Playing your part

If implemented effectively, the framework will lead to significant improvements in health outcomes for people with arthritis and their experiences with the NHS and other statutory bodies, as well as providing a more cost effective and integrated health service. It is hoped that areas of under provision of services will be identified and improvements made.

What can you do?

This is all good news for people with arthritis, but what can you do to make sure the framework is used practically?

The MSF is a document that is there to help people with arthritis. It will be a good idea to read the patient booklet, Information for People with Bone and Joint Problems, that Arthritis Care has developed in a unique partnership with the Department of Health. It has useful information on how the MSF will affect you as a patient. The booklet is available in pdf format on the Arthritis Care website.

The MSF will not change things overnight. It will be a gradual transition that can be helped by you.

The framework specifically mentions the need for services to support self care, which is advocated by Arthritis Care who already have a self management programme for people with arthritis. This is about taking control of your condition and finding the right set of services to suit your particular needs. It is envisaged that the framework will encourage a holistic approach to patient needs.

You can ask your GP for more information on local services such as local patient groups you can join, or ask about health professionals that specialise in your condition in order for you to access the right care.

You may not know about particular services provided by your local councils or health service partners. It is important to arm yourself with the right information from reliable sources that are available to you such as health professionals, local clinics, patient organisations including Arthritis Care or even your local Patient Advice and Liaison Services, (PALS)