Labour AM Jeff Cuthbert co-sponsored and opened the Parkinson’s UK Nurses Report Launch which was held at the historical Pierhead Building on 5 July to raise support for increased access to Parkinson’s nurses, who deliver expert accessible care for people suffering from the neurological condition.
The report highlighted the importance of the specialist nurses, who provide cost effective care, either at home or in nurse-led clinics. Improved local access has led to increased patient satisfaction and confidence and NICE has recognised that Parkinson’s nurses deliver cost savings.
Parkinson’s nurses were introduced 20 years ago and there are now 15 Parkinson’s nurses in Wales. In the last five years nursing posts have been created in Flintshire, Gwynedd, Conwy, Anglesey, North Powys, Cwm Taf and Wrexham, however there are still three priority areas, Aneurin Bevan, Cardiff and Vale and Neath Port Talbot Local Health Boards, where more nurses are needed.
Jeff Cuthbert AM said:
‘I have been working with Parkinson’s UK for quite some time now and I’m the President of the Parkinson’s UK Caerphilly branch. It is a complex disorder which can’t be cured, but can be slowed with medication.
‘This report provides a viable solution to caring for Parkinson’s patients and excellent evidence as to how effective Parkinson’s nurses are and where there are gaps in services. I am keen to ensure that more nurses are introduced in the priority areas, to ensure that Welsh patients get the best possible care and that everyone has equal access to services.’
