According to RedArc’s new patient data, the demand for support in Parkinson’s cases increased by 75% YoY. Arthritis was up 33%, Fibromyalgia 22%, Multiple Sclerosis 11%, according to a comparison of 2024 and 2023. This translates to a collective 30% increase in these long-term conditions.
A growing and aging population is causing an increase in the diagnosis of some of these diseases. The UK Dementia Research Institute reports that Parkinson’s disease is the fastest-growing neurological condition in the entire world. Musculoskeletal disorders, like rheumatoid, are also estimated to cause over 23 million missed working days each year. RedArc attributes the increased demand for support to the growing awareness that insurance policies and employee benefits can provide a wealth of support to those with long-term illnesses.
RedArc asks employers and insurers to offer and communicate this type of assistance more effectively.
Living With Long-Term Conditions
The best support for long-term illnesses must include holistic care, such as:
Support for mental issues: Do not underestimate the emotional toll that living with long-term conditions or a family member with long-term conditions can have. Support for mental health issues: Many people with long-term illnesses can suffer from depression and other mental disorders that can affect their daily lives.
Support at work: Although being employed is seen as good for mental health, and a way to remain financially independent, the condition can fluctuate and people may need help in figuring out how to communicate their needs to their employer.
Support for new treatments: A long-term illness may lead to the patient being presented with novel treatment options. Support also includes being able to discuss this with someone with clinical training.
Support for alternative therapies: People in this situation may value the support of alternative therapies, as they can manage pain and sleep problems. It can be helpful to discuss this with a professional in order to make sure that the therapy is suitable, such as in terms of medication.
Christine Husbands is the commercial director at RedArc. She said: “Surprisingly patients with long-term conditions don’t need long-term support. Clinical support can help those with long-term illnesses cope with their conditions. This could be while they wait for a diagnosis or as they come to terms with the illness.
Support for long-term illnesses is essential. Support at the right moment can help an individual feel like they are able to cope with their illness. This is what employers and insurance companies should strive for.
HR News published the first version of The demand for support for Parkinson’s and other long term conditions has increased by 30%.
