The DH have announced the release of a guidance document for supporting self-care of long-term conditions, such as diabetes, that include use of e-mail and SMS to ease pressure on GPs and A&E departments by up to 50%. ‘Self Care – A Real Choice’ represents a recognition by the DH that initiatives such as multi-media information materials and online networks can help people look after themselves more effectively. John Reid, Secretary of State for Health, said: “It’s all about empowering patients and the public to take more control over their lives. Everybody is used to brushing their teeth regularly to keep the dentist at bay. We are looking to get more people to adopt this proactive approach towards their general healthcare." While the document doesn’t announce any new initiatives, it claims there are several instances of how technology can be used to improve self care, such as NHS Care Records Service (CRS) and NHS Direct Online. Additionally, it promises the development of new online directories of self-care support and community networks, funded by the new GMS contract. “Society is changing,” says the document. “People want more information, choice and control over their lives and this is no different for health." The DH has set up a Self Care website, which it has promised will be updated regularly with new guidance and examples of how self-care works in practice, from both a technological and a non-technological perspective.
Links
Self Care: Department of Health