Updates - Patient guidance
Six month extension to the temporary variation to age criteria for IVF in north east London infertility policies
In October 2020 a temporary variation to the age criteria for accessing IVF in north east London policies was agreed by CCGs. This was to ensure patients were not disadvantaged by the pause in services as a result of COVID-19. It was planned that this variation would be in place until 31 March 2021 when it would be superseded by an aligned policy across north east London.
Letter from PHE on Shigella increase in MSM in London
PHE has been investigating an increase in and ongoing transmission of Shigella flexneri in men who have sex with men (MSM).
Keeping Children safe - button battery and magnetic toy risks
Please ensure that any patients who have ingested (or are suspected of ingesting) button batteries / magnetic balls are referred to an Emergency Department as a medical emergency and receive the necessary urgent assessments, investigations and treatments.
Vaccine-induced Thrombocytopenia and Thrombosis (VITT)
Barts Health: In the absence of evidence, this is advice based on our experience and that of the national expert haematology MDT in managing this and similar conditions and the theoretical risks and benefits of interventions.
Supporting Covid-19 vaccine uptake during Ramadan - NHSE/I guide
NHSE/I guide on how to reach out and engage with Muslim communities during Ramadan to help build confidence, reduce any barriers to access and support uptake of the Covid-19 vaccine.
Reminder for self-isolating patients and household contacts not to go to pharmacies
Primary care prescribing colleagues are asked to remind patients advised to self-isolate by Track and Trace, or a household contact of a COVID-19 positive patient, that they should not go to a pharmacy
Update from the London COVID-19 Vaccine Clinical Reference Group
They have six clinical updates for local vaccination teams and GPs this week
Information for people with a learning disability and autistic people
A video and information pack about the Covid-19 vaccine for people with a learning disability and autistic people can be found here
COVID-19 vaccination: easy-read resources
Easy-read guides providing information on coronavirus (COVID-19) and vaccination.
ELFT Long Covid Assessment Service for Newham and Tower Hamlets Patients.
The ELFT long Covid assessment service will be open to GP referrals from the 18th of January 2021 and is available to people over 18 who are residents of Tower Hamlets and Newham.
Management of patients with post Covid-19 Syndrome (Long Covid) in WEL
The WEL CCGs, in collaboration with partners, have developed a post COVID-19 community based services pathway to support clinicians in the referral and management of patients recovering from COVID-19 to rehabilitation services.
Important messages for patients on accessing primary care services
Our local hospitals across north east London are currently under huge pressure. It is important we maximise the alternatives for patients where possible.