The British journal of general practice : the journal of the Royal College of General Practitioners
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The NHS has limited human and financial resources, with particular pressures in primary care. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) makes decisions on which services can be commissioned within the NHS. Many women experiencing antenatal depression are not identified as such in routine care and so may not access support. Current NICE guidance does not recommend universal case-finding for antenatal depression; however, a programme targeted towards pregnant women with risk factors (for example, previous mental illness, traumatic life events) has not been considered. ⋯ Universal case-finding for antenatal depression is cost-saving and improves health compared with no case-finding. It should be considered by policymakers to improve the identification and support of women experiencing antenatal depression in primary and maternity care.
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Almost every patient and every healthcare condition are seen within primary care, but research is not yet embedded in general practice in the same way it is in secondary care. There is no well-defined pathway for a career combining research delivery and active clinical general practice. ⋯ National recognition for education on research has been achieved and a career pathway for GPs to train in and then work in research has been established. This will help embed research expertise and interest within primary care. This should increase research delivery and hence a cycle of increased research funding for further similar posts.
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Remote consulting was rolled out across general practice in 2020 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Although most consultations are carried out safely, there are some cases where remote care may contribute to adverse outcomes. ⋯ Analysis of complaints gives pointers for action on improving awareness and training for GPs and practice teams around risks when consulting remotely.
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Medication reviews are considered an opportunity for reducing polypharmacy. However, there is little evidence about their impact in a real-world setting. ⋯ Although a majority (>50%) of people had a recorded medication review in 2019, these reviews had a small overall impact on polypharmacy in this study population.
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In the UK, women from ethnically diverse and socioeconomically deprived groups are at increased risk of underdiagnosis of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and low uptake for breast cancer screening. Raising awareness for CVD and breast cancer screening in partnership with salons can improve early detection, management and uptake of screening facilitating women and the NHS. ⋯ Participatory approaches can support the development of educational community-based interventions aiming to establish partnerships between community assets and health systems for CVD and breast cancer awareness and prevention.