What people affected by Parkinson’s can do now to access healthcare

Naveena Kapur

Complete Care for Parkinson’s Project Manager, Parkinson’s UK

Parkinson’s is the fastest-growing neurological condition, affecting 153,000 people in the UK. With over 40 symptoms that evolve, each person’s experience is unique, and there is currently no cure.

Receiving the right care from health professionals following a diagnosis is important to ensure symptoms are well managed.

Types of Parkinson’s professionals

A Parkinson’s healthcare team comprises a variety of healthcare professionals from GPs and Parkinson’s nurses to pharmacists and specialist therapists, such as physiotherapists. Each expert will have a different role to play in helping someone with the condition manage their symptoms.

However, understanding which services could benefit you, and navigating the system can be challenging for many people. Below are three ways people with Parkinson’s and their loved ones can help manage symptoms and access healthcare.

1. Do your research

Knowing the condition and how it affects you will help you better understand and manage your symptoms and healthcare. Whether you have Parkinson’s or support someone with the condition, Parkinson’s UK offers a number of resources on its website and in printed guides. Find out more about who can help and what is available at parkinsons.org.uk/health-team.

A Parkinson’s healthcare team comprises
a variety of healthcare professionals.

2. Reach out for support

Parkinson’s UK offers in-person, online and helpline support for people living with Parkinson’s, their loved ones and carers. It has a team of 90 local advisers who can offer support wherever you live in the UK. It also has a confidential helpline (0808 800 0303), which is free to call. 

You can speak to an expert about which health professionals can help, the type of healthcare and support you should be getting and what to do if you’re having problems in your area. 

3. Managing your condition

There are lots of things you can do to help manage your Parkinson’s — from doing regular physical activity and maintaining a healthy, well-balanced diet to joining local groups and connecting with others. Remember, no matter what stage you are at in your Parkinson’s journey, Parkinson’s UK has people and services to help you.