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NHS 'failing' multiple sclerosis patients

09/07/2008

Just over a third of people with multiple sclerosis (MS) have access to the recommended rehabilitation services, according to a study published today.

The research revealed other weaknesses in MS care and claims that the NHS is failing to implement the 2003 guidelines on the management of MS from the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (Nice).

It was carried out by the Royal College of Physicians and the MS Trust and asked people with MS, hospital trusts, primary care trusts, and the strategic health authorities a series of questions based on the six key recommendations and one quality marker of the Nice guidelines.

The study revealed that access to neurological rehabilitation services remains "wholly inadequate", with just 36 per cent of people with MS having access to such services.

The RCP says that if neurological rehabilitation were readily available, the severity of disability would be reduced.

Although access to specialist neurological services has improved, there are still long delays from GP referral to diagnosis, with half of all patients waiting over 20 weeks.

The survey also reports that six per cent of people surveyed had developed a skin pressure ulcer during the previous 12 months.

Occurrence of pressure sores was Nice's identified 'quality marker' for MS services.

A grade four pressure ulcer costs the NHS an estimated £10,551, with total costs in the UK at £1.4 to £2.1 billion - about four per cent of the total NHS expenditure.

RCP president Professor Ian Gilmore said it is "incredible" that Nice guidelines are not being met five years after their implementation.

Christine Jones, chief executive of the MS Trust, added: "If you have MS and you have access to the services you need, you are in a fortunate position.

"Unfortunately it is still a matter of geographical accident. The postcode lottery is about basic services - continence, prevention of pressure sores, being assessed for the right wheelchair if you need it, pain relief.

"Quality services should not depend on the accident of finding a doctor or a nurse who really understands and responds to your needs. It should be built into the commissioning structure of the NHS - and it is not."