Poorer health among disabled people to be investigated

The reasons why people with learning disabilities and mental health problems die younger than the general population and what can be to close this health gap are to be scrutinised over the next 18 months in a formal investigation by the Disability Rights Commission.

According to the commission, people with learning disabilities and mental health problems are among the poorest and most disadvantaged in society. They die younger of preventable diseases than the rest of the population and miss out on life saving screening programmes.

Evidence gathered by the commission shows that the number of preventable deaths among people with learning disabilities is four times that in the general population and that people with schizophrenia live an average nine years less than other people.

In addition, less than 20% of women with a learning disability attend for cervical screening, compared with 81% of women overall. The number of deaths from respiratory disease and the incidence of diabetes also run three to five times higher among people with learning disabilities than in the general population.

“The causes of the health inequalities between disabled people and the general population are multiple and varied,” said Philippa Russell, chairwoman of the panel of commissioners that will oversee the investigation. “A national approach to address these inequalities is essential. Our investigation aims to pin down the greatest barriers and develop standards for change.”

The investigation, which will run from December 2004 to May 2006, will include questionnaires, interviews, focus groups, and formal hearings. Anyone with an interest in issues to do with access to health services among these groups of users can register their experiences or suggestions on a dedicated website www.drc-gb.org/health

Four primary care trusts are also going to be monitored over four months next year to try to identify barriers facing these two groups of people and to find effective solutions. Results of the investigation along with recommendations will be delivered to ministers in England and Wales in May 2006.

Bert Massie, chairman of the commission, said: “The government's major commitment to improving the nation's health could risk leaving out significant groups in our population. Unless the inequalities between people with learning disabilities, people with mental health problems, and non-disabled people are seriously addressed, we could find the gap widening.

“Primary health care is the gateway to the rest of the health service—90% of patient journeys begin and end here. It is therefore vital that these two impairment groups are cared for. The formal investigation is a positive opportunity to share concerns and best practice on tackling health inequalities and is designed to close the stark health gap.”

Dr Mayur Lakhani, chairman of the Royal College of General Practitioners, said: “We welcome this investigation. This group of patients has particular needs, and yet currently they have poorer health outcomes. It is an important function of GPs to iron out health inequalities; we are committed to promoting excellent care for all patients, whatever their needs.”

More information can be accessed at www.drc-gb.org/