The team were nominated for engaging patients in the co-design of a flare card which aims to help people with Crohn's or Colitis to recognise flare symptoms and signposts to appropriate support. We hope that this will lead to more patients in the future being empowered to take an active role in their care by giving them the information, skills and confidence to do so.
This project to design self-management tools for NHS Scotland was the first time I have been involved in a piece of work that is truly co-produced with patients. I now understand the value of this approach and that what patients need and want is much broader. The flare card will give patients more confidence to recognise a flare and to manage their condition, including when to seek the appropriate specialist support and treatment when needed.
Ian Arnott
Consultant Gastroenterologist at NHS Lothian
I'm delighted that the value of this approach has been recognised -it's really important that patients are involved in service development to ensure this truly meets their needs. I'd like to thank everyone who has been involved with this project for their support and commitment. We are looking forward to taking this forward and putting the work into practice.
Elaine Steven
Crohn's & Colitis UK's Policy Lead for Scotland
The flare card is not yet widely available, but check out our guidance on what to do if you think you are having a flare.
