We are trying something different!
For our Long Haul series of videos our hypothesis is that presenting the Eatwell Guides (Standard, Vegetarian and Vegan) in a video format will improve the health of those with long haul conditions in the here and now.
Situation
Due to a lack of NHS funding and non-dietetic priorities, many people cannot access a local Dietetic service to guide them to eat well and make choices appropriate to their health conditions.
Background
For a long time, I have thought that patients could be helped by educational, supportive dietetic videos that can be accessed remotely and from the comfort of their own home. I have been unsuccessful in securing NHS funding in each of the following specialist areas:
- Long Covid
- Weight Management
- Learning Disabilities
Different NICE Guidelines detail the importance of eating well according to the NHS Eatwell Guide following diagnosis, at annual reviews, and as part of treatment (e.g. NICE Guideline NG206 for the diagnosis and management of ME/CFS at 1.3.1 and 1.12.19; NICE Guideline NG220 for the Management of Multiple Sclerosis in Adults at 1.5.8).
Assessment
From my years of experience of working in the NHS, I think we overestimate the understanding and ability of patients to implement this and underestimate the power of eating well to help or hinder health in the here and now.
I am now creating a series of videos to provide education in a way that offers empathy and encouragement and aims to empower people to make and maintain positive dietary change.
I see the videos of each series being positioned as:
- a “stand alone” offering for those who need guiding in the right direction.
- a “1st line intervention” prior to a more tailored intervention from the local Dietetic service.
The planned series of videos
- The Long Haul series – for those with health conditions which could be described as a “long haul” and where common issues of pain and fatigue are present e.g. Long Covid, ME/CFS, MS, fibromyalgia, rheumatoid arthritis and where “eating well” is so essential.
- Weight Management Support for those who cannot “move more” due to long term illness. (Target Completion date: Autumn 2024)
- Weight Management Support for those who care for and support adults with Learning Disabilities. As a committee member of the British Dietetic Association's (BDA) Learning Disability Sub Group I am in discussion with the BDA about securing funding for this innovative idea.
Recommendations
- Do consider whether the Long Haul series of videos have a place in your pathways and whether you can signpost patients to them.
- If you would like to view one or all of these videos in full, please contact me and I will provide a time-limited password protected link. We are keen to offer special pricing/packages for ongoing requirements and would be delighted to discuss this with you.