Research reveals inconsistent approach to patient involvement
A Medical Technology Group (MTG) report has revealed inconsistent approaches to patient engagement at a regional level.
The MTG, of which PIF is a member, looked at the structures, policies and processes of the country’s 42 integrated care systems.
It found 4 in 10 have no formal patient involvement in board meetings or subcommittees.
As well as highlighting the advantages of patient involvement, the report highlights case studies and examples of good practice.
Read the report via the MTG website here.
Study: Systematic approach essential to effective co-design
A research paper demonstrates a step-by step approach to co-designing a health and social care hub for families experiencing adversity.
The study highlights challenges caused by a lack of common definition of ‘co-design’.
Its model focuses on language, engagement methods, team composition and resourcing decisions.
Applying community engagement principles meant a diverse range of stakeholders were engaged across all stages of the project which built trust in and local ownership of the Hub model.
Authors concluded human-centred design offers a systematic process and tools for integrating formative evidence with lived and professional experience.
Read the full study via the JMIR website here.
Educational funding inequity leads to poor health outcomes
A new report reveals how a lack of equity in funding for schools is increasing regional childhood health inequalities.
Child of the North: Addressing Education and Health Inequity says many Northern youngsters are much more likely to experience poor health and educational outcomes by the age of 17.
The report calls for urgent action, including using schools as ‘hubs’ for delivering health services.
It was commissioned by the Child of the North All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG)
Download the report from the Northern Health Science Alliance website here.
Research reveals low public confidence in access to NHS services
A survey has revealed 1 in 3 adults in England lack confidence they can access NHS services, including GPs, mental health support and hospital care, in a timely way.
The survey of more than 2,500 people was commissioned by Healthwatch.
It suggested perceptions of access to NHS care is a health inequality issue.
Some of the most vulnerable groups have the lowest confidence they will get the care they need in a timely way.
The report makes 3 recommendations, including more support for people on waiting lists.
Read the report on the Healthwatch website here.
Call to stop use of inaccurate suicide risk assessments
PIF member the Royal College of Psychiatrists (RCP) is calling for mental health providers to review how they assess suicide risk.
The college believes some providers in England and Wales are using outdated and unreliable assessment methods.
This would go against NICE guidance issued in 2022.
It would also mean providers are potentially missing chances to prevent suicides.
Read more and access suicide resources on the RCP website here.
Health inequalities survey needs people affected by SMA
PIF member Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) UK is running a survey to find out more about health inequalities for people with the condition.
Information gathered will be used to raise awareness of the need to address health inequalities in SMA and other neuromuscular conditions.
Take part via SurveyMonkey here.
Gilead Sciences launches health inequality story book
Gilead Sciences has published a book of stories from 6 people who have experienced health inequality.
Each person has come up against and overcome health inequality obstacles such as discrimination and marginalisation.
They tell their stories in their own words.
The stories are printed in the margins of the book, From the Margins, to visually illustrate marginalisation.
Find out more and read the full book here.
Healthcare innovators feature in Black History Month resources
Black History Month 2023 will focus on black women who have made an impact in UK society, including in healthcare.
Nurse Mary Seacole is one of the many women featured in educational resource packs available ahead of the event which takes place throughout October.
This year’s theme is Saluting Our Sisters #WEMATTER.
Get resources via the Black History Month website here.
Service aims to reduce drug overdose deaths in Wales
A new click-and-deliver service offers access to a medication that temporarily reverses the effects of an opioid overdose.
Anyone in Wales can access the Naloxone service through the DAN 24/7 website.
DAN 24/7 is the all-Wales Drug and Alcohol helpline, hosted by PIF member Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board.
Find out more via the Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board website here.
New national centre to support rural communities in Scotland
A new national centre opening next month aims to reduce health inequalities and improve the delivery of healthcare services in rural and island communities.
The National Centre for Remote and Rural Health and Care wants to improve the delivery of community-based services to remote, rural and island primary care.
Find out more on the Scottish Government website here.
Days left to apply for National Voices' Board of Trustees
National Voices is looking for two new trustees to join its Board of Trustees.
Trustees must work or volunteer for one of the charity’s members.
Nominations for the roles close on 22 September.