The Health service journal
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During Christmas and new year 1999-2000 there will be eight bank holiday or weekend days. Emergency admissions are likely to be high during this period. ⋯ In this study of a 781-bed acute hospital, a minimum of 209 beds--equivalent to seven wards--will need to be empty on Christmas day. This model is derived from information on the patient administration system and could be used by all hospitals to plan care.
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A national survey of old-age psychiatrists showed patchy and generally low prescribing of the Alzheimer's drug Donepezil. Most health authorities had 10 patients, or fewer, on the drug last year. The ethics of the present position should be examined by a third party.
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A national survey of 1,000 dentists revealed an increase in the amount of private work they undertake. Many thought that fees for NHS dentistry compromised quality. A high proportion believed that the government planned to privatize dentistry.
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The poor wait longer on waiting lists and have less access to elective treatment than more affluent groups. Hospitals have a long way to go if they are to ensure a more equitable system. Managing waiting lists to discriminate in favour of the poor should be considered.