Bulletin 233
12.08.14

CQC Guidance on Agreed Principles for Defibrillators, Oxygen and Oximeters
You may find it helpful to be aware of this guidance CQC has issued to its inspectors ahead of inspections.

Pertussis Vaccine Recommendation
The service specification for the pertussis vaccination programme currently recommends the vaccine to be used as Repevax. From 1 July 2014, practices should be using Boostrix-IPV instead of Repevax. Practices have been made aware of this via the Vaccine Update, on the ImmForm website and also through pop ups on ImmForm. Practices have been able to order the replacement vaccines via ImmForm since 1 June 2014. Any remaining stocks of Repevax should be used for the pre-school booster programme as it is the same vaccine.

Free Data Protection Workshops from ICO
The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) is holding a series of free data protection workshops, designed to help small to medium sized organisations from a range of sectors learn about their obligations when handling personal information. The workshops are aimed at staff who may have limited practical experience, but are working for organisations that process personal data. The sessions will provide a basic overview of the Data Protection Act, data controller responsibilities and practical advice from the ICO, using case studies and interactive exercises. The workshops are run by experienced ICO auditors and there is no charge for the event (except for individual lunch and travel costs) and the ‘local’ workshop is held in York on 1 October 2014.

BMA Committee Visitors Scheme
The BMA recently launched the Committee Visitors Scheme – an initiative aimed at encouraging grassroots members of the Association to participate in the Committee process, particularly women. They have had an encouraging number of participants to the scheme so far, and there are still a number of seats available for the 2014-15 session. The Chair of BMA Council Mark Porter published a blog on the BMA website supporting the initiative for its desire to break down barriers to medico-politics. You will find more information on the Committee Visitors Scheme.