New Covid inquiry findings with Dr Kevin Fong, and invasive cosmetic procedures

New Covid inquiry findings with Dr Kevin Fong, and invasive cosmetic procedures

Author: The BMJ March 27, 2026 Duration: 43:40
The UK Covid Inquiry released Module Three of its findings this month. It lays out in startling detail the lived experiences of NHS staff and patients who bore through the pandemic. In the report’s words: ‘healthcare systems coped with the pandemic, but only just’.The BMJ speaks to Kevin Fong, anaesthetist lead for major incidence planning at UCL hospitals, to break down Module Three’s most important takeaways.And, invasive surgical cosmetic procedures are on the rise in the UK, with regulation patchy at best. From botox and fillers, to tummy tucks and breast surgeries, we hear about the gaps in patient protections that leave space for harm.Kevin Fong is a consultant anaesthetist, broadcaster, and anaesthetist lead for major incidence planning at UCL hospitals.Danielle Griffiths is an author and lecturer at the University of Liverpool’s School of Law.Alexandra Mullock is an author and senior lecturer in medical law at the University of Manchester.UK Covid Inquiry Module Three ReportRegulating invasive cosmetic procedures to reduce harm | The BMJ

Produced by The BMJ, this weekly audio series delves into the pivotal research and urgent clinical debates shaping modern medicine. Each episode moves beyond the published page, bringing together the authors, critics, and practitioners directly involved to dissect a new study or a pressing health question. The conversation is rigorous and nuanced, designed for those who appreciate the complexity behind headlines. You’ll hear unscripted discussion about methodology, implications for practice, and the occasional healthy disagreement that drives science forward. This isn't just a summary of the latest findings; it's a critical appraisal in real time, offering listeners a front-row seat to the evolving discourse that defines evidence-based care. The Medicine and Science from The BMJ podcast serves as an essential audio companion for clinicians, academics, and anyone keen to understand the ‘why’ and ‘how’ behind medical news. It transforms the latest evidence from the journal into an accessible, thought-provoking dialogue, ensuring that busy professionals can stay deeply informed. Tune in for a direct, intelligent, and often surprising take on the science that matters most.
Author: Language: en-gb Episodes: 100

Medicine and Science from The BMJ
Podcast Episodes
Doctors against the far right [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 31:11
Far right rallies have been held across the UK, culminating in a large parade in London where Elon Musk spoke. At the same time, politicians from across the political spectrum are following the talking points of far righ…
Doctors still have questions about the UK's assisted dying bill [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 38:05
In today’s episode: Assisted Dying moves closer to becoming UK law. The proposed legislation to allow people to end their own lives has moved through a second debate in the House of Lords. What do MPs and doctors think o…
Starvation in Gaza is a multi-generational disaster [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 36:45
In today’s episode: Rethinking how we measure the harm caused by the arms industry The life long, and multigenerational, impact of starvation in Gaza What is the appropriate focus on prevention in general practice? The B…
CRISPR, stemcell banking,  and a football world cup [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 36:16
CRISPR technology has revolutionised biological research, and for the first time it’s out of the lab and into the NHS, as NICE has approved its use as cost effective. Kenneth Charles, senior lecturer in haematology at th…
The pitfalls of home test kits [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 27:58
If you’ve been in a high street pharmacy or supermarket recently, chances are you’ll have seen home test kits for all sorts of indications; blood sugar level, vitamin deficiencies, thyroid function, and even some forms o…
The Future for Physician Associates? | Prof. Gillian Leng [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 52:53
Professor Gillian Leng, President of the Royal Society of Medicine was asked to carry out an independent review into the role of physician and anaesthetic associates. She sits down with Kamran Abbasi, editor in chief of…
NHS 10 year plan dissected [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 42:26
This week we’re focusing on the NHS. On the 3rd of July the UK’s Prime Minister, Kier Starmer finally announced the NHS’ 10 year plan. His Labour government laid out a vision for where the healthcare service should head…