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The article focuses on the significance of self-management programmes as an effective way to provide emotional and lifestyle change support to people with chronic health conditions in Great Britain. It notes that the Expert Patients Programme (EPP) offers the skills and support in dealing with the chronic health condition's effect on the daily lives of the people. It provides safe and evidence-based programme of support for health professionals.

The article reports on the early findings released by the Department of Health (DH) from the telehealth Whole System Demonstrator (WSD) sites in Great Britain. It says that the impressive study centered on coronary heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and diabetes. The author adds that the bulletin discussed the capacity of telehealth to make people more in control of their condition. The need to emphasize lifestyle changes to prevent the conditions is also discussed.

The author comments on the potential role of social media in the health care setting. According to the author, social media has influenced the way people interact and communicate with each other. He points out that the ideas behind social media are important in providing low-cost solutions to support people in their homes, as well as enhance their levels of self-management. He adds that web-based applications present an opportunity for tailored individual support.

The article discusses rheumatoid arthritis (RA) care in Great Britain. It is said that the treatment of RA is covered primarily by secondary care by a specialist multidisciplinary team led by a consultant. It adds that government funding and training have not been allocated to the management of inflammatory arthritis (IA) while majority of general practitioners (GPs) lack the needed experience and skills in diagnosing IA. It also explores the benefits of the RA Self Management Programme.

The article discusses whether the concept of recovery in mental health can be applied to all conditions. It states that the management of long-term illness from a recovery perspective requires a change in thinking on how community services are organised and accessed. It mentions that encouraging patients to plan ahead will help them gain control of the situation and enables family and friends to be clear about their role in providing support.

The author assesses the government's proposed reforms to the National Health Service (NHS) in Great Britain. Included in the reform is the role of the health care team to guide patients in making reliable choices about their treatment and care. In relaying information to the patient, he advises the team to be mindful of the words they use in their conversations. The author notes that the health care team's ability to effectively communicate treatment choices with their patients is key to having an effective clinician-patient relationship.

The author calls on community health service leaders to adopt an effective evaluation to boost productivity while reducing costs. He says that among areas of cost savings for the British National Health Service (NHS) are cost-effective interventions, community services and chronic disease management. He suggests some factors to consider in measuring productivity. He recommends the use of the Health Education Impact Questionnaire which measures health behaviour and health management skills, among others.

The author ponders on the claim that health literacy can improve health status. He cites the definition of health literacy according to the World Health Organization. He highlights the findings of a report on health literacy, issued by the National Consumer Council. The author also emphasizes the role of health professionals in encouraging and supporting patients to shift to healthier lifestyle and behaviors.

The article provides information on care planning process. It states that the process should support the patient to be in control of their health. Questions that can help make the goals in a care plan achievable and realistic are listed. Self-management training programs are reportedly available to give people the skills to fully engage in their care. Also noted is the White Paper released by the British government which pledged that all people with a long-term health condition should have the opportunity to have a care plan by 2010.