CQC NHS enforcement action triples – HSJ

The number of enforcement actions issued by the Care Quality Commission to NHS trusts surged last year, in a further sign of the increased willingness of regulators to take action over quality concerns in the wake of the Francis report.  Papers presented at the regulator’s board meeting last week show that in 2013-14 it issued 73 enforcement actions to NHS trusts – a more than threefold increase on the 21 actions issued in 2012-13. The hike mirrors a similar increase in Monitor’s use of regulatory action reported by HSJ in January.

Meet the people using social media to make a difference – HSJ

In this list, the first of its kind, we highlight the work of clinicians, patients and families who have used social media as a powerful force for change and as a way to inspire, campaign, spread best practice and raise awareness

HSJ and Nursing Times Social Media Pioneers 2014 – – HSJ

See the full list of people using social media to change healthcare

The growing influence of social media in healthcare – HSJ

Social media has established itself as a powerful channel for voices in the NHS, whether it is to create professional networks, raise safety concerns or seek support in self-management of conditions. Participation is no longer optional, writes Claire Read

Social media: Now you’ve signed up, the real work begins – – HSJ

Joining a site such as Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn might seem like the beginning of an effortless journey of awareness raising, but with some effort and strategic thinking the benefits are much greater

TDA struggles to replace resigned chairs – HSJ

The NHS Trust Development Authority has become concerned at the number of chairs that have resigned from the 99 trust boards it oversees, after 17 left their posts in 2013-14.

Videos of the Board meeting held on 15 May 2014 – NHS England

The board meeting was broadcast live as part of our commitment to make information as accessible as possible.

Ban on GP access to hospital tests hampering early diagnosis, GPs warn – GP Online

The lack of GP direct access to hospital-based diagnostic tests is blocking early detection of diseases, causing frustration among GPs and anxiety in patients, GPs have warned.

Online discussion: how to provide ‘John Lewis’ service –
Health Service Journal – Acute care news

Post a question for our experts as they discuss how to improve the patient experience

A better life for older people with high support needs: the role of social care 

Joseph Rowntree Foundation (JRF) has identified seven key challenges that need to be met for older people with high support needs, so that they can achieve a better quality of life. This briefing summarises each of the seven challenges set out by JRF, along with relevant SCIE resources related to meeting the challenges.