Addressing the Arthritis and Rheumatology Association’s general meeting, Parliamentary Secretary for Health Chris Fearne emphasised how the Government’s vision for the public health sector seeks to provide high standard care across the whole spectrum with the patient as its pivotal point.
“This in contrast to a scenario which historically invariably lead to some areas of health care being deemed as less deserving than others. Such was the case with rehabilitation services.”
Dr Fearne said that it is estimated that some 30% of all consultations by general practitioners are triggered by musculoskeletal ailments, with an ageing population bound to increase demands for treatment related to such conditions as osteoarthritis and osteoporosis.
“Whilst excellent health care is already enjoyed by most, we want to ascertain the best outcomes for all. Specifically we need to improve services for patients suffering from musculoskeletal conditions. Hence our plans for the rebirth of St Luke’s Hospital now encompass a purposely built top-notch rehabilitation centre,” stressed Parliamentary Secretary Chris Fearne.
Dr Chris Fearne announced that the Department of Health is on track to launch a fibromyalgia clinic delivered through the public health centres network.
“Appreciative of the ordeal that fibromyalgia can signify, we are striving to launch a new service that will afford specialised treatment to these patients,” stated Dr Fearne.
Dr Chris Fearne went on to highlight the ever-increasing need for an across society approach to most aspects of health care, to particularly the invaluable collaboration between public institutions, non-government organisations and patient advocacy groups.