Making a success of providing NHS Health Checks in community pharmacies across the Tees Valley: a qualitative study.

Background: In England and Wales, the Department of Health introduced a primary prevention programme, NHS Health Checks, to provide screening for cardiovascular risk amongst people aged 40-74. The aim of this programme is to offer treatment and advice to those identified with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVD).The North East of England has some of the highest rates of CVD in the UK and prevention is therefore a priority.

The '2-week rule' for suspected breast carcinoma: a qualitative study of the views of patients and professionals.

Background: The '2-week rule' for the referral of patients with potential cancers is an important but controversial development.

Aims: To investigate the 2-week rule for women with breast problems from the perspective of the patients and of healthcare professionals.

Design Of Study: Qualitative study using semi-structured interviews.

The 2-week rule for patients with suspected breast cancer: what can be learnt by analysing policy documents?

The '2-week rule', introduced in the UK during 1999, represents a significant organisational change for referral of patients with suspected breast cancer. From an analysis of policy documents, a mixture of influences and agendas from different interest groups are apparent in the current working of the policy. These include political/modernisation agendas with a variety of aims including: reducing variation in care, efficient administration, reassuring patients, improving public confidence, earlier referral and lowering the threshold for referral to improve mortality figures.