Musculoskeletal Health Network
Inflammatory Arthritis Model of Care
The Musculoskeletal Health Network is facilitating implementation of the Inflammatory Arthritis Model of Care through partnerships with Western Australian health services and organisations.
The Network has established a working group to lead three projects:
- Facilitate establishment of outreach services in the outer metropolitan area.
- Identify potential drug monitoring and surveillance criteria and systems.
- Identify and prioritise the needs of rural and remote populations.
This group will be chaired by Dr Graeme Carroll.
Arthritis WA is leading several key areas, including:
- Consumer education and advice and access to self management tools.
- Rural service provision.
- Web–based resources for those seeking information on arthritis and its management.
The Inflammatory Arthritis Model of Care aims to improve service delivery by helping health professionals and services to:
- Identify, diagnose and initiate early treatment for inflammatory joint disease.
- Improve transition from paediatric to adult services.
- Improve access to assessment and coordinated management.
- Integrate care across the health sectors.
- Facilitate a statewide research strategy.
View the Inflammatory Arthritis Model of Care
The Network has also reviewed and endorsed clinical guidelines for the diagnosis and management of early rheumatoid arthritis, developed by the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners.
Spinal Pain Model of Care
The Musculoskeletal Health Network and Neurosciences and the Senses Health Network are facilitating implementation of the Spinal Pain Model of Care through partnerships with Western Australian health services and organisations.
The Network is currently establishing a working group to drive implementation of recommendations listed in the Spinal Pain Model of Care.
Osteoporosis Model of Care
Musculoskeletal Health Network, together with the Diabetes and Endocrine, Falls Prevention and Aged Care Health Network is preparing to develop a Model of Care for osteoporosis. A stakeholder forum will be held on 11th December to endorse the scope and content of the model as well as provide additional input. Individuals interested in participating in the forum should contact Health Networks.
Related links
- Arthritis WA
http://www.arthritiswa.org.au/
- Inflammatory Arthritis Model of Care
www.healthnetworks.health.wa.gov.au/modelsofcare/docs/Inflammatory_Arthritis_Model_of_Care.pdf
Definitions
- Inflammatory Arthritis
- A chronic disease process in which the body's immune system starts attacking its own tissues. In the case of the large joints, the synovium becomes inflamed and with the release of chemicals, destroys the lining cartilage of the joints. As the cartilage is destroyed, the joint becomes stiff, swollen and painful. There are many different types of inflammatory arthritis. A well-known example of inflammatory arthritis is rheumatoid arthritis.
- Synovium
- A thin membrane lining the inside of the joint capsule. It produces synovial fluid for lubrication and nourishment of the joint cartilage.