Author Archives: Maureen
Review of stroke services across Norfolk and wider region
A major review of stroke services could lead to changes to patients’ care in Norfolk.
Kim Briscoe Wednesday, August 22, 2012
6:30 AM
Significant improvements have been made over the past four years in stroke services, which include stroke, transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) and rehabilitation services.
However, NHS Midlands and East has launched the review as it believes that despite having a network of stroke specialists, there are still gaps in care.
The review could see new hyper-acute stroke units established, or it could lead to specialist consultants working across more than one hospital.
However, it is still in the early stages and the current services offered by each NHS trust will be looked at in detail by an expert advisory panel, which will make recommendations for improvements. Final proposals for the new shape of services are expected between October and January, 2013, with a view to implementing the changes later in the year.
Elderly cancer patients denied financial advice because nurses assume they are well-off
Elderly cancer patients are routinely denied information about the financial help they could receive because hospital staff believe pensioners do not need the support, a government report finds today.
7:00AM BST 17 Aug 2012
The over-75s are among the least satisfied groups of cancer patients with the standards of care and support from doctors and nurses, according to the Department of Health study.
Fewer than half of the age group reported being given information on their eligibility to benefits for the disabled and other types of financial assistance.
Elderly care: Government to ‘set out cost limit’
Social care is currently means-testedA spokesman said the prime minister was serious about resolving the issue, after a review suggested there should be a cap on social care of £35,000.
The man who recommended the cap said there was a growing consensus behind the move among political leaders.
However, there has been no agreement on a final package of proposals.
Last month Health Secretary Andrew Lansley said ministers supported the principle of a cap but there was no commitment to finding the money to pay for it.
But the government is keen to scotch the impression that reform of social care in England is dead in the water and a Whitehall source said on Thursday there is a will to include it in the next Comprehensive Spending Review, expected to begin next year.
