What is the report about?
Meningitis Now has commissioned a new report, conducted by the health and social care research charity Picker, which reveals that many adult meningitis patients battling life changing after-effects do not receive support once discharged from hospital.
Lack of follow up
Navigating recovery from meningitis can be complex and ongoing. The report shows a lack of understanding of the impact of meningitis from health professionals, as well as a lack of follow-up referrals and recovery information for patients.
“Our report highlights a shocking lack of support for people affected by meningitis. Patients are leaving hospital with little or no follow up, poor information and support. Everyone deserves the best possible person-centred care, always.” Dr Tom Nutt, CEO Meningitis Now
The report surveyed 228 people with a recent meningitis experience in the UK. Respondents stated living with headaches, brain fog, fatigue and memory loss, with many living with two or more effects.
Misinformation
One respondent said, “I wish the full extent of the condition and recovery had been explained to me as misinformation from doctors was a huge factor in me trying to rush back to normal life. At the very least, I wish they had pointed me in the direction of charities like Meningitis Now from the start.”
The report was launched on June 7 2023 at the House of Commons where the charity called on MPs and NHS chiefs to take action.