Highlights

As BIVDA attended the APPG for Life Sciences event based on the new ‘Data Saves Lives’ Strategy this week, we have provided some information on the action plan for members. The Strategy aims to reshape health and social care through more effective use of data, increased trust from the public in health data provision, leveraging technologies to allow better access…

Experts are warning that efforts to curb the spread of Monkeypox in the UK are insufficient, with a whistleblower claiming that poor quality support is being provided to those who suspect they are infected. The UKHSA is now suggesting that cases are doubling every 15 days, and, as of 7 July, there are 1,552 confirmed cases of the virus in…

A piece in the Business Leader magazine has been published on a collaboration between BIVDA member companies LumiraDx and Cignpost Diagnostics. The partnership will see LumiraDx’s rapid-result testing technology used by Cignpost for Covid testing across its corporate client base, specifically those in the elite sport and film and TV production sectors. Nick Markham, Co-founder, Cignpost Diagnostics, said: “Cignpost has…

According to leaked data viewed by the Health Service Journal (HSJ), more than 10,000 people are waiting three months or longer for cancer services. More than 11% of the list are said to have waited more than 62 days. The bulk of 62-days referrals are made by GPs, and classed as ‘urgent’. The other 7,800 patients waiting more than 62-days…

The Pathologist has an interesting article explaining the current state of Monkeypox testing, and the challenges of widespread testing. The virus is now spreading in 27 non-endemic countries and questions are being raised around the potential capacity of Governments and healthcare sectors to step up population testing if needed. The article also mentions the risk of misinformation and the importance…

NHS Blood and Transport is in “crisis mode” regarding its provision of blood supplies to hospitals due to severe shortages. The difficulties have been attributed to high levels of COVID among staff, which have led to cancellations of donor sessions. Cases of the virus in the UK are experiencing an 18-month high, with case numbers up 32% in last week’s…

Following a dramatic week in Westminster, culminating in the resignation of Prime Minister Boris Johnson, new changes are afoot in various ministerial and cabinet roles. Sajid Javid, the previous H&SC Secretary stepped down from his role on July 5, the same day as Chancellor Rishi Sunak. In Mr Javid’s place, Stephen Barclay MP has now been appointed as the Secretary…