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By popular demand, I'm bringing back my Friday reviews of some of the key COVID-19 issues on the minds of NHS leaders this week, based on insight from @NHSConfed members across the whole system. A thread. /1
At the forefront of NHS leaders' minds this week is the imminent COVID-19 vaccination programme. One of our members described it as “A hugely significant endeavour and will be one of the most ambitious and difficult programmes most of us will manage in our careers.” /2
The pace at which the COVID-19 vaccination programme is being developed across the NHS is impressive. With logistics and other info evolving alongside the preparations being made throughout the NHS, the 3Cs seem to be Clarity, Coordination and Communication. /3
On another topic, NHS organisations that have implemented staff testing tell us that this is generally going well, with a few teething challenges. It will be interesting to know the trends nationally; anecdotally, rates of positive tests sound like they are quite low so far. /4
COVID-19 impact on hospital capacity varies by region. As well as significant impact on particular hospitals where rates are high, the virus continues to exert wider impact on elective cases - NHS working incredibly hard to deliver as much as possible - and is achieving a lot. /5
Capacity challenges associated with COVID-19 are not limited to hospitals - they are felt across the NHS. This week we received lots of feedback from community services about challenges in managing business as usual, COVID-19-related needs, testing and vaccines. /6
Staff wellbeing is also at the top of everyone's minds. It is sad to hear reports of staff exhaustion as everyone works incredibly hard to deliver COVID-19 programmes alongside their other work, and of course covering absences due to sickness and self-isolation. /7
Finally, with Brexit negotiations reaching their final stages, NHS organisations are making preparations for disruption that will be associated with either a deal or non-negotiated exit - either way, challenges are in store. /8
And with that brief summary of an incredibly busy and challenging week, it's time for me to walk the dog. Have a good weekend. /End
