Coventry & Warwickshire COVID-19 Portal
Clinical Guidance
- Antibody testing and Test & Trace for GP practice staff
Minimising nosocomial infections in the NHS
If a member of staff develops symptoms of COVID-19 they should follow the stay at home guidance, and get tested as soon as possible. Click HERE to book your test. If the result is negative, the advice from Public Health England states that they “can return to work when they are medically fit to do so, following discussion with their line manager and appropriate local risk assessment. Interpret negative results with caution together with clinical assessment.”
If they test positive, they can return to work after seven days, unless they still have symptoms other than a cough or loss of sense of smell/taste, in which case they must continue to self-isolate until they feel better. Where a member of NHS staff tests positive for coronavirus, the starting point is that the Test and Trace self-isolation rules apply as anywhere else, and close contacts must self isolate if the NHS test and trace service advises them to do so.
Please note that close contact excludes circumstances where PPE is being worn in accordance with current guidance on infection, prevention and control. In other circumstances, i.e. where a member of staff has come into contact outside work with someone who has subsequently tested positive for coronavirus, NHS staff are subject to the same test and trace protocols as all other members of the public. If a healthcare professional or another member of your team is contacted by the Test and Trace service and advised to self-isolate for 14 days, they must do so.
We are awaiting up to the minute guidance on the issue of face masks/coverings for staff and patients in primary care and will update this information on the website immediately we have and share through the primary care bulletin too.
Antibody testing for GP practice staff
Tests which determine if someone has had COVID-19 (coronavirus) are starting to be rolled out across Coventry and Warwickshire, for all practice staff including locums.
The antibody test tells the person if they have had the virus or not, but not about any level of protection or immunity from getting the virus again. It is important to remember that anyone having this test should still adhere to the guidance regarding social distancing, hand hygiene and wearing of PPE as recommended by public health experts.
Please note: Antibody test is best done after 40 days post Covid to get maximum sensitivity and current advice states that it should not be conducted less than 14 days after an acute infection
Why are tests being carried out now?
The test is an important factor in helping to understand how the virus has spread through our population including the primary care workforce. The test will help us learn more about the virus epidemiology and will be used in further research.
There is currently NO clinical benefit in having the test however, antibody testing will also confirm with those who may think they have had COVID-19 or if they have been infected but were asymptomatic.
What information do I need before getting a test?
Before you can start to arrange a test, you will need the following:
• Your NHS number
(learn more about how to get your NHS number if you cannot remember it).
• Your mobile phone number (the results will be sent by text within 7 days of your test).
• Details of the GP Practice where you are registered as a patient
What is the process for getting a test?
1) Access the booking system through the specific antibody testing web link:
https://www.swiftqueue.co.uk/uhcw_antibody.php
This link MUST be used to access antibody tests – logging into Swift Queue the normal way will not work.
2) Staff will be asked to select whether they are having their blood test taken by their GP Practice team or whether they need to book a normal phlebotomy appointment, if the practice has no phlebotomy capacity.
3) GP staff will then be asked to log on/register with SwiftQueue and complete all the required information including NHS number, mobile phone number and the screening group they belong to, eg Primary Care Staff SWCCG for staff at practices within South Warwickshire CCG.
4) Staff will then be asked to print their antibody test request form – this will have been created specifically for the staff member and will not be able to be used by anyone else.
5) A consent form will also be available online to print off. This needs to be signed and given to the employing GP practice to be kept in the staff member’s HR record. (see further detail in table below)
6) Once the blood sample is taken it will be sent to the lab on normal pathology transport with the blood request form. Please ensure samples taken at the practice are sent to the lab on the day they are taken.
7) The result will be sent by text directly to the staff member within 7 days of the test being taken. Results will also be sent to the GP practice where staff member is registered as a patient. Staff should NOT contact the GP practice to get their result.
Who can I contact if I am having problems booking an antibody blood test?
If you have queries about the booking process, please email covidstafftesting@uhcw.nhs.uk stating your enquiry is regarding ‘primary care staff antibody testing’.
Our GP practice does not normally take bloods – how can they get the blood taking consumables required?
The GP pathology consumables order form lists items needed for blood taking. Practices can order what they require via the form and their usual pathology consumable ordering process. The tube required is 1 x Yellow top serum tube for each test. The Pathology Service asks that practices do not bulk order the yellow top tubes, but order weekly, when they are required, to spread demand.
NHS Test and Trace: Workplace Guidance
The NHS test and trace service forms a central part of the government’s coronavirus (COVID-19) recovery strategy, which seeks to help the nation return to normal as soon as possible for as many people as possible, in a way that is safe and protects the NHS and social care sector.
The recently issued government guidance explains how employers and businesses can play their part in the NHS test and trace programme to slow the spread of the virus, protect the health and care system and save lives.
Test and Trace: Campaign Resources Available
Along with the Government's launch of the NHS Test and Trace service, a number of materials have been produced to help support the key messages. There are now a range of materials available on the Campaign Resource Centre from Public Health England.
Who can I contact if I am having problems booking an antibody blood test?
If you have queries about the booking process, please email covidstafftesting@uhcw.nhs.uk stating your enquiry is regarding ‘primary care staff antibody testing’. If you do not get your test results with 8 days again please email this email with your full name, NHS number and date of birth.
Repeat testing
Repeat testing is available to staff under the following conditions:-
a. They have been confirmed as having Covid via an antigen test since the last antibody test request
b. They are symptom free and have been for at least 48 hours
c. It is at least 30 days since being confirmed as having COVID
- Advance care planning
- Cancer
- Cardiology
ACEi/ARBs in Covid
Current expert consensus on ACEi/ ARBs and COVID
Summary: do not stop if already taking. Better not to initiate therapy.
During infection: assess fluid status and assess on case by case basis. Take particular care in Heart Failure patients.
- Children and Young People
NHS Crisis Support for Children and Young people
The Rise Crisis & Home Treatment team (Coventry & Warwickshire Partnership NHS Trust) provide multi-disciplinary support to children and young people (under 18s) who present in mental health crisis.
They assess those who are:
• an immediate and significant risk to others due to their mental health
• being considered for admission to a mental health inpatient unit
• at risk of immediate and significant self-harm
• in acute psychological or emotional distress that is causing
• them to not be able to go about their daily activities, such as going to school and
looking after themselves
For urgent calls, for children and young people who are experiencing a mental health crisis
contact the Rise Crisis team between 8am-8pm 02476 641799 or call 0300 200 0011
outside of these hours.
During the COVID-19 response, this is service is available 24-hours a day, 7-days a week, with an advice-only service outside the core hours of 8am-8pm. Download further information
Health Visiting - Revised 0-5 years offer due to the Covid19 Pandemic
South Warwickshire NHS Trust would like to inform General Practitioners of the revised Health Visiting 0-5 years offer, due to the Covid19 Pandemic and in line with current NHSE Guidance. The Warwickshire Health Visiting Service will continue to operate making contact with all women and families for mandated contacts and to support those on a Universal Plus or Partnership Plus pathway of the service. The service delivery model remains predominantly telephone / video calling and text / email. Face to face contacts remain minimal and based on a clinical need identified by parent or Health professional. Predominantly these are between when the New Birth visit and 6-week contact is due offered between 10-28 days, and also based on the midwifery offer for the family too to avoid too many practitioners having face to face contact with the family in the same period.
The Health Visiting Teams can be contacted on 07520 615293. Each area also has a face book page which can be found online under contacts. Download the full update.
Important message from Paediatrics: Clinicians are urged to continue to discuss/ refer urgent paediatric cases as you would normally.
Advice from Great Ormond Street – Advice from individual departments for specific conditions
Very few children develop severe infections with COVID-19 – whether they are immunocompromised or not
Continue any regular medication unless your doctor advises otherwise.
See Respiratory section for asthma management during COVID
RCPCH – guidance for paeds service
Resources for parents and a health diary for children and young people
Vital sign ranges for children and young people
Also refer to CES Asthma Guide
Sepsis
Sepsis Trust: Telephone triage/screening tools
Wellbeing
Government Guidance for supporting children and young people’s mental health
Kooth: Safe and anonymous on-line support – 7 days a week.
Childline: 0800 1111
The Calm Zone Webchat and Free phone helpline 0800 585858 , 5pm – midnight
ENT
Tonsillar examination infection control implications – only do if essential and with PPE
Phlebotomy
- COVID-19 Overview and evidence
Comprehensive summary of COVID: epidemiology, diagnosis, management, follow up and resources
List of most common signs of symptoms (CEBM)
New information about (COVID-19) symptoms
Statement from the UK Chief Medical Officers on an update to coronavirus symptoms issued on 18 March 2020. From today, all individuals should self-isolate if they develop a new continuous cough or fever or anosmia. Anosmia is the loss of or a change in your normal sense of smell. It can also affect your sense of taste as the two are closely linked.
NHS Test and Trace: Workplace Guidance
The NHS test and trace service forms a central part of the government’s coronavirus (COVID-19) recovery strategy, which seeks to help the nation return to normal as soon as possible for as many people as possible, in a way that is safe and protects the NHS and social care sector.
The recently issued government guidance explains how employers and businesses can play their part in the NHS test and trace programme to slow the spread of the virus, protect the health and care system and save lives.
Test and Trace: Campaign Resources Available
Along with the Government's launch of the NHS Test and Trace service, a number of materials have been produced to help support the key messages. There are now a range of materials available on the Campaign Resource Centre from Public Health England.
- Death, Certification & Verification
COVID-19 Revised reporting process for deaths of healthcare workers Data Flow
COVID-19 Revised reporting process for deaths of healthcare workers letter
Coronavirus Act – excess death provisions: information and guidance for medical practitioners
Verification of death in a period of emergency
Warwickshire Guidance on the Verification & Registration of the Deceased with Coronavirus
Return of Original MCCD's (4/6/2020)
Please see details about where to post the original MCCDs in the point below(medical certification of cause of death). Any that have been sent directly to the registrar will be forwarded. For clarificaiton the certificates should be sent to the same office as the MCCD was scanned to originally:
Nuneaton and North Warwickshire - The Registration Office, Riversley Park, Coton Road, Nuneaton CV11 5HA
Rugby - The Registration Office, 5 Bloxam Place Rugby CV21 3DS
Warwick, Leamington, Stratford, Shipston, Alcester, Kenilworth - The Register Office, Shire Hall, Market Place, Warwick CV34 4RL
Medical Certification of Cause of Death (MCCD) - Original Document
You may recall that when we requested that all MCCD's were scanned and emailed to our offices we asked you to keep safely the original document for collection later. Now that things appear to a bit quieter we would like to take the opportunity to request that you post the batch that you are holding to the relevant office so that we are able to collate ready to be sent to the General Register Office in the usual way - addresses below.
Although we are now in the recovery phase death registrations will continue to be completed by telephone for the foreseeable future, we would therefore ask that you continue to scan and email the MCCD as you are doing and when you have another batch please post them to the office.
We are very grateful for all your help and support in the last couple of months with the transmission of MCCD's. Families have greatly appreciated the simplicity of the telephone registration process which has enabled unnecessary contact at this time.
Thank you very much,
Diane Lampard
Registration Manager/SR, Warwickshire Registration District
Business and Customer Services
Resources Directorate
Warwickshire County Council
The Register Office
5 Bloxam Place
Rugby
CV21 3DS
- Dementia
- Dermatology
SWFT Dermatology Department update
When sending in a referral to the Dermatology department at Warwick and Stratford hospital, please can you ensure Photos of the complaint are included and sent in with the referral. It is paramount to the patients treatment at this time, due to the increase in virtual consultations.If you are not able to do this during the appointment, patients can send in their own photos prior to the appointment to: dermatologyphotos@swft.nhs.uk please can patients name their pictures. All patients referred will be called prior to the appointment to ask for this information also. Many thanks ERS/Dermatology Department
- Diabetes
How to undertake a remote diabetes review – a PCDS quick guide
Delivering Diabetes Care during the COVID-19
Pandemic – the ‘new normal’ Guidance for General Practice
A Quick guidance to Risk Stratification and recovery of Diabetes Services In the post – Covid-19 Era
Advice for healthcare professionals on coronavirus (Covid-19) and diabetes
SWFT diabetes hotline
SWFT Diabetes Service hotline access for worried patients with diabetes is available on
07775 012696, 7 days a week from 8am to 8pm. Additionally Diabetes UK offer a helpline
for adults on insulin requiring immediate advice on 0345 123 2399 Monday to Friday 9am
to 6pm.
Diabetes and Primary Care: At a glance factsheet; COVID-19 and diabetes. Useful guide including managing diabetes during intercurrent illness – with links to more detailed resources
Hypoglycaemia in adults in the community: Recognition, Management and Prevention
NHS Clinical guide for the management of people with diabetes during the coronavirus pandemic
Diabetes UK Coronavirus updates for patients
PodChatLive: Episode 73 on the COVID-19 Amputation Prevention Pathway
Over the next few weeks each practice across Coventry and Warwickshire will receive an allocated amount of 'Type 2 Diabetes Patient Information Packs' for newly diagnosed patients. These packs are offered to a patient who has just recently been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, the packs contain key information about managing diabetes, eating healthy, physical activity, mental wellbeing support, online support and structured education programmes. Although, some of the education programmes are currently being offered either as a telephone consultation or face to face online support during the pandemic period. It would be helpful if you could let your staff know at the practice to expect the packs.
NHS Diabetes Advice Helpline
NHS Diabetes Advice is provided by NHS England and NHS Improvement in response to disruption to normal services due to the COVID-19 pandemic and response.
https://www.diabetes.org.uk/how_we_help/helpline
Diabetes Update (11/6/202)
Important update regarding the NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme (DPP)
Due to the impact of COVID-19, many individuals who have previously been categorised with Non-Diabetic Hyperglycaemia following a blood test and are therefore eligible for the NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme, may not have access to a repeat blood test maintaining their eligibility (i.e. their last recorded blood test may now be 12 months + ago); for example because they are shielding, or because primary care are currently focusing on COVID-19 response.
In addition, many individuals with an eligible blood-reading have had their referral into the programme delayed due to COVID-19, and now have a blood test result more than 12 months old. This makes them technically ineligible for the service.
To ensure that individuals in these circumstances are not disadvantaged due to the impact of COVID-19, the requirement for a confirmatory blood test indicating NDH to be within 12 months will be temporarily increased to 24 months. This change will apply until 1st April 2021, at which point we plan to revert to 12 month eligibility.
Please direct any queries to england.cvdnetwork1@nhs.net
Diabetes Update
South Warwickshire Foundation Trust is providing some extra Diabetes Specialist Nurse (DSN) support for any South Warwickshire patients with diabetes.
Patients with diabetes can contact a DSN 8am -8pm, 7 days a week for the next 3 months on 07775 012696. This service is also available for practice to use too should they have concerns regarding Diabetic patients.
The diabetic team will be holding the mobile on a rotational basis to ensure coverage.
The team recognise that many patients may be anxious about how COVID could affect their diabetes and/or their existing medications. The DSN can support patients with a range of queries including queries on their existing treatments, sick day rules and general concerns of COVID on their diabetes. Patients are not required to have been previously seen by the diabetic team to contact a DSN.
Please note as well as the mobile number above GPs still have access to Consultant Connect, which will now also be available 8am-8pm, 7 days a week.
Should the DSN need to make any changes to treatments/medications, SWFT will action the first prescription and will relay any changes to Primary Care via letter.
New diabetes helpline promotional materials
A recent media release has highlighted the support available for people living with diabetes which you can find here. A new Diabetes Advice helpline has been launched to support people living with insulin-treated diabetes during the COVID-19 pandemic. The helpline offers clinical advice for people who cannot access their usual care teams due to local service disruption. It is designed to help take some pressure off local GP practices and NHS 111.
- Education & Training
Sign up to the Primary Care Bulletin
COVID-19 General Practice Webinar Recordings and slides
GP Training
Please download the summer term programme schedule from UHCW
EMIS Health Live
A fortnight of free online events led by industry experts.
EMIS is hosting a virtual event, EMIS Health Live: The New Normal. With a huge range
of sessions spread across a fortnight, The New Normal aims to support professionals
navigating the changing healthcare landscape emerging from the COVID-19 pandemic.
From panel discussions to lunch & learn sessions, seminars to partner power ups, we’re
hosting all our events online, for free.
The fortnight kicks off on 13 July, and they’ve already released some of the sessions, with
more to be added. Session topics include Understanding GP Connect, The total triage
model, Virtual MDT sessions with EMIS Web and Microsoft Team, and many more. To
find out more and access the schedule of events, please visit the dedicated event
page. Registrations are now open, and you can sign up to as many sessions as you’d like.
New support package to help manage patients with long-term conditions
UCLPartners has launched a new package of digital resources and practical support to help primary care teams to continue providing proactive care to patients with long-term conditions during and post COVID-19. The support on offer can help stratify care for patients according to level of risk, using new models of care that are virtual by default,
mobilise the wider workforce, draw on digital innovation and support patient selfmanagement. The support package focuses on the management of asthma and COPD, with resources for the management of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease being added soon. Dr Matt Kearney, GP and Programme Director for Primary Care Innovation at UCLPartners, explains more about the support package in a new blog.
Virtual education sessions around COVID-19
COVID-19 General Practice Webinar Recordings and slides
An archive of the national primary care webinars and slides are available online from the Future NHS site:
https://future.nhs.uk/P_C_N/view?objectID=19549104
(a login is required)
- Elderly Care
- Essential GP Services & Non-Covid Pathway
Important message for all clinicians caring for children and young people
- Gastro Intestinal & renal
Patient information: Liver disease
Patient information: UC/ Crohns
Update for Patients with UC/Crohns
Patient information: Renal disease
ACEi/ ARBs in acute kidney injury
Renal Association statement on ACEi/ARBs
Only consider withholding ACEi/ ARB if unwell and hypotensive.
- Immunisations
Clinical guidance for healthcare professionals on maintaining immunisation programmes during COVID-19
GP practices will continue to ensure vaccinations are offered to all eligible individuals. Despite COVID-19, the routine childhood immunisation programme will continue to play an important role in preventing ill-health through causes other than coronavirus infection. Download the full guidance.
Pertussis Vaccination in Pregnancy
Prevention of vaccine related illnesses remains a priority, pertussis vaccination in pregnancy is a time sensitive vaccine which should take place from ideally from 20 to 32 weeks of pregnancy (but can be offered from 16 weeks and after 32 weeks).
Vaccination of pregnant women offers protection to newborns during the first two months of life when the risk of complications from pertussis are greatest and before infants can be directly protected through routine primary vaccination.
Please ensure that your practice prioritises pertussis vaccination for your pregnant women.
Please note that this enhanced service should still be prioritised as an essential requirement and has not been paused due to Covid?.
This vaccination continues to also be offered in a supporting capacity at the 20-week anomaly scan.
The recommended vaccine(s) for this programme is Boostrix®-IPV (containing diphtheria, tetanus, acellular pertussis and inactivated polio antigens – dTaP/IPV. Currently Boostrix®-IPV is not available, and a request in the March Immunisation Newsletter advised use and ordering of Repevax® (dTaP/IPV) as an alternative until the autumn programme commences.
Vaccines for this programme can be ordered via ImmForm.
If you have any concerns regarding your services ability to deliver the vaccine during this time, please contact england.wmid-imms@nhs.net
- Infection Control
26/08/20
COVID-19: Guidance for the remobilisation of services within health and care settings. Infection prevention and control recommendations
PHE 20 August 2020
This guidance supersedes the COVID-19 UK IPC guidance (18 June 2020).
Patients/Individuals treatment, care and support to be managed in 3 COVID-19 pathways:
• High risk: There is no change in recommendations for IPC or for the use of PPE by staff when managing patients/individuals who have, or are likely to have, COVID-19 – read the high risk pathway guidance.
• Medium risk: This includes patients/individuals who have no symptoms of COVID-19 but do not have a COVID-19 SARS- CoV-2 PCR test result – read the medium risk pathway guidance.
• Low risk: Patients/individuals with no symptoms and a negative COVID-19 SARSCoV-2 PCR test who have self-isolated prior to admission for example following NICE guidance – read the low risk pathway guidance.
This is part of the suite of updated IPC guidance and supersedes all previous guidance.
Cleaning the room once the patient has left the room
Clearance of aerosols is dependent on the ventilation and air change within the room. Once an end to dispersion can be defined (such as the patient leaving the room), a single air change is estimated to remove 63% of airborne contaminants and similarly with each subsequent air change. After 5 air changes, less than 1% of the original airborne contamination is thought to remain.
Following discharge of the patient, it is recommended that the room is left vacant with the door closed for 20 minutes with windows to the outside opened.
Before entering the room, perform hand hygiene then put on a disposable plastic apron and gloves. If a risk assessment indicates that a higher level of contamination may be present or there is visible contamination with body fluids, then the need for additional PPE such as a fluid resistant surgical mask, and eye protection should be considered.
Cleaning Process:
1. Collect all cleaning equipment and healthcare waste bags before entering the room
2. Remove all healthcare waste and any other disposable items
3. Disposable curtains should be treated as infectious linen. Do not shake and avoid all necessary agitation
4. Patient care equipment should be cleaned according to manufacturer’s instructions, and where possible with chlorine based disinfectant (Milton), 70% alcohol or an alternative disinfectant that is effective against enveloped viruses.
5. Clean all surfaces with a neutral detergent (warm water and pH neutral washing up liquid), followed by a chlorine-based disinfectant, in the form of a solution at a minimum strength of 1,000ppm available chlorine (Milton).
6. Disposable equipment (such as mop heads, cloths) must be used for environmental decontamination and disposed as clinical waste
7. Reusable equipment (such as mop handles, buckets) must be decontaminated after use with a chlorine-based disinfectant as described above
8. Communal cleaning trolleys should not enter the room
Cleaning and Decontamination of the Surgery
Infection Prevention and Control Guidance for COVID-19 Pandemic
- Medication
Palliative care medicines: see Palliative care section
ACEi/ARBs
Current expert consensus on ACEi/ ARBs and COVID
MHRA: no concern with COVID. Do not stop
Anticoagulation
Switching from warfarin to DOACs
BP
High-blood pressure medication during COVID
During infection: assess on case by case basis if hypotensive.
Chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine
Chloroquine or hydroxychloroquine are not licensed for use in COvid and are not recommended
COVID-19 Potential Treatment - Hydroxychloroquine and azithromycin. (Video)
Rheumatology
Advice for Rheumatology patients on immunosuppressant medication
- Mental Health
Health checks for people with a learning disability
Practices are reminded that the LD Health checks DES was not suspended and GPs are reminded of the importance of proactive health checks for people with a learning disability at this time.
Coronavirus and mental wellbeing – information from Public Health England
Urgent Mental Health Support
An A4 flyer from CWPT outlining the mental health support available across Coventry and Warwickshire. They have a range of experienced NHS staff and clinicians who will be able to guide you to service offers available to you across Coventry and Warwickshire. Click here to view the flyer.
Resources to help people with a learning disability or autism access NHS services
Two new documents about accessing NHS services during coronavirus are now available. One is in easy read for people with a learning disability and the other in plain English for those with autism.
- Nursing
- Ophthalmology
South Warwickshire - Urgent / Emergency Ophthalmology Services
UHCW has successfully installed a dedicated phone line to their telephone triage team.This is not to be in the public domain (please do not share with patients) and will be for clinician to clinician handover – it is intended for GPs/ Optoms and SWFT/GEH to improve call answering time. This should improve access by not having patients and clinicians trying to get through on the same line.The line will be accessible from Wednesday 10 June and will be manned Monday to Friday 9am -7pm and Saturday morning 9am -1pm.The dedicated number is:024 7696 6333The out of hours number remains the same: 07823 535863In the event that you cannot get in touch with the clinician using the mobile number out of hours, please contact the on-call clinician via switchboard.
- Other Specific co-morbidities
Patient information – includes: Stress, OCD, sleep problems, cardiology, liver, rhematology, renal, respiratory, digestive, cystic fibrosis, dermatology, diabetes, cancer
- Palliative Care
End of Life Care
RCGP toolkit including a range of resources
Palliative Care Authority to Administer Chart
Flow Chart accessing COVID EOL packs Final (Coventry Only)
Access to EOL Services (South Warwickshire only)
CORE Palliative care drugs in stock by pharmacies
CASTLE - Care And Support Towards Life's End (Coventry & Warwickshire)
CPR
Compression only CPR with patients mouth and nose covered in cloth. Safe to use defibrillator.
Patient Info
Guidance for carers to administer s/c medications
Bereavement
- Patient Information
Patient discharge leaflets
Two NHS patient discharge leaflets have been produced, specifically for those patients
with COVID-19. The first focuses on discharge from A&E, the second on discharge from a
The new updated guidance letter for shielded patients (23/06/2020)
Warwickshire Community And Voluntary Action (CAVA) newsletter
This issue of the Warwickshire CAVA voluntary sector newsletter and includes details of COVID-19 support groups and resources for BAME communities.
- Practice Info, Guidance & Advice
SWCCG Primary Care Outbreak Action Card
BMA's More accurate general practice appointment data document
Coventry and Warwickshire Surge Plan
Actions at each level should be built upon. Click here to see levels.
Primary Care Covid-19 Response Financial Arrangements: Frequently Asked
Questions
Please see the latest letter from NHSE.
The local FAQ document will provide the details for the local finance arrangements across Coventry and Warwickshire.
If you have any further questions please do not hesitate to contact your local Primary Care Team.
SW - Funnel Charts
Download the latest funnel charts from SWFT for south Warwickshire practices. The are on Non-Elective Admissions - COPD and Diabetes; Points of Delivery and Top 5 Speciality Treatments.
Temporary residents
We have heard concerns from some commissioners and practices about the significant impact that holiday makers can have on local areas and the difficulties this will bring for general practice.The current rules on patient registration set out that a practice may register patients as a temporary resident if they are resident in the practice area for more than 24 hours but less than three months. However, given the introduction oftotal triage and the rapid and widespread increase in use of remote consultations by practices, registering as a temporary resident might no longer be necessary or provide the most appropriate access or care for the patient. Under these circumstances and where it is clinically appropriate to do so, patients may be referred back to their registered practice to be assessed by a clinician who knows the patient and can access their medical record.Practices may still need to see patients face to face in certain circumstances and therefore register them as a temporary resident. In addition, all patients, even if not on the practice list and not a temporary resident, must still be provided with primary medical services in core hours for any immediately necessary treatment, which may include medication.Practices should note that if a patient needs a prescription while away from home, that some (not all) prescribing systems allow a prescription to be sent to another pharmacy as a ‘one off’.
Guidance and standard operating procedures
General practice in the context of coronavirus
Practice finances
Standard Operating Procedure update to v3.3 (30.06.20)
There is a new Standard Operating Procedure for General practice in the context of coronavirus v3.3 which is out now. Practices should be aware that this update was made on 24/6/20 and is available to download from the NHS Primary Care website, updates within the document are highlighted in yellow and include outbreak management in context of Covid-19.
Principles of safe video consulting in general practice during COVID-19
This guidance is aimed at NHS general practice staff who are consulting via video with patients at home (although we expect the key principles to apply to practitioners across wider primary care). Practitioners are expected to have full access to the patient’s primary care medical record and to be consulting with patients in England.
Primary care wellbeing survey – reminder
NHS England is looking to understand the current wellbeing of the primary care workforce, and invites you to take part in a short survey undertaken by the Institute for Employment Studies to support this and to support the wider evaluation of the #lookingafteryoutoo primary care coaching offer. The survey will take no longer that five minutes to complete and will contribute to their ongoing response to support your wellbeing.
Temporary changes to the need for patient consent to maximise use of the electronic repeat dispensing (eRD) system. A letter has been issued to notify you of temporary changes to the need for patient consent (using the powers granted by the National Health Service (Amendments Relating to the Provision of Primary Care Services During a Pandemic etc.) Regulations 2020 during the COVID-19 response) to maximise use of the electronic repeat dispensing (eRD) system. The full text of the letter is available to download from the Updates and Guidance pages of the NHS website.
- Proactive Care for At Risk Patients
Plans to ease guidance for shielding patients
Millions of people shielding from coronavirus (COVID-19) will be advised they can spend more time outside their homes from Monday 6 July July and that shielding will no longer be required from 1 August, the Health and Social Care Secretary has announced.
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/plans-to-ease-guidance-for-over-2-million-shielding
The Guidance and updates for GPs managing highest clinical risk patients area of the NHS website has been updated with a letter from Professor Chris Whitty and Professor Stephen Powis on the shielding of patients.
EMIS update: URGENT: Guidance on shielding patients defined as extremely vulnerable from COVID-19 (Update Weds 3rd June)
Despite changes announced by the government this weekend, the weekly Shielded Patient List (SPL) process continues, and as such we will be processing the latest cohort of SPL additions and subtractions later today. This latest SPL cohort is collectively referred to as SPL9.
As with previous updates, new additions have been identified centrally by NHS Digital and NHS England, and these patients will be contacted by NHS England; practices do not need to contact these patients unless clinical review indicates that they should be considered as either moderate- or low-risk instead. Visit the EMIS website for the full update.
Update to guidance for people who are clinically extremely vulnerable (shielding)
You will have seen that the Government has updated the guidance for people who are clinically extremely vulnerable to Covid 19 and have been advised to shield. The update from Government comes into effect from today. In summary the changes are:
• The advice for people identified as clinically extremely vulnerable is that they should continue to shield until at least the 30 June but from 1 June, they can spend a short period of time outdoors each day with members of their household, still maintaining 2m distance from others.
• If the shielded person lives alone, the Government is advising they can meet one other person from a different household, maintaining strict social distancing. The advice is that this be the same person each time.
• Important aspects of Government’s policy and guidance remain the same. Apart from going outside once per day, a shielded person should continue to avoid all non-essential face to face contact. This means they should still not go shopping or to pharmacies.
• The support for shielded people remains in place and unchanged.
The Government has also confirmed that it will be reviewing shielding guidance alongside wider changes to social distancing, including plans to write to those on the shielding patients list with information about next steps on shielding after the next review on 15 June.
Caring for patients with LTCs during Covid
Highest risk are Diabetes and Cardiovascular patients, as well as elderly and deprived. Identify and proactively contact higher risk patients to optimise and coordinate their care.
Supporting people with long-term conditions (LTCs) during national emergencies
Advance care planning
NHS Guidance on Advance care planning with patient template
NHS Support for patients who are shielding. Since the start of the pandemic, you and your teams have devoted a great deal of time and effort identifying and advising patients who are clinically extremely vulnerable to COVID19, ensuring they are put on the Shielded Patient List (SPL), and most importantly of all, changing how the NHS provides care for this group of over 2 million people who were strongly advised to stay at home. We are hugely appreciative of your invaluable work in continuing to support these patients and helping to keep them safe and well. There has been a recent update to this in light of recent new guidance. Please review the new guidance.
EMIS UPDATE: Guidance on shielding patients defined as extremely vulnerable from COVID-19
On 26 May, there would have been an update to your EMIS Web system with the latest weekly Shielded Patient List (SPL) data, which as of last weeks' update now includes patient subtractions (those who are being removed from the SPL) as well as new additions to the list. This latest cohort of SPL additions and subtractions is collectively referred to as SPL8. https://swgpf.sharepoint.com/:w:/r/sites/HostedDocuments/_layouts/15/Doc.aspx?sourcedoc=%7BD608D700-B61F-4610-A000-DD0CB9595D67%7D&file=Guidance%20on%20shielding%20patients%20defined%20as%20extremely%20vulnerable%20from%20COVI....docx&action=default&mobileredirect=true.
- Protective Personal Equipment (PPE)
PPE Access Chart and Ordering guidance
Please see the linked document regarding an updated PPE Ordering process and flow chart.
Further information can be found on the GOV.UK site.
Use of PPE for Staff and Patients in Primary Care - PHE guidance
You will be aware from national coverage that Public Health England (PHE) has published
the government policy recommendations, based on evidence presented to the Scientific
Advisory Group for Emergencies, for hospital settings including use of face coverings for
all those visiting hospitals and face masks for staff when in non-clinical areas.
Currently in primary care settings there are two relevant pieces of advice that should be
followed;
• The advice published by Public Health England on the use of Personal Protective
Equipment in primary care for staff
• Further Government advice on working safely in non-hospital settings
Guidance for general practice ordering personal protective equipment
All GP practices can now register on the new online personal protective equipment (PPE)
portal for ordering emergency PPE from a central inventory. This is to supplement (not
replace) the orders that you make directly from the suppliers. The Department of Health
and Social Care (DHSC) developed the portal in partnership with eBay UK, NHS Supply
Chain, the Army, Clipper and Royal Mail. Throughout May and June 2020, DHSC has
been emailing GP practices, inviting them to register with the PPE portal. The emails
should be coming from PPE Dedicated Supply Channel -ppe.dedicated.supply.channel@notifications.service.gov.uk
Please ensure that you are regularly checking your email accounts registered with the CQC/MHRA in order to ensure that the invite is received and actioned.
The portal can be accessed here.
The PPE Portal has been tested with the sector and is now being scaled up nationally over
the coming weeks. During this phase of the roll-out, GPs and small residential and
domiciliary social care services will be invited to register on the portal.
Current order limits mean GP practices can order one combined pack, containing 50 IIR
masks, 200 aprons and 400 gloves (200 pairs), per week or up to this amount of separate
items. These limits may change over time. Orders through the portal should arrive within
48 hours if placed before 1pm. Orders placed after 1pm will be subject to an additional 24-
hours.
If providers have any queries, please contact our customer services on 0800 876 6802.
Further information can be found here.
Recommended PPE for healthcare professionals in different settings
Expert consensus on efficacy of face masks
Summary: Standard masks are probably ok, but form only one part of effective PPE.
Guidance on correct donning and removal of PPE . PPE is only effective if removed correctly.
Warwickshire North
Please continue to order through your usual PPE supplier.
Use the disruption number if the order has not been delivered.
In the first instance please notify the CCG using the self-assessment and return to: WarwickshireNorthPrimaryCare@Warwickshirenorthccg.nhs.uk stating:
What PPE the practice is short of
How many days stock left
When the order was placed and
When the delivery was expected
The CCG will then allocate from the Hot Hub stock and the practice will return when they receive their order
If it is more urgent please contact Nicky.robinson@coventryrugbyccg.nhs.uk or Jon.King@coventryrugbyccg.nhs.uk directly and they will endeavour to support where possible.
- Radiology
UHCW and ultrasound guided steroid joint injections and Covid-19
After further careful consideration and research by the MSK Consultant Body around guidelines for steroid injections in the Covid era the Radiology Department will only perform steroid joint or tendon injections under strict directives. The reason for this is risk of severe Covid if patients have a steroid injection and then contract the disease (patients can experience adrenal suppression following a steroid injection for up to 28 days post injection). Download the update.
UHCW Radiology Unexpected Significant Findings Reporting
UHCW Radiology Unexpected Significant Findings were previously highlighted to practices via Fax, this will be sent via a nhs.net–nhs.net communication from 1 June. The radiology team have contacted each practice to confirm appropriate email address. As with the fax process, practices are asked to acknowledge receipt of USF Report. As a safety net, practices will be followed up by telephone within 72 hours, if acknowledgement of USF report is not received. Click here for full details.
- Referrals
The Referral Support Service is still operational during this challenging time. We continue to review referrals ensuring patients are referred into appropriate services with the relevant information to support the referral.
Now that we have entered into Phase 2 of the NHS's response to COVID, you will be aware that Routine referrals can now be processed and should not rejected or deferred until a later date (as per previous communications sent out on the 1st May from NHS England and our local provider- University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust). The Referral Support service are prepared to receive these referrals and will process referrals as normal.
If you are a Practice that does not currently use the Referral Support Service but wish to do so during this time, please contact me on natalie.fuller@coventryrugbyccg@nhs.uk and we can put the relevant access in place to support you.
Should any Practices/ referrer experience any issue with referrals not being accepted please make contact with us and we will provide the relevant support.
If you have any questions regarding any of the information please use the above email address.
UPDATES FOR South Warwickshire – 2 June 2020
Two-week Referrals for Obstetrics and Gynaecology
Clinicians at South Warwickshire NHS Foundation Trust are kindly requesting that GP colleagues fill out the “important clinical information section” underneath the tick boxes on the 2 week Referral service Proforma. This additional information enables Consultants to make a clinical decision and minimises delays in processing urgent referrals.
X-ray department update:
Due to current social distancing rules and the need to protect both our patients and our staff, we cannot offer any walk-in appointments for x-ray's at any of our sites (Warwick or Stratford). Please advise patients to call the following number to make an appointment at Stratford Hospital only until further notice – 01926 600007.
Should you have any queries please contact the Radiology Department on the same number as above. Many thanks for your cooperation.
- Respiratory Conditions
It is important during the COVID pandemic to continue to seek advice and possible referral for patients with complex asthma, and refer to A&E for severe acute, or life threatening asthma exacerbations.
Detailed guidance on all aspects of Covid planning and management in the Community. A very useful resource.
SW Funnel Charts for COPD
ROTH score is NOT advocated for use as a decision-making tool
‘The ROTH score is not evidence-based. It should be removed from clinical protocols and not used to as a decision-making tool’.
‘BMJ paper about assessing shortness of breath using a series of narrative questions remains sound.’ – Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences • University of Oxford
COVID-19 Post Discharge Respiratory Therapy Support Team
Physiotherapy have set up this new service in response to Covid-19 for patients with ongoing issues as a result of having confirmed or suspected Covid 19 such as: On-going breathlessness, airway clearance issues, reduced exercise tolerance, possible dysfunctional breathlessness, high anxiety/depression or requiring fatigue management.
For more information,
Email: RespiratoryPhysiotherapyReferrals@swft.nhs.uk
Pneumonia
Rapid diagnosis of community-acquired pneumonia for clinicians
Rapidly managing pneumonia in older people during a pandemic
Managing suspected or confirmed pneumonia in adults in the community
Asthma & COPD
Health advice for patients with asthma
Updated NICE guidance – severe asthma
British Thoracic Society guide on managing asthma during Covid
Asthma patients should continue inhalers and medication as normal.
Guide for alternative inhalers during stock shortages
More detailed clinical advice on managing asthma and COPD is being developed. COPD exacerbation needs careful consideration of risks/ benefits if needing steroids.
Crisis management for asthma and COPD during the UK Covid-19 epidemic
Continue preventers- there is no data showing ICS increase Covid risks. For COPD exacerbation, carefully consider risk/benefits of oral steroids.
Legionella and Pseudomonas Risks
There is the risk of legionella and pseudomonas proliferation in little used water systems, that can lead to disease transmission through aerosol from taps and showers. This is particularly likely where rooms or buildings have remained dormant. This is especially the case when ambient temperatures are above 20 degrees, as has been the case in the UK over recent months.
Please make yourself aware of HSE Guidance on this issue and HTM 04-01 Safe Water Management in Healthcare Premises – Part B Operational Management. These links provide information on your duties and how to manage legionella and pseudomonas proliferation through: temperature controls; flushing outlets; and chlorination of systems. Please pay particular attention to how to bring little used outlets back into use without causing harm to yourself or others.
- Return to work post covid
- Rheumatology
- Risk Assessments
Watch the Risk Assessment Webinar
NHSE issued guidance regarding risk assessments for all GP practice staff on the 24th June (links to download are below) with a request these be conducted within 4 weeks i.e. by 23 July.
In order to support you undertake this task we have attached 4 examples of risk assessments – the first 2 have been adapted for local use and have been updated to follow guidance from the latest General practice SOP 3.3. The third example is from Wolverhampton CCG and this has been recommended by some PMs so we have included it too and the fourth example comes from St Helens and Knowsley Trust who are the lead employer Trust for all GP Specialist registrars.
We are aware that many of you may already have started this process these are merely to help those that may not have yet started this exercise.
We have been advised that the CCG will be required to report the % of risk assessments completed on 24th July to NHSE, while we aware that reporting for practices is not mandated, however, it would help us to understand the scale of the issues some practices are dealing with and would enable to us to be able to plan additional support that practices may require on either a practice, PCN, local place or Coventry and Warwickshire basis. We thought the easiest way to facilitate this is to add it to the returns you are already sending into the CCG so your next return will include an additional column requesting the following information - “What percentage of your workforce risk assessments have you completed?”
We have also produced a light touch checklist based on the information received to date. We hoped we have pre emptied the NHSE request and were keen to share this with you all to save us all having to run around on 23rd July when NHSE confirm what is required.
Finally we are STILL trying to confirm the details of the local Occupational health support offer and will advise as soon as we get this information back from NHSE who commission this service on our behalf.
However, If you have any questions on the meantime please do not hesitate to contact your Primary Care teams via the usual contact details.
Kindest Regards
Dr Sarah Raistrick
Dr David Spraggett
Dr Imogen Staveley
- Safeguarding (Adults & Children)
Coventry Safeguarding Adults board posters on abuse and neglect
During this pandemic, the Coventry Safeguarding Adults Board has been highlighting the importance of safeguarding adults, particularly to members of the public who might be acting as volunteers within their community. The Board is pleased to share with you a new range of 10 posters focussing on different types of abuse and neglect, together with details on what to do if there is a concern around an adult with care and support needs.
You are encouraged to share these resources widely. Find the posters and read more about safeguarding adults at our website here.
Domestic Abuse
Domestic violence, also called domestic abuse, includes physical, emotional and sexual abuse in couple relationships or between family members. Domestic violence can happen against anyone, and anybody can be an abuser. During the COVID-19 pandemic, domestic abuse charities and other organisations are reporting an increase in cases.
The DHSC website has a resource that looks at how health professionals can support adults and young people over 16, and dependent children, who are experiencing domestic abuse. The document helps health staff to identify potential victims, initiate sensitive routine enquiry, respond effectively to disclosures of abuse. Full details are online.
SARC Services - Sexual Assault Referral Centre
Our SARC services are still available during the COVID-19 pandemic. Mountain Healthcare provides Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) for children and young people across the West Midlands. We are still operating during the COVID-19 pandemic, with all services being carried out in line with current guidance and with additional health and safety measures in place. Click here for full details.
SW- CCG supporting the Warwickshire Multi Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH)
South Warwickshire CCG is supporting the Warwickshire Multi Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH) under mutual aid arrangements. The safeguarding named nurses (Bernie Bell and Fran Walsh) are assisting with the lateral checks that are required, by calling GP surgeries and asking for health information about children where a safeguarding concern has been reported to the MASH. The information is required in a timely fashion (within 4 hours), to ascertain whether a strategy meeting is required to look at protecting any children who are referred.
Bernie and Fran are working virtually but can be identified by their mobile numbers below- they are also able to confirm their legitimacy by their CCG email address, although they will only request identifiable information by nhs.net accounts. Your cooperation to assist the MASH, as lockdown restrictions are eased and referrals increase, is greatly appreciated.
Bernie Bell 07585 401 140, email: Bernadette.Bell@southwarwickshireccg.nhs.uk, secure email: bernadette.bell@nhs.net
Fran Walsh 07585 401 146, email: frances.walsh@southwarwickshireccg.nhs.uk, secure email: frances.walsh@nhs.net
- Suspected COVID Resources
- Staff - Front line and Key Workers
Revised reporting process for the deaths of healthcare workers Letter
Revised reporting process for the deaths of healthcare workers Data Flow
Warwickshire Community And Voluntary Action (CAVA) newsletter
This issue of the Warwickshire CAVA voluntary sector newsletter and includes details of COVID-19 support groups and resources for BAME communities.
Staff risk assessments in Primary Care
A reminder to all practices that it is crucial that individual risk assessments are conducted for all staff in primary care, particularly for BAME staff, who have been disproportionately affected by Covid-19, and that these risk assessments are being prioritised and reviewed on a regular basis within practices.
Risk assessments for BAME and other staff
NHS Employers have published guidance on risk assessment, particularly for at risk and vulnerable groups within the workforce. This includes staff returning to work for the NHS, and existing team members who are potentially more at risk due to their race and ethnicity, age, weight, underlying health conditions, disability, or pregnancy. NHS Employers have taken an inclusive approach and have described that the guidance is applicable, with appropriate local adaptations, in all healthcare settings.
Support
Free Counselling Support for Front-line and Key-Workers
Key Link is a new free to access counselling service formed to offer on-line or telephone counselling to any front-line and key-workers during the Covid-19 crisis, including NHS staff but also any other key workers.
Register at www.keylinkcounsellors.co.uk and once the registration forms are completed access will be given to fully qualified and professionally trained counsellors. More info.
NHS Perks
www.healthservicediscounts.com
- Stroke and TIA
Stroke Association Stroke Recovery Service - Warwickshire North
In Warwickshire North, the Stroke Association is working closely with local partners to ensure that our Stroke Recovery Services are complimenting the local system response to Covid-19. We have adapted our support to provide telephone based assessments, e mailing information and fact sheets and additional, regular follow up wellbeing check telephone calls. Click here for full details.
- Training & Education
Warwickshire North GP & Clinician Virtual Education Programme
Open to all every Tuesday from 1pm to 2pm. Sessions are recorded and are available here.
E-learning from the LGBT Foundation
GP's can access a free e-learning course which has been developed by the LGBT Foundation with the RCGP. Access to the courses is available online. The LGBT Foundation also allows access to a wide range of resources around LGBT Health on their website.
Medical education sessions
Available to all to watch, including a session on IT and AccuRx on
3rd June on www.mededcoventry.com
Go to the GP section and then to presentations, log in using covgp for both GMC and password.
The AccuRx information on 3rd June starts about 30mins in.
Any queries please contact gpteachingadmin@uhcw.nhs.uk
- Women's Health
Patient information sheet for pregnant women
There is no evidence pregnant women are more at risk of contracting or becoming seriously unwell. They are advised to follow stringent social distancing.
Brief and practical advice on all forms of contraception during COVID-19
For Pertussis Vaccination in Pregnancy, view the Immunisations tab
GP contraceptive services for patients to continue during COVID-19 pandemic
GP practices are reminded that those contraceptive services provided to patients as part of the GP contract essential services should continue to be provided during the current Covid-19 pandemic. In case some women are not getting access to the contraception they need during Covid-19, we wanted to draw your attention to new information on sexual and reproductive health for patients and some further information for professionals. These include adapted guidance for the provision of emergency and routine contraception and abortion during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Cervical Screening
Royal Wolverhampton Trust laboratory will recommence collection samples from GP practices daily Monday to Friday with immediate effect across the West Midlands.
Resources
- Hot Clinics
- Cold Clinics
Coming Soon
- Consultations
‘10 minute consultation’ on remotely assessing Covid patients in primary care
Summary: telephone is normally ok, but video is better
Safety netting crucial as patients are deteriorating, often in week 2 with pneumonia
Red Whale- free remote consulting training
Principles of safe video consulting in general practice during COVID-19
This guidance is aimed at NHS general practice staff who are consulting via video with patients at home (although we expect the key principles to apply to practitioners across wider primary care). Practitioners are expected to have full access to the patient’s primary care medical record and to be consulting with patients in England.
Primary care wellbeing survey – reminder
NHS England is looking to understand the current wellbeing of the primary care workforce, and invites you to take part in a short survey undertaken by the Institute for Employment Studies to support this and to support the wider evaluation of the #lookingafteryoutoo primary care coaching offer. The survey will take no longer that five minutes to complete and will contribute to their ongoing response to support your wellbeing.
- Personal Wellbeing
With so much news about coronavirus flying about you might be finding it stressful/worrying etc. Mind has some excellent advice on how to look after your head as well as your body especially if you need to isolate yourself or are feeling anxious about the whole situation. Take a look and hopefully you will find some tips to help support your wellbeing
https://www.mind.org.uk/inf…/coronavirus-and-your-wellbeing/
Other useful links:
https://access.parentscheme.com/
https://www.practitionerhealth.nhs.uk/about-practitioner-health
https://www.england.nhs.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/workforce-mental-health-wellbeing.pdf
If you are a Doctor experiencing a mental health crisis, you can now use the 24/7 crisis text line. Trained respondents will try to help you feel safe and stable.
Text PHP to 85258 All texts are answered by trained volunteers with support from experienced clinical supervisors.
Texts are free from all major mobile providers.
Key human factors messages – when working under pressure
Good teamwork, leadership and communication – non-technical skills – will give you,
patients and colleagues a better chance of staying safe.
Multiple mental health resources for staff during Covid
Health, safety and wellbeing advice collated by NHS Employers
Free well-being Apps for NHS staff
Unmind is a mental health platform that empowers staff to proactively improve their mental wellbeing.
Sign up with your NHS email address.
Headspace is a science-backed app in mindfulness and meditation, providing unique tools and resources to help reduce stress, build resilience, and aid better sleep.
Sleepio is a clinically-evidenced sleep improvement programme that is fully automated and highly personalised, using cognitive behavioural techniques to help improve poor sleep.
Daylight is a smartphone-based app that provides help to people experiencing symptoms of worry and anxiety, using evidence-based cognitive behavioural techniques, voice, and animation.
- Remote Working
BMJ 10 minute Covid 19: a remote assessment in primary care
Very useful and thorough advice, recommended for any clinician doing remote consulting
- Clinical Systems
AccuRx User guides
Some great resources from AccuRx which include how to make video calls from a mobile, how to make a video call from a desktop, their support website. These are excellent resources for optimising use of Accurx.
EMIS Health Live
A fortnight of free online events led by industry experts.
EMIS is hosting a virtual event, EMIS Health Live: The New Normal. With a huge range
of sessions spread across a fortnight, The New Normal aims to support professionals
navigating the changing healthcare landscape emerging from the COVID-19 pandemic.
From panel discussions to lunch & learn sessions, seminars to partner power ups, we’re
hosting all our events online, for free.
The fortnight kicks off on 13 July, and they’ve already released some of the sessions, with
more to be added. Session topics include Understanding GP Connect, The total triage
model, Virtual MDT sessions with EMIS Web and Microsoft Team, and many more. To
find out more and access the schedule of events, please visit the dedicated event
page. Registrations are now open, and you can sign up to as many sessions as you’d like.
SnoMed Coding for Antibodies from EMIS
COVID-19 - latest tools and resources to help your organisation deal with the coronavirus pandemic -
Clinical SNOMED CT coding information in relation to COVID-19
If you search for the virus' name SARS-CoV2-2 and "detection" you get the codes. Currently we have IgG and IgM, later there should also be IgA and generic antibody concepts added
EMIS Library COVID-19 searches, protocol, and alerts
Following a clinical review of our EMIS Library COVID-19 resources, we are changing the usage of one specific code within these to better support the care of patients with, or suspected of having, COVID-19.
From 20th May, our EMIS-authored searches and protocols will treat the code Detection of SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2) using polymerase chain reaction technique (Concept ID 1240511000000106) as the undertaking of a coronavirus test procedure, rather than a positive clinical finding as the result of such a test. Click here for more info.
Emis - Guidance on shielding and protecting extremely vulnerable patients
COVID-19 Delayed Treatment Searches
EMIS has been working closely with NHS Digital to agree a process to temporarily amend what information is sent as part of a patient's Summary Care Record. This change will remain until the end of the pandemic. There will be no changes to the way a practice records their consent preferences. Click here for more info.
EMIS on VPN Remote Desktop
There are sporadic issues accessing EMISWeb via the Remote Desktop provided by SWFT. This is due to a new EMIS client release, which goes into an updating loop and locks access to EMIS. When you now logon to the VPN/Remote Desktop via your personal device you will be presented with a choice of 4 links. You are free to choose any, and if EMIS fails to run correctly – go back onto the VPN and choose a different link. We have updated the guidance to reflect instructions for Windows VPN and Apple Mac VPN
EMIS update: URGENT: Guidance on shielding patients defined as extremely vulnerable from COVID-19 (Update Weds 3rd June)
Despite changes announced by the government this weekend, the weekly Shielded Patient List (SPL) process continues, and as such we will be processing the latest cohort of SPL additions and subtractions later today. This latest SPL cohort is collectively referred to as SPL9.
As with previous updates, new additions have been identified centrally by NHS Digital and NHS England, and these patients will be contacted by NHS England; practices do not need to contact these patients unless clinical review indicates that they should be considered as either moderate- or low-risk instead. Visit the EMIS website for the full update.
EMIS Update: NHS 111 Messages - Auto filing suspected COVID-19 code
EMIS has made an important enhancement to the incoming NHS 111 Post Event Message (PEM) report that checks for any COVID-19 disposition codes. If any of the tasks within the report have a COVID-19 disposition code, the mapped SNOMED CT code (2827381000000119 - Suspected COVID-19) is automatically filed into the care record.
This means the code is immediately included in the next Summary Care Record (SCR) upload, and via GP Connect, meaning anyone treating the patient with the appropriate access will be aware as quickly as possible and without the task having to be completed in Document Management.
The task should still be completed in the usual manner when appropriate.
EMIS UPDATE: Guidance on shielding patients defined as extremely vulnerable from COVID-19 (Update Weds 27th May)
On 26 May, there would have been an update to your EMIS Web system with the latest weekly Shielded Patient List (SPL) data, which as of last weeks' update now includes patient subtractions (those who are being removed from the SPL) as well as new additions to the list. This latest cohort of SPL additions and subtractions is collectively referred to as SPL8. Click here for further details.
Vision
SCR – Implied Consent override for additional clinical data to be viewable
GP Connect Appointments for NHS 111
- Coventry and Warwickshire Health and Care Partnership
Coventry & Warwickshire Health and Care Partnership
Just like in regions all over the UK, local NHS organisations have joined forces with local councils.
Together, the Coventry & Warwickshire Health and Care Partnership is sharing knowledge and pooling resources with a plan for improving health and care.
Coventry and Warwickshire Health and Care Partnership is committed to improving the quality of cancer care and services for our local population. According to national statistics it has been forecast that one in two people across the country will be diagnosed with cancer in their lives, however the good news is more people are surviving cancer than ever before and, by working hard, we aim to further improve health outcomes for people living in Coventry and Warwickshire.
What do we want to do?
- Diagnose cancers earlier, treat patients faster and improve survival rates
- Raise awareness of prevention and support healthier lifestyles across our local communities
- Ensure that the highest level of care and support is provided to those living with and beyond cancer
What do we have planned and what have we done so far?
- Planning to trial a Lung Screening pilot in Coventry, working closely with University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire lung department and three GP practices
- Secured project management funding that will support hospital teams with a review of their patient pathways
- Improving patient experience through the introduction of one stop clinics where appropriate e.g. attending for an appointment with a doctor and having tests on the same day
- Increased the number of posts in hospitals to look at how we are able to support patients who are Living with and Beyond Cancer
- Working closely with communities across Coventry and Warwickshire to encourage people to participate in the national cancer screening programmes, for example increasing the number of smear tests that are undertaken in our local area
- Supporting doctors and nurses working in GP practices through improved cancer education
- Provided funding to the pathology department allowing consultants to examine patient tissue that might result in a cancer diagnosis
- Secured patient representation on our local Coventry and Warwickshire Health and Care Partnership Cancer Board
