Quarter 1 figures encouraging
On 27 August the DH published financial performance figures for the NHS between April and June this year. Deputy director of policy, Jo Webber, said: “It is important to highlight such strong performance as all NHS staff have worked very hard to tackle healthcare acquired infections, re-organise the structure of the NHS and deliver financial stability over the last few years.” Read more

Top-up payments
We are currently considering members' responses to our questionnaire about whether or not patients should be allowed to buy additional treatments not offered by the NHS. We will issue a response on behalf of members shortly. Read more

NHS Next Stage Review implementation
Our Taking forward the NHS Next Stage Review working paper sets out our overall view of Ara Darzi's NHS Next Stage Review, along with an analysis of the key issues arising from it and our views on the priorities for action. Read more

Response to dementia strategy consultation
Read our response to the Department of Health's consultation on a national dementia strategy. A 'strategic, cross-cutting' approach is proposed with 15 recommendations focused on raising awareness, early diagnosis and high quality of care. Read more

New complaints system for health and social care
A new two-tier complaints system will be introduced across health and social care in April 2009, replacing the current stage two Healthcare Commission system. Complaints not resolved locally will be referred to the Ombudsman. Key challenges are likely to include increased local demand and development of an effective independent resolution stage. Read more

Pandemic flu HR guidance
The Department of Health and NHS Employers have published the final guidance on the key human resource issues that would arise in the event of a pandemic flu outbreak. The guidance has been revised and updated following feedback received from employers after the draft guidance was published. Read more

Contact programme
See details of key NHS Confederation meetings held recently. Read more

Cross-border care proposals
The NHS European Office is seeking members' views on the European Commission's recent proposals on patients' rights to access cross-border care. Members' views will contribute to our position paper and lobbying strategy. The deadline for responses is Friday 14 November. Read more

Autumn membership meetings
Book your free place now at one of our autumn 2008 regional membership meetings, sponsored by Vocera. Members will hear our analysis of the implications of the NHS Next Stage Review and have the opportunity to network with colleagues from across their region. Read more

Member satisfaction survey
Members' views are important to us - they help us to represent members more effectively and to make a difference to their work. All respondents for this year's survey will be entered into a draw for a free delegate place at either the NHS Confederation or the NHS Employers annual conference and exhibition. The 2008 survey was sent to members recently. Read more

Conservatives commission NHS IT review
An independent review of health IT policy commissioned by the Conservatives aims to define a clear vision for IT in the NHS and cover issues not fully covered by the DH Health Informatics Review. Read more

Health and Social Care Act
The Health and Social Care Bill has now passed through both Houses of Parliament. Following a debate in the House of Commons, all the House of Lords amendments to the Health and Social Care Bill have been accepted. Read more

Lord Darzi gives evidence to HSC
In the second session of the Health Select Committee's inquiry into the NHS Next Stage Review on 17 July, health minister Professor Lord Darzi was asked about implementation, quality and primary care. He said: that there are detailed implementation plans at local level; that the review will make clinicians more accountable; and that trust boards will be expected to take quality accounts as seriously as they do financial accounts. Read more