People with poor physical health are at higher risk of experiencing mental health problems and conversely those with poor mental health are more likely to have poor physical health. Currently physical and mental health treatments tend to be viewed, and delivered, as separate health services. The vision for Parity of Esteem is to create a healthcare system which values mental health equally with physical health. This requires an integrated approach to the commissioning of services which address the physical needs of those with mental health problems and address the mental health needs of patients with a physical problem.
The parity of esteem work programme will relate to the work of all four strategic clinical networks. Initial projects already underway include:
- Smoking cessation and respiratory health in people with mental health problems - working in partnership with the SW Respiratory Network to improve the provision of suitable services for those with mental health issues
- Follow-up protocols for patients prescribed anti-psychotic medication - working with the medicines management team to review the support available for those dealing with the side-effects of anti-psychotic drugs
- Training programme to support the physical health in serious mental illness CQUIN - local delivery of a training programme for mental health nurses which will support implementation of the national physical health CQUIN
To find out more about the Parity of Esteem call to action click here
