Treat Musculo-Skeletal Conditions Seriously

Media Release
Monday 9th August 2010

Musculo-Skeletal Conditions Must Be Treated Seriously Because of Financial Impact

Musculo-skeletal conditions need to be treated seriously because of the financial impact on New Zealand’s economy, says Arthritis New Zealand.

The Economic Cost of Arthritis in New Zealand research confirms the statement made by The Welfare Working Group that people with musculo- skeletal conditions are more likely to be on benefits and that the system is not providing enough support for those on the sickness, invalid's and domestic purpose benefits to find work.

The report states that over 25,000 New Zealanders will not work this year due to arthritis. This will cost around $1.48 billion in lost productivity in 2010.

The Welfare Working Group findings confirms these numbers when they identify that people with musculo-skeletal disorders are driving up the numbers of people on benefits.

Sandra Kirby, Chief Executive of Arthritis New Zealand hopes this report will help highlight how expensive arthritis is and the importance of treating musculo-skeletal conditions seriously: “Half of the clients that have attended our clinics in the past 11 months were of the working age. This is totally consistent with the report figures – this disease attacks people in their prime as well as our children and our seniors.”

But Ms Kirby warns that helping people with arthritis to stay in work requires more than wishful thinking: “Experience from overseas such as the European ‘Fit for Work’ programme shows us that to support people with conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, to remain in work requires investment into health services to ensure early diagnosis and effective treatment.”

“All the evidence shows that keeping people in the workforce is better for them and the community but does require investment.”

“The support services that Arthritis New Zealand offers are vital in getting more New Zealanders back to work after being diagnosed with a chronic illness like arthritis. Employers must compliment these services by providing a supportive work environment for arthritis sufferers.”

ENDS

© Scoop Media