World Health Organization (WHO)describes chronic medical conditions as: “Diseases which have one or more of the following characteristics: they are permanent, leave residual disability, are caused by non-reversible pathological alteration, require special training of the patient for rehabilitation, or may be expected to require a long period of supervision, observation or care”. In recent times, we see many people living with various chronic diseases that place different types of demands on the individual. One may be treated using medications, surgery, therapies and various others either simultaneously or sequentially. Furthermore, they may be required to make lifestyle changes such as diet […]

We all can agree that healthcare is built on trust. In order to trust someone. We need to let our guards down. Guards are barriers to healthcare access. There are many barriers to healthcare access such as physical geography, availability of services, transportation, healthcare provider-related barriers, culture, communication, language, finances and various others. These barriers cause health inequalities, which result in poor health outcomes and poor quality of life. In order to see better health in the community, it is important to break down these barriers. Healthcare is no more local but global. The community we live in is multicultural. […]

In the last few decades, the world has seen a shift from doctor-centred to a person-centred care in various healthcare systems. Patient‐centred care is an growing concept, which was originally depicted by Edith Balint in 1969 as “understanding the patient as a unique human being. Many healthcare systems and organisations have been keen to improve their performance through the implementation of a person-centred care (PCC) model. PCC is a model in which healthcare providers are encouraged to partner with patients to co‐design and deliver personalised care that provides people with the high‐quality care they need. This form of approach is […]

A Winter Fuel Payment of between £100 and £300 tax-free is available to help you pay your heating bills if you were born on or before January 5 1953. Find out more about the Winter Fuel Payment.

Check on older neighbours or relatives to make sure they’re safe and well. Make sure they’re warm enough, especially at night, and have stocks of food and medicines so they don’t need to go out during very cold weather. If you’re worried about a relative or an elderly neighbour, contact your local council or ring the Age UK helpline on 0800 678 1174.

Wrap up warm, inside and out. Wear lots of thin layers – clothes made from cotton, wool or fleecy fibres are particularly good and help to maintain body heat. Wear shoes with a good grip to prevent slips and falls when walking outside. If possible, stay inside during a cold period if you have heart or respiratory problems.

If you have reduced mobility, are 65 or over, or have a health condition such as heart or lung disease, you should heat your home to at least 18C. It’s a good idea to keep your bedroom at this temperature all night if you can. During the day you may prefer your living room to be slightly warmer. Make sure you wear enough clothes to stay warm. If you’re under 65 and healthy and active, you can safely have your house cooler than 18C, if you’re comfortable. You can also use a hot water bottle or electric blanket (but not both […]