A new report has claimed that the NHS is failing patients with psoriasis, an uncomfortable skin condition that causes itchy, flaky red patches.
A survey of 100 dermatology units found that one in five did not have a single nurse who had specialised in dermatology.
One in three units did not have suitable bathing and showering facilities for patients, despite the fact that creams used to treat psoriasis must be washed off if it comes into contact with healthy skin.
In addition, the survey found that treatments in 41 per cent of units were applied by nurses with no specialist training, or even by patients themselves.
The survey was conducted by the Royal College of Physicians and the British Association of Dermatologists and the latter's president, Dr Colin Holden, voiced concerns over the findings.
He commented: 'This audit has produced data clearly showing that on a national level, the NHS is failing to provide patients with the level of care they deserve.
'Basic elements such as bathing facilities, appropriately trained staff and access to treatments are lacking to a worrying degree.'
The report also revealed that 40 per cent of units do not always offer new psoriasis treatments because of their cost, and 60 per cent offer no clinical psychology services to help distressed patients.
A survey of 100 dermatology units found that one in five did not have a single nurse who had specialised in dermatology.
One in three units did not have suitable bathing and showering facilities for patients, despite the fact that creams used to treat psoriasis must be washed off if it comes into contact with healthy skin.
In addition, the survey found that treatments in 41 per cent of units were applied by nurses with no specialist training, or even by patients themselves.
The survey was conducted by the Royal College of Physicians and the British Association of Dermatologists and the latter's president, Dr Colin Holden, voiced concerns over the findings.
He commented: 'This audit has produced data clearly showing that on a national level, the NHS is failing to provide patients with the level of care they deserve.
'Basic elements such as bathing facilities, appropriately trained staff and access to treatments are lacking to a worrying degree.'
The report also revealed that 40 per cent of units do not always offer new psoriasis treatments because of their cost, and 60 per cent offer no clinical psychology services to help distressed patients.
Labels: Skin and Hair
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