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Delay in appointing a MS nurse 9/2/13
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) campaigners are concerned at the delays in getting a dedicated MS nurse. The service has not been established despite funding arrangements agreed between the Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Society nearly seven months ago.
Campaigners say a dedicated MS nurse would be a valuable lifeline to island sufferers
and their families who are affected by the “hidden condition” -
The Western Isles has over 80 people diagnosed with MS yet is the only region without a specialist nurse.
MS affects the nerves in the brain and spinal cord, causing problems with controlling muscles and limbs. People’s sight and balance can be affected. There is a large range of symptoms with no typical pattern.
One woman in Harris was selling her home to be near help on the mainland. Others are forced on exhausting trips to the central belt for advice. Even more suffer without support.
The MS Society pledged to fund a full time MS Nurse for the first nine months when NHS Western Isles will take over the costs.
MPAngus Brendan MacNeil said: “There has been a long fought campaign to see a dedicated MS nurse in the Western Isles.”
He added: “Campaigners are worried at the time it is taking to appoint a member of staff.
“I have written to NHS Western Isles to ask that they try to find a way to overcome the difficulties and recruit a dedicated MS nurse for the Western Isles.”
MSP, Alasdair Allan commented:“The campaign to have a dedicated MS nurse in the Western Isles is recognition of the unusually high incidence of this condition in the islands; there is currently a limited range of options for ongoing advice and treatment locally without a dedicated nurse.
NHS Western Isles has now advertised the post though campaigners fear it may be nearer summer before service becomes available.