The Targeted Therapies Alliance has made a range of evidence-based resources available to help dermatologists and their patients in shared decision making in the treatment of plaque psoriasis.
Psoriasis, of which plaque psoriasis is the most common type, is the most prevalent immune-mediated inflammatory disease. It involves skin and in some cases, joints, and can be associated with abnormalities of other systems.
NPS MedicineWise spokesperson Jonathan Dartnell said: “While the condition currently does not have a cure, it can be well controlled, hence there is a need to support people with plaque psoriasis to understand and follow the treatment to get the best results.”
“The members of the Targeted Therapies Alliance have worked closely with the Australasian College of Dermatologists and Psoriasis Australia to create these resources which were developed with input from consumers with plaque psoriasis,” he said.
Australasian College of Dermatologists Fellow A/Prof Stephen Shumack said the resources were developed through a collaborative effort.
Jonathan Dartnell, Spokesperson, NPS MedicineWise said: “These resources were designed to support optimal patient outcomes by helping improve understanding of, and adherence to, the treatments for plaque psoriasis. The resources cover topical treatments such as creams and ointments, to phototherapy and systemic treatments.”
The new resources available include:
- A consumers’ fact sheet with an overview of the topical treatment options (such as creams and ointments) and questions to ask their doctor to make sure they understand why, how and when to use their topical treatments.
- A decision aid to help consumers speak to their doctor about treatment options should topical treatments not be enough.
- An action plan and information to address some myths and help adherence to low-dose methotrexate.
The new dermatology resources complement existing Targeted Therapies Alliance resources focused on gastroenterological and rheumatological conditions. They also are part of a wider three-year programme to ensure the best possible health and economic outcomes from the use of biological and other specialised medicines.
Source: News-Medical.Net
