VIC:Website to help Vic arthritis sufferers

AAP General News (Australia)
04-01-2011
VIC:Website to help Vic arthritis sufferers

MELBOURNE, April 1 AAP - Victorian arthritis sufferers say an online map publishing
details from tai chi classes to disabled-access toilets is helping them take control of
their health.

The Arthritis Map of Victoria is being hailed as a world-first tool to help sufferers
of arthritis and musculo-skeletal conditions find services to support their care.

Rheumatoid arthritis sufferer Naomi Creek said she uses the map to plan trips when
she visits Melbourne, finding outdoor seats to rest on, train and tram stops and disabled-access
toilets.

Another sufferer Janine Fisher says the map has helped her work out what services she needs.

"As a person who lives in a regional area, working my way through specialists, doctors
and allied health services has been confusing," Ms Fisher said.

"My general practitioner is fantastic but doesn't have the time or the tools to look
at all services relevant to my care."

Arthritis Victoria, developers of the map, says musculo-skeletal conditions are painful
and disabling and cost the health system more than $4 billion a year.

"We all know that there is no cure for most musculo-skeletal conditions," Arthritis
Victoria chief executive Linda Martin said.

"But, we believe that the Arthritis Map is a cure for the frustrations and lack of
coordination in services that has made getting the right treatment a major hurdle for
consumers."

AAP bm/ees/dep

KEYWORD: ARTHRITIS

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