National trial could benefit patients

PEOPLE who suffer from asthma, diabetes, back pain or heart disease are needed to take part in a national research trial.

The trial is being carried out by the National Primary Care Research and Development Centre in partnership with the Universities of Bristol, Manchester and York.

The aim is to look at how effective the NHS Expert Patients' Programme is in helping people to self-manage chronic and long-term health conditions.

The programme helps those who have learned to manage their own chronic illness or disease to pass on their knowledge and advice to others with similar illnesses.

Dawn Gaukroger, Patient Advice and Liaison Service Manager for the Huddersfield Central and South Huddersfield Primary Care Trusts, said: "Huddersfield is one of only 25 areas in the country running an Expert Patients' Programme and this national research will help us to find out what impact it is having on the lives of those taking part.

"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, and have tips for coping.

"Going on an Expert Patients' course means they can share those experiences and suggestions with others who have a similar illness."

The Expert Patients course offers an opportunity to learn skills including:

* Relaxation

* Better breathing

* Healthy eating and nutrition

* Exercise

* How to communicate more effectively

* Dealing with anger, fear, frustration, isolation, fatigue and depression

* Using problem-solving skills in daily lives.

Anyone who has a chronic illness or long-term health condition, who would like to take part in the research, should call 0800 161 3828 to find out details.