Chronic care management
There is more awareness today that many health conditions do not go away and need to be managed not cured.
- This has led to the government producing guidance on managing long term conditions, of which SCI can be considered to be one.
- To manage chronic health conditions more effectively will require healthcare to change.
- Innovations in chronic SCI care may benefit from awareness of new developments in how chronic illnesses (such as diabetes) are being managed.
The chronic care model consists of six interrelated components:
- self-management support
- clinical information systems
- delivery system redesign
- decision support
- health care organization
- community resources.
Together, these six elements can produce system reform in which informed patients interact with prepared, proactive practice teams.
Studies show that interventions based on the chronic care model
- can improve outcomes for those using the system
- can be more cost effective for the health service and
- are more respectful and less intrusive on your life.
Self management support
What does this consist of for you and the NSIC?- The NSIC supports Health coaching to help you gain the ability to actively participate in your care. This is not a separate part of your rehabilitation but part of the goal planning and wider interaction with the rehabilitation team. When in the community the NHS is looking to roll out more people who can continue this. Find out more at england.nhs.uk/personalisedcare/supported-self-management
- Peer support is promoted with interaction from Back Up and the Spinal Injuries Association as well as staff based in the education department. Self management education is currently provided by our education programme in the unit and the website we support.
- A longer term plan will include training people with SCI to be life-long learners regarding their own health, in partnership with health and social care staff.
- Clinical information systems – The NSIC needs to continue to invest in people and systems so we can be more responsive to ongoing education in the years after injury via our website and apps.
