EDM 1663: Access to care and support for people living with arthritis

That this House recognises the significant impact that arthritis and other musculoskeletal conditions have on the lives of over 10 million people across the UK; acknowledges that arthritis can affect mobility, independence and quality of life, and is a leading cause of pain and disability; notes concerns raised by patients and healthcare professionals about long waiting times for diagnosis, treatment and joint replacement surgery, as well as variation in access to services such as rheumatology, physiotherapy and pain management; further notes that in rural areas such as Wiltshire, patients may face additional barriers in accessing care, including longer travel times to clinics, limited availability of local services and workforce shortages; believes that access to high-quality, timely and local care is essential to improving outcomes for people living with arthritis; supports the expansion of early intervention and community services, including improved access to GPs, pharmacists and diagnostic services; recognises the importance of investment in medical research to improve treatment options and quality of life for people with long-term conditions; and calls on the Government to work with NHS leaders, patient groups and researchers to improve services for people with arthritis, address the particular needs of rural communities, and support efforts to reduce variation and delays in care.