Our vision is a world where everyone all of ages living with inflammatory arthritis can freely pursue their dreams and live life to the full.
The NHS 10-Year Plan was released yesterday, read the full report here and while we are still taking the time to fully digest its contents, we welcome the broad ambitions it sets out. At Inflammatory Arthritis UK, we are committed to ensuring that the voices of people living with inflammatory arthritis (IA) of all ages and at every stage of their journey, are heard and reflected in the evolving healthcare landscape.
Overall, the plan is a positive step forward. We agree that the NHS must change to meet the challenges of the future, and we are encouraged by the focus on modernisation, localised care, and prevention. However, as with any major reform, the details will be key, particularly for those living with complex, lifelong conditions like IA.
One of the key changes proposed is the creation of a Neighbourhood Health Service, which will shift more care into communities and closer to home. While this could offer more accessible support for many, the NHS is currently very hospital-centric, and for most people living with IA, care is delivered via outpatient departments. We are unclear how this new model will impact access to rheumatology services, particularly when children with IA are seen in tertiary centres often further away from home than the local hospital. We will seek urgent clarity on how this reconfiguration will support all IA patients, adults and children alike.
The plan also outlines a significant move from analogue to digital systems, including improvements to the NHS App, new options for booking GP appointments, and a digital version of the Red Book for children’s health records. We see potential for positive change here, especially in enhancing communication and continuity of care. However, implementation must be inclusive, accessible, and responsive to the needs of people with IA, some of whom may struggle with digital tools or lack access altogether. We will be watching closely for details on timelines and patient involvement.
We note that one of the NHS’s core goals is to shift from a focus on sickness to prevention. While this is a commendable aim, we want to make clear that inflammatory arthritis is not preventable, at least not yet. The causes of IA remain largely unknown, although risk factors like smoking are recognised. It is critical that prevention policies do not overlook or misrepresent conditions like IA. People living with these diseases must not be made to feel responsible for developing them. Until we understand the root causes, early diagnosis and timely treatment remain the best path to improved outcomes.
We will continue to work closely with the government and other advocacy organisations to ensure that the needs of people living with inflammatory arthritis are front and centre as these changes unfold. This includes championing timely diagnosis, especially for those still undiagnosed, as prompt access to treatment gives the best chance for a better quality of life.
We will be engaging with NHS leaders in the coming weeks to better understand how the plan will be implemented and where our community can make the most impact.
Inflammatory Arthritis UK stands ready to help shape this new vision, and to make sure no one living with IA is left behind.
