Many thanks to those who contacted me about neurological conditions, multiple sclerosis in particular.
I understand that there are over 600 types of neurological conditions, ranging from sudden onset conditions, through intermittent and unpredictable conditions and progressive conditions to stable conditions. The NHS spends more than £4.4 billion on people with neurological conditions annually.
Given that there are more than 100,000 people across the UK who have been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, I am encouraged that since 2015, £150.6 million has been spent on Multiple Sclerosis research through the National Institute for Health Research and UK Research and Innovation. This funding demonstrates the commitment both of the Government and of the scientific research community to support people living with MS.
Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, the NHS in England has maintained access to urgent and emergency care, including treatments for patients with MS. In December 2020, NHS England and NHS Improvement outlined priorities for the remainder of 2020-2021 and into 2021-2022, including maximising the NHS’s capacity to treat non-COVID-19 patients. This capacity includes services for people with neurological conditions, including for MS treatments across their disease course, whether they are for their overall quality of life or other individual needs - for example, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and speech and language therapy.
I was very interested to learn of the MS Society event being held on the 26th October and while I was unable to attend, I will ensure ministers are made aware of the concerns you have raised with me.
I will continue to monitor this issue. Thank you again for taking the time to contact me.