Mail Alerts - All 3 Counties
BBOLMC has signed up to the LMCs Buying Groups Federation
(31/01/12)
BBOLMC has signed up to the LMCs’ Buying Groups Federation
Details and an introductory letter is copied here
Buying Groups Federation - Guide
Buying Groups Federation - Practice Consent Form
BBOLMC feels there are benefits to ThamesValley practices of it joining the LMCs’ Buying Groups Federation
BBOLMC now needs to seek your permission as an individual practice to give your contact details to the Federation.
If this is what you want us to do, please complete and sign the attached consent form and mail it to:
BBOLMC
Mere House
MerePark
Dedmere Rd
Marlow
SL71PB
Paul Roblin
CEO of BBOLMC
GP help required with National Review of Asthma Deaths
(27/01/12)
Rachael Davey (Programme Coordinator for the National Review into Asthma Deaths at the RoyalCollege of Physicians) has asked for GP help with this audit
See below.
The reporting form will be available on the NRAD website http://www.rcplondon.ac.uk/projects/notify-us-asthma-death. and can be returned to her at rachael.davey@nhs.net.
Paul Roblin
BBOLMC
National Review of Asthma Deaths (NRAD) - Notification phase starting on 1st February
As you are aware we are due to start collecting data on all deaths from asthma that occur from 1 February 2012 - 31 January 2013.
During this period please notify us of any death that meets the criteria listed at the end of this email as soon as possible after the death occurs. Please complete (or coordinate the completion of) as much as 'Form 1 - Notification of an Asthma Death' as is possible with the information available. The notification form will be available to download from the NRAD website shortly (in Word or PDF format) - http://www.rcplondon.ac.uk/projects/notify-us-asthma-death. You can complete the form electronically or print it to complete by hand - please contact us if you have difficulty in downloading, printing or completing the form. Please ensure that the form is returned securely to Rachael Davey by post or email to rachael.davey@nhs.net.
Notification criteria -
Please report any death meeting any of the following criteria:
- death certified as being due to asthma (i.e. ICD-10 J45-J46) in part 1 of the medical certificate of the cause of death (MCCD)
- post-mortem diagnosis of asthma as cause of death
- death classified as being due to anaphylaxis (ICD-10 T78.2)
- ONS classification of asthma as underlying cause of death (ICD-10 J45-J46)
- ONS classification of anaphylaxis as underlying cause of death (ICD-10 T78.2).
Thank you once again for your support with this project, we very much appreciate it.
Rachael Davey
Programme Coordinator,
National Review into Asthma Deaths (NRAD)
Latest BBOLMC Website Updates (27/01/12)
Please note, for your and your GPs’ information, that the following are all available on our website:
- Latest Secretariat Hot Topic and Information Alert emails to practices*
- Latest LMC Information Roundup
- Draft Minutes of the most recent Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire County LMCs and LRC/PCT Liaison meetings
- LMC Election Results
- LMC Practice Information 2011 Proforma
- Latest job vacancies across the 3 counties
- GPC News 6 - January 2012
- GPC Focus on Travel Immunisations Guidance
- GPC Updated Locum Agreement Guidance.
All of the above, and more, can be accessed at:www.bbolmc.co.uk
*NB: Our most recent Hot Topic and Information Alert emails can be accessed via the red “Click for Latest Email Alert” link on our Home Page - www.bbolmc.co.uk
Best wishes
Pauline
Pauline Green
Administration & Information Manager
Berks, Bucks & Oxon LMCs
Thames Valley LMC election result (24/01/12)
Attached is the formal announcement of elections for LMCs in Berks, Bucks and Oxon.
No elections are needed because no constituency had more self nominations than seats
The new committees will start in April 2012 and run for a 4 year term.
The dates of meetings (LMC, LRC/PCT liaison) for 2012 are tabled below with the first meeting of the new committees in RED.
The process of choosing LMC chairs, vice chairs, treasurers and county reps to the BBOLMC board (3 each) will begin at the first meetings in April.
A call for agenda items will go out to reps three weeks before each meeting
Papers will be emailed to reps in the week before each meeting
Minutes are generally on our website within a week of a meeting taking place
See www.bbolmc.co.uk
LMC Reps are encouraged to:
contribute to rep email debate between meetings, either on a local or a Thames Valley/national wide issue
have a means of canvassing the practices they represent
eg by compiling a group email
distribution list and seeking feedback on issues reps present to them
This will usually involve forwarding/plagiarising one of my emails
BBOLMC will be
sending each rep a list of their practices with email addresses in the near future.
advertise how their practices can get issues to them as reps
I will be seeking permission of reps to supply their practices with their email addresses
Practices are encouraged to:
Tell their reps (or BBOLMC) about issues that concern them or
Tell BBOLMC about issues that concern them
paul.roblin@bbolmc.co.uk (Bucks, Oxon)
(and Berks when Jim Kennedy not available)
jim.kennedy@bbolmc.co.uk (Berks only)
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CountyMeetings |
PCT Liaison Meetings |
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Berkshire |
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East Berks |
West Berks |
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2.2.12 |
11.1.12 |
12.1.12 |
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19.4.12 |
7.3.12 |
8.3.12 |
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21.6.12 |
9.5.12 |
10.5.12 |
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6.9.12 |
11.7.12 |
12.7.12 |
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8.11.12 |
10.10.12 |
11.10.12 |
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Buckinghamshire |
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Bucks |
MK |
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3.2.12 |
17.1.12 |
20.1.12 |
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20.4.12 |
13.3.12 |
16.3.12 |
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22.6.12 |
15.5.12 |
18.5.12 |
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7.9.12 |
17.7.12 |
20.7.12 |
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9.11.12 |
16.10.12 |
19.10.12 |
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Oxfordshire |
2.2.12 |
19.1.12 |
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19.4.12 |
15.3.12 |
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21.6.12 |
17.5.12 |
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6.9.12 |
12.7.12 |
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8.11.12 |
18.10.12 |
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In Berkshire, countywide liaison with PCT follows the West Berks LRC
Paul Roblin
CEO BBOLMC
High Quality Education Event for all Healthcare Professionals
(20/01/12)
For your and your GPs’ and nurses’ information please see the email below and attached documents.
Best wishes
Pauline
Pauline Green
Administration & Information Manager
Berks, Bucks & Oxon LMCs
I am resending the Teenage Mental Health flyer and a Symposium flyer in case any one is interested. I have attached a booking form for the Teenage Mental Health Update.
Regards
Sue
Sue Matthews
Medical Education and Development
Royal Berkshire
NHS Foundation Trust
BMA press release : BMA rejects pensions offer and urges government to think again (18/01/12)
Following an overwhelming call from doctors to reject the government’s proposed changes
to the NHS Pension Scheme and a willingness to undertake some form of industrial action, the BMA today (Wednesday 18 January 2012) called on the government to urgently reconsider their plans.
The decision was taken today at a meeting of BMA Council, the association’s governing body, following consideration of results of a major survey of 130,000 doctors and medical students.
The UK-wide survey received over 46,000 responses - a response rate of 36%. Over eight in ten (84%) said the latest proposals should be rejected. Almost two-thirds (63%) said
they would personally be prepared to take industrial action to pursue changes to the proposals. More than a third (36%) of doctors aged 50 and over say they intend to retire early if the changes go ahead.
The BMA has now formally written to the government rejecting the offer and urging them to engage with the BMA and unions representing NHS staff to agree fairer changes. At the
same time, the BMA will work up detailed plans on taking industrial action. All attempts will be made to ensure that any plans for action would minimise any risk of harm to patients.
An emergency meeting of BMA Council will be held on 25 February to decide on the options for balloting on industrial action, should there not be a significant change in the Government’s position.
Dr Hamish Meldrum, Chairman of BMA Council said: ”The strength and scale of feeling among doctors is abundantly clear - they feel let down and betrayed, and for many this is
the final straw. Doctors are at the forefront of attempts to save the NHS Ł20 billion, while trying to protect patient care, are in the midst of huge system reform in England, which is
causing chaos in many areas, and are about to enter a fourth successive year of a pay freeze. Now on top of this, they are facing wholesale changes to their pension scheme,
which was radically overhauled less than four years ago and is actually delivering a positive cashflow to the Treasury.
“Forcing doctors to work to almost 70 is one of our most serious concerns as it could put
pressure on doctors to work beyond the age at which they feel competent and safe.
“Industrial action remains a last resort and the Government must urgently reconsider its
damaging plans. The action we are considering is unprecedented in recent decades. This demonstrates the current level of discontent among NHS staff.”
Although there have been minor improvements on the government’s original offer through negotiation, all doctors still stand to be hit very hard. The retirement age would increase,
with many having to work to 68 before being able to draw a full pension. The amount doctors have to pay into their pension would rise significantly, with those at the start of
their careers facing the prospect of paying over Ł200,000 in additional lifetime contributions. And the current final salary scheme would be replaced with a new career
average scheme, which would leave most doctors with worse overall benefits.
Notes to editors
View the full survey results at: http://www.bma.org.uk/employmentandcontracts/pensions/nhs_pensions_reform/pensions urveyresults2012.jsp
View details of the most recent government offer: http://www.bma.org.uk/employmentandcontracts/pensions/nhs_pensions_reform/nhspensi
onchanges.jsp
The last time doctors took industrial action was in 1975, when consultants suspended
goodwill activities and worked to contract over a contractual dispute, and junior doctors took action because of dissatisfaction with the progress of contract negotiations.
RCGP Certificate in the Detection, Diagnosis and Management of Hepatitis B and C in Primary Care (11/01/12)
For your and your GPs’ information, please see the email below and attached flyer re the new RCGP Certificate in the Detection, Diagnosis and Management of Hepatitis B and C in Primary Care.
Best wishes
Pauline
Pauline Green
Administration & Information Manager
BBO LMC
I am writing to inform you of the new RCGP Certificate in the Detection, Diagnosis and Management of Hepatitis B and C in Primary Care, developed in conjunction with SMMGP, with funding from the Health Protection Agency.
The Certificate is an educational package largely aimed at generalist clinicians such as GPs and nurses already working in primary care, and it provides a basic grounding in issues around Hepatitis B and C.
It will be particularly useful for GPs with a special interest in substance misuse, drugs workers and those involved in needle exchange and harm reduction services. The Certificate can also be completed by other interested parties including commissioners, public health practitioners, community-based practitioners, pharmacists and service users.
The following face to face training days now have places available, to book a space simply
select the date:
Wednesday 25th January - London
Wednesday 29th February - Bristol
Friday 23rd March - Liverpool
To obtain the full Certificate you will need to complete the e-module and then attend one of the RCGP accredited face-to-face training days, equivalent to six hours CPD. The e-module is the first activity to be completed as part of the Certificate but can be used as a stand-alone learning resource or as a refresher. The e-module is available at http://elearning.rcgp.org.uk and is currently free for all to access.
To complete the e-module and book on a face-to-face event if you are not a member of the RCGP you will need to register with our website. Select the link to register now: Register Now.
When completing your on-line booking if you do not wish to pay your course fees on-line please select “pay by cheque” and email your invoicing details to the programme co-ordinator at hepbandc@rcgp.org.uk
Please forward this email on and do not hesitate in contacting me if you have any questions.
Kind regards,
Marianne Thompson
Programme Coordinator | Substance Misuse and Associated Health
Closing date for nomination to LMC is only 10 days away
(11/01/12)
Medical politics needs your input. Come and join your LMC!!
The closing date for nomination to LMC is now only10 days away
Details of LMC function and how to self nominate can be found at
http://www.bbolmc.co.uk/elec2012/elec2012.html
BBOLMC (Berks, Bucks and Oxon) need to have newly elected committees in place by 1.4.12
All GPs are therefore encouraged to consider becoming a local LMC rep.
The NHS is facing severe financial problems. In this climate, the new GP Commissioners will need to put pressure on GP practices to do more and more, while using fewer resources, and receiving less remuneration.
The Local Medical Committee is the only statutory, democratic body charged with supporting and negotiating for local GPs and Practices (as providers of primary care) facing such pressure.
Even with GP Commissioning Groups, LMCs will be needed more than ever.
Paul Roblin
CEO of BBOLMC
Important Pensions News from LMC (05/01/12)
Please note the BMA webpage at:
http://www.bma.org.uk/employmentandcontracts/pensions/nhs_pensions_reform/index.jsp
You must assess what this means for you. It is worth spending the time NOW!
Paul Roblin
CEO BBOLMC
Winter 2011 Information Roundup (23/12/11)
Please find attached BBOLMC’s latest Information Roundup. I would be grateful if you could please circulate it within your practice and hope that you, and your GPs, find it of interest and value. Many thanks.
Comments and suggestions for improvements and/or items for inclusion in future editions to pauline.green@bbolmc.co.uk are very welcome.
Best wishes to you all for the Festive Season and 2012
Pauline
Pauline Green
Administration & Information Manager
Berks, Bucks & Oxon LMCs
Current state of negotiations: GPC Pensions update (20/12/11)
Please find attached an update following recent discussions on pensions. It would be very
helpful if you could circulate to GPs, as it is being widely reported in the media, and to ensure that GPs are aware of the BMA's activities.
Many thanks and best wishes
Chris
Chris Finlan
Joint Head of NHS GPs
High Quality Education Event for all Healthcare Professionals
(16/12/11)
For your and your GPs’ information, please see the email below and attached education opportunity details.
Best wishes
Pauline
Pauline Green
Administration & Information Manager
Berks, Bucks & Oxon LMCs
Please circulate to any of the above the attached exciting education opportunity for all healthcare professionals including GP's, Locums, Registrars and Practice Nurses.
Kind Regards
Sue
Sue Matthews
Medical Education and Development
Royal Berkshire
NHS Foundation Trust
Important letter from DH: PCTs can't insist on mandatory requirement for training for GPs (15/12/11)
Pronouncement from Dame Barbara Hakin (National Managing Director of Commissioning Development)
See attached letter and particularly the last paragraph copied below
PCTs are not able to stipulate mandatory training for GPs eg smears
“The GMS arrangements do not however allow PCTs to set mandatory requirements for training. As part of their clinical governance processes, GP practices should ensure that GPs and others who take cervical smear samples have the competences necessary to undertake them. PCTs should monitor the quality of services provided and take action if there is evidence of problems. These are principles that apply to the range of training issues relating to GPs and GP practices, and are in line with an outcomes based approach to commissioning, contracting and monitoring”
Paul Roblin
BBOLMC
Christmas BBOLMC Office Arrangements (06/12/11)
For your and your GPs’ information, please find below details of The Secretariat’s Christmas and New Year office arrangements:
23 December 2011 - closed from 12 noon
28 December 2011 – 30 December 2011 closed
3rd January 2012 onwards - normal office hours (8.00 am – 4.30 pm)
NB: When the Office is closed Dr Roblin will be available in an emergency on 07799 116597.
Seasons Greetings from all at The Secretariat
Best wishes
Pauline
Pauline Green
Administration & Information Manager
2012 Flu Vaccine Discount Scheme (02/12/11)
Please note, for your and your GPs’ information, that details of the LMC’s 2012 flu vaccine
discount scheme are now available on our website at:
http://www.bbolmc.co.uk/discgrp/discgrp.html
Best wishes
Pauline
Pauline Green
Administration & Information Manager
Berks, Bucks & Oxon LMCs
Current state of appraisal requirements (02/12/11)
I continue to get regular queries about what is currently required for appraisal
Please see the content below in response to today’s query.
In the interests of patient safety and the reputation of the profession, LMC expects GPs to practice at the highest possible level, and theoretically appraisal should contribute to this. What is currently being debated is the detail of future appraisal, to ensure that it fulfils this purpose without being onerous or over bureaucratic.
Paul Roblin
CEO of BBOLMC
I listened to Laurence Buckman on this issue yesterday, and he repeated what I have said all along. The current system is that GPs have to complete forms 1-4 and provide evidence to justify the claims made in the forms.
He described all those who claim to know what will be required under revalidation as clairvoyant, because nothing has been decided nationally.
What sits on the RCGP website is a current draft of their views, which has not been signed off by the GMC or profession and is likely to change still further.
Guidance on preparation for revalidation might involve a good guess at future requirements, but it is still a guess.
What the Central Alerting System says: HPV Immunisation Programme (29/11/11)
The full letter from Professor D M Salisbury can be found at GW16896_HPV_ChangeVaccine251111FINAL.pdf
The beginning of the DoH alert says:
HPV immunisation programme – change of supply to Gardasil® from September 2012
I am writing to inform you that following a competitive tendering exercise the Department of
Health (DH) will be providing the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine Gardasil® for the national HPV immunisation programme for girls in school year 8 (aged 12 to 13 years) from September 2012.
For the current academic year (September 2011 to July 2012), there is no change to the programme.
Cervarix remains the vaccine being offered for the HPV vaccination programme
Paul Roblin
CEO of BBOLMC
Update on Travel immunisation from GPC: The present situation
(29/11/11)
Another piece of information sent to me over the weekend
Focus on travel immunisations
The GPC has published Focus on travel immunisations, to explain which travel immunisations are available on the NHS and which can be charged for privately. The Red Book regulations were written to cover the immunisations available at that time and consequently do not reflect today’s clinical practice, and the subsequent new GMS contract (2004) took those regulations and carried them into the new contract as an additional service. Consequently everything in the Red Book was transferred unchanged and included in the global sum of payments rather than the previous item of service system.
The change in availability of immunisations and the nature of foreign travel has made these
regulations difficult to interpret, and confusion over how they apply to current practice. This document reflects the present situation and is intended to help practices by clarifying the
existing regulations as they currently stand. The document is available on the BMA website:
http://www.bma.org.uk/images/focustravelimmunnov2011_tcm41-210824.pdf
Paul Roblin
CEO of BBOLMC
GPC on Firearms licensing (29/11/11)
The GPC sent me the text below over the weekend
Firearms Licensing
The BMA has issued this interim guidance for GPs on firearms licensing:
The BMA has agreed in principle that where an individual has been granted a firearms
licence, or an existing licence has been renewed, the police will subsequently contact his or her GP to enquire whether there is any medical information that might have a bearing on the individual's suitability to hold a firearm.
Although aspects of this agreement were discussed and agreed in principle in November 2010, the BMA was expecting confirmation and further discussion with ACPO on when
implementation of the new procedure would occur to ensure GPs were informed and suitably advised prior to the letters being sent out.
Unfortunately this has not happened and police forces have already begun to issue letters
to GPs (without the BMA’s prior knowledge) which do not provide sufficient instructions or advice. We are currently seeking further discussions with ACPO to try to resolve these issues.
Where doctors wish to respond to these letters and provide relevant medical information, consent to the disclosure of that information should ordinarily be sought as the letter does
not currently indicate that consent has been given. If the patient does not consent to disclosure, this should ordinarily be respected, although the police must be informed to
that effect. If, however, the doctor believes that the patient presents an immediate risk of serious harm to themselves or others, information should be disclosed even in the face of an explicit refusal.
Doctors are under no obligation to respond to these letters, but should they decide not to, doctors should inform the police as it will otherwise be assumed that there is nothing relevant on the medical record.
Although the letter from the police states that it does not have to be retained, in the BMA’s view doctors should record the request for information in the medical record and
indicate what action, if any, they have undertaken. The BMA will be updating its guidance as soon as this matter has been resolved.
Paul Roblin
CEO of BBOLMC
Latest BBOLMC Website Updates (25/11/11)
Please note, for your and your GPs’ information, that the following are all available on our website:
- Latest Secretariat Hot Topic and Information Alert emails to practices*
- Draft Minutes of the most recent Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire County LMCs and LRC/PCT Liaison meetings
- Early Notice of Forthcoming LMC Elections
- LMC Practice Information 2011 Proforma
- Latest job vacancies across the 3 counties
- 2012-13 Contract Agreement:
- Letter to Profession
- QOF Agreement
- Summary of QOF changes
- GPC updated Local Agreement Guidance
- GPC News - November 2011.
All of the above, and more, can be accessed at: www.bbolmc.co.uk
*NB: Our most recent Hot Topic and Information Alert emails can be accessed via the red â€Click for Latest Email Alert’ link on our Home Page - www.bbolmc.co.uk
Best wishes
Pauline
Pauline Green
Administration & Information Manager
Berks, Bucks & Oxon LMCs
NHS Trust plans for employee sick certification around the time of the Pensions Day of Action 30.11.11 (25/11/11)
I am emailing all Trust CEOs to establish your trust intentions for employee sick certification around the time of the Pensions Day of Action 30.11.11.
It is rumoured nationally that the DoH has instructed/advised you to insist on employees seeking GP sickness certification even for a period of less than one week.
In light of this I have sent the attachment and the cover email below to all Thames Valley practices
BBOLMC considers any change in employer behaviour over when a GP sickness certificate is required to be a completely inappropriate use of a GP’s time.
Some GP practices will already be under strain because of industrial action by staff. Adding an unnecessary administrative task to their workload is unacceptable and would undoubtedly make it harder for sicker patients to get appointments.
The vast majority of staff who take sick leave on or around 30 November will be genuinely ill and should be trusted to self-certify. You should also be aware that any certificate you receive from a GP will only be as good as the information provided by the patient so it is possible that you will receive such information as "this patient advises me that he was suffering from ...... on November 30th. I have no reason to doubt this".
I would remind you that 7 day self certification was brought as part of the 2008 Managing Absence Initiative which was supported by the Cabinet Office
It stated then, and the same is true now "the use of GP services to manage short term sickness absence is a waste of NHS resources.”
An early reply describing your plans would be appreciated
Paul Roblin
CEO of BBOLMC
BBOLMC has been trying to anticipate what practices might face on the Pensions Day of Action on 30.11.11
The BMA has FAQs at
http://www.bma.org.uk/employmentandcontracts/pensions/nhs_pensions_reform/publicsec
torpensionsdayofaction.jsp?page=3#7
In the past week it has emerged nationally that some PCTs and hospital trusts are unwilling to accept self certification in the run up to 30.11.11 and are insisting on their employees (our patients) obtaining a private sick note from their GP
Please let me know if you meet any organisations behaving in this way
If this happens you may find the attachment with this email helpful.
It could be given to patients by receptionists if they recognise at the desk that patients are seeking a consultation solely because their employer has insisted they provide a sick note
Paul Roblin
Pensions Day of Action 30/11/11 FAQs (23/11/11)
BBOLMC has been trying to anticipate what practices might face on the Pensions Day of Action on 30.11.11
The BMA has FAQs at
http://www.bma.org.uk/employmentandcontracts/pensions/nhs_pensions_reform/publicse
ctorpensionsdayofaction.jsp?page=3#7
In the past week it has emerged nationally that some PCTs and hospital trusts are unwilling to accept self certification in the run up to 30.11.11 and are insisting on their employees (our patients) obtaining a private sick note from their GP.
Please let me know if you meet any organisations behaving in this way
If this happens you may find the attachment with this email helpful.
It could be given to patients by receptionists if they recognise at the desk that patients are seeking a consultation solely because their employer has insisted they provide a sick note.
The specific BMA Q+A on this issue is copied below:
“We are aware that some employers are insisting on their staff submitting medical
certificates if they are absent on 30th November even if the absence is for less than 7 days. Should we do likewise?
No. In our opinion it isn’t necessary. Staff should be trusted to self certify. We have been
informed by representatives at some trusts that this change to the existing sickness reporting systems has been announced for any sickness absences on 30th November.
GPC challenged NHSE arguing that this is a completely inappropriate use of doctors’ time. We pointed out that some GP practices will already be under strain because of
industrial action by staff. Adding an unnecessary administrative task to their workload is ludicrous, and would undoubtedly make it harder for patients to get appointments. There
would also be a significant cost to the NHS.”
Paul Roblin
CEO of BBOLMC
Updated GPC Locum Agreements Guidance (16/11/11)
Please note, for your and your GPs’ information, that the GPC’s updated Locum
Agreements Guidance is now available on our website via the hyperlink below:
http://www.bbolmc.co.uk/locagreeguid.pdf
Best wishes
Pauline
Pauline Green
Administration & Information Manager
Berks, Bucks & Oxon LMCs
Advertising LMC elections (10/11/11)
Could this email be circulated to all GPs?
All three counties within BBOLMC (Berks, Bucks and Oxon) need to have newly elected committees in place by 1.4.12
The need for coal face GPs to have their views represented in the new world of GP Commissioning Groups is as great as ever.
Nowadays much of the work is done by email, so you need not be fearful of having to attend too many meetings.
All GPs are therefore encouraged to consider becoming a local LMC rep.
Details of LMC function and how to self nominate can be found at http://www.bbolmc.co.uk/elec2012/elec2012.html
Paul Roblin
CEO of BBOLMC
Posters and badges for Pensions Day of Action - 30 November 2011
(08/11/11)
Please notes the penultimate paragraph of the BMA email (also copied below)
“We know that many GPs are keen to show their support for the union-wide Day of Action on 30 November. So from the 14 November, we’ll be sending out campaign packs
containing posters, flyers, car stickers and badges, on request to any LMC or GP. If you would like to receive a pack, or more than one, please email pension-actionpack@bma.org.uk ”
Paul Roblin
CEO of BBOLMC
Dear Colleague,
I want to update you on the BMA’s communications around the threats to the NHS
pension, and to seek your help in making the next phase of our campaign as effective as possible.
As you know, we recently contacted all members encouraging them to respond to the consultation on increasing contributions, which closed on 21 October. I’m pleased to say we’ve learned that the Department of Health received over nine thousand individual submissions, the vast majority of them from doctors and medical students. It’s a fantastic response that can have left the government in no doubt about the strength of feeling in the medical profession against their plans.
We know that many GPs are keen to show their support for the union-wide Day of Action on 30 November. So from the 14 November, we’ll be sending out campaign packs containing posters, flyers, car stickers and badges, on request to any LMC or GP. If you would like to receive a pack, or more than one, please email pension-actionpack@bma.org.uk .
Additionally, stickers and a letter from me will be sent out to all members with the 19 November issue of the BMJ. We have more suggestions for action you can take, as well as guidance on what you can and can’t do on the day under trade union legislation at bma.org.uk/nhspensionreform.
Many thanks for your support,
Dr Hamish Meldrum,
Chairman of BMA Council
Letter to the profession - 2012/13 contract agreement (08/11/11)
The documents attached here detail the agreed changes to the GP contract for 2012/13
Letter to Profession
QOF Agreement
Summary of QOF changes
There are changes in the following areas:
- Practice Expenses
- Certain QOF points, indicators and thresholds
- New Quality and Productivity Indicators in the QOF
- Choice of GP Practice (England only)
- Clinical and Extended Hours Directed Enhanced Services (DESs)
- Carr-Hill formula
- CCG membership (England only)
Paul Roblin
CEO of BBOLMC
LMC query re likelihood of Industrial Action by employed practice staff on 30.11.11 (08/11/11)
I attach the BMA FAQs re the Public Sector pensions Day of Action planned for 3oth November.
Questions 13-16 relate specifically to general practice
I have already had queries from PCTs about the impact this might have on practices, but could only give vague answers.
My impression is that practice staff are generally not members of unions and that the day is not likely to have a big impact on practices delivering normal services required of their contract.
However, on both of these issues, I could be wrong.
Could you help me develop a better picture, by answering the following questions?
- Roughly what % of your staff are members of a union?
- Are you aware of your staff being balloted by any union they belong to?
- Are your staff likely to take action? (figures if possible please)
- When will you know what your staff plan to do?
- Do you feel you will be able to cope and deliver all your contract obligations?
Paul Roblin
CEO of BBOLMC
Latest BBOLMC Website Updates (26/10/11)
Please note, for your and your GPs’ information, that the following are all available on our website:
- Latest Secretariat Hot Topic and Information Alert emails to practices*
- Draft Minutes of the most recent Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire County LMCs and LRC/PCT Liaison meetings
- Early Notice of Forthcoming LMC Elections
- LMC Practice Information 2011 Proforma
- Latest job vacancies across the 3 counties
- Voluntary Recall - Preflucel Influenza Vaccine
- GPC News - October 2011
- BMA Report: Social Determinants of Health? What Doctors Can Do.
All of the above, and more, can be accessed at: www.bbolmc.co.uk
*NB: Our most recent Hot Topic and Information Alert emails can be accessed via the red “Click for Latest Email Alert” link on our Home Page - www.bbolmc.co.uk
Best wishes
Pauline
Pauline Green
Administration & Information Manager
Berks, Bucks & Oxon LMCs
BMA's 'Social Determinants of Health - What Doctors Can Do' Report
(20/10/11)
Please find below for your and your GPs’ information, a hyperlink to the BMA’s “Social Determinants of Health - What Doctors Can Do” Report about health inequalities which gives some practical examples of what doctors can do to make a difference:
http://www.bma.org.uk/health_promotion_ethics/socialdeterminantshealth.jsp
Best wishes
Pauline
Pauline Green
Administration & Information Manager
Berks, Bucks & Oxon LMCs
E4Health - Diploma & General Level Courses Available (20/10/11)
Please find attached information from Ed4Health which may be of interest to your nurses.
Best wishes
Pauline
Pauline Green
Administration & Information Manager
Berks, Bucks & Oxon LMCs
Day of Action 30th November 2011: NHS Pension Reform - FAQs for GPs (19/10/11)
To all TV practices (blind copied)
Please could you circulate this email and its attachment within your practice?
30th November is a Day of Action over changes to NHS Pensions
Paul Roblin
BBOLMC
I want to update you on BMA activity on NHS pension reform in the run-up to the
union-wide Day of Action on 30 November.
As you know, the BMA has decided against a ballot on industrial action at this stage. However, we are supporting the Day of Action and need the help of Local Medical
Committees to assist GPs who wish to demonstrate their opposition to the reforms, and to provide them with advice on issues arising from industrial action by other unions.
We hope you will be able to join us in encouraging members to visibly show their support for the Day of Action. Campaign materials, carrying a simple message of support, will be
mailed out to individual members with the BMJ ahead of the day.
We would also like you to help us ensure all doctors are informed about the proposed pension changes, and engaged in efforts to fight them.
To help with queries relating to the Day of Action, we will be emailing the attached Frequently Asked Questions to all members.
You may also find it useful to direct colleagues to the following resources:
- Modeller on the impact of the changes -
http://www.bma.org.uk/nhspensionreform - Briefing paper explaining the threats to doctors’ pensions and addressing some of the media myths:
http://www.bma.org.uk/press_centre/pressnhspensionscheme.jsp
It is essential that we demonstrate to the government that doctors will not accept these
unfair attacks on our pensions and encourage them to take part in genuine negotiations about the future of the NHS scheme.
http://www.bma.org.uk/employmentandcontracts/pensions/nhs_pensions_reform/publicsec torpensionsdayofaction.jsp
Yours sincerely,
Dr Hamish Meldrum
Chairman of Council, BMA
Black list and Grey list and being able to prescribe privately
(18/10/11)
It seems from responses to my email of 13.10.11 that some GPs do not know about the NHS black list and grey list
In particular, some seem not to know that an NHS script for erectile dysfunction treatment is limited to certain types of patient (grey listed) and patients not within the categories chosen by the DoH can be given a private script by their NHS GP
Please see the web references and text below
Paul Roblin
CEO of BBOLMC
Drug Tariff
The black list (part XV111A) and grey list (part XV111B) are found at the back of the drug tariff
See http://www.ppa.org.uk/edt/October_2011_3/mindex.htm
GP Regulations
These lists are dealt with under paragraph 42 of schedule 6 the GP Regulations (see text
below)
http://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2004/291/schedule/6/made
Extract from GMS Regulations 2004 (PMS Regulations are written similarly)
Restrictions on prescribing by medical practitioners
42.—
(Black List)
(1) In the course of treating a patient to whom he is providing treatment under the contract, a medical practitioner shall not order on a prescription form or repeatable prescription a
drug, medicine or other substance specified in any directions given by the Secretary of State under section 28U of the Act (GMS contracts: prescription of drugs etc)(a) as being
drugs, medicines or other substances which may not be ordered for patients in the provision of medical services under the contract but may, subject to regulation 24(2)(b),
prescribe such a drug, medicine or other substance for that patient in the course of that treatment under a private arrangement.
(Grey List)
(2) In the course of treating a patient to whom he is providing treatment under the contract, a medical practitioner shall not order on a prescription form or repeatable prescription a
drug, medicine or other substance specified in any directions given by the Secretary of State under section 28U of the Act as being a drug, medicine or other substance which
can only be ordered for specified patients and specified purposes unless—
(a) that patient is a person of the specified description;
(b) that drug, medicine or other substance is prescribed for that patient only for the
specified purpose; and
(c) the practitioner endorses the form with the reference “SLS”, but may, subject to regulation 24(2)(b), prescribe such a drug, medicine or other substance for that patient in
the course of that treatment under a private arrangement.
The grey list drugs are
Clobazam, Cyanocobalamin Tablets, Locabiotal Aerosol, Niferex Elixir 30ml Paediatric Dropper Bottle, Nizoral Cream, Oseltamivir (Tamiflu)
and the following drugs for the treatment of erectile dysfunction - Alprostadil (Caverject), (MUSE), (Viridal), Apomorphine Hydrochloride (Uprima) , Moxisylyte , Hydrochloride (Erecnos), Sildenafil (Viagra) , Tadalafil (Cialis) , Thymoxamine Hydrochloride (Erecnos) , Vardenafil (Levitra)
South Central Priorities Forum Policy Recommendatons
(18/10/11)
MOBB Policy Recommendations (Priorities Forum)
See http://www.sph.nhs.uk/ebc/policy-recommendations/mobbb-policies
Over recent weeks several practices from across the Thames Valley have contacted LMC after apparent pressure from their PCT Medicines Management Team to conform to MOBB Policy recommendation 47a (treatment for erectile dysfunction).
See http://www.sph.nhs.uk/ebc/sph-files/mobbb-policies/mobbb-policy-47a-erectile-dysfunction
Paragraph 1 says:
Funding for treatment with phosphodiesterase type-5 inhibitors in the minimum effective dose is RECOMMENDED for the groups of patients identified in HSC 199/148 and HSC
199/177, with a frequency of dosing of two times per month using the drug with the lowest acquisition cost
Some PCT advisors have apparently encouraged practices to provide amounts over
2/month on private prescription, despite this not being allowed under GP Regulations.
See http://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2004/291/schedule/6/part/3/made
39.—(1) Subject to paragraphs 42 and 43, a prescriber shall order any drugs, medicines or appliances which are needed for the treatment of any patient who is receiving treatment under the contract by issuing to that patient a prescription form or a repeatable prescription and such a prescription form or repeatable prescription shall not be used in any other circumstances.
The view of BBOLMC is that local constraints on GP prescribing can only be advisory.
GPs can prescribe drugs from the Drug Tariff provided they are not on the NHS black list or grey list.
See http://www.psnc.org.uk/pages/allowed_disallowed_items.html
GPs are expected to use sensible clinical judgement, taking account of patient need and pressure on local NHS finances.
LMC supports GPs contributing to cost effective prescribing, but also advises GPs that they have freedom to prescribe as a particular clinical scenario demands.
If challenged, GPs deviating from local guidance would be expected to be able to justify why they have done so.
Regulations on excessive prescribing can be found at http://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2004/291/schedule/6/paragraph/46/made
It is known that impotence medication can be sold on the black market
LMC is also aware that problems with Priorities Forum directives are not confined to 47a.
Another recent query concerned Terbinafine which costs Ł3 per month. The same LMC advice applies here.
Please let me know if PCT medicines advisors are overstating the status of MOBB Policy Recommendations or encouraging GPs to break GP Contract Regulations.
Dr Paul Roblin
CEO BBOLMC
Regulations governing a practice removing a patient (18/10/11)
With regard to media coverage of the Report by the Health Service Ombudsman about GPs
removing patients from their lists (see URLs below), please note a GPs responsibilities under the Regulations Paragraph 20)
http://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2004/291/schedule/6/made
Removal from the list at the request of the contractor
20.
(1) Subject to paragraph 21, a contractor which has reasonable grounds for wishing a patient to be removed from its list of patients which do not relate to the applicant’s race,
gender, social class, age, religion, sexual orientation, appearance, disability or medical condition shall—
(a) notify the Primary Care Trust in writing that it wishes to have the patient removed; and
(b) subject to sub-paragraph (2), notify the patient of its specific reasons for requesting removal.
(2) Where, in the reasonable opinion of the contractor—
(a) the circumstances of the removal are such that it is not appropriate for a more specific reason to be given; and
(b) there has been an irrevocable breakdown in the relationship between the patient and the contractor,
the reason given under sub-paragraph (1) may consist of a statement that there has been such a breakdown.
(3) Except in the circumstances specified in sub-paragraph (4), a contractor may only
request a removal under sub-paragraph (1), if, within the period of 12 months prior to the date of its request to the Primary Care Trust, it has warned the patient that he is at risk of removal and explained to him the reasons for this.
(4) The circumstances referred to in sub-paragraph (3) are that—
(a) the reason for removal relates to a change of address;
(b) the contractor has reasonable grounds for believing that the issue of such a warning would—
(i) be harmful to the physical or mental health of the patient, or
(ii) put at risk the safety of one or more of the persons specified in sub-paragraph (5); or
(c) it is, in the opinion of the contractor, not otherwise reasonable or practical for a warning to be given.
Media URLs
Today Programme URL (2:33:30 into the programme using the slide bar)
See http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b015zm8y/Today_18_10_2011/
Papers
http://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/health-and-families/health-news/thousands-of-patien ts-struck-off-by-their-gps-2372009.html
http://www.guardian.co.uk/society/2011/oct/18/patients-struck-off-unfairly-nhs?newsfeed=tr ue
Dr Paul Roblin
CEO BBOLMC
Autumn 11 Information Roundup (29/09/11)
Please find attached BBOLMC’s latest Information Roundup. I would be grateful if you could please circulate it within your practice and hope that you, and your GPs, find it of interest and value. Many thanks.
Comments and suggestions for improvements and/or items for inclusion in future editions to pauline.green@bbolmc.co.uk are very welcome.
Best wishes
Pauline
Pauline Green
Administration & Information Manager
Berks, Bucks & Oxon LMCs
Latest BBOLMC Website Updates (29/09/11)
Please note, for your and your GPs’ information, that the following are all available on our website:
- Latest Secretariat Hot Topic and Information Alert emails to practices*
- Draft Minutes of the most recent Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire County LMCs and LRC/PCT Liaison meetings
- Early Notice of Forthcoming LMC Elections
- LMC Practice Information 2011 Proforma
- Latest job vacancies across the 3 counties
- BMA Guidance on Locum Agreements
- GPC News – September 2011
- New Supplier for Home Oxygen from 29.03.12
- Introduction of the New Medicine Services (NMS) and nationally targeted Medicines Use Reviews (MURs):
- - GP Guide
- - Feedback Form
- Sessional GP Newsletter - Summer 2011.
All of the above, and more, can be accessed at:www.bbolmc.co.uk
*NB: Our most recent Hot Topic and Information Alert emails can be accessed via the red “Click for Latest Email Alert” link on our Home Page - www.bbolmc.co.uk
Best wishes
Pauline
Pauline Green
Administration & Information Manager
Changes to RCN Practice Nurse Indemnity (22/09/11)
As of January 1st, 2012 the RCN will no longer include indemnity for practice nurses as part of its membership benefits.
Your practice nurse if a member will have received a letter informing them of this.
This letter is attached and can also be found at the web address below
http://www.rcn.org.uk/__data/assets/pdf_file/0019/404416/Indemnity_letter.pdf
GP Partners are already liable for their practice nurse actions through vicarious liability as employers.
Whether you have an individual indemnity insurance or a practice policy you are covered for vicarious liability so you do not need to change your policy. What previously happened is that the medical defence organisations recouped money from the RCN when actions were brought against members and so they are making these changes to prevent that. The end result may well be an increase in our premiums. Practice nurses themselves may want to get their own insurance in case action is brought against them individually that does not fall under vicarious liability and this may be even more relevant for nurse prescribers.
Dr Paul Roblin
CEO BBOLMC
Could practices please check they are included on the LMC list for our imminent elections? (21/09/11)
LMC needs help from all TV Practices (checking you are on our list and making sure all GPs are aware an LMC election is due).
1. Could you please help LMC in its preparation for elections?
New committees have to be in place in all three counties by 1.4.12
We think we have captured all practices and included them in an LMC constituency
As we do not want any practice to be disenfranchised, could you please check our list (attached as “Practices in each New Constituency for 2012 LMC Election”) and make sure
your practice is present?
2. I also attach our election timetable and hope you will send this email to all GPs (partners, salaried GPs and locums) in your practice so that they can consider standing for LMC.
Those eligible to stand and vote in LMC elections are:
- Partners and salaried GPs in a practice paying the LMC levy
- Freelance locums registered with BBOLMC and paying their own levy personally
What LMC does can be found at http://www.bbolmc.co.uk/lmc/lmcrole2/lmcrole2.htm
A description of what is expected of an LMC rep and a brief guide to LMC elections is also attached
Dr Paul Roblin
CEO BBOLMC
Keeping practices informed: LMC minutes as as a source of information (21/09/11)
One of the roles of LMC is to keep practices informed.
We achieve this partly through hot topic emails
However practices probably don’t realise how much information is contained in our minutes (both county meetings and PCT liaison group meetings)
At recent county meetings we discussed the ”New Medicines Service” available from for pharmacies after 1.10.11 and “NHS111”
Minutes are written so that they provide background to issues and LMC opinion/advice
They should be especially useful for those not present at the meeting
All can be found at www.bbolmc.co.uk
The left hand side of the home page contains a turquoise column of links.
Click your county then either click “county minutes” or the “liaison group” for your PCT area
Each minute has a contents section on page one and each title in this hyperlinks to the page where the issue is discussed
Try them out and see what you think
Please give me feedback on what you would like to see in LMC communications and how best to do it
The table below gives the timetable for the next year’s meetings
Minutes are generally on our website within a week of the meeting taking place
|
|
CountyMeetings |
PCT Liaison Meetings |
|
|
Berkshire |
|
East Berks |
West Berks |
|
|
9.11.11 |
6.10.11 |
13.10.12 |
|
|
1.2.12 |
11.1.12 |
12.1.12 |
|
|
18.4.12 |
6.3.12 |
7.3.12 |
|
20.6.12 |
9.5.12 |
10.5.12 |
|
|
5.9.12 |
11.7.12 |
12.7.12 |
|
|
7.11.12 |
10.10.12 |
11.10.12 |
|
|
|
|||
|
Buckinghamshire |
Bucks |
MK |
|
|
11.11.11 |
1.10.11 |
7.10.11 |
|
|
|
3.2.12 |
17.1.12 |
20.1.12 |
|
|
20.4.12 |
13.3.12 |
16.3.12 |
|
|
22.6.12 |
15.5.12 |
18.5.12 |
|
7.9.12 |
17.7.12 |
20.7.12 |
|
|
|
9.11.12 |
16.10.12 |
19.10.12 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Oxfordshire |
10.11.11 |
6.10.11 |
|
|
|
2.2.12 |
19.1.12 |
|
|
19.4.12 |
15.3.12 |
||
|
|
21.6.12 |
17.5.12 |
|
|
|
6.9.12 |
19.7.12 |
|
|
8.11.12 |
18.10.12 |
||
Paul Roblin
CEO of BBOLMC
Practice Information 2011 (15/09/11)
As you will be aware, BBOLMC frequently cascades information including Hot Topic alerts, latest Job Vacancies, Information Roundups and monthly alerts re current LMC and LRC minutes and other recent postings on our website (www.bbolmc.co.uk) to our constituent practices via email.
To enable us to keep accurate records to facilitate the timely distribution of information, we will be contacting Practice Managers by post requesting their assistance by completing and returning an information gathering proforma to us.
Alternatively, if you would prefer to download the proforma and complete and return it to us at michelle.brownlie@bbolmc.co.uk it is available on our website via the following hyperlink:
http://www.bbolmc.co.uk/practinfo0911.doc
We would really appreciate your taking the time to complete and return the proforma to us. Many thanks.
Best wishes
Pauline
Pauline Green
Administration & Information Manager
Berks, Bucks & Oxon LMCs
New Medicine Service (NMS) (14/09/11)
Practices need to beware of a new service pharmacists have been commissioned to provide from the 1st October.
You may soon be approached by your local pharmacist to discuss how the initiative will work in your area.
In particular pharmacists will be keen to see if practices can help identify when new medication is prescribed.
In discussions at various meetings I’ve attended, annotating or stamping a script with “New Medication” has been the most favored option.
NMS is explained below
Paul Roblin
CEO BBOLMC
Explanation of New Medicine Service (NMS) from Pharmacies
(Begins on 1st October)
Pharmacists can provide the NMS to patients who have been newly prescribed a medicine in one of the following conditions/therapy areas:
- asthma and COPD
- type 2 diabetes
- antiplatelet/anticoagulant therapy
- hypertension
For each condition/therapy area, a list of medicines has been agreed (see box below).
The service is split into three stages:
1. Patient engagement– following the prescribing of a new medicine covered by the service,
patients may be recruited to the service by prescriber referral or opportunistically by the community pharmacy. The patient will be asked to consent for information to be shared with their GP as necessary.
The pharmacy will dispense the prescription and provide initial advice as it normally would.
2. Intervention– the intervention will take place between seven and 14 days after patient
engagement at an agreed time and through a method agreed with the patient (this could be face to face or by telephone).
The pharmacist will use an interview schedule to assess the patient’s adherence, identify
problems and the patient’s need for further information and support which the pharmacist will provide.
3. Follow up– the pharmacist will follow up with the patient 14 to 21 days after the intervention (again face to face or by telephone) to discuss how the patient is getting on with their medicine. They will also provide advice if required.
At both the intervention and follow up stages, the pharmacist may identify a problem which requires the prescriber to review the prescription. Where this is required, the pharmacist will complete an NMS feedback form to provide the GP with the details they require.
The feedback form was designed by the Professional Relationships Working Group which is made up of NHS Employers, PSNC and the GPC.
Asthma and COPD
- Adrenoceptor agonists
- Antimuscarinic bronchodilators
- Theophylline Compound bronchodilator preparations
- Inhaled corticosteroids
- Cromoglicate and related therapy
- leukotriene receptor antagonists
- phosphodiesterase type-4 inhibitors.
Type 2 Diabetes
- Short acting insulins*
- Intermediate and long acting insulins*
- Antidiabetic drugs.
Antiplatelet/anticoagulant therapy
- Oral anticoagulants
- Antiplatelet drugs.
Hypertension
- Thiazides and related diuretics
- Beta-adrenoceptor blocking drugs*
- Vasodilator antihypertensive drugs
- Centrally acting antihypertensive drugs
- Alpha-adrenoceptor blocking drugs
- Drugs affecting the renin-angiotensin system*
- Calcium-channel blockers*.
* where the community pharmacist can determine that the medicine has been newly prescribed for the specified condition.
Latest BBOLMC Website Updates (30/08/11)
Please note, for your and your GPs’ information, that the following are all available on our website:
- Latest Secretariat Hot Topic and Information Alert emails to practices*
- Draft Minutes of the most recent Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire County LMCs and LRC/PCT Liaison meetings
- Latest job vacancies across the 3 counties
- New supplier for Home Oxygen from 29.03.12
- Introduction of the New Medicine Service (NMS) and nationally targeted Medicines Use Reviews (MURs):
- GP Guide
- Feedback Form
- Sessional GP Newsletter – Summer 2011
- Latest GPC News.
All of the above, and more, can be accessed at: www.bbolmc.co.uk
*NB: Our most recent Hot Topic and Information Alert emails can be accessed via the red “Click for Latest Email Alert” link on our Home Page - www.bbolmc.co.uk
Best wishes
Pauline
Pauline Green
Administration & Information Manager
Berks, Bucks & Oxon LMCs
New supplier for Home Oxygen from 29.3.12 (18/08/11)
The SHA has just announced a new supplier for the Home Oxygen Service
Attached is a briefing note and FAQs which explains the outcome of this process and information about the re-procurement of the HOS contract in South Central.
Key programme dates
Mobilisation of new supplier Sept - Dec 2011
Transition of services to new supplier Jan - March 2012 (tbc)
New contract starts 29 March 2012
Paul Roblin
CEO BBOLMC
Community Pharmacy Contractual Framework - Service Developments (18/08/11)
For your and your GPs’ information please find attached a GP guide and feedback form re the introduction of the New Medicine Service (NMS) and nationally targeted Medicines Use Reviews (MURs) in community pharmacy in England.
The pdf attachments are also available on the “What’s New” section of our website via the link below:
www.bbolmc.co.uk
Best wishes
Pauline
Pauline Green
Administration & Information Manager
Berks, Bucks & Oxon LMCs
LMC help when facing requests for registration of patients removed from the Violent Patient list (17/08/11)
A current case has highlighted that LMC needs to advertise how it can help practices facing requests for registration of patients removed from the Violent Patient list.
LMC sometimes has information which for reasons of confidentiality we can only share with the practice the patient has approached.
My contact details at BBOLMC can be found at http://www.bbolmc.co.uk/contact/contact.html and within my email signature below
Dr Paul Roblin
CEO BBOLMC
07799116597 or 01628 475727
DoH has formally announced a delay to the registration of GP practices with the CQC until April 2013 (13/08/11)
Laurence Buckman has just sent LMCs the following
Dr Paul Roblin
CEO BBOLMC
Care Quality Commission (CQC) Registration
Following the recent consultation, the Department of Health has formally announced a
delay to the registration of GP practices with the CQC until April 2013, subject to Parliamentary approval. The delay will now include NHS walk-in centres, contrary to what
was originally proposed in the consultation, but as requested in the GPC’s response. Whilst the announcement is welcome, the GPC’s view is that the intervening period should
be used to radically reduce the requirements for compliance on GP practices. Practices should not undertake any significant preparatory work relating to registration at this stage
and they should not engage others to do so for them as these third parties cannot possibly know what the final CQC process will include. Further information about the announcement
can be found in the Department of Health’s press release here:
http://mediacentre.dh.gov.uk/2011/08/12/delay-to-cqc-registration-for-gp-practices/
Sessional GPs newsletter from the BMA (12/08/11)
Dear Colleagues
Please find attached below the Sessional GP Newsletter from the BMA.
LMC would be most obliged if you could pass this on to any sessional GPs associated with your practice
This newsletter draws together information about new and ongoing issues affecting
sessional GPs and the work of the Sessional GPs Subcommittee and General Practitioners Committee (GPC) on their behalf.
This July issue also has special reports on the motions passed at the Annual
Representative Meeting (ARM) and the Annual Conference of Local Medical Committees which related to sessional GPs.
We encourage members to forward this newsletter to any locum and salaried GP colleagues.
This issue covers the following topics:
- Annual Representative Meeting
- LMC conference
- NHS Reform and Sessional GPs
- Revalidation
- Information Cascades
- Sessional GP conference 2011
- Devolved nations updates
- Contacting the Sessional GPs subcommittee about issues in your area
From:GPC Local Medical Committees discussion list
[mailto:LMC-L@LISTSERV.BMA.ORG.UK] On Behalf Of Clemmie Jones
Sent: 22 July 2011 16:58
To: LMC-L@LISTSERV.BMA.ORG.UK
Subject: Sessional GPs newsletter
Dear all,
Please see the attached link to the Sessional GPs newsletter.
This newsletter draws together information about new and ongoing issues affecting sessional GPs and the work of the Sessional GPs Subcommittee and General Practitioners Committee (GPC) on their behalf.
This July issue also has special reports on the motions passed at the Annual Representative Meeting (ARM) and the Annual Conference of Local Medical Committees which related to sessional GPs.
We encourage members to forward this newsletter to any locum and salaried GP colleagues.
This issue covers the following topics:
- Annual Representative Meeting
- LMC conference
- NHS Reform and Sessional GPs
- Revalidation
- Information Cascades
- Sessional GP conference 2011
- Devolved nations updates
- Contacting the Sessional GPs subcommittee about issues in your area.
http://www.bma.org.uk/representation/branch_committees/general_prac/sessgpsnewsjuly1
1.jsp
The newsletter will also be publicised, and the link sent out, with GPC News and the BMA
Newsletter. Please pass this on to any Sessional GPs who may be interested.
Best wishes,
Clemmie
Clemmie Jones
Executive Officer
NHS GPs Division
British Medical Association
New QOF Q+A from BMA/NHS Employers (02/08/11)
Please note the new QOF document on the BMA website (see below)
Dr Paul Roblin
CEO BBOLMC
QOF frequently asked questions
NHS Employers and the GPC have published joint QOF FAQs for use by primary care
organisations and general practice. These FAQs apply across all four countries and cover a number of historical issues and commonly asked questions.
http://www.bma.org.uk/images/qoffaqs2011_tcm41-208134.pdf
The QOF queries process is clearly outlined in this FAQs document and the authors ask that this document is consulted before any queries are raised with the relevant parties.
Certificate in Practitioner Health Part 1 & 2 (27/07/11)
Please see the below; information on the Certificate in Practitioner Health Parts 1 and 2.
Kind regards
Michelle
Berks, Bucks & Oxon LMCs
RE: Certificate in Practitioner Health Part 1 & 2
Please disseminate to your GPs.
Certificate in Practitioner Health
With the e-learning module now launched, don't miss your chance to apply for the Certificate in Practitioner Health Part 2.
The deadline for applications is 31 July.
Apply now
There is limited availability on the remaining events for the Certificate in Practitioner Health Part 1:
9 September 2011 | London
14 October 2011 | York
Full details on Health for Healthcare Professionals
HHP Team
Updated patient participation DES FAQs - England (20/07/11)
Please note the updated GPC Guidance on the patient participation DES
http://www.bma.org.uk/images/patientparticipatDESfaqsjul2011_tcm41-207352.pdf
Dr Paul Roblin
CEO BBOLMC
Dear Colleagues
GPC issued a set of FAQs on the new Patient Participation DES in June. A new and extended list of FAQs has now been published jointly with NHS Employers and is available on the BMA website.
Regards
Karen Day
Division Secretarial Assistant
NHS GPs Division
Tasks Required of Practices at Patient Registration (LMC Guidance)
(13/07/11)
Email from Paul Roblin about Tasks Required of Practices at Patient Registration
The issue of tasks required of practices at patient registration has recently been discussed at all Thames Valley LMCs (see box below) and the response of the TVPCA is given in the attachment and also in email at bottom of this page.
TVPCA Bulletin (Number 67 - February 2010) is attached and I would draw your attention to the following bullet points particularly numbers 1-3:
1. The key question/decision is: “Is the patient a temporary visitor or intending to reside permanently
2. How should practices assess Resident or Intention to Reside (Settled Status)?
A person must have an identifiable reason for residence here and that person must have a
sufficient degree of continuity to be properly described as settled. There is no six month rule in determining residency and it is incorrect to apply a time period of residency. It is
more about establishing the purpose of registration and whether the reasons given constitute settled status. The purpose could be employment; formal training or joining a spouse/guardian already resident in the UK.
A practice may reasonably ask for evidence of reason and duration of stay as (It may help
with the process of registration if an applicant can provide documentary evidence, which gives their current address and demonstrates that they live lawfully in the UK, in support of
their application. GP practices are not required to check, record or take copies of any such supporting documentary evidence, nor are they obliged to carry out checks on a
person’s immigration status). This needs to be done in a non-discriminatory way.
3. This means that practices have discretion either to merely accept a registration
request as per the regulations or take non discriminatory steps to establish that the statement of “settled status” is genuine.
4. Visitors from all countries are entitled to NHS care for emergencies
5. EU visitors are entitled to the same NHS care as UK residents
6. Patients from countries with reciprocal arrangements are entitled to emergency or immediately necessary treatment for healthcare treatment that becomes necessary during a visit.
Paraphrase of Recent LMC minutes (Tasks Undertaken at Patient Registration )
On DoH instruction (relayed locally via the TVPCA), many practices ask patients seeking registration to provide proof of who they are and where they live.
In one area (outside TV) following a patient complaint, the Ombudsman found a practice to be in breach for following this instruction and ordered the practice to pay the patient compensation.
PHR stressed what the regulations require of a practice and this is copied below:
PHR will liaise with TVPCA so that practices are clear about their the extent of their obligations, and not misled during TVPVA or Counter Fraud training sessions for reception staff.
15. Application for inclusion in a list of patients
(3) Subject to sub-paragraph (4), an application for inclusion in a contractor’s list of patients shall be made by delivering to the practice premises a medical card or an
application signed (in either case) by the applicant or a person authorised by the applicant to sign on his behalf.
See http://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2004/291/pdfs/uksi_20040291_en.pdf
Message sent on behalf of Penny Thorpe
Dear Paul
Apologies for the delay in responding to your email.
TVPCA produced and circulated a Bulletin (Issue Number 67 - February 2010 and attached) which was issued as 'guidance'.The information within this Bulletin has been extracted from various DoH websites. The aims was to assist practices on overseas eligibility (the TVPCA bulletin is in response to practice queries).
TVPCA do not ask Practices to tick to say that they have seen the relevant documentation and we do not refuse to accept registrations for reasons outside the regulations. There is a suggestion in the TVPCA Bulletin that practices “may” ask for evidence to help their processes and which pieces of evidence could be helpful, but it is clear that there is no requirement to check or record.
I hope that this clarifies the situation for you.
Regards
Penny
Thames Valley Primary Care Agency
South Central - Practice Managers Leadership Programme new dates announced (01/07/11)
For your information, please see South Central’s email below re the next dates for the Practice Managers Leadership Programme.
Best wishes
Pauline
Pauline Green
Administration & Information Manager
Berks, Bucks & Oxon LMCs
Dear Colleagues
We are delighted to announce the next dates for the innovative Leadership Programme for
Practice Managers in the South Central Region - please see the attached flyer for dates. This is the third programme that the SHA Leadership Team is running for South Central Practice Managers.
The previous programme received outstanding feedback. Please see below comments from participants of the previous programme:
“I have found the whole experience of the 5 day course together with coaching and MBTI
the best thing I have done for me in a very long time. I have come away with an inner confidence that I can and do lead”
“It has been an extremely valuable and empowering experience”
"I have specifically benefited from the opportunity to meet with like-minded motivated Practice Managers on a regular basis. The ability to discuss structures, problems and
challenges in a non-threatening and informal setting has been particularly useful"
"I have come away with several clear ideas on how to tackle issues. The course has also
allowed me to formulate a plan on how to deliver the Business Development Plan and encourage Partnership ownership. The sessions with my coach have been fantastic and the course facilitated this opportunity."
Further details about the programme are attached, including the application form which must be completed and submitted to leadershipdevelopment@southcentral.nhs.uk
Please note that the closing date for applications is 15 July 2011. Only applications from Practice Managers in the South Central region will be considered.
If you have any questions about the programme please feel free to contact me.
Warm regards
Maggie
Maggie Woods
Leadership Development Manager
NHS South Central
EMail Alert Archive
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