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    'Postcode lottery' for neuromuscular patients

    Posted on 04/12/2007

    People with neuromuscular conditions face a 'postcode lottery' for their treatment, a new report has claimed.

    The report by the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign reveals 'vast disparities in service provision' for those living with a neuromuscular disease, and condemns what it calls a 'sub-standard system of care'.

    The report cites the example of regional differences for those living with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). Patients with DMD in the South West were reported to have a life expectancy twelve years shorter than those in the North East.

    The report also criticises the need for patients to travel long distances, in some cases driving for up to five hours, to receive specialist treatment.

    Philip Butcher, chief executive of the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign, said: 'It is essential that the Department of Health and the NHS recognise the specialist nature of the care needed by patients with neuromuscular diseases and ensure that such services are available to all patients, regardless of where they live.'

    Co-author of the report, Professor Mike Hanna, said: 'It is simply unacceptable that life expectancy for conditions such as Duchenne muscular dystrophy can be halved, after diagnosis, depending on your postcode.'



    Category: Healthcare


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