NASS welcomes the publication by NICE of a set of Quality Standards for Spondyloarthritis. Now we need to ensure that they are implemented effectively across the country so that every AS patient, every time, gets early diagnosis and high quality care.
The NICE Quality Standard for Spondyloarthritis covers four areas:
- Adults with suspected axial or peripheral spondyloarthritis are referred to a rheumatologist.
- Adults with suspected axial spondyloarthritis and an X-ray that does not show sacroiliitis have an MRI using an inflammatory back pain protocol.
- Adults with axial spondyloarthritis are referred to a specialist physiotherapist for a structured exercise programme.
- Adults with spondyloarthritis are given information about their condition, which healthcare professionals will be involved with their care, and how and when to get in touch with them.
Read more from the NASS website.