Breath test will ensure Hertfordshire patients have really kicked habit before they are referred for non-urgent operationsSmokers in Hertfordshire are to be breathalysed to ensure they have kicked the habit before they are referred for non-urgent surgery. The measures have been brought in by East and North Hertfordshire clinical commissioning group (CCG) and Hertfordshire Valleys CCG, which together are attempting to save £68m. The proposals, revealed by the Health Service Journal, require smokers to have given up for at least eight weeks. “While it is right that patients are supported to lose weight or stop smoking, this should not be a condition of them receiving surgery. This goes against clinical guidance and leaves patients waiting long periods of time in pain and discomfort.

Source: The Guardian October 18, 2017 12:45 UTC