The RCP has been looking at the realities of working in the NHS this winter through a poll of its members. As specialty trainees, Matthew Roycroft and Megan Rutter have witnessed the impact of ‘winter pressures’ on NHS staff and patients.
Almost 80% of hospital doctors say delays to transferring patients out of hospital is the main pressure point this winter, according to a poll conducted by the RCP.
Ever since Carwyn Jones, the most senior elected Labour politician in the UK, announced his intention to step down as first minister of Wales, the race to replace him has been on.
The RCP is calling for obesity to urgently be recognised as a disease by government and the broader health sector, and warning that until this happens its prevalence is unlikely to be reduced.
The RCP believes current NHS overseas visitor charging regulations are having a direct impact on individual health and have potential implications for public health.
The BMA and the RCP have published decision-making guidance for doctors on clinically-assisted nutrition and hydration for patients who lack the capacity to consent.
With over 300,000 fragility fractures every year suffered by individuals over the age of 50, Dr Kassim Javaid explains how Fracture Liaison Services can help prevent broken bones and provide better care for older patients.
Less than a third of doctors say they have been asked to take part in planning for winter, despite last winter being one of the worst on record for the NHS.
