Short Answer Questions

Chapter 9: Long-term conditions

« Return to chapter list

1. Define what is meant by long-term condition.

A long-term condition is sometimes referred to as a chronic condition. It is a condition that cannot, at present, be cured but is controlled by medication and/or other treatment/therapies.

2. Is a long-term condition something only an older person has?

No, the risks increase as a person gets older but people may become ill or be disabled earlier in life or be born with a condition requiring lifelong management.

3. Is long-term care given in nursing homes or residential facilities?

Most people receive care in their own homes, and about 80% of at-home care is given by relatives or other unpaid caregivers which may include bathing or feeding.

4. What is meant by the phrase "No decision about me without me"?

The Health and Social Care Act 2012 reinforced the importance of improving quality and choice of care for patients and increasing transparency. The term "co-production" is used to describe the approach applied to public service delivery in which patients and service users become active participants in their own care rather than passive recipients of services designed and delivered by someone else. It emphasizes that the people who use services have assets (skills, knowledge) that can help to improve those services, rather than simply needs which must be met.

5. What accounts for the rise in people living with long-term conditions and what are the implications for the NHS?

As people live longer, they are more likely to live with a chronic condition – 60% of those over 60 years do so. There will be a much greater emphasis on self-management within the community to reduce dependence on acute care.

6. What are the five "Es" to self-management?

• Educate
• Enthuse
• Enable
• Empower
• Embed

7. What is telehealth and why is it important for people with long-term conditions?

Telehealth is equipment to monitor people's health in their own home. It may include a small device that can take readings such as blood pressure, oxygen levels, weight and temperature via a telephone line to a monitoring centre. If the condition gets worse, it is picked up by the health care professional who contacts the person and takes appropriate action. It can monitor a condition at home and reduce demand on health services.

8. What is an expert patient programme?

The Expert Patient Programme is a peer-led, self-care support programme for people living with any long-term condition. It may focus on a specific condition such as diabetes or general aspects of living with a condition – dealing with pain and extreme tiredness; coping with feelings of depression; relaxation techniques and exercises; healthy eating; communicating with family, friends and health care professionals; planning for the future.