What do we do?
- Versus Arthritis works with Northumberland CCG to offer Shared Decision-Making services for all patients with osteoarthritis of the knee and/or hip, to help patients feel more empowered to make informed decisions about their ongoing healthcare.
- All our services are free for patients to attend and are run virtually or in local accessible venues.
- We ensure all patients are given up-to-date, quality information on their healthcare options, such as; managing pain, diet, weight loss, exercise and the risks and benefits of surgery.
- Patients also receive an information pack at each service.
How can our service help patients?
- Give patients access to the information, support and services they need to make informed choices and take control.
- Give patients the opportunity to share and hear about other people's experiences living with arthritis, to promote the value of peer support.
- Help patients better understand their condition.
- Help patients feel more confident to manage their condition, including symptoms such as pain.
- Have the necessary information to make positive lifestyle changes such as reviewing diet.
- Help patients feel less isolated.
- Increase patients self-confidence.
- Find out and get in touch with other local support services.
How can patients access the Service?
- Patients can be referred by their GP, Link Workers, FCPs or JMAPS using the referral form provided.
- Patients can also now self-refer themselves using this link
- Patients will be taken to a landing page to explain the services and then they can self-refer themselves from there.
