Mapping chronic disease risk from GP data: geovisualisation of risk

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An innovative study to describe chronic disease risk in Tower Hamlets brought geographers and clinicians together. Objective To test the feasibility of bringing together epidemiological and environmental data to prepare small-area geospatial maps of chronic disease risk Study design Cross-sectional geospatial analysis using electronic record data collected routinely in general practice, taking type 2 diabetes [read the full story…]

An integrated approach to mental and physical health could save the NHS billions, says new report from the King’s Fund

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People with long-term conditions, such as diabetes or heart disease, are two to three times more likely to experience mental health problems than the general population. However, a systemic failure to identify these problems and provide effective support is resulting in poorer outcomes for patients and could be costing the NHS billions, says a report [read the full story…]

Case management: what it is and how it can best be implemented? The King’s Fund reports

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It is widely accepted that case management is a valid approach for managing individuals with highly complex needs and long-term conditions. This highly readable report provides a welcome overview. Structure of the report This paper examines: What is case management? Core components? Case finding Assessment Care planning Care co-ordination Care closure How is case management [read the full story…]

Does assistive technology as a remote intervention make a difference for patients with long term conditions?

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The Whole System Demonstrator programme is the largest randomised control trial of telehealth and telecare in the world. One of the most complex trials ever undertaken by the Department of Health, it was set up in May 2008 to provide a clear evidence base to support investment decisions. The research proposition was : Does the [read the full story…]

Audit Commission reports on improving value for money across health and social care

For all the focus on joint working across the NHS and social care in recent years progress has been patchy. The Audit Commission has identified that PCTs could improve outcomes and achieve £132 million in efficiency savings per year.  This readable briefing for health and social care commissioners focuses on services for older people with [read the full story…]