Most insect bites and stings can be treated through the following steps:
Wash the affected area with soap and water.
Apply a cold compress.
Take painkillers like paracetamol or ibuprofen to help with pain or swelling.
More information: https://ow.ly/OCpm50StVZB
NHS Lothian recently led a project to reduce waste and carbon emissions caused by incorrectly disposed inhalers.
Across Scotland, respiratory disease is common, however the treatment for this is a major carbon hotspot. Emissions caused by incorrectly disposed inhalers contribute to air pollution, potentially exacerbating respiratory conditions and affecting the overall health of our communities.
Jane Hopton, NHS Lothian Environmental Sustainability Lead said: “The carbon footprint of respiratory disease is largely due to the current propellant gases found in some inhalers. These gases have 1,430 or 3,220 times the global warming potential of CO2, depending on the brand of inhaler.
“By disposing of used, unwanted, or expired inhalers properly, we can ensure the safe destruction of the residual propellant gases and in doing so, help to reduce their carbon footprint.”
This project, which was funded by NHS Lothian Charity as part of their Climate Challenge Grant initiative, asked participating community pharmacies to add stickers to dispensing bags containing inhalers. The stickers stated, “please return unwanted or expired inhalers to your pharmacy for environmentally safe disposal.”
In total, five community pharmacies took part in the pilot project. After 10 weeks of adding the stickers to bags, the number of inhalers returned was four times more than prior, representing a 300% increase.
Jane added: “This has been an important project, and one which demonstrates how small changes can make a valuable contribution to supporting our sustainability goals.
“Our thanks go to staff within the Community Pharmacies that were involved for their support in making this pilot such a success. I look forward to seeing this work develop, as collectively we explore all opportunities to reduce our carbon footprint.”
While dry powder inhalers do not contain propellants, they are currently not recyclable due to the multiple types of plastic and components in them. Patients, however, are encouraged to dispose of these items safely and can return them to a pharmacy to do this.
The second phase of this project aims to increase effective prescribing for respiratory conditions by improving access to information that supports clinical decision making and promotes good inhaler techniques.
This is in recognition of the new Scottish Government quality prescribing strategy for respiratory conditions which recognises that the most environmentally friendly inhaler is one that patients can, will and do use correctly.
Resources have been developed to support this, including posters for healthcare staff and educational posters to support patients with their inhaler technique. These have been distributed to staff in primary and secondary care by the Respiratory Managed Clinical Network.
Katie Johnston, Respiratory Lead, Primary Care Pharmacist, NHS Lothian said: “Lots of people use inhalers and often do not think about the environmental impact these can have.
“Community pharmacies are ideally positioned and essential to support improved respiratory care and to help reduce the environmental impact of all medicines.
“Feedback regarding the resources has been very positive and the Managed Clinical Network plans to continue to develop and share information to ensure inhaler waste continues to be reduced, the carbon footprint from inhalers is minimised and every patient is prescribed an inhaler device that is suitable for them.”
NHS Lothian has become one of the first health board in Scotland to trial a new physio clinic app to unlock faster, personalised treatment for patients.
The new platform – called Flok Health – provides same-day access to automated, responsive video appointments with an AI physiotherapist via a smartphone app.
Flok is the first platform of its kind to have been approved by the Care Quality Commission as a registered healthcare provider, creating a brand new treatment pathway for physiotherapy patients.
Alison MacDonald, Executive Nurse Director, NHS Lothian, said: “Technological developments such as Flok have the potential to substantially improve the care and journey for some people with back pain by complimenting the range of healthcare services available.
“We’re looking forward to continuing working with Flok to further understand and explore the potential for how we could integrate such technology with our current therapy provision.”
As part of a series of three-month pilot studies between May and December 2023, over 1000 NHS staff who were suffering from back pain self-referred to Flok’s AI physiotherapy clinic to receive treatment.
An initial video assessment was held with each of the staff members from NHS Lothian, NHS Borders, Cambridge University Hospitals, and Royal Papworth Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, and an AI physiotherapist to evaluate their symptoms and ensure Flok could safely provide the right treatment for their condition.
Once approved for treatment, patients had a weekly AI video appointment with their digital physio, which could be accessed at a time that suited them from the comfort of their own home.
During these appointments, the AI physiotherapist was able to prescribe exercises and pain management techniques, monitor each patient’s symptoms, and adjust their treatment in real-time.
The majority of patients were initially prescribed six treatment appointments with Flok’s AI physio. After these weekly appointments had been completed, patients were given unlimited access to personalised sessions for several months, during which they could focus on preventative care and reducing the risk of recurrent issues, in line with their needs.
Nearly all (97%) of the patients who self-referred to Flok within Lothian received an automated triage outcome. More than nine out of 10 (92%) were immediately approved for AI physio and given access to an appointment that same day. A handful (5%) were automatically referred to another NHS service, including NHS 111 or their GP).
The remaining three per cent of patients were given an additional assessment via telehealth appointment with a member of Flok’s clinical team. All but one of these individuals were then cleared to receive treatment with the AI physio, with the remaining patient successfully referred to an alternative service for urgent care.
In the latest service evaluation, all of the patients who took part in the survey said their experience with Flok had been at least equivalent to seeing a human physiotherapist, with nearly six in 10 (57%) of patients saying they thought the AI physio experience was better than the traditional alternative.
The digital service was also effective, with more than four in five participants (86%) reporting that their symptoms had improved during treatment with the Flok platform.
Finn Stevenson, Co-Founder and CEO at Flok Health, said: “Around 11 million people suffer from back pain in the UK and 20% of us will visit our GP with a musculoskeletal problem each year. But it’s getting harder and harder for patients to access the physiotherapy they need.
“Creating faster, more convenient access to physiotherapy services is vital to tackling this crisis. Harnessing new technologies, like AI, can help us unlock individualised treatment for thousands of patients, while reducing pressure on NHS services and freeing up capacity for treating those in need of in-person care.
“We’re proud to be leading the charge on this at Flok. It has been incredible to see the positive impact that AI physiotherapy can have throughout our initial trials with NHS Lothian, NHS Borders, Cambridge University Hospitals and Royal Papworth Hospital NHS Foundation Trust. We’re excited to be working closely with the NHS to develop this new technology and create a new care model for on-demand personalised treatment at population scale.”
For more information on FLOK check Flok Health
It’s common to fire up the BBQ in sunny weather. But, it’s important to follow food safety advice.
This helps to avoid contaminating your food and food poisoning.
The summer months are an opportunity to get out and enjoy outdoor spaces. This can be brilliant for both your physical and mental health. But, be mindful that a small number of people each year are affected by infections caught outdoors.
Edinburgh resident John Rowan (68) has had to go private for hearing aids after waiting over a year for his regular hearing aid check, despite the Scottish Government setting a waiting time target of 18 weeks.
Mr Rowan’s hearing loss originated from contracting measles as a child and the legacy of contracting measles is now affecting his hearing in later life.
Despite being retired, Mr Rowan is heavily involved in the charity sector and until recently, sat on the board of a Scottish-wide charity and he volunteers with several others.
In May 2023, Mr Rowan self-referred himself for a new hearing test and was added to the waiting list. Despite assurances his appointment would be in May 2024, he was not invited to an appointment.
The further deterioration in his hearing has left him struggling to hear basic conversations.
Due to this, Mr Rowan took the decision to go private to receive hearing aids.
Labour MSP for Lothian, Sarah Boyack, has been pursuing this issue on Mr Rowan’s behalf.
However, the NHS confirmed to Ms Boyack in May 2024, that due to pressure there was no confirmation for when Mr Rowan would receive his appointment.
Only after Mr Rowan had paid out of pocket for his hearing aids did the NHS get back in touch to confirm an appointment for August 2024.
Mr Rowan said: “My hearing test was due in May, however, unfortunately it was pushed back with no date given to me for when I might be tested.
“Due to the ongoing delay, I had to resort to going private to ensure I got the hearing aids I desperately needed.
“My loss of hearing affects me in day-to-day life, as I struggle to listen to conversations which I need to hear in the roles that I do with the voluntary sector.
“I am incredibly concerned if more is not done to tackle these waiting times then my hearing will only deteriorate further.”
Sarah Boyack MSP added: “Mr Rowan’s case illustrates the dire state that the Scottish Government have left NHS Lothian in.
“These delays and missed targets dramatically affect patients’ lives.
“It is unacceptable that Mr Rowan is facing further deterioration of his hearing due to delays.
“The Scottish Government must address the crisis in NHS Lothian as an immediate priority.
“No one should be having to pay out of pocket simply to be able to hear conversations with friends and family.
“If they don’t I fear cases such as Mr Rowan’s will only become more common.”
If you would like to have your say or read about NHS Lothian’s Biodiversity Action Plan this is your chance!
Read about our plans for making our hospitals & facilities more welcoming for wildlife & people alike & complete the survey at the bottom:
Ageing Well is looking for participants interested in joining a new 6-week Beginner Introductory Nordic Walking course, which they will be introducing in August.
The Ageing Well Project is run by Edinburgh Leisure in partnership with NHS Lothian and delivers a range of city-wide activities which support people to become, and remain, active in later life. The emphasis is on meeting new people whilst making physical activity accessible and enjoyable.
The six-week course will start in August on a date to be decided, depending on interest and is delivered by a Nordic Walking UK trained instructor. It is likely the sessions will take place every Wednesday, starting at 10.00 am.
Participants will meet at Saughton Park and would be expected to attend the first four sessions which introduces the use of Nordic poles and covering the skills and techniques of Nordic walking. Each session will last 1-hour, and poles will be provided if people do not already have their own.
The final two weeks of the 6-week course, participants will put into practice their newfound skills by going out on a walk in the local area turning a walk into a workout. Nordic Walking can help aid recovery if the participant has had an injury or prevent injury by improving strength and fitness and it’s a great way to meet new people and make friends.
Ageing Well activities have been developed to cater for a wide range of tastes and abilities and all activities are either led by or supported by fully trained volunteers, who are all older adults themselves.
Cat Wilson, Active Communities Project Officer at Edinburgh Leisure said: “This new course will complement our already popular regular walks which take place in different locations around the city each week. It’s for anyone who would like to try a new activity, meet some like-minded people, and get physically active.”
“Nordic walking origins are Finnish with more than 10 million people globally enjoying this outdoor activity. The evidence shows that you can burn around 20% more calories compared to conventional walking. The use of poles means the effort is divided across the upper and lower body, so it feels easier, particularly when walking uphill.”
Ageing Well relies on external funding and donations to deliver its programmes across Edinburgh. A donation of £3 per week is therefore appreciated for this activity. This can be paid online in one go or each week. People’s generous support means Edinburgh Leisure can provide a range of activities to reach more older adults in need of their support, protecting their health and wellbeing and improving their quality of life.
In 2018 the Ageing Well programme was awarded the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service (QAVS), which is the highest award given to UK volunteer groups and is the equivalent of an MBE. The award reflects the tremendous contribution of Edinburgh Leisure’s Ageing Well volunteers and the positive difference they make to the lives of participants.
To find out more and/or to register your interest in joining the initial 4-week introductory course, contact active@edinburghleisure.co.uk or call 0131 458 2260
For more information: www.edinburghleisure.co.uk/activities/be-active/ageing-well
Arlene and John Mitchell from Longridge in West Lothian have welcomed the first naturally conceived quadruplets to Lothian — Ben, Noah, Harrison, and Rory!
The tiny new arrivals, Ben, Noah, Harrison and Rory, were born on May 14 and tipped the scales at less than 3lb each.
The smallest of the baby brothers, Harrison weighed in at 2lb 14 oz, while Ben, Noah, and Rory each weighed 2lb 15oz.
Naturally conceived quadruplets are extremely rare, with doctors estimating the odds at about one in 700,000 births.
Arlene, 34, and John, 38, who already have a daughter Lauren, 11, and three-year-old son Hunter are now getting used to being a family of eight.
Arlene said: “It was a total shock when we found out there were four babies at the first scan. The nurse said she thought there was more than one baby and then she said there was more than three babies!
“I was absolutely speechless and my husband just couldn’t believe it. They are really beautiful and we are so delighted. We can’t wait to take our four boys home to Lauren and Hunter and start our journey as a family of eight!”
John said: “Life is going to be a bit noisier for all of us but I’m really looking forward to us being one big family.”
Arlene was closely monitored throughout her pregnancy because of risks associated with multiple births, such as premature delivery and preeclampsia.
Arlene added: “Having quadruplets is a high-risk pregnancy and at every scan, I was really anxious that there wouldn’t be four heartbeats.
“The midwifery team were absolutely amazing, they really supported me every step of the way.”
A dedicated team of 17 doctors and midwives delivered the quadruplets in the Simpson’s Centre for Reproductive Health at the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh on May 14.
Arlene, who is just 5’2, underwent a planned Caesarean section when she was 30-weeks pregnant to reduce risks.
Each baby had an individual team of four clinicians assigned to look after them as soon as they were welcomed into the world.
At first, the boys were each given intensive care in the Neonatal Department to help stabilise their breathing and allow them to grow while they were tube fed.
Two of the boys, Harrison and Rory were then moved to the Special Care Baby Unit in St John’s Hospital to be closer to their family, before Ben and Noah joined them.
Katy Ruggeri, Associate Director of Midwifery, NHS Lothian, said: “Delivering quadruplets is an extraordinary experience and I am immensely proud of our entire midwifery and neonatal team for their dedication and expertise throughout this remarkable journey.
“This was the first set of quadruplets delivered in Lothian and it’s something the entire team will remember for the rest of their careers.”
The boys are now thriving and Arlene and John are preparing for the big move home.
Arlene said: “Welcoming quadruplets into the world has been an incredible and overwhelming experience.
“It’s going to be a very different house and probably a bit noisier but we’re so looking forward to taking our babies home!”
A new digital pathway aimed at supporting stroke survivors has launched today (Friday 21 June) in Lothian.
The ‘Life After Stroke’ Pathway has been developed by a partnership comprising health charity Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland, NHS Lothian and Pogo Digital Healthcare.
The pathway provides stroke survivors tailored information based on their personal experiences, symptoms, and concerns in order to better manage their condition, alongside support from the Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland stroke nursing team who provide follow up support in the community.
When onboarded to the pathway, patients receive a self-assessment questionnaire to inform the health information they will receive. These questionnaires will be sent out bi-monthly to track changes in symptoms over time. Information will be sent to patients in the form of short slide presentations, which provide medical & health information, guidance, and signposting to further resources.
The Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland nursing team will be able to utilise the outcomes of the self-assessment questionnaires to better inform and tailor the support, education and advice that patients receive to support recovery.
Patients will only receive talks that are relevant to them, to avoid information overload and only focus on what matters to each patient. These tailored talks will be stored in the patient’s personal online portal, which can be easily accessed and referred to at any time.
Stroke survivor Jeremy Dearling, 67, was involved in the creation of the pathway as a public contributor.
Speaking about the launch, he said: “I have been delighted to have been part of the team developing this pathway with Chest Heart and Stroke Scotland, a much-needed resource for survivors of stroke.
“As a public contributor, I have not only been heard and listened to, but as someone with lived experience of a brain injury and who was a staff nurse on a stroke ward, I have found a generous welcome to the team.
“There is a huge amount of support on offer using the newly launched Life After Stroke programme that is in addition to the existing resources available on the CHSS website. A stroke can be an isolating experience, unnecessarily so, so if you have had a stroke or care for someone with one, make use of the help available”.
Joanne Graham, Director of Service Delivery, at Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland said: “We are delighted to be able to build on our existing relationship with NHS Lothian to support individuals post stroke through this digital pathway.
“Providing tailored health Information as early as possible is critical to support people to self manage their condition. This pathway will further support our charity’s mission to ensure every person with one of our conditions has access to quality supported self management and community recovery as part of our community health care support service.”
Jack Francis, CEO of Pogo Digital Healthcare, said: “I am delighted to be extending our digital self-management tool into a new Stroke pathway.
“ As someone whose family was negatively impacted by a stroke, it is brilliant to be involved in a project that will give people and their families the support and information they need.”
Dr Charlie Chung, AHP Stroke Strategic Lead and Consultant Occupation Therapist at NHS Lothian said: “I am excited that the Life After Stroke digital pathway will commence testing with the staff and patients of the stroke unit in the Royal Infirmary.
“Stroke survivors consistently report that targeted and relevant information about their stroke would have been valuable at the time of their admission to hospital but provision was inconsistent.
“A key objective is that information provision will not happen by chance, but will be a routine part of service delivery which will ultimately support the self-management of stroke survivors.”
ONLY 38% of Type 1 diabetics in NHS Lothian have aces to a Flash Glucose Monitor, compared to 51.8% across Scotland – and only a quarter of paediatric patients in NHS Lothian have access to a Flash Glucose Monitor compared with 35.5% across Scotland.
Commenting on the figures, Lothian MSP, Miles Briggs, said: ““Diabetes patients in NHS Lothian are simply not getting the same level of treatment that they would be if they lived in other parts of Scotland.
“We know that this technology is really significant for a person’s quality of life and we need to improve access to Flash Glucose Monitors across the health board.
“Children in particular are not receiving the same level of care as they would get in other parts of Scotland.
“Years of underfunding of the health boards by SNP Minister has led to a position were NHS Lothian are cutting services that they do not want to cut.
“We need to see a review of the wording to treatment guarantees in Scotland.
“Flash Glucose Monitors count as equipment, rather than medicine, which mean that diabetes patients are not automatically entitled to the technology.”
