09%2F24%2Fengaging-public-support-for-eradicating-uk-poverty%2F Title: Engaging public support for eradicating UK poverty The Skinny: Public attitudes towards those experiencing poverty are harshly judgemental or view poverty and inequality as inevitable. But when people are better informed about inequality and life on a low income, they are more supportive of measures to reduce poverty and inequality. This paper: examines attitudes to poverty, what influences them, and ways to build public support for anti-poverty measures; draws on the findings of the JRF Public Interest in Poverty Issues programme. Publisher: Joseph Rowntree Foundation Size of Publication: 12p Published: 24/09/2009 Posted in Deprivation, Grey Literature, Inequalities in Health, Poverty, Social Exclusion, Social Inclusion Tagged: Deprivation, Equity, Grey Literature, Poverty (Sou... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2828140 Thu, 24 Sep 2009 09:23:07 +0100 2828140 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2793105&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F09%2F14%2Fin-pursuit-of-egalitarianism-and-why-social-mobility-cannot-get-us-there%2F This report suggests that meritocracy is a route map to a divided and dysfunctional society as opposed to the principle of egalitarianism which provides the route to a strong and cohesive society in which everyone can prosper,both individually and collectively. Publisher: Compass Size of Publication: 30p Published: 10/09/2009 Posted in Deprivation, Equity, Grey Literature, Poverty, Social Capital, Social Exclusion, Social Inclusion Tagged: Grey Literature, Social Capital, Social Policy (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2793105 Mon, 14 Sep 2009 18:07:33 +0100 2793105 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2774571&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F09%2F08%2Faiming-high-for-disabled-children%2F Title: Aiming high for disabled children: delivering improved health services The Skinny: Report for Primary Care Trusts to aid them achieve the following outcomes by providing case studies of best practice. Short breaks: ensure that disabled children with complex healthcare needs and their families can enjoy the same opportunities for short breaks as other children. Community equipment: the NHS to work with partners to ensure there is timely and comprehensive assessment of the complete needs of the disabled child, taking account of clinical, social and education needs, and the needs of the family and carers; and to improve the timely provision of equipment. Wheelchairs: to improve access to powered wheelchairs for children who need them, and reduce waiting times for assessment and provis... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2774571 Tue, 08 Sep 2009 08:38:01 +0100 2774571 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2774572&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F09%2F08%2Fhouse-of-commons-public-accounts-committee-supporting-carers-to-care-forty%25e2%2580%2593second-report-of-session-2008%25e2%2580%259309-report-together-with-formal-minutes-oral-and-written-evidence%2F Title: House of Commons Public Accounts Committee: Supporting Carers to Care: Forty–second Report of Session 2008–09: Report, together with formal minutes, oral and written evidence The Skinny: Report from the House of Commons Public Accounts Committee on support to carers. Findings and Recommendations are: The Department of Work and Pensions approach to providing carers’ benefits is complex, making it difficult for carers to access financial and other support.  Some applicants ineligable for Carer’s Allowance have to apply for it in order to recieve Carer’s Premium or the Additional Amount added to existing benefits. Direct application for these should be enabled. Communications can be lengthy, incomprehensible and confusing for carers.  All communication should be in plain e... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2774572 Tue, 08 Sep 2009 07:13:26 +0100 2774572 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2765997&cid=t_119156_87_f&fid=36438&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FCato-at-liberty%2F%7E3%2FB493KuxXxbI%2F The housing boom and bust that occurred earlier in this decade resulted from efforts by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac — the government sponsored enterprises with implicit backing from taxpayers — to extend mortgage credit to high-risk borrowers. This lending did not impose appropriate conditions on borrower income and assets, and it included loans with minimal down payments. We know how that turned out. Did U.S. policymakers learn their lessons from this debacle and stop subsidizing mortgage lending to risky borrowers? NO. Instead, the Federal Housing Authority lept into the breach: The FHA insures private lenders against defaults on certain home mortgages, an inducement to make such loans. Insurance from the New Deal-era agency has enabled lending to buyers who can’t make a big d... Cato-at-liberty blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2765997 Fri, 04 Sep 2009 14:23:40 +0100 2765997 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2765958&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F09%2F04%2Fcomparing-taxes-and-benefits-in-1979-1997-and-2008%2F This study uses ‘lifetime simulation’ for different income earners to look at the impact of taxes and benefits over time. Using three ‘model lifetimes’ for low, average and high earners and also looks at child and pensioner poverty under the systems of 1979, 1997 and 2008. It analyses changes in tax and benefit policy since the mid-1970s Publisher: Joseph Rowntree Foundation Size of Publication: 4p Published: 03/09/2009 Posted in Deprivation, Equity, Grey Literature, Health Economics, Inequalities in Health, Poverty, Public Health, Social Exclusion, Social Inclusion, Taxation Tagged: Economics, Equity, Grey Literature, Social Security, Social Security Benefits, Taxation (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2765958 Fri, 04 Sep 2009 10:02:22 +0100 2765958 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2765959&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.idea.gov.uk%2Fidk%2Faio%2F12491691 Podcast from IDEA about the Fenland District Council approach to Health Inewqualities.  The Council has its own set of unique issues to deal with when catering to the needs of the local community.  It is a predominantly rural area with a small population with more people over 60 in Fenland than under 18, hence the Golden Age Fairs that have helped older people access information and services since 2003. There is also a 50,000-strong Gypsy and Traveller community that has specific needs. Tackling health inequalities in Fenland (WMV file, 52MB) Tackling health inequalities in Fenland (MP4 file, 49MB) Posted in Deprivation, Equity, Health Needs, Inequalities in Health, Podcasts, Poverty, Public Health, Social Capital, Social Exclusion, Social Inclusion Tagged: Equity, Good Practice, Inequ... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2765959 Fri, 04 Sep 2009 10:01:45 +0100 2765959 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2761846&cid=t_119156_87_f&fid=36438&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FCato-at-liberty%2F%7E3%2FK60XHMCvO6s%2F Earlier this week, the AFL-CIO, building upon a suggestion made last week in the UK, proposed that the federal government impose a 1/10 of 1 percent tax of all stock trades.  The union group argues that such a tax would reduce non-productive speculative activity in the stock market. First of all, we have all sorts of transfer taxes on housing, and yet we still had a housing bubble.  So much for small taxes stopping speculative activity.  If an investor expected to double their money, it seems quite a stretch to believe that such a small tax would discourage them. More importantly, our recent financial crisis was not triggered by too much equity (like stocks) but by too much debt.  In taxing stock transactions, we only add to the already favorable treatment of debt compared to equity, ... Cato-at-liberty blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2761846 Thu, 03 Sep 2009 14:25:16 +0100 2761846 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2705108&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F08%2F17%2Fthe-intelligent-board-2009-commissioning-to-reduce-inequalities%25e2%2580%2599%2F The Intelligent Board 2009: Commissioning to reduce inequalities from Dr Foster Intelligence identifies the key data sets that allow a board to build up the intelligence needed to reduce health inequalities through hte commissioning process. Posted in Commissioning, Equity, Grey Literature, Health Economics, Inequalities in Health, Poverty, Primary Care, Public Health, Social Exclusion, Social Inclusion, Strategic Commissioning Tagged: Boards of Management, Commissioning, Equity, Grey Literature, Inequalities, Intelligence, Management, Primary Care, Segmentation (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2705108 Mon, 17 Aug 2009 11:56:50 +0100 2705108 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2648964&cid=t_119156_87_f&fid=36438&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FCato-at-liberty%2F%7E3%2F21KAs7jsxn4%2F There seems to be near universal agreement that the excessive use of debt among both corporations, particularly banks, and households contributed to the severity of the financial crisis.  However, other than the occasional refrain that banks should hold more capital, there has been little discussion over why corporations choose to be so highly leveraged in the first place.  But then such a discussion might lead us to the all too obvious answer — the federal government, via the tax code, encourages, even heavily subsidizes corporate leverage. Cato scholar and banking analyst Bert Ely has estimated that the subsides for debt have historically resulted in an after tax cost of debt of 3 to 5 percent, compared to an after tax cost of equity of 12 to 15 percent.  With differences of th... Cato-at-liberty blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2648964 Tue, 28 Jul 2009 20:53:32 +0100 2648964 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2648969&cid=t_119156_87_f&fid=36438&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FCato-at-liberty%2F%7E3%2FBD5--XR6c8s%2F As covered in both today’s Wall Street Journal and Washington Post, the Obama administration has called 25 of the largest mortgage servicing companies to Washington to try to figure out why the Obama efforts to stem foreclosures has been a failure. The reason such efforts, as well as those of the Bush Administration and the FDIC, have been a failure is that such efforts have grossly misdiagnosed the causes of mortgage defaults.  An implicit assumption behind former Treasury Secretary Paulson’s HOPE NOW, FDIC Chair Sheila Bair’s IndyMac model, and the Obama Administration’s current foreclosure efforts is that the current wave of foreclosures is almost exclusively the result of predatory lending practices and “exploding” adjustable rate mortgages, where l... Cato-at-liberty blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2648969 Tue, 28 Jul 2009 16:04:22 +0100 2648969 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2601926&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F07%2F15%2Fshaping-the-future-of-care-together%2F Title: Shaping the future of care together The Skinny: Green paper highlighting the Government’s vision for a new care and support system. Highlights the challenges faced by the current system and the need for radical reform, to develop a National Care Service that is fair, simple and affordable for everyone.  sets out consultation questions. Publisher: TSO Published: 14/07/2009 Size of Document: 136p. Posted in Equity, Grey Literature, Health Economics, Local Authorities, NHS, Nursing, Older People, Primary Care, Public Sector, Quality, Social Services Tagged: Domiciliary Care, Equity, Green Papers, Grey Literature, Insurance Based Health Systems, Local Authorities, NHS, Older People, Policy, Residential Care, Strategic Planning, Taxation (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2601926 Wed, 15 Jul 2009 09:46:45 +0100 2601926 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2601927&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F07%2F15%2Ffairer-contributions-guidance-calculating-an-individuals-contribution-to-their-personal-budget%2F Title: Fairer contributions guidance: calculating an individual’s contribution to their personal budget The Skinny: Guidance supplements the current fairer charging guidance. This new guidance provides councils with a model for calculating a person’s contribution to their personal budget. Councils providing personal budgets should implement this section 7 guidance by March 2010. Publisher: DH Size of Document: 20p Published: 14/07/2009 Posted in Equity, Health Economics, Local Authorities, Social Services Tagged: Economics, Equity, Financial Management, Grey Literature, Local Authorities, Personalisation, Social Services (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2601927 Wed, 15 Jul 2009 09:35:28 +0100 2601927 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2598160&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F07%2F14%2Fbuilding-a-society-for-all-ages%2F Title: Building a society for all ages (Executive Summary) The Skinny: Government strategy that sets out a programme of action to support the changes for individuals, for families, for the workplace and economy and for public services and communities; to move us closer to a true society for all ages. Publisher: HM Government Size of Document: 64p (16p) Additional Documents: Implementation plan Work across government for older people and the ageing society Age Concern LifeStage Survey, Older People in the UK: Analysis and Segmentation in the Over 50s Population Increasing Longevity and the Economic Value of Healthy Ageing and Working Longer, Les Mayhew Working Together for Older People in Rural Areas Posted in Equity, Grey Literature, Older People Tagged: Economics, Equity, Financial Mana... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2598160 Tue, 14 Jul 2009 09:52:47 +0100 2598160 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2591408&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F07%2F10%2Fevidence-for-transforming-community-services%2F Documents: Overview Review: acute services in the community Review: services for children and families Review: services for long term conditions Review: rehabilitation services Review: wellbeing and health inequalities Review: services for end of life care The Skinny: Independent research by , The Health Services Management Centre (HSMC) at the University of Birmingham to examine the evidence for a range of community services, commissioned by DH to underpin the guidance within the 6 transformational guides: Publisher: DH Size of Document: 10p (25p,  18p, 27p, 21p,  24p and 15p) Posted in Grey Literature, NHS, Primary Care Tagged: Acute Services, Chronic Diseases, Closer to Home, Equity, Evidence Based Practice, Grey Literature, NHS, Organisational Design, Paediatrics, Palliative Care, ... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2591408 Fri, 10 Jul 2009 14:41:29 +0100 2591408 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2584118&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F07%2F09%2Fplease-mind-the-gap-parkinsons-disease-services-today%2F Title: Please mind the gap: Parkinson’s disease services today The Skinny: All Party Parliamentary Group for Parkinson’s Disease (APPG) report that reveals major inequalities in access to information and services for people with Parkinson’s and their families. The report recommends: Improved leadership for Parkinson’s and other neurological conditions at a national level A 5 year review of the National Service Framework for long term (neurological) conditions to measure its progress towards implementation Support for better commissioning and planning of Parkinson’s services through the provision of evidence and guidance Strengthened workforce planning so that sufficient skilled professionals are available to deliver high quality Parkinson’s care Publis... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2584118 Thu, 09 Jul 2009 07:57:50 +0100 2584118 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2576517&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F07%2F06%2Fgovernment-response-to-the-health-select-committee-report-on-top-up-fees%2F Title: Government Response to the Health Select Committee Report on Top-up fees The Skinny: Government’s response to the conclusions and recommendations made by the House of Commons Select Committee report on Top-ups which was published on 12 May 2009.  It welcomes the Committee’s conclusion that Professor Richards’ recommendations on additional private care are the best option for the NHS. Publisher: TSO Size of Document: 24p Posted in Equity, Grey Literature, NHS, Private Sector Tagged: Ethics, Grey Literature, NHS, Private Sector, Rationing (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2576517 Mon, 06 Jul 2009 15:11:41 +0100 2576517 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2576520&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F07%2F06%2Fbuilding-public-support-for-eradicating-poverty-in-the-uk%2F Title: Building public support for eradicating poverty in the UK (Summary Findings) The Skinny: New from the Joseph Rowntree Foundation this report focus’ on: successful ways of building public support for tackling UK poverty, including the use of ‘real life’ stories, for example; explores how organisations measure the effectiveness of their initiatives; finds that only few initiatives explicitly aim to build public support for the UK poverty agenda – and these initiatives tend to change perceptions and behaviour rather than attitudes; and argues that the term ‘poverty’ needs to be clarified, and possibly avoided when first engaging people. Publisher: JRF Size of Document: 110p (4p) Published: 06/07/2009 Posted in Equity, Grey Literature, Poverty, Public... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2576520 Mon, 06 Jul 2009 12:18:03 +0100 2576520 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2572896&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F07%2F06%2Fpoverty-in-the-media-being-seen-and-getting-heard%2F Title: Poverty in the media: Being seen and getting heard (Summary) The Skinny: New from the Joseph Rowntree Foundation this report focus’ on: how people can give their views and tell their stories when they are presented as ‘case studies’ in the press, on radio or television; the roles and responsibilities of voluntary and community organisations in helping journalists find case study individuals – and the issues those individuals should consider; opportunities in the ‘new’ media to produce and disseminate material, and the challenge of reaching an audience; the need to produce accessible, good-quality material that people will pass on; ‘viral’ media and developing online communities. Publisher: JRF Size of Document: 39p (4p) Published: 06/07/... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2572896 Mon, 06 Jul 2009 12:12:24 +0100 2572896 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2561169&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F07%2F01%2Fa-minimum-income-standard-for-britain-in-2009%2F Title: A minimum income standard for Britain in 2009 (Findings Summary) The Skinny: Considers public perception of a minimum acceptable income showing: What different family types need to earn to meet the minimum income standard; How much the cost of a minimum household budget has risen since the original research in 2008. Key points Based on views of members of the public, a single person in Britain needs to earn at least £13,900 a year before tax in 2009, in order to afford a basic but acceptable standard of living. A couple with two children need to earn £27,600. The cost of a minimum household budget has risen by about 5 per cent for most families. This is well above the general inflation rate, because someone on a minimum income spends a greater than average portion of their bu... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2561169 Wed, 01 Jul 2009 08:39:59 +0100 2561169 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2561184&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F06%2F30%2Fbuilding-britains-future%2F Title: Building Britain’s Future: Strategy Document The Skinny: Government policies aimed at giving people more power over public services.  For the NHS this includes: A major expansion of private sector involvement in health provision. The scrapping of “top-down” targets across services. Making the current 18-week NHS waiting list target an obligation. Free health checks for anybody between the age of 40 and 74. Cancer patients to be given the right to private healthcare if NHS hospitals cannot see them within two weeks. Prescription charges abolished for all cancer patients First ever NHS Constitution enshrined in legislation At least 75 per cent of GP surgeries offer patients extended evening or weekend opening hours Personal Health Budgets pilots be... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2561184 Tue, 30 Jun 2009 10:37:02 +0100 2561184 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2552990&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F06%2F29%2Fequality-bill-making-it-work-ending-age-discrimination-in-services-and-public-functions-a-consultation%2F Title: Equality Bill: Making it work: Ending age discrimination in services and public functions – a consultation The Skinny: Consultation from the Government Equality Office looking at age related discrimination in health and social care, financial services and other elements of the public sector based on the following principles: Fair: people of all ages should be treated fairly and have an equal opportunity to access services provided by the public, private and voluntary sectors. Proportionate: it should still be possible to treat people differently where this is justifiable or beneficial or for good public policy reasons. Age is a valid criterion in the provision of many services and interfering unnecessarily would not be in the general public interest. Clear and transpare... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2552990 Mon, 29 Jun 2009 14:17:28 +0100 2552990 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2515164&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F06%2F25%2Ftransforming-community-services-ambition-action-achievement%2F Title: Transforming community services: ambition, action, achievement The Skinny: best practice guides to support delivery of the intentions for High Quality Care for All: the Next Stage Review. They set out ambitions, taking action and measurement of the achievement and link with, should be read in conjunction with the quality framework/quality indicators. The Guides: Transforming services for health, wellbeing and reducing inequalities Transforming services for children, young people and families Transforming services for acute care closer to home Transforming services for people with long term conditions Transforming rehabilitation services Transforming end of life care Publisher: DH Published: 24/06/2009 Posted in Acute Services, Children, Equity, Grey Literature, NHS, Palliative ... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2515164 Thu, 25 Jun 2009 10:33:23 +0100 2515164 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2473211&cid=t_119156_87_f&fid=36438&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FCato-at-liberty%2F%7E3%2F1w2H0Azqqr8%2F As discussed in a recent Bloomberg piece, several U.S. senators from both parties are pushing to almost double the recently enacted $8,000 tax credit for first-time homebuyers to $15,000. The same senators are also pushing to remove the current income restrictions — $75,000 for individuals and $150,000 for couples — while also removing the first-time buyer requirement. The intent of the increase, and the original credit, is to increase the demand for housing and to create a “bottom” to the housing market. The flaw of this approach is that it creates a false bottom, one characterized by government-inflated prices and not fundamentals. It was excessive government subsidies into housing that helped create the housing bubble, additional subsidies to re-inflate the bubble will only pr... Cato-at-liberty blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2473211 Thu, 11 Jun 2009 15:07:25 +0100 2473211 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2458073&cid=t_119156_87_f&fid=34765&url=http%3A%2F%2Fhcrenewal.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F06%2Fwas-private-equity-takeover-of-bausch.html This week, the Associated Press reported on yet another way health care corporations may keep information that reflects poorly on their products out of public view. The story involved fungal eye infections that particularly afflicted users of a specific contact lens cleaning solution:More than 700 lens wearers in the United States and Asia say they were exposed to a potentially blinding infection known as Fusarium keratitis while using ReNu with MoistureLoc, a new-formula multipurpose solution for cleaning, storing and moistening soft contact lenses.Sometimes, the damage was irreparable. Seven people in Florida, Maryland, New York, Oregon, Tennessee and West Virginia had to have an eye removed. At least 60 more Americans needed vision-saving corneal transplants.The U.S. Centers for Disease... Health Care Renewal blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2458073 Fri, 05 Jun 2009 15:29:00 +0100 2458073 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2452327&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F06%2F04%2Fwomen-and-medicine%2F Women and medicine (short report) from the Royal College of Physicians examines the changing gender balance in medicine and the implications this will have for the profession, the NHS and health service managers. Briefly the report shows that women, in particular are more likely to work part-time and focus on particular specialities. The Report makes 5 reccomendations: The organisational implications of changing workforce patterns and preferences with respect to working hours and specialty choices should be urgently examined so that the effective delivery and continuity of patient care is not compromised. The economic impact of changing work patterns and their interaction with policy initiatives already under way needs to be evaluated. Critical information gaps must be filled with some ur... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2452327 Thu, 04 Jun 2009 08:20:06 +0100 2452327 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2416771&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F05%2F19%2Fconsultation-response-ending-child-poverty-making-it-happen%2F Consultation response: ‘Ending child poverty: Making it happen’ from the Joseph Rowntree Foundation looks at the Department for Children Schools and Family consultation Ending child poverty: Making it happen and makes the comments: There need to be clear outcomes and milestones to enable measurement of progress Needs to be a focus on what the current state of play is and what improvements will be made to child care Needs to be more robust on the financial support systems Requires a recognition that poverty is a relative concept Definitions of success need to be tightened up Posted in Children, Deprivation, Equity, Grey Literature, Poverty, Young People Tagged: Children, Deprivation, Grey Literature, Poverty (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2416771 Tue, 19 May 2009 12:11:11 +0100 2416771 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2416773&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F05%2F18%2Fresponse-to-the-consultation-on-paying-for-care-in-wales-creating-a-fair-and-sustainable-system%2F is the Joseph Rowntree Foundation’s response to the Welsh Assembly’s Paying for Care in Wales: creating a fair and sustainable system: A Consultation by the Welsh Assembly Government prior to a Green Paper the response identifies: 90 per cent of older people and their carers wanted clarity on the ‘state offer’ in connection with care costs and expressed a willingness to contribute to their care if clarity was evident The state must offer more than financial help towards care costs and robust advocacy. Advice and information is also key to achieving equity. equity release, allowing older homeowners to pay for home-based care by deferring the costs until their home is sold.  In terms of equity release, it will be neccessary to increase confidence in, and promote the develo... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2416773 Mon, 18 May 2009 08:53:31 +0100 2416773 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2416774&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F05%2F18%2Foptions-for-care-funding-what-could-be-done-now%2F from the Joseph Rowntree Foundation suggests four costed, fairer and more sustainable methods of funding including: equity release, allowing older homeowners to pay for home-based care by deferring the costs until their home is sold; higher capital limits for care home fees to help those with modest assets; doubling the personal expenses allowance for people living in care homes supported by local authorities; and restructuring help for people in nursing homes, breaking down the barrier between health and social care. Posted in Equity, Grey Literature, Health Economics, Local Authorities, NHS, Older People, Social Services, Voluntary Sector Tagged: Domiciliary Care, Financial Management, Grey Literature, Health Economics, Independence, Older People, Residential Care, Social Care, Sustai... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2416774 Mon, 18 May 2009 08:01:00 +0100 2416774 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2404971&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F05%2F07%2Ftackling-health-inequalities-10-years-on%2F Tackling health inequalities 10 years on reviews developments in health inequalities over the last 10 years across government – from the publication of the Acheson report on health inequalities in November 1998 to the announcement of the post-2010 strategic review of health inequalities in November 2008. It covers developments across government on the wider social determinants of health, and the role of the NHS. It provides an assessment of developments against the Acheson report, reviews a range of key data sets covering social, economic, health and environmental indicators, and considers lessons learned and challenges for the future. Posted in Deprivation, Equity, Grey Literature, Inequalities in Health, NHS, Poverty, Public Health, Social Exclusion, Social Policy (Source: Fade Lib... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2404971 Thu, 07 May 2009 13:42:21 +0100 2404971 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2305910&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F03%2F27%2Fguidance-notes-prison-health-performance-and-quality-indicators%2F contains statements of good practice, rationale for the inclusion of the indicators, suggests evidence that may be gathered to support the indicators and offers links to evidence sets for further information. These provide a set of voluntary indicators specifically to measure the quality of prison health services and to help achieve the objective of NHS-equivalent standards. Posted in Clinical Governance, Equity, Grey Literature, NHS, Primary Care, Prison Health Services, Prisons, Quality, Standards Tagged: Clinical Governance, Equity, Grey Literature, Performance Management, Prison, Prison Health Services, Quality (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2305910 Fri, 27 Mar 2009 18:22:29 +0100 2305910 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2284178&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F03%2F19%2Fhealth-action-planning-and-health-facilitation-for-people-with-learning-disabilities-good-practice-guidance%2F aims to describe and clarify good practice in health facilitation and health action planning and support localities to make progress on this and on reducing health inequalities experienced by people with learning disabilities. It builds on previous DH guidance and reflects the learning that has taken place since 2002 along with key recommendations of relevant recent reports and research. Posted in Equity, Grey Literature, Learning Disabilities, NHS, Quality Tagged: Equity, Good Practice, Grey Literature, Learning Disabilities (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2284178 Thu, 19 Mar 2009 20:29:04 +0100 2284178 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2270138&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F03%2F16%2Fhealth-committee-third-report-health-inequalities%2F finds that: Extent and causes of health inequalities Health in the UK is improving, but  health inequalities between the social classes have widened over the last 10 years — by 4% amongst men, and by 11% amongst women. Health inequalities are not only apparent between people of different socio-economic groups—they exist between different genders, different ethnic groups, and the elderly and people suffering from mental health problems or learning disabilities also have worse health than the rest of the population. The causes of health inequalities are complex, and include lifestyle factors—smoking, nutrition, exercise to name only a few—and also wider determinants such as poverty, housing and education. Access to healthcare may play a role, but this appears to be less significan... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2270138 Mon, 16 Mar 2009 21:37:39 +0100 2270138 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2255633&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F03%2F11%2Fsexual-orientation-a-practical-guide-for-the-nhs%2F gives practical advice to enable NHS organisations to address their responsibilities relating to sexual orientation and employment or healthcare delivery Posted in Employment, Equity, Grey Literature, Homosexuality, Human Resources, NHS Tagged: Equal Opportunities, Equity, Grey Literature, Health Services, Human Resources, Sexuality (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2255633 Wed, 11 Mar 2009 04:29:29 +0100 2255633 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2216475&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F02%2F25%2Fpoverty-inequality-and-policy-since-1997%2F : summary is a report for the Joseph Rowntree Foundation which examines what has happened to different aspects of inequality in Britain, and how this relates to policies adopted since 1997. Equity in society is a complex picture, evidence suggests that there is more progress in more policy area than areas that have got worse since 1997 but the picture is varied between areas and time. Key successes include reduced child and pensioner poverty; improved educational attainment for the poorest areas and schools narrowing of economic and other divides between deprived and other areas. Health inequalities continued to widen, as did gaps in incomes between the very top and very bottom. Where specific policy initiatives were taken, some progress was made, particularly in education, em... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2216475 Wed, 25 Feb 2009 16:10:02 +0100 2216475 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2210289&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F02%2F24%2Fhealthcare-across-eu-borders-a-safe-framework%2F : Volume I: Report and Volume II: Evidence from the House of Lords European Union Committee comes to the following conclusions following the EU’s publication of  a ‘Proposal for a Directive of the European Parliament and of the Council on the application of patients’ rights in cross-border healthcare (COM(2008)414)’ and recommendations: Overall objective and the need for action Ten years of case law on cross-border healthcare have not provided the clarity needed by both patients and healthcare providers. The main rationale for the Directive should be to clarify the application of treaty provisions to health services. Response must strike a proportionate balance between individual choice on the one hand and effective delivery of public health provision, within li... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2210289 Tue, 24 Feb 2009 10:23:14 +0100 2210289 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2156349&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F02%2F03%2Fliving-well-with-dementia-a-national-dementia-strategy%2F provides the strategic framework within which local services can: deliver quality improvements to dementia services and address health inequalities relating to dementia; provide advice and guidance and support for health and social care commissioners and providers in the planning, development and monitoring of services; and provide a guide to the content of high-quality services for dementia. Accessible Summary Implementation Plan Impact Assessment Equality Impact Assessment Posted in Alzheimers Disease, Commissioning, Dementia, Grey Literature, Local Authorities, Mental Health, NHS, Older People, Practice Based Commissioning, Quality, Social Services   Tagged: Alzheimers Disease, Commissioning, Dementia, Equity, Grey Literature, Inequalities, Memory, NHS, Quality, So... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2156349 Tue, 03 Feb 2009 11:14:16 +0100 2156349 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2097803&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F01%2F12%2Freligion-or-belief-a-practical-guide-for-the-nhs%2F is guidance to assist NHS organisations to implement and comply with the requirements of legislation on religion or belief enacted recently, and also provides general practical guidance around the issues that fall out of that for the NHS. Posted in Equity, Ethics, Grey Literature, Legislation, NHS   Tagged: Equity, Ethics, Grey Literature, Legislation, Religion    (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2097803 Mon, 12 Jan 2009 16:35:56 +0100 2097803 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2093046&cid=t_119156_109_f&fid=36089&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthesituationist.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F01%2F10%2Fa-neural-perspective-on-efficiency-versus-equity-abstract%2F Ming Hsu, Cédric Anen, and Steven R. Quartz, recently published a report titled “The Right and the Good: Distributive Justice and Neural Encoding of Equity and Efficiency” (in 320 Science 1092 - 1095 (2008)).  Here’s the abstract. * * * Distributive justice concerns how individuals and societies distribute benefits and burdens in a just or moral manner. We combined distribution choices with functional magnetic resonance imaging to investigate the central problem of distributive justice: the trade-off between equity and efficiency. We found that the putamen responds to efficiency, whereas the insula encodes inequity, and the caudate/septal subgenual region encodes a unified measure of efficiency and inequity (utility). Notably, individual differences in inequity aversion... The Situationist blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2093046 Sat, 10 Jan 2009 04:01:42 +0100 2093046 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2086827&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F01%2F07%2Fadvisory-committee-on-clinical-excellence-awards-annual-report-covering-the-2008-awards-round%2F The Advisory Committee on Clinical Excellence Awards annual report (covering the 2008 awards round) aims to increase the transparency of the Scheme, demonstrate that it operates fairly and explain the evidence that is used to reach recommendations so that the medical profession, employers and the public will be reassured that it is equitable. It analyses the distribution of awards and sets out work that is in hand further develop and refine the scheme and report on the key activities during the year. Posted in Equity, Grey Literature, Medical Staff, NHS, Pay, Quality   Tagged: Clinical excellence Awards, Equity, Grey Literature, Medical Staff, Pay, Quality    (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2086827 Wed, 07 Jan 2009 12:13:45 +0100 2086827 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2073822&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F01%2F02%2Fcivic-pioneers-case-study-review%2F The Civic Pioneers Case Study Review looks at case studies of 12 projects focussing on community empowerment. It also offers a simple analysis of the lessons learned from these experiences and represents valuable learning for practitioners and policy makers. Posted in Deprivation, Equity, Grey Literature, Poverty, Social Capital, Social Exclusion, Stakeholder Engagement   Tagged: Empowerment, Grey Literature, Local Authorities, Social Capital, Stakeholder Engagement    (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2073822 Fri, 02 Jan 2009 10:55:25 +0100 2073822 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2060853&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F12%2F24%2Findependent-mental-health-advocacy-guidance-for-commissioners%2F Independent Mental Health Advocacy:  Guidance for Commissioners from NIMHE has been prepared for the introduction of IMHA services on 1 April 2009. The guide outlines the statutory IMHA role, discusses good practice for IMHA services and outlines the commissioning process required to ensure high quality IMHA services are provided for qualifying patients under the Mental Health Act 1983. Effective commissioning is key to provision of IMHA services. This guidance is designed to support commissioners in preparing for this new statutory service by providing a reference document to the legal and practical issues to be considered when commissioning IMHA services. Posted in Commissioning, Grey Literature, Mental Health, NHS   Tagged: Advocacy, Commissioning, Equity, Grey Literatur... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2060853 Wed, 24 Dec 2008 10:52:11 +0100 2060853 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2039839&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F12%2F15%2Fweighted-capitation-formula%2F , 6th ed. describes the weighted capitation formula used to inform revenue allocations to primary care trusts for 2009-10 and 2010-11. Posted in Equity, Grey Literature, Health Economics, NHS, Primary Care   Tagged: Capitation, Financial Management, Grey Literature, Health Economics, NHS, Primary Care, Resource Allocation    (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2039839 Mon, 15 Dec 2008 15:01:51 +0100 2039839 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2039840&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F12%2F15%2Fevaluating-cross-community-work-in-holme-wood-making-connections%2F considers the possibilities and challenges of promoting cohesion and meaningful interaction between different groups in a particular setting. Holme Wood in Bradford has traditionally been populated by people from white British ethnic backgrounds. This is gradually changing. The report covers: the importance of taking the local context into account when designing interventions; the tendency of ‘newcomers’ from different cultural backgrounds to be isolated; the importance of bringing these isolated newcomers together for mutual support, while also developing their opportunities for wider relationships; the significance of the challenges, including: the time-consuming nature of relationship-building work; and potential tensions between developing opportunities for mutual suppor... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2039840 Mon, 15 Dec 2008 14:01:51 +0100 2039840 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2039841&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F12%2F15%2Flessons-from-west-bowling-youth-initiative-then-now-and-the-future%2F This report in-depth exploration of the work of one grassroots organisation in West Bowling, Bradford. It highlights: the impact made in building social capital, developing active citizenship and encouraging participation in neighbourhood life; the need for sustainability and flexibility in effective engagement with young British Muslim Pakistani men; the importance of building trusting relationships with local communities; the effectiveness of capitalising on local talent and local networks for meeting community needs; and the potential of creative arts informed project work. Posted in Deprivation, Diversity, Equity, Grey Literature, Poverty, Social Capital   Tagged: Art, Deprivation, Equity, Ethnic Groups, Grey Literature, Poverty, Religion, Social Capital, Stakeholder E... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2039841 Mon, 15 Dec 2008 13:01:09 +0100 2039841 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2039842&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F12%2F15%2F1952%2F This report looks at levels of cohesion in a single housing estate with low numbers of minority ethnic groups. It examines the experience of new residents from minority backgrounds recently housed in the area, as well as service providers and long-term residents. The report covers: the priorities of local services; the perception of change in population measured through the changing nature of services; perception of levels of racism on the estate; specific nature of hostility to new communities, if any; and community cohesion, key local issues and future outlook. Posted in Deprivation, Diversity, Environment, Equity, Poverty, Social Capital, Social Exclusion   Tagged: Demographics, Deprivation, Equity, Ethics, Grey Literature, Poverty, Racism, Social Capital, Social Inclus... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2039842 Mon, 15 Dec 2008 12:01:29 +0100 2039842 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2035541&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F12%2F14%2Fmonitoring-poverty-and-social-exclusion-2008%2F (Monitoring poverty and social exclusion 2008: Findings) from the Joseph Rowntree Foundation provide an independent assessment of the progress being made in eliminating poverty and social exclusion in Britain.  A major theme of this year’s report is comparing progress over the first five years of this government with the most recent five. One thing that stands out from this analysis is where earlier momentum has not been sustained, not just on child poverty but across matters such as: the number of people in households below a fixed income threshold; the number of working-age adults lacking but wanting paid work; and levels of worry about being a victim of burglary or violent crime. At the same time, however, there are important exceptions to this pattern, including some showing stea... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2035541 Sun, 14 Dec 2008 10:58:58 +0100 2035541 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2032999&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F12%2F11%2Ftowards-healthier-fairer-and-safer-communities-connecting-people-to-prevent-violence-a-framework-for-violence-and-abuse-prevention%2F The latest draft Framework for Violence and Abuse Prevention outlines the impact of violence and abuse upon health and inequalities. It takes a life-course perspective in understanding why violence and abuse happens and makes links between the different forms of violence and abuse. It also provides an evidence-based framework for the best areas to intervene to prevent violence and abuse from occurring in the first place. Posted in Crime Prevention and Control, Deprivation, Equity, Grey Literature, NHS, Poverty, Violence   Tagged: Deprivation, Equity, Grey Literature, Poverty, Violent People    (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2032999 Thu, 11 Dec 2008 19:51:00 +0100 2032999 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2021331&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F12%2F08%2F1859%2F provides an update on progress to meet the health inequalities national target to reduce the gap as measured by infant mortality and life expectancy, by 10% by 2010. It includes an assessment of whether the 70 spearhead area local authorities, which map to 62 PCTs, are on track to meet the life expectancy target. Posted in Deprivation, Equity, Grey Literature, Infant Mortality, Poverty   Tagged: Equity, Grey Literature, Infant Mortality, Life Expectancy    (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2021331 Mon, 08 Dec 2008 14:38:15 +0100 2021331 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2010997&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F12%2F03%2Fsecretary-of-state-for-health-report-on-disability-equality%2F The Secretary of State for Health report on Disability Equality draws on the available evidence and case studies reflecting national, regional and local points of view to assess progress in meeting the requirements of the Disability Equality Duty and remaining areas where more needs to be done across the health and care sector. Posted in Equity, Grey Literature, NHS   Tagged: Access, Disabilities, Equity, Ethics, Grey Literature, NHS Estates    (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2010997 Wed, 03 Dec 2008 18:57:49 +0100 2010997 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1974922&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F11%2F19%2Fequality-impact-assessment-summary-tool-and-guidance-for-policy-makers%2F Equality impact assessment - summary tool and guidance for policy makers is the process by which the DH seeks to meet its legal requirements in conjunction with the DH Single Equality Scheme (SES) and to narrow the health inequalities that exist in England between people from different ethnic backgrounds, people with disabilities, men and women (including transgendered people), people with different sexual orientations, people in different age groups, and people with different religions or beliefs. Policymakers must screen all new (and eventually, all existing) policies for their impact on people from each of these groups. Posted in Equity, Grey Literature, NHS   Tagged: Disabilities, Equal Opportunities, Equity, Ethnicity, Faith, Gender, Grey Literature, Impact Assessment, ... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1974922 Wed, 19 Nov 2008 09:53:59 +0100 1974922 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1960518&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F11%2F13%2Flife-expectancy-and-all-age-all-cause-mortality-monitoring-overall-and-health-inequalities-update-to-include-data-for-2007%2F latest annual update on life expectancy data and all age all cause mortality rates, with data updated to 2005-07, which are used to monitor progress against Department of Health targets for overall life expectancy in England, and for the gap in life expectancy between the areas with the worst health and deprivation indicators (the Spearhead group) and the England average. It finds: The overall life expectancy and all age all cause mortality (AAACM) trends for both males and females are broadly on course to deliver the target of 78.6 years for men and 82.5 years for women by 2010 (2009-11). In 2005-07, life expectancy at birth in England continued to increase for both males and females, and reached its highest level on record at 77.5 years for males and 81.7 years for females. Three-year ... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1960518 Thu, 13 Nov 2008 16:47:24 +0100 1960518 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1943290&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F11%2F07%2Fpreventing-sibling-gang-membership-mentoring-project-manchester%2F reports on an interagency approach bringing together Greater Manchester Police, Manchester City Council’s children’s services, Manchester Youth Offending Team (YOT) and Greater Manchester Probation to work with young people and families affected by gun-gang violence as either victims or offenders. It was formed from the recommendations of Crime and Disorder Reduction Research series, paper 13, produced by the UK Home Office. The research identified that some young people are at risk of joining gangs at primary school age where family members are already linked to a gang or have been affected by gang violence and aimed to find ways of preventing these young people from being drawn into gang membership. In 2007/08, 13 children aged 18 and under have been shot in Manchester – two fatal... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1943290 Fri, 07 Nov 2008 16:24:16 +0100 1943290 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1943295&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F11%2F07%2Fimproving-access-to-medicines-for-nhs-patients%2F sets out a series of recommendations on improving access to medicines for NHS patients.  It also makes recommendations on the consequences for NHS patients of seeking additional private care.   This has led to the issuing of a Draft guidance on NHS patients who wish to pay for additional private care for consultation supported by an Equality Impact Assessment. To gain further insight into the subject Paying for (expensive) drugs in the statutory system: an overview of experiences in 13 countries provides international comparisons of access to medicine. Posted in Decision Making, Equity, Financial Management, Grey Literature, Health Economics, Health Needs, NHS, Primary Care   Tagged: Ethics, Financial Management, Grey Literature, Health, Health Service Economics, Insura... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1943295 Fri, 07 Nov 2008 13:56:22 +0100 1943295 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1924410&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F10%2F31%2Fpractitioners%25e2%2580%2599-perspectives-on-child-poverty%2F from investigated practitioners’ views about child poverty in relation to their work with deprived children and families, and their views about the support families need to improve outcomes for children and lift them out of poverty.  To do this it utilised a mixed-methodology qualitative approach comprising depth interviews and group discussions in five locations in England with 57 practitioners who included social workers, teachers, Jobcentre Plus advisers, health workers and those working in co-located services. Posted in Children, Deprivation, Education, Equity, Grey Literature, Local Authorities, NHS, Poverty, Primary Care, Social Exclusion, Social Services, Young People   Tagged: Children, Deprivation, Education, Employment, Equity, Grey Literature, NHS, Poverty, So... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1924410 Fri, 31 Oct 2008 11:46:09 +0100 1924410 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1901316&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F10%2F24%2Fpopulation-tobacco-control-interventions-and-their-effects-on-social-inequalities-in-smoking%2F from the Centre for Reviews and Dissemination finds: Tentative evidence that the effect of increasing the unit price of tobacco may vary between ethnic and socio-economic groups and between men and women. No strong evidence that restrictions in workplaces and public places are more effective in reducing smoking in more advantaged groups. Smoking restrictions in schools are more effective in girls and in younger school children, but no evidence with respect to other social gradients.  This is echoed in evidence on the restriction of sales. The effects of health warnings do not  appear to be subject to a social gradient, but their effects have not been examined with respect to income, occupation, or ethnicity, and the evidence with respect to other gradients is not convincing.  The impa... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1901316 Fri, 24 Oct 2008 11:08:39 +0100 1901316 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1901327&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F10%2F23%2Festimating-the-costs-of-child-poverty-round-up%2F Child poverty is costly to everyone in Britain. What are the costs to the whole of society of allowing child poverty to continue?  The Estimating the costs of child poverty: Round-up summarises the findings of key reports on child poverty from the Joseph Rowntree Foundation. Key Findings are: Child poverty’s consequences are wide-ranging and long-lasting. Children are less likely to do well in school, and more likely to suffer ill-health and to face pressures in their lives that help to explain an association with anti-social behaviours and criminality if they are brought up in poverty. These consequences cost society: in the money that government spends in trying to counter the effects of child poverty, and in the economic costs of children failing to reach their potential. These cost... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1901327 Thu, 23 Oct 2008 18:51:34 +0100 1901327 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1901328&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F10%2F23%2Fthe-gdp-cost-of-the-lost-earning-potential-of-adults-who-grew-up-in-poverty%2F from the Joseph Rowntree Foundation estimates the costs of child poverty in terms of reduced GDP, focusing on the lost earning potential of adults who have grown up in poverty. It includes: empirical estimates of the impact of growing up in child poverty on adult earnings and employment; the role of education in the relationship between child poverty and adult earnings and employment; estimates of the overall monetary costs of child poverty; and a final assessment of the GDP benefits of abolishing child poverty in terms of foregone earning, employment and benefit savings. Posted in Children, Deprivation, Equity, Grey Literature, Health Economics, Poverty, Young People   Tagged: Children, Deprivation, Economics, Equity, Grey Literature, Health Economics, Poverty, Young Peo... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1901328 Thu, 23 Oct 2008 17:48:05 +0100 1901328 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1901329&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F10%2F23%2Fthe-costs-of-child-poverty-for-individuals-and-society-a-literature-review%2F from the Joseph Rowntree Foundation examines the costs of child poverty to individuals and wider society, through reduced productivity, lower educational attainment and poor health. It explores the financial consequences of child poverty for individuals, families, neighbourhoods, society and the economy in the following areas: health; education; employment; behaviour; financial; family and personal relationships; and subjective well-being. Posted in Children, Crime Prevention and Control, Deprivation, Education, Environment, Grey Literature, Health Economics, Health Needs, Poverty, Social Capital, Social Exclusion, Young People   Tagged: Children, Crime Prevention and Control, Deprivation, Economics, Equity, Grey Literature, Health Economics, Poverty, Public Sector, Regen... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1901329 Thu, 23 Oct 2008 16:43:05 +0100 1901329 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1901330&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F10%2F23%2Fthe-public-service-costs-of-child-poverty%2F from the Joseph Rowntree Foundation estimates the costs of child poverty to the Exchequer and focus’ on the cost to the public sector.  This against the background of Government pledges to end child poverty in the UK. It includes: services provided to individuals or families on a basis of need or demographic eligibility, including education, most health services, subsidised housing and social care services; services which provide local ‘public goods’ such as policing and the criminal justice system; area-based regeneration initiatives and more general supplementary expenditure targeted on deprived neighbourhoods. Posted in Children, Crime Prevention and Control, Deprivation, Environment, Equity, Grey Literature, Health Economics, Poverty, Social Capital, Social Exclusion, You... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1901330 Thu, 23 Oct 2008 15:42:55 +0100 1901330 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1901331&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F10%2F23%2Fcutting-the-cake-fairly-and-response%2F Cutting the cake fairly: CSCI review of eligibility criteria for social care looks for a better basis for accessing public fundsfor social care and recommends that the following changes should be made immediately: Everyone should have an assessment of their support needs. This should include information and advice to help them make the right choices. Government should decide on new eligibility criteria which relate to the urgency of a person’s situation. Government should esure there is a consistent approach across the country. The Government response to this review is also available. Posted in Grey Literature, Health Economics, Local Authorities, Social Services   Tagged: Equity, Financial Management, Grey Literature, Local Authorities, Rationing, Social Services&n... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1901331 Thu, 23 Oct 2008 15:37:00 +0100 1901331 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1894820&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F10%2F21%2Fwhy-are-fear-and-distrust-spiralling-in-twenty-first-century-britain%2F also considers visible physical inequality and segregation in the environment, combined with a commercially driven media with a vested interest in promoting fear as a cause of societal mistrust. Key Findings The majority of Britons despite contrary evidence consider crime is rising. Liverpool is a classic example of a place where fear of crime rather than crime itself is the problem. Historical precedent ideintifies that increasing levels of fear are the consequence of growing visible physical inequality and segregation in the environment. International research has indicated links between higher levels of trust and better mental health in more equal societies, and greater levels of fear, distrust and poor mental health in societies with large wealth gaps. The media, underpinned by comm... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1894820 Tue, 21 Oct 2008 21:49:30 +0100 1894820 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1875948&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F10%2F15%2Fworld-health-report-2008%2F The World Health Report 2008 finds clear inequities within and between countries in health outcomes, in access to care, and in what people have to pay for care. To steer health systems towards better performance and greater equity, the report calls for a revival of the primary health care approach launched 30 years ago. Globalization is putting the social cohesion of many countries under stress, and health systems are clearly not performing as well as they could and should. People are increasingly impatient with the inability of health services to deliver. Few would disagree that health systems need to respond better – and faster – to the challenges of a changing world. PHC can do that. Posted in Deprivation, Equity, Grey Literature, Poverty, Primary Care   Tagged: Depr... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1875948 Wed, 15 Oct 2008 06:36:54 +0100 1875948 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1872994&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F10%2F14%2Fjournal-of-communication-in-healthcare-13%2F This study examined recently delivered, under-served women’s recall of discussions with their provider during pregnancy about a variety of health topics and then compared these responses to provider recall of these discussions. Data were collected as a baseline indicator across four communities participating in a national intervention to improve perinatal healthcare services. Results of these dyads showed a 15 per cent or greater difference in patient-provider perceptions of whether or not discussions had occurred in the areas of seat-belt use, birth-control method after pregnancy, physical abuse and folic acid. Patient and provider differences in recall can be attributed to many factors; however, these results suggest miscommunication between perceptions. Providers may need tools to... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1872994 Tue, 14 Oct 2008 06:18:10 +0100 1872994 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1873180&cid=t_119156_109_f&fid=35677&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FBrainBasedBusiness%2F%7E3%2F419747885%2Fmen_are_logical_women_emotiona.html   Have you observed that men are logical and women are more emotional, where you work? If so you must also have examples to show how it is so.   Or do you see men and women as both logical and emotional at times? Check here for one humorist’s interpretation of  cognitive discoveries on this key matter.    My question is – What specific strategies would enable men and women to work together more for mutual benefits at work? How do you see collaboration between men and women winning more mutual benefits where you work? (Source: BrainBasedBusiness) BrainBasedBusiness blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1873180 Mon, 13 Oct 2008 19:12:26 +0100 1873180 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1862653&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F10%2F09%2Fnhs-pay-modernisation-new-contracts-for-general-practice-services-in-england-2%2F from the House of Commons Public Accounts Committee has been published. Findings and Recommendations The new contract cost some £1.8 billion more than planned. Incomplete data on the cost of services provided by GPs led the Department to underestimate expenditure in the first three years of the contract.  Where possible in future major changes should be piloted. Since March 2003, 4,098 more GPs are working in primary care, an increase of 15.3%. ncreases in numbers of GPs are being seen in some deprived areas. General practice productivity has decreased annually by an average of 2.5%.  An agreed method for measuring productivity in primary care should be developed, which has the support of the NHS, the Department, the Treasury and the Office of National Statistics. A clear strategy and... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1862653 Thu, 09 Oct 2008 09:45:11 +0100 1862653 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1855967&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F10%2F07%2Fbeyond-smoking-kills%2F Smoking Kills, the first UK White Paper on tobacco control, was  published in 1998, Beyond Smoking Kills from Action on Smoking and Health (ASH) reviews progress made since then and sets out an agenda for a comprehensive tobacco control strategy. Posted in Deprivation, Equity, Grey Literature, Health Economics, Poverty, Smoking, Smoking Cessation   Tagged: Children, Deprivation, Equity, Grey Literature, Health Economics, Legislation, Marketing, Mortality, Poverty, Public Health, Regulations, Smoking, Smoking Cessation, Statistical Data, Strategic Planning, Young People    (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1855967 Tue, 07 Oct 2008 08:55:11 +0100 1855967 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1847874&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F10%2F03%2Freducing-gender-inequalities-to-create-a-sustainable-care-system%2F a Viewpoint form the Joseph Rowntree Foundation identifies that while women mainly provide family care, but as women’s economic opportunities increase they will not continue to bear the costs of providing care unaided.  A sustainable care system for care and carers requires better support and recognition to involve more men in caring and reduce gender inequalities. Key Findings Family obligations rsult in care that is unpaid but not free, since it is ‘paid for’ by reduced opportunities for carers. Family carers are mostly women, because of gender norms and also the gender pay gap, which makes it more costly for men to reduce employment hours. Equity in employment will see a rise family carers’ demand for employment consequently the need for paid care will rise. The UK’s long ... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1847874 Fri, 03 Oct 2008 06:43:44 +0100 1847874 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1844591&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F10%2F01%2Fdoes-anyone-care-about-fairness-in-adult-social-care%2F Viewpoint from the Joseph Rowntree Foundation reviews key policies in adult social care of the last ten years from an equity perspective. The analysis  is used suggest the development of practical policies that are informed by clearly stated equity principles which serve to ensure that the most disadvantaged groups of people are treated more fairly. Key Findings All parties with a stake in adult social care, including the main political parties, say that they are in favour of fair funding arrangements. The problem is that everybody has been saying this for many years, and we are still stuck with a system that everyone agrees is unfair. Looking forward, any new system will need to be equitable, and seen to be equitable. The task of identifying the most equitable funding system is not str... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1844591 Wed, 01 Oct 2008 12:12:26 +0100 1844591 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1840889&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F10%2F01%2Fhuman-rights-in-healthcare%2F Reports from three human rights in healthcare learning events held nationally. The reports provide an overview of the learning event and highlights key learning and discussion from the event. Human rights and equality in healthcare, April 21 2008, Liverpool Human rights learning and development, May 20 2008, Birmingham Human rights and commissioning, July 17 2008, Southwark Posted in Commissioning, Grey Literature, Human Rights, NHS   Tagged: Commissioning, Equity, Grey Literature, Human Rights, Learning    (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1840889 Wed, 01 Oct 2008 10:55:38 +0100 1840889 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1798034&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F09%2F16%2Fthe-media-poverty-and-public-opinion-in-the-uk%2F from the Joseph Rowntree Foundation considers the role of the media in creating public understanding and opinion on the subject of poverty. It recognises the mass media shapes, amplifies and responds to the public attitude toward poverty. The role of national, local and community media in reflecting and influencing public ideas of poverty and welfare is considered in this report. It: compares representations of poverty across different contemporary UK media; identifies the principal factors and considerations influencing those involved in producing media coverage of poverty; considers how UK media representations of poverty relate to the public’s understanding of poverty, and any differences between the responses of different groups; identifies examples of effective practice in communi... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1798034 Tue, 16 Sep 2008 12:04:59 +0100 1798034 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1794312&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F09%2F16%2Fwhat-role-for-community-enterprises-in-tackling-poverty%2F is a Viewpoint from the Joseph Rowntree Foundation on the impact community groups can have in tackling poverty in their neighbourhood?  It suggests that community-led enterprise organisations including development trusts can act as a driver for positive change, creating a self-help and problem-solving culture, and helping individuals move out of poverty. Key points: A new generation of more confident and aspirational community organisations is emerging. These are characterised by the use of social enterprise methods, community asset ownership, and a ‘can do’ attitude that seeks to unlock potential in people and places: in short, ’community enterprise’. The DTA has reviewed the wide range of actions that its member development trusts are undertaking, which they feel make a contri... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1794312 Tue, 16 Sep 2008 08:38:45 +0100 1794312 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1775498&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F09%2F08%2Fthink-research-using-research-evidence-to-inform-service-development-for-vulnerable-groups%2F is a user friendly tool to assist commissioners and service providers to select and monitor evidence based services for vulnerable people. There is a wealth of data on ‘what-works’ – both from the research community, local authorities and service providers – yet this remains largely untapped. The use of research evidence will enable commissioners and service providers to have confidence that services will work – achieving the desired impact for service users and ensuring value for money. In addition, greater transparency and objectivity can be built into the commissioning process by allowing research evidence to guide practice and decision-making. (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1775498 Mon, 08 Sep 2008 14:57:15 +0100 1775498 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1759781&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F09%2F04%2Fsex-and-power-2008%2F from the Equality and Human Rights Commission reveals women hold just 11 per cent of FTSE 100 directorships and only 19.3 per cent of the positions in Parliament. There are fewer women holding top posts in 12 of the 25 categories for which figures are available. In another five categories, the number of women remains unchanged since 2007’s index. Women’s representation has increased in just eight areas. It indicates it will now take 15 years longer (55 years in total) for women to achieve equal status at senior levels in the judiciary, and women directors in FTSE 100 companies could be waiting eight years longer (73 years in total). Female NHS Chief Executives 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007/08 28.6% 27.7% 28.1% 37.9% 36.9% (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1759781 Thu, 04 Sep 2008 08:06:56 +0100 1759781 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1750012&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F08%2F28%2Fclosing-the-gap-in-a-generation-health-equity-through-action-on-the-social-determinants-of-health%2F from the World Health Organization notes a child born in a Glasgow, Scotland suburb can expect a life 28 years shorter than another living only 13 kilometres away. Health inequities are unfair, unjust and avoidable causes of ill health and have long been measured between countries but the Commission documents “health gradients” within countries as well. For example: Life expectancy for Indigenous Australian males is shorter by 17 years than all other Australian males. Maternal mortality is 3–4 times higher among the poor compared to the rich in Indonesia. The difference in adult mortality between least and most deprived neighbourhoods in the UK is more than 2.5 times. Child mortality in the slums of Nairobi is 2.5 times higher than in other parts of the city. A baby born to... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1750012 Thu, 28 Aug 2008 09:00:45 +0100 1750012 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1713844&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F08%2F19%2Fthe-bradford-community-guide-a-guide-to-community-and-development-projects%2F report from the Joseph Rowntree Foundation provides an overview of development projects and community initiatives in Bradford undertaken part of its ten-year programme of engagement, in partnership with statutory organisations and third sector organisations.  JRF wants to make a positive difference to the people of Bradford. The Bradford Community Guide is an online resource, listing community and development projects in the city. It lists projects in the city that fall under the themes of: Culture; Faith and Cohesion; Impact of Migration on Communities. Featuring ten in-depth case studies and over 100 listings, the guide includes a wide range of projects, from youth development, training and housing, to faith, regeneration and film and media. The Bradford Community Guide will be of in... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1713844 Tue, 19 Aug 2008 10:07:24 +0100 1713844 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1713849&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F08%2F17%2Fwomen-and-poverty-experiences-empowerment-and-engagement%2F is a project from the Joseph Rowntree Foundation to empower women in poverty to take part in the policy-making process. While the Government has developed strategies to combat poverty, especially for children and pensioners, there is no strategy to challenge women’s poverty specifically. This project set out to support women living in poverty so that they could go beyond being ‘witnesses’ to poverty to become actively involved in policy development. It allowed them to develop ideas to improve their lives and better understand how policy is made. The project’s aims were: To encourage participation in and understanding of the policy-making process by women living in poverty, using participatory methods. To help women living in poverty to understand policy debates, explore policy so... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1713849 Sun, 17 Aug 2008 09:48:01 +0100 1713849 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1622039&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F07%2F14%2Fon-the-state-of-public-health-annual-report-of-the-chief-medical-officer-2007%2F draws attention to major health challenges requiring immediate action and details progress made in key areas identified in previous annual reports. It calls for a new focus on teenage health, and urges health services to take better account of the specific health needs of young people. It highlights the nature of risks inherent in surgery and that more attention should be given to reducing errors in surgery. Additionally, it indicates the rising levels of oesophageal cancer, the importance of vaccination in improving public health and the issue of racism in medicine. (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1622039 Mon, 14 Jul 2008 05:54:55 +0100 1622039 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1605822&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F07%2F10%2Fa-minimum-income-standard-for-britain-what-people-think%2F from the Joseph Rowntree Foundation who in this study devise a minimum income standard for Britain based on what members of the public have said, and  that shows the cost of covering basic goods and services for different household types. The project blends the best elements of the two main methods that have been used to develop budget standards in Britain in recent years. It reconciles the views of experts with those of ordinary people, allowing budgets based on social consensus to be tested against expert knowledge and research. As such, the MIS represents a new and important tool for informing social policy in order to promote fairness and well-being in Britain. (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1605822 Thu, 10 Jul 2008 12:42:58 +0100 1605822 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1602934&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F07%2F08%2Fmaking-the-difference-the-pacesetters-beginners-guide-to-service-improvement-for-equality-and-diversity-in-the-nhs%2F Making the difference: The Pacesetters beginner’s guide to service improvement for equality and diversity in the NHS considers service improvement approaches for those working within the Pacesetters programme. Service improvement is concerned with testing ideas, sustaining and sharing best practice to make a tangible difference in outcomes and experience for staff and service users. It is primarily intended for NHS organisations who are part of the Pacesetters programme; however, will also be useful for other organisations. (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1602934 Tue, 08 Jul 2008 03:40:38 +0100 1602934 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1593730&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F07%2F07%2Fnorth-west-fluoridation-evaluation-group%2F The North West Fluoridation Evaluation Group (hosted by ALW PCT) has drafted a Paper to the North West PCT Chief Executives Meeting – June 2008 on behalf of all 24 PCTs in the north west.  PCTs in the north west in the coming months will be considering whether to ask the North West Strategic Health Authority to explore the possibility of fluoridation, and the report provides information to help PCTs make this decision.  The decision PCTs need to make is not a decision to put fluoride in the water, nor is it a decision to request a consultation.  It is a decision to ask the SHA to explore the possibility of fluoridation. The report identifies 4 possible fluoridation schemes, but these are only included as examples so demonstrate how any future Scheme needs to reflect water flows, water... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1593730 Mon, 07 Jul 2008 20:22:50 +0100 1593730 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1551250&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F06%2F27%2Fthe-costs-of-addressing-age-discrimination-in-social-care%2F seeks to gauge the extent of age discrimination in council-funded social care services for adults (people 18 or over). It draws on a quantitative analysis of the level of support provided to service users. Lower expenditure per head on services may indicate age discrimination, but there are also a range of ‘legitimate’ reasons for this pattern of spending. The analysis aims to determine whether people in different age groups are treated differently after these ‘legitimate’ differences are removed. (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1551250 Fri, 27 Jun 2008 04:26:25 +0100 1551250 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1537834&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F06%2F23%2Fan-appraisal-of-brushing-for-life%2F by Professor A S Blinkhorn (University of Manchester) considers the government initiative to reduce the inequalities in children’s oral health in the most disadvantaged areas of the country. The scheme started in 2001, and provides children in areas with highest levels of dental decay a free pack of fluoride toothpaste and a toothbrush - supported by advice on oral hygiene. (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1537834 Mon, 23 Jun 2008 21:40:48 +0100 1537834 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1537836&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F06%2F23%2Fpct-survey-provision-of-ivf-in-england-2007%2F shows a move towards the implementation of the NICE guideline, though there remain variations in access criteria. To help move to more equitable provision, the Government has established an expert group on commissioning NHS infertility provision, which will identify the barriers to the NHS progressing to the implementation of the NICE fertility guideline, taking account of the current variation in provision of IVF and ICSI between PCTs, the current variation in access criteria and the intermittent suspension of services in some locations identify and bring about the tools which will help PCT commissioners in making decisions on fertility provision and encourage stepwise progress towards the full implementation of the NICE fertility guideline (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1537836 Mon, 23 Jun 2008 14:17:44 +0100 1537836 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1525950&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F06%2F17%2Fcaring-for-vulnerable-babies-the-reorganisation-of-neonatal-services-in-england-2%2F House of Commons Committee of Public Accounts (2008) Caring for Vulnerable Babies: The reorganisation of neonatal services in England: Twenty–sixth Report of Session 2007–08 Report, together with formal minutes, oral and written evidence. London: TSO. has been the top story in Another 15 Minutes…Health News from Fade today. The report identifies the following conclusions: The decision to establish a Neonatal Task Force is an important development, with the potential to improve the care for vulnerable babies. The reorganisation of neonatal services into clinical networks has had limited impact in reducing geographic variations in mortality rates. Whilst three-quarters of neonatal units have reviewed the types and intensity of care a unit should be able to provide safely, the ... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1525950 Tue, 17 Jun 2008 08:15:58 +0100 1525950 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1512062&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F06%2F12%2Fpeople%25e2%2580%2599s-attachment-to-place-the-influence-of-neighbourhood-deprivation%2F is an examination of the attachment people feel to their current neighbourhood, looking at the extent and nature of attachment in deprived areas from the Joseph Rowntree Foundation. In particular, the study looks at the impacts of neighbourhood instability and social mix on attachment, and considers place attachment from a regeneration perspective, drawing on quantitative and qualitative evidence. It covers: the main drivers of neighbourhood attachment, in general and in deprived areas in particular; the extent to which neighbourhood turnover undermines attachment in deprived areas; whether attachment is lower in more ‘mixed communities’; whether attachment depends on the ’fit’ between personal and area characteristics; and the implications for regeneration policy and practice. (... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1512062 Thu, 12 Jun 2008 12:57:53 +0100 1512062 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1508140&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F06%2F11%2Fhouseholds-below-average-income-hbai-199495-200607%2F This report presents information on potential living standards as determined by disposable income in 2006/07, changes in income patterns over time and income mobility.  Contents include: summary of key findings, distribution of disposable income, how different client groups (children, working-age adults and pensioners) are distributed across income quintiles, the percentage of each client group below various fractions of median income, the composition by client group of the total number of people below these thresholds, and material deprivation (children chapter only) decile medians and quintile medians in real terms, population estimates for key groups, measures of income inequality, percentages of groups with income below various fractions of contemporary median income, and percentages... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1508140 Wed, 11 Jun 2008 19:38:56 +0100 1508140 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1508145&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F06%2F10%2Fhealth-inequalitiesprogress-and-next-steps%2F outlines the Government’s approach to hit the 2010 health inequalities Public Service Agreement targets, assessing what has and has not worked, and setting the direction of travel beyond 2010. Equality Impact Assessment - Health Inequalities: Progress and Next Steps sets out some of the current health inequalities and potential interventions to reduce and eliminate these inequalities. (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1508145 Tue, 10 Jun 2008 09:04:02 +0100 1508145 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1469561&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F05%2F27%2Fshort-changed-spending-on-prison-mental-health-care%2F from the Sainsbury Centre for Mental Health details the postcode lottery in funding for prison mental health and reports they one-third of the money they need. £20.8 million was spent on mental health care in prisons through inreach teams. This is 11% of total prison health care spending or just over £300 for each member of the prison population. Prison inreach teams aim to provide the specialist mental health services to people in prison that are provided by community-based mental health teams for the population at large. In reach teams are constrained by limited resourcing, the prison environment, difficulties in ensuring continuity of care and wide variations in local practice. The Government’s policy for prison health care is based on the principle of equivalence with regards ... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1469561 Tue, 27 May 2008 08:18:44 +0100 1469561 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1416568&cid=t_119156_158_f&fid=36160&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.popeinstitute.com%2Fcaregivingminutes%2F%3Fp%3D70 If I had a dime for every time I saw a reverse mortgage commercial, I could fund my own retirement plan. About 4 months ago the reverse mortgage commercials started coming fast and hard. I distinctly remember the morning I was watching television and both my husband and I noticed that almost every other commercial was selling a reverse mortgage. It’s like there is the sacred hour that seniors are watching television and every reverse mortgage lender in the world needs a 60 second spot during that viewing hour. I don’t watch a lot of television but at this point, I can almost narrate the reverse mortgage commercials from memory; like the syndrome your children have with their favorite movies. I believe they call that syndrome “narratum verbatim”-or at least that’s what another f... CaregivingMinutes™ by Pope Institute blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1416568 Fri, 02 May 2008 21:04:53 +0100 1416568 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1392473&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F04%2F23%2Fthe-impact-of-benefit-and-tax-uprating-on-incomes-and-poverty%2F Each year, the Government decides how much to raise benefits and tax allowances. The basis for these upratings is rarely debated, yet has major long-term consequences for the relative living standards of different groups and for public finances. The impact of benefit and tax uprating on incomes and poverty from the Joseph Rowntree Foundation considers the implications of present uprating policies, which mean that some parts of the tax and benefit system are uprated by earnings growth, other parts by prices and some not at all. The impact of continuance of these polices over the newxt 20 years will be a doubling of the child poverty rate alongside a substantial gain to the public finances. Some of this budgetary gain may be needed to meet other demands – of an ageing population for exampl... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1392473 Wed, 23 Apr 2008 08:44:51 +0100 1392473 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1392475&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F04%2F23%2Fresidents-views-of-new-forms-of-high-density-affordable-living%2F Residents’ views of new forms of high density affordable living from the Joseph Rowntree Foundation explores residents’ views about living in new affordable higher density housing and how far residents’ expectations of living in high-density developments were met. In particular it explores: reasons for moving in; the impact of architecture and design; community cohesion, including integration across tenures; crime and antisocial behaviour; the impact of the surrounding neighbourhood; future housing aspirations, including whether residents wanted to move; housing management; affordability. (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1392475 Wed, 23 Apr 2008 05:39:30 +0100 1392475 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1382604&cid=t_119156_109_f&fid=35677&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FBrainBasedBusiness%2F%7E3%2F272857326%2Ffund_more_of_the_finest_firms.html A few years ago,  it was deemed that too few NY women received funding for their business plans. Noticed that in your area?Surveys showed that while many female owned firms flourished … any capital came off their own back. The NY system ... we were told ... favored men’s business plans over women's.In an attempt to help firms fairly, NY officials set up a financial pool for women owned organizations. Within weeks of the fund’s announcement … I overheard a young man just out of college … brag about his big win from this special funding. “It was easy …” he said, “I quick shifted my new business into my wife’s name … and we cleaned up.” Business plan writing is big business for ... BrainBasedBusiness blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1382604 Fri, 18 Apr 2008 13:08:26 +0100 1382604 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1354195&cid=t_119156_109_f&fid=35677&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FBrainBasedBusiness%2F%7E3%2F265699019%2Fblack_leaders_fail_black_commu.html  Critics in the black community claim that successful black leaders fail to help their own communities suceed. The charge on an NBC program today? Accomplished Blacks tend to help themselves ... rather than support still struggling Black peers. Do you agree? Such claims may be as unrealistic as lumping all people together into any category … in ways that good people fall behind. Certainly greed may snare a few Black professionals ... just as  it traps any others who develop their talents and move forward. It’s also true that there could be better organizations ... and that we can support talented leaders who focus on issues in the American Black community. Check out a few Black self help programs that currently exist. But should all Black professionals turn... BrainBasedBusiness blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1354195 Mon, 07 Apr 2008 15:26:28 +0100 1354195 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1319275&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F03%2F21%2Fchildren-young-people-and-speech-language-and-communication%2F The Bercow Review of services for Children and Young People (0–19) with Speech, Language and Communication Needs - Interim Report ( Executive Summary) identifies 5 key themes: Communication is crucial  – communication is at the core of all social interaction.  Communication is a key life skill. Communication is a fundamental human right. For some children and young people, acquiring the ability to communicate is a difficult and ongoing challenge. Just as the nature and severity of their needs will vary, so will the type and extent of the help required to address them. Early identification and intervention are essential in order to avoid poor outcomes for children and young people – in addressing delay and disorders, the most important facts we know are the value of early intervent... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1319275 Fri, 21 Mar 2008 13:56:35 +0100 1319275 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1305999&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F03%2F16%2Fgovernment-response-to-the-crisp-report%2F In 2007 was invited by the Prime Minister and Secretary of State for Health to look at how UK experience and expertise in health could be used to best effect to help improve health in developing countries in terms of needs as identified and expressed by people from those countries and in order to add practical value to work already under way.  This resulted in the Crisp report Global health partnerships: the UK contribution to health in developing countries.  The formal response Global health partnerships - the Government response is now available. (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1305999 Sun, 16 Mar 2008 19:49:17 +0100 1305999 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1305286&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F03%2F15%2Fperson-or-place-based-policies-to-tackle-disadvantage-not-knowing-what-works%2F from the Joseph Rowntree Foundation looks at the effectiveness of policies introduced by the Labour government since 1997 to encourage employment, education and reducing income disadvantage, focusing on policies that explicitly take account of people and places. It finds that person and place-based policies have mostly developed separately and often in isolation from each other. This separation does not reflect the relationships between places and the poverty and disadvantage of people who live in them. Key findings Most policy interventions, whether person or place-targeted, had small, favourable impacts. In the rare cases where information on expenditure was available, costs were generally offset by savings to the Exchequer. Both forms of intervention had significant positive impacts o... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1305286 Sat, 15 Mar 2008 19:24:06 +0100 1305286 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1301788&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F03%2F13%2Fcommunity-empowerment-in-practice%2F Community empowerment in practice: lessons from Communities First looks at community empowerment in local governance and service delivery which has become a key component of government policy in the UK. However, there are critical challenges to achieving this in practice. This research sees the Joseph Rowntree Foundation use 9 case studies to consider: It considers: how far partnerships have developed and evolved to empower communities; the relationships communities have with other representative channels; the extent to which communities have influenced other agendas; the overall impact of regeneration partnerships. It finds that: Community members responded positively to the opportunities for participation provided by Communities First and, as they began to recognise their own ro... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1301788 Thu, 13 Mar 2008 20:22:13 +0100 1301788 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1300236&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F03%2F13%2Fneighbourhood-identity-people-time-and-place%2F from the Joseph Rowntree Foundation considers the formation of neighbourhood identity and it’s potential impact on regeneration. The report focuses on: why regeneration policies often fail in their objectives; why the reputations of housing estates often display a remarkable longevity and resilience to change; how such reputations are established and understood by those in and outside particular areas; the implications these reputations have for the identities of neighbourhoods and the people who live in them. (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1300236 Thu, 13 Mar 2008 14:37:20 +0100 1300236 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1300237&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F03%2F13%2Ftackling-health-inequalities-2007-status-report-on-the-programme-for-action%2F provides a review of developments against the data since the publication of the Programme for Action in 2003. It considers progress against the Public Service Agreement (PSA) target, the national headline indicators and against government commitments. The report shows: Further slight narrowing of the infant mortality gap, little change in the gap in male life expectancy and a widening of the gap in female life expectancy since 2003–05. An encouraging picture on the cross-government indicators, with long-term progress in reducing child poverty and narrowing inequalities in housing quality, educational attainment and uptake of flu vaccinations. Cancer and circulatory (heart) disease mortality, child road accident casualties and teenage conceptions show a narrowing of inequalities in ab... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1300237 Thu, 13 Mar 2008 14:17:33 +0100 1300237 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1297683&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F03%2F12%2Ftop-tips-for-health-in-local-authorities%2F commissioned by ChaMPs (Cheshire and Merseyside Public Health Network) and from the Liverpool Public Health Observatory offers practical tips on joint working between the NHS and Local Authorities in the areas of: Reducing health inequalities Tackling obesity: Creating opportunities for healthy eating Tackling obesity: Creating opportunities for physical activity Improving mental health and well-being Promoting sexual health Encourage the sensible drinking of alcohol Creating a smokefree environment (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1297683 Wed, 12 Mar 2008 11:44:24 +0100 1297683 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1290943&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F03%2F10%2Fhit-or-miss-womens-rights-report%2F Hit or Miss - women’s rights report from ActionAid shows that promises made by the world’s governments to tackle poverty are failing to deliver because the basic rights of women in the developing world are being ignored.  The report finds that women and girls formed the majority of the poor and hungry, and, in south Asia, women are getting a shrinking share of income as the economy continues to grow. Ten million more girls than boys miss out on primary school, while African women accounted for 75% of all young people living with HIV/Aids. (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1290943 Mon, 10 Mar 2008 15:00:19 +0100 1290943 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1261578&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F02%2F27%2Fhealth-services-management-research-volume-21-number-1-february-2008%2F The new issue of the Health Services Management Research is now available online. If you want to access the full text of the journal you’ll need your Athens password from the Liverpoo PCT. (If you don’t have an Athens password and are eligible you can get one here). Physician perceptions of managed care strategies, and impact of these on their clinical performance, in the South African private health sector pp. 1-13(13) Author: Pillay, Rubin Trend and variation of prescription drug cost in the veterans health-care system pp. 14-22(9) Authors: Gao, Jian; Campbell, James The influence of teamwork culture on physician and nurse resignation rates in hospitals pp. 23-31(9) Authors: Mo... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1261578 Wed, 27 Feb 2008 14:14:27 +0100 1261578 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1244992&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F02%2F20%2Fbetter-care-better-lives-improving-outcomes-and-experiences-for-children-young-people-and-their-families-living-with-life-limiting-and-life-threatening-conditions%2F ‘Better Care: Better Lives: Improving outcomes and experiences for children, young people and their families living with life-limiting and life-threatening conditions’ aims to improve the care and support given to children in England with life-limiting or life-threatening condition and their families. The strategy calls on commissioners, service providers, voluntary sector partners – to improve the experiences of young people and their families by: improving data sources building stronger joint working arrangements developing better needs assessments and support regimes tackling inequalities encouraging the delivery of care in the most appropriate setting. (Source: Fade Library) Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1244992 Wed, 20 Feb 2008 20:33:00 +0100 1244992 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1240153&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F02%2F19%2Flost-low-earners-and-the-elderly-care-market%2F ‘Lost: low earners and the elderly care market’, from the think tank the Resolution Foundation looks at low earners and how they fare in the elderly care system. It identifies that social care for older people rarely receives the political attention it should. The Government’s recent commitment to a Green Paper on social care provides the opportunity for elderly care to become centre stage. Theis report establishes how low earners fare in the elderly care system. It identifies that: Low earners tend to be older than average, and more likely to own their own homes. They also hold disproportionately more of their wealth in housing assets (as opposed to liquid savings) than other income groups. Are less likely that higher earners to prepare financially for retirement through... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1240153 Tue, 19 Feb 2008 08:51:13 +0100 1240153 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1239190&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F02%2F18%2Fout-of-sight-out-of-mind-social-exclusion-behind-closed-doors%2F Looking at social exclusion in the elderly Age Concern have produced  Out of sight, out of mind: Social exclusion behind closed doors sets a number of challenges across both local and central government and for voluntary groups to ensure that older people are socially included.  These are: Develpment of a cross-departmental government commitment to help the most disadvantaged older people. Central and local government strategies for tackling social exclusion and neighbourhood renewal must include older people. Local authorities should revisit A Sure Start to Later Life and re-model their services to ensure they are joined-up, user-friendly, rooted in the community and flexible enough to reach out to vulnerable older people. The report recommends: For people who are over 80 and livi... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1239190 Mon, 18 Feb 2008 18:21:51 +0100 1239190 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1237790&cid=t_119156_109_f&fid=35677&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FBrainBasedBusiness%2F%7E3%2F236554558%2Fbrain_based_solutions_to_mood.html It’s not a must read for the African-American community alone.  It's also a trail blazer for every human who struggles with mood control ... or cares for a mentally ill loved one.  A true story …  LOSING CONTROL … opens refreshing windows into bipolar and mood disorders ... that could benefit every workplace. No wonder this almanac pulls in top reviews! In loving and leading a black child with bipolar disorder … Dr. Cassandra Joubert … inspires every race, age, and organization … to find real answers and build more caring communities. Jarring details in this book … along with courage to come up with solutions that work … could ratchet up social, medical and emotional supports. How s... BrainBasedBusiness blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1237790 Sun, 17 Feb 2008 16:55:02 +0100 1237790 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1218229&cid=t_119156_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F231836752%2F Only a year ago, private-equity groups had a healthy appetite for biotechs and little competition, naming their price for upstart firms desperate for cash, then quickly selling them to big drugmakers for hefty profits. Now, there are signs private investor groups are being squeezed out of the market they helped create, resulting in a dramatic shift in investment strategy in the pharmaceutical industry, The Star-Ledger of New Jersey writes. “Competition from private-equity funds that had a ready source of cash is not there,” Marvin Artis, a pharmaceutical mergers and acquisition specialist at the Reed Smith global law firm, tells the paper. “The deals that require a huge amount of financing, they are just hard to get done.” A global credit crunch tied to the subpri... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1218229 Fri, 08 Feb 2008 21:04:00 +0100 1218229 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1187095&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2008%2F01%2F30%2Fin-a-place-of-fear%2F Mental Health Act Commission Eleventh Biennial Report (In Place Of Fear) questions whether all inpatient mental health services provide their patients with acceptable levels of security, care, or a sense of being treated as  someone who matters. It welcome the Government’s announced refocus on inpatient services and call for it to concentrate on building up these aspects, in place of the fear that many patients have of services and that many people have of mentally disordered people.  The importance of breaking such ‘circles of fear’ for Black and minority ethnic patients are particularly welcomed. There is evidence that inpatient services are losing staff and resources to community services, but that pressures on inpatient beds remain high. Over half of all wards are full or have ... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1187095 Wed, 30 Jan 2008 07:29:28 +0100 1187095 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1187096&cid=t_119156_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.csci.org.uk%2FFiles%2F20080128_State_of_sociaL_care_2006_07_Summary.mp3 Giving a comprehensive overview of the social care sector in England ‘The state of social care in England 2006-07 (Executive Summary)’ the Annual Report of the Commission for Social Care Inspection follows concerns raised by the Commission last year, and explores the experiences of people not deemed eligible for state-supported social care. It shows that many younger disabled people and frail older people are being ‘signposted’ to voluntary services. Many are forced to rely on help from family and informal arrangements which can break down at short notice. People unable to rely on families or friends and unable to pay for care services themselves are simply left to cope with everyday life, while some become virtually trapped in their own home.Local authorities are increasin... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1187096 Wed, 30 Jan 2008 07:08:00 +0100 1187096