The Office for Civil Rights (OCR) at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has announced relaxation in HIPAA rules for covered entities and business associates who participate in good faith in the COVID-19 testing site operation. It doesn't stop there, but HIPAA penalties won't apply to covered healthcare providers for practicing telehealth medicine using third-party applications such as Skype or Facebook Messenger
The Office for Civil Rights (OCR) at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has announced relaxation in HIPAA rules for covered entities and business associates who participate in good faith in the COVID-19 testing site operation.
On June 14, the World Blood Donors Day was celebrated by spreading awareness about the importance of donating blood. When we think about blood donation, we often think how it will benefit the person in need and thus, do our part in making someone's life better.
Britain called on Sunday (November 21) for international action on the issue of medical devices such as oximeters that work better on people with lighter skin, saying the disparities may have cost lives of ethnic minority patients during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Health secretary Sajid Javid said he had commissioned a review of the issue after learning that oximeters, which measure blood oxygen levels and are key to assessing Covid patients, give less accurate readings for patients with darker skin.
"This is systemic across the world. This is about a racial bias in some medical instruments. It's unintentional but it exists and oximeters are a really good example of that," Javid said during an interview with the BBC.
Asked whether people may have died of Covid-19 as a result of the flaw, Javid said: "I think possibly yes. I don't have the full facts."
He said the reason for the discrepancies was that a lot of medical devices, drugs, procedures and textbooks were put together in white majority countries.
British pharmaceutical giant GlaxoSmithKline beat first-quarter sales and earnings forecasts on Wednesday (April 27), helped by demand for its Covid-19 therapy
and shingles vaccine, as the company moves towards the July separation of its consumer health business.
Profit after tax jumped 68 percent to £1.8 billion ($2.3 billion, 2.1 billion euros) compared with the start of 2021.
Sales climbed 32 percent to almost £9.8 billion.
"We have delivered strong first-quarter results in this landmark year for GSK, as we separate consumer healthcare and start a new period of sustained growth," chief
executive Emma Walmsley said in the earnings statement.
"Our results reflect further good momentum across speciality medicines and vaccines, including the return to strong sales growth for Shingrix and continuing pipeline progress."
The shingles vaccine generated £698 million in quarterly sales, beating analyst estimates of 528 million.
Walmsley is seeking to reshape GSK after facing fierce investor criticism over the company's delay in producing Covid jabs and treatments.
A daily medication for high blood pressure could be replaced by an injection twice a year, if Queen Mary University and Barts Health NHS Trust succeed in their trail to investigate if an injection-based drug - Zilebesiran - could inhibit the production of a protein called angiotensinogen (AGT).
Scientists are to trial a world-first drug to treat high blood pressure that can be given by injection twice a year.
Professor Sir Nilesh Samani, medical director, British Heart Foundation, said: "This exciting trial could lead to good news for the millions of people across the UK with high blood pressure, many of whom need to take daily medication to lower their risk of heart attacks and strokes.
"The study will determine whether an injection given twice a year lowers blood pressure sufficiently over a prolonged period.
"If this proves to be the case, it may provide an alternative to taking daily pills for some patients."
As part of community service in our pharmacies we provide advice, help and support on the importance of a varied and balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle.
This has been especially important during the Covid-19 pandemic as many of our customers are understandably even more concerned about their immune health and how they can help boost their immunity during this time in order to protect themselves as far as possible.
We help them understand the relevance of good nutrition, the importance doing exercise (where possible), and how they can take steps to reduce risk over these
worrying times.
For example, through our pharmacy services, we offer the flu jab to customers and support the NHS in administering the jab, for which demand has been greatly increased this year as people look to protect their immune system from flu (which for some - can prove fatal).
By protecting from illness, our body's immune system can remain stronger, as is not distracted into fighting illnesses that could have been prevented.
Maybe you've heard the term kratom in passing. Maybe you know a little bit about what people say about it but want to do your own research before taking the leap yourself. The following will explore some of the top health benefits of kratom as well as some factors to keep in mind when deciding whether kratom is right for you or not.
Kratom is a herbal extract that comes from a type of evergreen tree called Mitragyna speciosa that is native to Southeast Asia. Kratom leaves can be chewed, or they can be dried and swallowed, or brewed into tea. Powdered and liquid supplements are also available on the market.
WHY DO PEOPLE TAKE KRATOM?
1. LOW DOSAGE
2. MEDIUM DOSAGE
3. HIGH DOSAGE
Kratom has another important effect that probably doesn't apply to everyone equally. Kratom has been used to ease the experience of cutting back on opiates or quitting opiates by minimizing the symptoms of withdrawal. This being said, kratom itself does produce good feelings and bind to opiate receptors in the brain, which means that if you're someone who is susceptible to addiction, you might want to be cognizant of your use and dosage.
The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has rejected the use of olaparib on the NHS for treatment of adults with hormone-relapsed prostate cancer with BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations which has spread to other parts of the body.
In a draft guidance issued today (January 5) NICE said evidence around the drug made by AstraZeneca was uncertain and approving it would not be a good use of NHS funds.
Current treatment for metastatic prostate cancer that no longer responds to hormone therapy is chemotherapy with docetaxel, cabazitaxel, or radium 223 dichloride - a
treatment option for people with symptomatic bone metastases who have already had docetaxel or cannot have it.
NICE said: "Clinical trial evidence showed that people taking olaparib have more time before their disease gets worse, and live longer overall, than people having retreatment with abiraterone or enzalutamide. However, retreatment with abiraterone or enzalutamide is not considered effective and is not standard care in the NHS.
Consumer goods giant Unilever signalled on Monday (January 17) it would pursue a deal for GlaxoSmithKline's consumer healthcare business, calling it a "strong strategic fit" after its £50 billion offer was refused.
GSK confirmed on Saturday that it had rejected three approaches from the Dove-soap maker, adding it intended to stick to its own plan to spin off the business as a separate company later this year.
"GSK Consumer Healthcare would be a strong strategic fit," Unilever said in a statement as it unveiled a strategy update in the wake of the weekend's takeover news.
Unilever said it was "committed to accelerating the company's growth and repositioning the portfolio into higher growth categories.
"As a result of the reporting of Unilever's interest in GSK Consumer Healthcare, we are today bringing forward a planned update, setting out the strategic direction that the company is pursuing," Unilever said.
The journey on building inclusive teams and increasing ethnic diversity and representation at all levels is never ending, said Sanjay Bhandari, chair at Kick It Out.
"I think you can set the direction but it's quite difficult to set the destination with these things," Bhandari, who is part of the government-sponsored Parker review into the ethnic diversity of UK boards said during a panel discussion on Inclusive Leadership held as part of the Pharmacy Business Diversity Conference on Thursday (December 9).
He said the aim of the review was to fix a destination like a milestone, it's not the ultimate destination.
Bhandari highlighted that "most organisations have not even started and so a good way of getting started was by the end of 2021 to have at least one British born director of colour on your board for the FTSE 100 (companies)."
The idea of the review is to "focus on that pathway and filling the hole inthedoughnut," Bhandari said.
Turning 21 is a significant milestone in a person's life, marking the transition into full-fledged adulthood. It's the age when responsibilities and
possibilities both expand, opening the door to a world of new experiences and opportunities. Now that you've reached this exciting age, you're likely
wondering what unique and exciting things you can do.
Luckily for you, the list is extensive and varied. From exploring the world of wines to finding your own path in the professional world, let's dive into this
thrilling journey of discovery together. Whether you're an adventurous spirit or a contemplative soul, there's something here for everyone. So buckle up, as we
unfold the multitude of options that await you now that you're 21!
Venturing into the World of Wines
For many, turning 21 means being able to legally drink alcohol. If you're a wine enthusiast, then you'll be thrilled to know that there are several ways to
explore the world of wines. You can take a trip to a local vineyard and sample different varieties or join a wine club for exclusive access to rare bottles and
sommelier-led tastings. You can also visit a winery and go on guided tours and pairings to learn more about the production process. No matter which route you
choose, you're sure to gain an appreciation for this age-old beverage and its many nuances.
Many cities and towns offer wine festivals throughout the year, where you can sample different wines and mingle with fellow enthusiasts. If you're feeling
particularly ambitious, you can even take a viticulture class to learn more about how grapes are cultivated and what qualities make up a good bottle of wine.
As part of efforts to streamline spending and enhance resource allocation within the healthcare system, the NHS has chosen to cease providing the free
vaccinations for all, which were initially introduced in 2020. Approximately 12 million British citizens will not have access to free flu vaccinations and
Covid-19 boosters during the upcoming winter, according to NHS.
Furthermore, the NHS plans to defer flu vaccine distribution to October, aiming to heighten protection for those aged 65 and older and other eligible groups in
the high-risk winter months. However, this has stirred panic among pharmacies, given their advanced planning based on the initial start date of September 1 for
vaccinations.
On Tuesday (Aug. 8), the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) released NHS guidelines indicating that Covid-19 booster shots, starting from autumn,
will not be provided to individuals aged 50 to 64 who are in otherwise good health. Similar guidance had already been released for flu, rendering 12 million
middle-aged Britons ineligible for free jabs, JCVI said.
Prior to the pandemic, influenza vaccinations were available to healthy adults aged over 65, alongside children and younger adults with medical conditions. Amidst
the pandemic, the distribution of flu vaccinations was expanded to include individuals aged 50 to 64, in alignment with the criteria for Covid-19 boosters.
STADA has appointment Nigel Stephenson as General Manager UK with effect from 1 August 2023.
Based in Huddersfield, UK, Stephenson will report directly to STADA's Head of Western Europe and Germany, Stephan Eder.
He will take over from Rudolf Bär, who has successfully led the UK business for almost one year in addition to his responsibilities for STADA's Mid-Sized European
Markets.|
A dynamic and modern commercial leader with extensive experience in sales and marketing across Western, Central and Eastern Europe, and the UK in leading
pharmaceutical, consumer healthcare and fast-moving consumer goods companies.
He joins STADA from consumer healthcare leader Haleon, where he most recently served as General Manager Switzerland.
"With his strong people and results orientation, along with deep purpose-driven engagement, Nigel will support our UK team in realizing its full potential
through innovative and inclusive leadership," stated Eder.
The Community Pharmacy England (CPE) has called the recent announcement of six per cent pay rise for the public sector workforce as 'unfair' for the
community pharmacy sector.
On Thursday (13 June), the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) announced that pay scales for most doctors and dentists will increase by at least a
six per cent this year after the government accepted the recommendations from the independent pay review bodies in full.
Responding to the recent announcement Chief Executive Janet Morrison, said: "The public sector workforce pay rise will be welcome news for its recipients given
the huge inflationary pressures and the ongoing impact of the cost-of-living crisis. But for community pharmacy owners - who have faced 30% funding cuts in recent
years and who are struggling to meet their rising wage costs - this feels unfair, and very far from good news.
At Community Pharmacy England we are fully focused on the current financial and operational pressures and fighting hard for a sustainable long-term funding
arrangement.
Balmedie Pharmacy based in Aberdeenshire, Scotland has been purchased by local expanding multiple operator JMF Healthcare.
Balmedie Pharmacy is a well-performing community pharmacy that dispenses an average of 5,255 items per month. It lies completely unopposed in the large Aberdeenshire
village of Balmedie, which is circa eight miles north of Aberdeen City Centre.
The pharmacy has been owned by Brian Arris since 2004 and was recently brought to market to allow him to pursue other pharmacy business opportunities.
Following a confidential sales process with Christie & Co, JMF Healthcare to benefit from new housing developments in this area of Aberdeenshire such as 300 new
homes planned in Balmedie, approved plans for up to 500 new homes in Trump Menie Estate, and 284 new homes planned in Blackdog Village.
Brian Arris, previous owner of Balmedie Pharmacy, comments, "I'm sad to see the business go as the excellent staff have helped grow the pharmacy from scratch since
2004 and we've all put our hearts and souls into providing good pharmaceutical care for the village and surrounding area. I'm confident everyone is left in safe
hands with John at the helm now."
Whether it's the effects of the coronavirus pandemic and those suffering with long Covid, or the financial pressures of rising living costs, these hard times
can affect absolutely anyone's mental health.
Mental health problems have worsened across all age-groups in the last few years, from lack of social interaction, unexpected bereavements or the significant impact
of a physical injury or long-term illness taking its toll on mental wellbeing - these challenging experiences and situations that we face throughout life leave a
big strain on the population.
Ultimately, there is an urgent need to reduce rising levels of mental ill-health in our society. As a pharmacist with 25 years' experience in healthcare, I feel I
have an obligation to my patients to support them with their healthcare needs, and mental health should be treated just the same as physical health.
Despite efforts to improve NHS mental health services, patients may still not be receiving the appropriate immediate care as they are often provided with online
counselling or an App for long-term support (online support introduced since the pandemic).
Community pharmacists are in a unique position to be advocates for patients with mental illness as they are the healthcare professionals' patients see most often.
This is a good opportunity for pharmacists to speak to patients face-to-face and give them advice in a more practical way rather than potentially waiting weeks for
an GP appointment.
Boots UK's chief pharmacist has been encouraging people to get a flu vaccination by the end of November to help protect themselves, their loved ones and the
NHS this festive season.
Flu cases in the UK are usually highest in the winter months, from December to March. This year, the UK has seen a rise in cases earlier than usual, and therefore
Claire Nevinson, superintendent pharmacist at Boots, reminds people that it is even more important to get protected early to help reduce the risk of spreading the
virus due to increased mixing at Christmas parties and family get togethers.
Approximately 33 million people are eligible for the free NHS flu jab, including those over 50 years of age, pregnant women and those with medical conditions such as
diabetes or heart disease.
The pharmacy multiple says it offers the winter flu jab service, which is suitable for those eligible for the free NHS flu jab as well as privately, adding that it
has already administered over one million flu vaccinations this season.
Ms Nevinson explains: "December is a time to get together with friends and family to celebrate the month's festivities. It's a good idea to plan ahead to ensure you
have your flu jab, and your COVID-19 booster vaccination if you are eligible, if you've not had them already, this the best way to protect yourself and reduce the
risk of passing the viruses to others.
Nasofed Anti Viral Nasal Spray, from EM Pharma, is delighted to welcome Dr Sarah Jarvis as medical adviser for its winter colds and flu consumer awareness
campaign. Sarah is well known as a trusted and reliable source of medical advice through her various media roles as Resident GP on BBC R2's The Jeremey Vine Show,
Good Morning Britain, Channel 5 and ITV News.
Says Paul Walsh, EM Pharma Managing Director: "Dr Sarah will be offering advice on how people can best protect themselves and their families against seasonal and
year-round viruses, including the use of Nasofed anti viral thixotropic nasal spray as an extra layer of protection particularly in situations of increased viral
risk."
Dr Sarah adds: "Viruses continue to affect our daily lives, whether that be year-round viruses or more seasonal viruses such as colds and flu and RSV, all of which
are expected to be particularly prevalent this year. In situations of increased viral risk, a thixotropic nasal spray delivering anti viral ingredients will help
protect you. It's a real step forward in virus prevention, not just for colds and flu, but also year-round viruses."
If you're looking for the best probiotic brands, you've come to the right place. In this blog post, we will discuss how to find the right probiotic brands
for your needs. We'll go over factors such as price, quality, and customer reviews to help you make an informed decision. We will also discuss the different types
of probiotics and how to select the right one for you. So whether you're just starting out on your probiotic journey or you're looking for a new brand to try, read
on for our top tips!
HOW TO CHOOSE A PROBIOTIC BRAND?
When choosing a probiotic brand, it's important to consider factors such as price, quality, and customer feedback. Price is often the first factor people consider
when selecting a probiotic brand. However, it's important to remember that cheaper is not always better. Quality should be your main priority - some brands may be
more expensive but offer superior probiotic strains with higher concentrations of beneficial bacteria compared to others. A probiotic should contain at least
10 Billion CFUs (colony-forming units) to be considered effective. The ingredients it should have are lactic acid bacteria, bifidobacteria, and Enterococcus. So
, these probiotics are good for gut health and digestion. In addition, they should consist of bacterial strains that are resistant to stomach acid and bile, as
these can break down beneficial bacteria before they reach the gut.
Digital transformation is sweeping across the healthcare landscape. Fuelled by ambitious government policy, exciting innovation and huge injections of funding,
it's hard for anyone in the sector not to catch a dose of digitisation fever.
But digitisation is not a universal tonic, and it certainly isn't always a 'good thing'. In fact, there's a real danger to digitising healthcare. Such a fundamental
change to the very nature of care delivery is an inevitably high-risk process: sometimes things or people get forgotten, vital processes stall, or new systems fail
to replicate the strengths of those they replace. Take, for instance, the digitisation of pharmacies.
Over recent years, the public's use of online-only pharmacies have boomed: in March it was reported that the number of items dispensed from distance-selling
pharmacies in England, UK quadrupled between 2016 and 2021.
These online providers offer an attractively convenient way for patients to receive their medicines; replacing a trip to a high street pharmacy with a package
delivered straight to their door. On the surface, this digital solution seems perfect not only for young patients with busy schedules, but also for older patients
or for those with restricted mobility who may struggle with in-person collection.
