Future of neurology services debated at Public Accounts Committee

20 January 2012

Our chief executive, Steve Ford, gave evidence this week at the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) about neurology services in England. Steve spoke as Chair of the the Neurological Alliance.

The Neurological Alliance represents more than 70 charities and organisations for people with neurological conditions, such as Parkinson's.

This crucial meeting followed the damning report from the National Audit Office in December 2011.

The report exposed the problems with services provided to people with neurological conditions including Parkinson's, multiple sclerosis and motor neurone disease.

A national plan for neurology

Steve spoke about the need for a national plan for neurology services, similar to those for stroke or diabetes.

He also highlighted the need for clear leadership from a 'neurology tsar' - a top healthcare professional who would lead and direct services across the country.

Steve emphasised how important neurology networks across the country could be. These networks would share knowledge and expertise about neurology to make sure people with Parkinson's get access to the best services.

The National Audit Office report showed that, although an extra £800million has been spent on neurology since 2005, improvements had been patchy.

Steve explained that a national plan would mean resources could be better targeted and would help provide better quality of care.

A lively debate

Following Steve's evidence, Sir David Nicholson, Chief Executive of the NHS and others answered questions about neurology services. It was a lively debate with some thorough questioning by the committee's panel.

Sir David recognised that the Government has not prioritised neurological conditions before but said that they may be able to focus on it now.

He also acknowledged that services were not up to scratch, commenting: "I am not saying that the services we provide are adequate".

What happens next?

Now, within 6 to 8 weeks, the Public Accounts Committee will publish their recommendations about what the Department of Health should do next to improve neurology services. Then the Government will have to respond to these recommendations.

We will continue to fight to ensure that people with Parkinson's get access to better treatments and care across the country, and keep the campaign momentum going.

Steve Ford our chief executive, comments:

"We are pleased that the Public Accounts Committee recognised the strength of the evidence we presented to them about problems with neurology services.

"I hope that the NHS will learn from mistakes of the past and we can work together to improve services for people with neurological conditions in the future."

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