A shift to more integrated care could have a transformational effect for people with MS
A recent report, published following an independent investigation into the state of the NHS in England, highlighted critical priorities for the future of healthcare.
The launch of the report, and a consultation by the government in response to the report, focus on three key areas: 1) moving care from hospitals to communities; 2) making better use of technology; and 3) prevention (including lifestyle). These priorities align seamlessly with the mission of Overcoming MS. By advocating for structured lifestyle programmes, digital solutions, and enhanced specialist support, Overcoming MS embodies the forward-thinking, patient-centred approach the NHS urgently needs.
In discussing the impact of the report, Overcoming MS Chair, Dowshan Humzah, summarised his thoughts: “As highlighted from the recent NHS review, there are three priority areas for the NHS: community care, technology (digital) and prevention (lifestyle).
Cutting across these three areas, we at Overcoming MS would like to see the care pathways of those affected by MS improved. We want to ensure lifestyle (and particularly structured programmes like our Overcoming MS Program) is part of initial discussions with those diagnosed with MS, alongside improved in-person care (more nurse specialists) and the use of digital products (eg the Overcoming MS Live Well Hub). Ideally, we aspire to see the conversation attuned with the values of Overcoming MS, engaging people with MS in a more optimistic and hopeful manner.”
Overcoming MS Chief Executive, Alexandra Holden, said “The performance and development of the NHS is of global interest, as all governments look to manage health budgets with increasing populations and increasing levels of illness. Future changes implemented will have an impact on people well beyond the UK. If other countries were to follow this shift to more integrated care and a focus on lifestyle, this could have a transformational effect on health care for people with MS.”
People who live in England are invited to have their say on the NHS before 2nd December 2024.
The NHS is running a formal consultation on the future of the NHS. We will be submitting a response from Overcoming MS calling for more preventative and holistic care, as well as joined up services between hospitals and community. If you’re England-based, we’d encourage you to add your views through both the survey and the ‘Your experiences’ where you can share about care you’ve received – both positive and negative. This is a great opportunity to help shape an NHS that works for people with MS and their families, so please do take part if you can.
Take the survey here: https://change.nhs.uk/
Resources:
Independent Investigation of the National Health Service in England
“Everybody knows that prevention is better than cure. Interventions that protect health tend to be far less costly than dealing with the consequences of illness.”
