Overtreated by Shannon Brownlee - A book review by Sarah Fraser

The subtitle of this book is "Why too much medicine is making us sicker and poorer". This book was quite shocking. I know there is a lot of what goes on in healthcare that is unnecessary yet to find a huge amount of detail and information in one place really put the issue into perspective. It is focused mainly on the USA though there are many parallels with other health systems.
This book is a must for every health care improver who believes their own project is making a difference... The strategic and tactical issues raised in it really provide a new perspective.
Throughout the book, the author provides stories and examples to illustrate the data and statistics that without the stories would appear cold and less shocking. Click here for further information and to read the full book review by Sarah Fraser.

Guidance on Administration of Medicines in Care Homes

The updated guidance covers:

• what the regulations and national minimum standards say
• what the issues are when residents look after and take their own medicines
• what are the equality and diversity issues that care providers need to consider
• what safeguards must be in place when care workers give medicines to residents
• why practice is different in care homes (nursing)
• the pros and cons of monitored dosage systems
• what to do about homely remedies
• what an inspector should look for.

Innovation at Its Best: Medication Reconciliation

As part of IHI’s ongoing efforts to help hospitals eliminate adverse drug events, medication reconciliation was the focus of IHI’s and the 5 Million Lives Campaign's first-ever Innovation Challenge. Hospitals participating in the 5 Million Lives Campaign were invited to share their most effective ideas for implementing a reliable medication reconciliation system. Read about the three “Full Implementation” winners and their work here.

New MHRA Drug Safety Update

This is a new monthly electronic bulletin from the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) and the Commission on Human Medicines. It aims to bring all healthcare professionals the latest information and clinical advice to ensure the safe use of medicines. Access the bulletin here. (Gateway reference number: 9599)