We aim to tackle unmet neurological health needs within underserved communities in Oxfordshire, improving patient outcomes.
In 2023 University Vice-Chancellor Professor Irene Tracey highlighted the necessity of Oxford 'strengthening and deepening the relationships between the city, county and University. Let us think global and act local'.
Oxford has a prestigious University and hospital. However, people in Oxfordshire can have very different experiences healthcare. Some have less access to health services. This can lead to poorer outcomes, including increased neurological disease. 13 years life expectancy separating two neighbouring postcodes served by the same hospital is a stark reality.
Globally, neurological disease is the leading cause of disability and second highest cause of death world-wide. Vulnerable populations are at particular risk. The severe shortage of neurologists in the UK and lack of access to vulnerable communities magnify the problem. Urgent action is needed.
At Oxford Medical School, we have developed an innovative programme ‘Expert Patient Tutors’ (EPTs) that we believe will revolutionise access to neurological health education and clinical care to under-resourced communities in Oxfordshire. EPTs are people with chronic neurological disease ( including multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s and peripheral neuropathy) who enable students to ‘observe’ and ‘feel’ how these conditions affect them. As these conditions affect different parts of the nervous system, learners discover how neuroanatomy and the clinical examination are linked, potentially leading to earlier diagnosis.
As co-partners in education delivery, we have witnessed EPTs transform from passive recipients of care to ‘neurology ambassadors’ who not only train the next generation of doctors but also deliver healthcare education and instill trust in the NHS to their local communities. We plan to extend this model to people in underserved communities to address disparities in healthcare access and improve outcomes.
This is nationally relevant project with potential extension to other disease populations. Proof of concept internationally will be through Frank H. Netter MD School of Medicine, Quinnipiac, USA who are developing their own Expert Patient Tutor program based on the Oxford model.
