Medical Centre

Virtual consultations have increased in healthcare in recent years, especially since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. While telehealth offers many benefits for patients, such as convenience and increased accessibility, questions surrounding its impact on the quality of primary care persist. Our recent systematic review " The Impact of Virtual Consultations on the Quality of Primary Care " offers valuable insights into this timely and topical issue in healthcare delivery.  The primary goal of the study was to evaluate how virtual consultations are influencing the quality of primary care. The study was comprehensive, covering various diseases and utilizing six databases for identifying studies. It employed a rigorous screening process to ensure that only pertinent data was included. Key Findings The review included 30 studies comprising 5,469,333 participants. The results were quite revealing: 1. Effectiveness: Virtual consultations were as effective, or even more so, than t...

The Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, Steve Barclay, has confirmed the UK government is considering plans to allow patients in England to bypass their GP and directly access some diagnostic tests for suspected cancer. The clinical and cost-effectiveness of these new diagnostic pathways must be compared with alternative solutions such as investing more in core NHS general practice services. My article in the British Medical Journal discusses some of the key issues and challenges in implementing this radical new policy.

 A new article in the British Medical Journal from Carol Chan, Ana Neves and myself looks at the importance of implementation and training in the use of electronic health records (EHRs) in healthcare. The introduction of EHRs has been one of the most significant changes in how healthcare is delivered in recent decades. But while EHRs have brought many benefits to the NHS, for patients and clinicians, they have also created substantial challenges that must be addressed.

The health risks to refugees and asylum seekers have become very topical with the identification of Legionella on the Bibby Stockholm barge Refugees and asylum seekers will often come from countries that have high rates of infections such as tuberculosis and hepatitis B / C (among others). Refugees and asylum seekers will also often not be vaccinated to UK standards. A comprehensive health screen is essential when they enter the UK to identify and treat any infections they might have (as well as other significant medical problems such as diabetes and mental health issues).  It’s also essential to offer any missing vaccines to bring them in line with UK vaccination standards; and address any physical and mental health problems they have; and ensure they have access to good NHS primary care services to deal with new and ongoing medical problems. Legionella is sometimes found in the water systems of larger buildings, particularly those with older systems where water can pool at the te...

1. Measles The UKHSA has warned that unless MMR vaccination rates improve, London could experience a large measles outbreak. Measles is potentially a very serious illness with important complications - but is preventable though vaccination.  Please ensure patients and their families are up to date with their vaccinations. Please also check the vaccine status of new patients - particular migrants - and enter details onto the medical record of any vaccines given elsewhere. https://www.gov.uk/government/news/london-at-risk-of-measles-outbreaks-with-modelling-estimating-tens-of-thousands-of-cases 2. Shingles vaccination The shingles vaccine programme is being expanded. From September, GP practices will offer: - Those aged 70-79, 1 dose of Zostavax or 2 doses of Shingrix - People aged 50+ with a weak immune system, 2 doses of Shingrix - Those turning 65 & 70, two doses of Shingrix vaccine. For further details, see https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/shingles-...

The harsh reality of climate change is becoming increasingly apparent, with extreme temperatures emerging as an increasing global phenomenon. One of the most conspicuous manifestations of this climatic shift is the occurrence of heatwaves. These bouts of extreme heat aren't just uncomfortable, they also pose significant health risks and can increase death rates; particularly amongst the most vulnerable people in societies - such as the elderly, children, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions. Heatwaves don't just affect the health of individuals; they also put enormous strain on healthcare systems. In times of extreme temperatures, the influx of patients seeking medical help for heat-related illnesses increases drastically. Often, other factors linked with extreme heat, like water shortages and poor air quality, exacerbate the situation, leading to an even greater health crisis. The ability to effectively manage these health threats often comes down to the resourc...