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The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) has introduced a new prescription pre-payment certificate (PPC) for Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) which is said to benefit around 400,000 women who suffer from negative symptoms of the menopause in England. PPC will be rolled-out from 1 April and it reduce the HRT costs to less than £20 a year. Women prescribed HRT - the main treatment for menopause symptoms - will have access to a new scheme enabling access to a year's worth of menopause prescription items for the cost of two single prescription charges (currently £18.70). As part of commitments to reduce the cost of HRT for menopausal women, the prescription PPC will be valid for 12 months. It can be used against a list of HRT prescription items, and a patient can use this against an unlimited number of HRT items, such as patches, tablets and topical preparations. There will be no limit to how many times the certificate can be used while it is valid. "The introduction of the certificate delivers one of our year one priorities for the Women's Health Strategy for England. Published last summer, the strategy sets out an ambitious new agenda for improving the health and wellbeing of women and girls and to improve how the health and care system listens to women. Menopause was announced as a priority area within the strategy," said DHSC.

Patient safety should remain a top priority in any healthcare setting. People should always receive the right advice, and pharmacists aren't 'GPs on the cheap.' Staff should be fully trained, and medical equipment should be correctly maintained at all times. In turn, this helps create a safer environment for patients and professionals alike. In this article, we'll discuss some of the factors that can enhance patient safety in healthcare settings. AUTOMATION AND MONITORING Automating processes within a facility can help streamline operations. This has the potential to reduce or eliminate human error that could result in serious injury or death. In addition, automated systems often provide instant alerts when something goes wrong - allowing medical staff to react quickly and appropriately. Automated solutions can help facilities achieve hand hygiene monitoring standards, and it's possible to schedule a demo and see their outcomes. They can reduce staff sick time and HAIs, as well as Joint Commission citations and associated costs. Monitoring helps ensure compliance with safety protocols. It's essential for improving patient safety and gaining data on all aspects of a facility's operations. It also helps organizations track the effectiveness of their protocols and procedures over time. This helps them constantly evaluate and refine their policies, to maximize patient safety benefits. ADEQUATE STAFFING In order to provide quality care, it's essential to have enough staff on hand to meet patient needs and ensure all protocols are being followed. Without this, healthcare providers may struggle to provide prompt, efficient care - which can put patient safety at risk. Adequate staffing levels should be determined by a variety of factors. They include patient numbers, the complexity of care required, and the size and layout of the facility.

The result from the Royal Pharmaceutical Society (RPS)'s survey showed that pharmacists witnessed 'the cost of living is having an impact on whether people can afford prescription medicines in England'. RPS has long campaigned to remove prescription charges for people with long-term conditions in England because they create a financial barrier to patients receiving the medicines needed to keep them well. The charge currently stands at £9.35 per item prescrib9ed and an annual rise usually occurs in April. Prescriptions are free for people in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. One in two pharmacists who responded to the survey said they've seen an increase in the last six months in patients asking them which medicines on their prescription they can 'do without' due to affordability issues. One in two pharmacists had seen a rise in people not collecting their prescription, whilst two out of three pharmacists reported an increase in being asked if there was a cheaper, over-the-counter substitute for the medicine they had been prescribed.

Developing a new medical drug is no small feat. It requires extensive research, knowledge, expertise in the field, rigorous testing and iteration of prototypes, and strong organizational skills to manage these tasks. It is important to use the right tools to make this process as efficient and successful as possible. With the right tools available, you can streamline development, manage resources and personnel more effectively, and maximize the chances of success. Here are some tools that might be useful when developing a new medical drug: ANALYTICAL TESTING TOOLS One of the best tools available to medical drug developers is analytical testing tools. These allow you to quickly and accurately test various components of the new medication, ensuring that it meets all safety requirements and is ready for clinical trials. As highlighted by the team behind Venogen, various methods of analyzing, chemical identification, and purity certification can be used to ensure product quality. Be sure to select a tool that can accurately analyze the specific components of your new drug. When finding analytical testing tools for your drug development process, it is important to consider the tool's scalability. Consider the size and scope of your project and select a tool that can grow with you. You can also work with experts to find the right analytical testing tools for your development needs.

According to Alzheimer's Disease International, more than 55 million people worldwide will have Alzheimer's disease by 2020. This figure will nearly double every 20 years, reaching 78 million in 2030 and 139 million in 2050. The WHO Global Status Report for 2021 estimated the yearly global cost of dementia to be more than USD 1.3 trillion, with a projected increase to USD 2.8 trillion by 2030. To date most drugs developed to treat Alzheimer's disease have failed, largely because they target wrong biomarkers and individuals already exhibiting signs of the disease. Once symptoms appear, however, many brain cells responsible for memory and cognition are likely already damaged and beyond repair. Professor Shai Rahimipour in the Chemistry Department at Bar-Ilan University in Israel has pioneered a different approach utilizing theranostics to pinpoint and treat the earliest, pre-symptomatic signs of Alzheimer's disease. Showing promise in stopping progression of the disease before onset of irreversible brain cell damage, Rahimipour's groundbreaking approach has garnered significant attention in the scientific world.

The Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry (ABPI) has proposed a Voluntary Scheme for Pricing, Access and Growth (VPAG) that aims to deliver a sustainable approach to medicines provision and maximise the growth potential of the UK life sciences industry. It has published the industry's vision for a new agreement with the government which will deliver for patients, the NHS and the economy. VPAG also includes measures to ensure rapid patient access and adoption of new medicines, as well as opportunities to improve health outcomes and productivity for the whole country. The association's proposals consist of four key areas: restoring an internationally competitive commercial environment for life sciences; supporting UK clinical research and R&D; ensuring rapid patient access and uptake of new medicines; and improving population health and productivity through health innovation. The proposal would deliver over £1bn a year to the NHS - around £300m more than the average delivered under the old scheme before 2023, and comfortably more than the highest contributions ever made before the pandemic.

Proper drug storage is essential to ensure the safety of yourself, your family, and those around you. This is especially important if you are taking multiple medications and need to keep track of them all. Knowing how to store drugs correctly can help prevent misuse or accidental ingestion by children or pets. Here are six important guidelines about proper drug storage that everyone should follow: 1. KEEP ALL MEDICATIONS IN THEIR ORIGINAL, LABELED CONTAINERS: Using alternative storage containers can make it difficult to identify medications or keep track of expiration dates. Keeping medications in their original containers also prevents accidental misuse and helps ensure that the correct dosage is taken. In addition, it's important to store all medications out of reach of children and pets. Also, keep medications in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. For example, a medicine cabinet in the bathroom or kitchen is a good option. 2. DISPOSE OF EXPIRED MEDICATIONS: Expired medications can be less effective and even potentially harmful if taken, so it's important to regularly check expiration dates and get rid of any outdated medications. The best way to dispose of old drugs is to take them to a drug collection site. If no such sites are available, mix the medication with something like coffee grounds, put it in an opaque container, and then throw it away in your trash bin. Never flush expired medication down the toilet unless instructed by your pharmacist or healthcare provider! 3. STORE DRUGS IN A COOL, DRY PLACE: Extreme temperatures can cause medications to break down and become ineffective. To avoid this, keep all drugs away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and moisture. A medicine cabinet or drawer in the bathroom is an ideal spot for storing most drugs, but some require special storage conditions (more on that below). Different medications should also be separated from one another to avoid confusion and stored differently. For example, if a

Dermal fillers, also known as injectable facial fillers, can be an effective way to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, restore facial volume, and enhance certain features. While dermal fillers are generally safe, it's important to know about the potential benefits and side effects before you decide if they're right for you. In this blog post, we will look at the potential benefits and side effects of dermal fillers. We will also provide some tips for preparing for your treatment and ensuring a safe, successful procedure. So if you're considering dermal fillers, read on to learn more! HOW ARE DERMAL FILLERS INJECTED? Dermal fillers are typically injected directly into the skin with a small needle. Your doctor or injector will decide how much filler should be used and where it should be placed based on your desired outcome. In general, people who want to reduce wrinkles or enhance certain features may need more filler than those who just want to restore the volume in their face. Since they are injected under the skin, dermal fillers are minimally invasive and require little downtime after the procedure. It usually takes around 30 minutes to perform the procedure. Additionally, you may experience some swelling, bruising, and tenderness in the area where the filler was injected. This should subside over the next few days.

The Serious Shortage Protocol (SSP), for Estradot 50mcg patches will expire at 23.59pm on Friday 24 February 2023. Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) has confirmed that sufficient stock of Estradot 50mcg patches are now available to meet normal demand. "After 24th February, any prescriptions for Estradot 50mcg patches must be dispensed in accordance with the prescription, and SSP048 will no longer be valid for use," said DHSC. Top tips for SSP claims by PSNC: Where available, use the claim amend facility on the PMR system to rectify any incorrect EPS claims already submitted this month. For any supplies made in accordance with SSPs, check that the correct number of patient charges are collected and declared on the end of month FP34C submission. NHSBSA advise that contractors must follow the specific endorsement guidance issued with each SSP and endorsements should be clear and unambiguous - NHSBSA processing staff must be able to determine what has been supplied. NHSBSA have published information on common SSP endorsing errors they see when processing claims.

If your loved one is suffering from anxiety, you'll likely be aware of how damaging the condition can be. Anxiety comes in many forms and can be triggered by an array of factors, but there are some simple steps to take if you want to improve the wellbeing of your family member - how can you best go about supporting a loved one with anxiety? What is anxiety? - Anxiety is mental state in which we feel highly worried, nervous, uneasy, or uncomfortable. While it's normal to feel anxious in certain situations and at notable points in our lives (this is linked to the 'fight or flight' instinct), it's important to address the problem if you feel that your anxiety is impacting your quality of life. What are the five major forms of anxiety? - The 5 most common forms of anxiety as diagnosed by medical professionals include generalised anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder and social phobia, also known as anxiety disorder. What causes anxiety problems? - Anxiety can be caused by a wide range of factors. We're more likely to become anxious when we're overworked, stressed, depressed, under financial pressure or physically or mentally unwell. It's also common to become anxious after traumatic events such as having to make medical negligence claim after sustaining a surgical based injury, losing a home or the death of a loved one.

WHAT IS PROTEINASE K MADE OF? Proteinase K is known enzyme belonging to the class of serine proteases that cleave adjacent to the carboxylic group peptide bonds of aromatic and aliphatic amino acids. It's also exhibited a very broad cleavage specificity. The enzyme was discovered in extracts of the fungus Engyodontium album. HOW DOES PROTEINASE K WORK? In molecular biology, main application of proteinase K is to digest proteins during nucleic acids purification in order to remove protein contaminants: - Proteinase K quickly inactivates nucleases (enzymes that digest nucleic acids) that degrade DNA or RNA molecules during the cleansing. - Proteinase K is activated by calcium. It does not affect the activity of the proteinase, but protects again autolysis, improves thermal stability, and regulates substrate binding capacity. To increase the stability of Proteinase K, thereby enhancing its action, Urea as well as SDS (sodium dodecyl sulfate) or elevated temperature at 37-60C is commonly used. Inactivation of Proteinase K is occurring at temperature above 65C. WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF PROTEINASES? Proteinase K is used to break down proteins in cell lysates (tissues, cell culture cells) and to release nucleic acids due to its action described above. Proteinase K application purpose: DNA isolation from various tissues; Removal of DNAses and RNAses: Proteinase K and RNases can act together in the lysis buffer to degrades contaminating RNAs and proteins;

Are you looking to start a career in the medical field but don't know where to begin? There are many different paths to choose from when it comes to entering the medical profession. It can be daunting trying to figure out which one is right for you. But with some research, planning, and dedication, you can find your way into this rewarding and fulfilling industry. Here are 8 tips that will help get you started on your journey toward becoming a successful healthcare professional. 1. ONLINE PROGRAMS If you have already decided on a career path and need to obtain additional qualifications or knowledge, there are many online programs available for medical professionals. These courses provide students with the opportunity to learn from home and gain experience in their chosen field without sacrificing the quality of education. You can find an online medical assistant programs, medical biller and coding programs, lab technician training, and more. It's important to research each program and make sure it's accredited before enrolling. While online programs may not offer the same hands-on experience as a traditional school, they can be an affordable and convenient way to get your foot in the door. 2. VOLUNTEERING OR WORKING IN A CLINICAL SETTING Volunteering or working part-time in a clinical setting is an excellent way to gain experience and decide if the medicine is the right profession for you. Even volunteer work can provide invaluable insight into how the medical field works, allowing you to network with professionals, observe procedures and treatment methods, and develop skills from patient interaction. Additionally, any volunteer work or job experience related to healthcare that appears on your resume establishes you as a serious candidate for a career in medicine. While you are likely to find many volunteer opportunities, be sure to do your research and only take positions in reputable organizations.

After you've had surgery, it's normal to feel a little anxious about the recovery process. But there are some things you can do to help make sure everything goes smoothly. Here are four important pieces of postoperative advice that will help you heal quickly and avoid any complications. Follow these tips and you'll be on your way to a full recovery in no time. FOLLOW YOUR DOCTOR'S ORDERS No matter how minor the operation, following your doctor's orders after surgery is essential to a speedy and successful recovery. Doing the right things like following a balanced diet, taking the recommended amount of medications, and avoiding strenuous activity can help minimize complications, reduce pain, and speed up healing. Furthermore, consistent follow-up visits with your doctor and timely scheduling of any necessary tests ensure that any post-operative problems are addressed in their early stages when they are easiest to treat. The people behind www.alamoplasticsurgery.com note that failing to take your doctor's instructions seriously can have a significant impact on your overall recovery time, jeopardize the long-term outcome of your treatment, or even lead to additional procedures. To ensure you make the most out of your surgery experience - listen to what your doctor has to say! GET PLENTY OF REST Getting a full night's rest after the surgery is key to a successful recovery. During recovery, your body is working overtime to heal and repair itself, so by getting plenty of rest, you'll give it the best opportunity to do this. Not only that - research has shown that getting lots of sleep may help support important bodily functions related to healing such as immune response and inflammation control. Listen to your doctor's advice post-surgery and make sure you get enough sleep - providing your body with the downtime it needs will ultimately speed up the healing process and help ensure you get back on your feet soon. When it comes to recovering from surgery,

Injuries can be devastating, not only physically but emotionally as well. It's hard to adjust to the new reality of your life after you have been injured, and it's even harder when you feel like no one understands. But there are certain things that every injured person needs to hear in order to keep going. These six important things to know to make things easier: 1. YOU ARE NOT ALONE Everyone has gone through something similar, so don't feel like you have to carry this burden all by yourself. Reach out for help and support from family, friends, and professionals who can understand what you're going through and provide guidance as needed. In addition, there are many support groups available that can help you connect with others in similar situations. Also, don't be afraid to seek out therapy or counseling if you need it. For example, if you are going through a traumatic experience, PTSD counseling can help you process your feelings. 2. IT'S OKAY NOT TO BE OKAY It is understandable that you may feel overwhelmed or angry. You are allowed to have these emotions and it does not make you weak or ungrateful for all of the help that you have received. Allowing yourself to express and process these emotions in a healthy way is important for your mental health. Find someone who will listen and allow yourself the time and space to be honest about how you feel. In addition, it's important to take time for yourself and find healthy ways to cope such as exercise, art or music therapy, or simply engaging in activities that make you happy.

The NHS on Sunday (January 30) expanded its Covid-19 vaccination programme to include vulnerable children aged five to 11 years. Eligible children include those with diabetes, immunosuppression, learning disabilities, and other conditions as outlined by the UK Health Security Agency in the Green Book. Additionally, children living with someone immunosuppressed will be eligible to get the first dose of the Covid-19 vaccine in line with advice issued by the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI). According to the NHS, there are around 500,000 eligible children in the latest cohort. GP and deputy lead for NHS vaccination programme Dr Nikki Kanani, said: "We know vaccines give significant protection against severe illness from Covid - including the omicron variant, so it is important that our youngest and most at-risk get protected.

One of the long-standing medical mysteries is the diagnosis of diabetes in majority of patients suffering from high blood pressure. The reason for this had been unknown. But now, an international team of universities have made a breakthrough. The research, published online in 'Circulation Research', involved contributions from collaborating scientists in Brazil, Germany, Lithuania, and Serbia, as well as the UK and New Zealand. The important new discovery has shown that a small protein cell glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) couples the body's control of blood sugar and blood pressure. Professor Julian Paton, a senior author, and director of Manaaki Manawa, The Centre for Heart Research at the University of Auckland, said: "We've known for a long time that hypertension and diabetes are inextricably linked and have finally discovered the reason, which will now inform new treatment strategies." GLP-1 is released from the wall of the gut after eating and acts to stimulate insulin from the pancreas to control blood sugar levels. This was known but what has now been unearthed is that GLP-1 also stimulates a small sensory organ called the carotid body located in the neck.

Britain has started counting possible Covid-19 reinfections in its daily coronavirus data, changing its approach to reflect the increased number of people catching the disease for a second time as the Omicron variant predominates. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) added around 840,000 cases to the cumulative total, taking it to 17.3 million coronavirus infections reported. Britain's daily Covid statistics previously would only count people who had tested positive for the first time to avoid double-counting people who had received multiple positive test results for the same infection. However, with variants such as Omicron leading to an increase in reinfections, the UKHSA said it would change its method to treat positive tests as separate infections if there was at least 90 days between test results. The change took effect on Monday (January 31). "Reinfection remained at very low levels until the start of the Omicron wave. It is right that our daily reporting processes reflect how the virus has changed," said Steven Riley, UKHSA's Director General of Data and Analytics.

The NHS is going to roll out a revolutionary 30-minute treatment for advanced womb cancer for women across England. The drug, called Dostarlimab, would benefit around 100 women with advanced and often incurable endometrial cancer every year after the NHS agreed early access to the treatment through the Cancer Drugs Fund. It works by attaching to a specific protein on the surface of the cancer cells, helping the immune system to detect and attack it. The treatment takes just 30 minutes to administer through the blood stream every three weeks over a 12-week period. The move is in line with the NHS Long Term Plan which aims to provide the latest cutting-edge treatments and therapies for patients.

NHS chief executive Amanda Pritchard today (March 1) announced a new campaign to promote early detection of cancer, when it is easier to treat. The campaign, which would run across TV, radio, and social media from Wednesday (March 2), is the first to focus on tackling the fear of cancer rather thanspecific symptoms. It is in line with the NHS Long Term Plan's commitment to increase cancer detection at an early stage by 2028. As per the NHS figures, the number of people getting checked for cancer increased by over half a million between December 2020 and December 2021. Speaking ahead of the launch, Pritchard, said: "We know that the prospect of a cancer diagnosis can be daunting for people and that is exactly why we are launching this potentially lifesaving campaign - we want to allay people's fear about cancer and encourage them to get checked without delay.

The Royal Pharmaceutical Society (RPS) has confirmed that the recall of blood pressure drugs amlodipine and olmesartan by the Food and Drug Administration is only for the US market and will not have any impact in the UK. MHRA also clarified that the manufacturer of these drugs, Macleod Pharmaceuticals, does not supply amlodipine medicines in the UK. It was published online in both the Daily Record and Daily Express on the morning of Monday, March 21, that the drugs had been recalled in the US by the FDA due to deviations from standard manufacturing protocols by the manufacturer. RPS intervened to ensure the articles were edited to make clear that this is not an issue in the UK after confirmation from the MHRA. Amlodipine tablets from Macleod Pharmaceuticals aren't available for wholesale distribution in the UK.