Neurology standards slammed in new report

MPs investigating neurology services in England have slammed them for being inadequate and ‘well below’ standard in a Public Accounts Committee (PAC) report published today.

The committee - the government’s own scrutiny body - have published the report following their investigation into the findings from the National Audit Office (NAO) that suggested poor services for neurology remain, despite an increase in spending by the Department of Health.   

Today’s report makes a raft of recommendations to the government including the appointment of a neurology ‘tsar’ and the introduction of personal care plans for everyone with a neurological condition. You can email your MP and make sure the recommendations are implemented.

Nick Rijke, Director of Policy & Research at the MS Society said:

“It’s reassuring that MPs have confirmed what we have been arguing for some time - that neurology services need a step change in leadership and quality.

“Of course there are examples of great practice, but the big picture is much murkier.  Patients have to have their needs properly assessed and services need to be commissioned to meet those needs. It’s not rocket science, yet, as this report shows, neurology services are often below par, they are poorly coordinated and people with MS are left to struggle for basic care.

“We badly need the government to appoint a clinical champion and to ensure that this raft of recommendations is implemented.”

Take action to ensure the government acts upon the PAC's recommendations by emailing your MP.