Waiting lists clearly not coping

Waiting lists clearly not coping

“Waiting lists are clearly not coping with demand,” Arthritis New Zealand Chief Executive said today. She was referring to research published today showing that one in three people requiring elective surgery are being turned away from waiting lists. While the study refers only to two District Health Board areas reports from around the country suggest these issues are a national concern.

“Incidence of osteoarthritis is increasing, and the age of diagnosis is dropping. This is resulting people being unable to work, causing additional financial burdens.”

“Demand for joint replacement surgery is now so great, that increasing the number of elective surgeries available will not keep up with demand. And simply putting people off waiting lists, as is happening now, is not going to solve anything.”

“There is much that can be done to reduce the health burden of arthritis. Programmes like tailored exercises, pain management, self management and physiotherapy have all been proven to help. While GPs are providing a great service, engagement with community providers to deliver these programmes will cut pain and ultimately help manage the demand.”

“Arthritis New Zealand has been delivering a variety of such programmes across the country for many years, and every day it sees the benefits they bring to people who are living with arthritis. And investment in programmes like this generates a long term dividend in the form of a reduced health burden.”

“Just before the election, the government promised that, if re-elected, it would invest $36 million over the next three years in a plan to help New Zealanders live free from bone, muscle and joint pain. It now has a golden opportunity to start delivering on this promise,” Ms Kirby concluded.

ends

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