Government has appointed a working group of patients, advocates and experts to make recommendations to improve supports and services for people living with inflammatory arthritis.
“Not being able to turn a doorknob at the age of 28 because of the pain in my hands was a frightening experience, but I was fortunate to receive an early diagnosis and take medication that allows me to continue living an active lifestyle,” said Sean Lewis of Halifax, who lives with inflammatory arthritis and will chair the working group.
“Unfortunately, not all Nova Scotians are getting the diagnosis and treatment they need, and are suffering from inflammatory arthritis. Our work will focus on providing more timely access to proper diagnosis and treatment, and hopefully a better quality of life.”
The working group will review resources and supports available for people with inflammatory arthritis, including testing, wait times, specialist appointments, medications and treatment, and management options.
“As we transition to make the health-care system more efficient, now is the time to hear from those directly impacted about how we can put the needs of individuals, families and patients of inflammatory arthritis first,” said Health and Wellness Minister Leo Glavine.
The other working group members are:
— Dr. Ron Stewart, former minister of health, and professor emeritus, division of medical education at Dalhousie University
— Nik Harris, young patient living with inflammatory arthritis
— Susan Tilley-Russell, Nova Scotia Arthritis Society
— Kevin Chapman, Doctors Nova Scotia
— Dr. Trudy Taylor, adult rheumatologist
— Dr. Elizabeth Stringer, pediatric rheumatologist
— Dr. Shelagh Leahey, family physician
— Charlotte Warrington, health director Glooscap First Nation
— Nancy MacDonald, nurse practitioner
— Darla MacPherson, Chronic Disease Prevention and Management Advisory Committee
“We are so pleased to be standing together with the province announcing the recognition of inflammatory arthritis as a chronic disease in Nova Scotia,” said Susan Tilley-Russell, executive director of The Arthritis Society’s Maritime region.
“The working group will ensure that Nova Scotia improves patient access to treatment, regardless of where they live in our province.”
The working group will meet regularly over the next six months and will submit recommendations in early spring.
Source: Release
