A PROGRAMME has been launched to help patients with long-term illnesses cope with their condition.
Durham and Chester-le-Street Primary Care Trust starts its first Expert Patient Programme on Friday.
Under the scheme, people can sign up to courses to learn how to cope with conditions such as arthritis, asthma, back pain, diabetes, heart conditions, multiple sclerosis and mental health problems.
They are designed to run alongside medical treatments and include advice on finding out information, talking to doctors and coping with depression.
The programme should, hopefully, be led by people with long-term illnesses.
More than 55 people have been invited to find out about the programme.
Department of Health patient trainer Carolyn Siddle said: "Many participants that attended the launch event felt that the Expert Patient Programme constituted a much- needed lifeline for those living with long-term conditions."
About a dozen people are needed for each course. They take place over six weeks.
Anyone who wants to find out more about the programme or wanting to attend a future course can contact Fiona Anderson on 0191-333 3988.
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