Trust shows how to be an ‘expert patient’

Jan 10 2008 by Neil Atkinson, Huddersfield Daily Examiner

PEOPLE from across Kirklees with long term illnesses are being offered places on the successful Expert Patients’ Programme organised by the local NHS.

Kirklees Primary Care Trust (PCT) is inviting people who have any long-term health conditions such as diabetes, asthma, arthritis or heart disease to attend the free course.

The programme provides a set of tried and tested skills which have been shown to lead to many benefits for people with long term health conditions, helping people feel better and more in control of their lives.

Participants will learn ideas and techniques about relaxation, healthy eating, exercise, and dealing with anger, fear, frustration, isolation, fatigue and depression.

Marilyn Horton, User Involvement Manager at Kirklees PCT, said the Expert Patients’ Programme, which has been running since October 2003, has helped many people to cope with stress levels induced by their illnesses and given them a lot more confidence.

Some participants have even managed to go back to full time employment.

“People who have learned to live with and manage a chronic illness usually have a good understanding of what makes their condition better or worse,” she said.

“Going on an Expert Patients’ Programme means they can share those experiences with others who have a similar illness as well as picking up ideas for improving their wellbeing.

“The Expert Patients’ Programme has been a life-changing experience for some participants.

“Courses will be running throughout the year across Kirklees and we want people with long term health conditions, or those people looking after someone with a long term health condition, to take part in the programme,” added Marilyn.

More than 400 people from all over Kirklees have completed the programme and become ‘expert patients’, with 16 going on to train as tutors.

The programme is supported by local healthcare professionals who recognise the benefits of the course and refer patients on to it.

However, anyone with a long term health condition can refer themselves on to one of the courses.

The next one starts on Wednesday, January 16, at Beckside Court, Batley from 10 until 11.30am.

The one after starts on January 31 at the Brian Jackson Centre, Huddersfield from 10am until 11.30am.

For more dates and information or to book a place, contact:

Marilyn Horton on 01924 351423 or e-mail: marilyn.horton@ kirkleespct.nhs.uk or Susan Bateman on 01924 351431 or e-mail susan.bateman @kirkleespct.nhs.uk