About 60% of adults report some form of long-term or chronic health problem, including diabetes, asthma, arthritis, heart disease, depression, psoriasis and other skin conditions that can be controlled but not cured. Long-term conditions affect older people more than younger people. People in lower socio-economic groups are more likely to be diagnosed with more than one condition.
The Expert Patient Programme supports people with long-term conditions to increase their confidence and improve their quality of life. Courses are designed to help patients develop skills in communication, managing emotions, managing daily activities, using the healthcare system, planning for the future and also improving their health through exercise, diet and ability to rest. Following the current pilot phase, we will make the course available through all PCTs by 2008.*
* The course will be available in a range of languages and media for people whose first language is not English and for people who may have sensory impairments or disabilities
28. Health professionals need to consider the long-term benefits of encouraging patients to adopt healthy lifestyles even when advice on giving up smoking, exercising or changing diet is unwelcome and may initially make relationships difficult. For older, frailer people, who are more vulnerable to loss of independence and dignity, the right kind of support can markedly improve their ability to take ownership of planning and following through a healthy lifestyle.
29. The new arrangements in primary care will be important in helping people with long-term conditions or multiple conditions to make the most of their health. Most people with chronic diseases or disabilities are able to manage their condition themselves and to maintain reasonable general health with support from others. With help to develop their skills they can take greater control of their own health and their lives. The right support can often either slow the progression of the disease or reduce the problems of managing severe phases of illness.
30. We will ensure that community matrons take the lead in providing personalised care and health advice with support from health trainers. By 2008, there will be 3,000 Community Matrons who will take on responsibility for case-managing patients with complex health problems.
31. Giving health improvement advice can help people with chronic conditions improve their fitness and overall quality of life. Community Matrons will identify vulnerable people who are at risk or who would benefit from health advice to prevent deterioration in their condition, so that their needs can be better met, and the risk of deterioration or hospital admission can be minimised.
32. Using proven best practice and modern information technology, local services will have the ability to provide targeted support. The Department of Health will advertise for independent sector partners to work with the NHS in a number of areas to develop new approaches to supporting health as part of self-care for chronic conditions linked to personal health guides.
