NEURO NEWS
Neuro Economic Impact
27 February 2024
New research released in February 2024 shows that neurological conditions are costing the UK 4.3% of its GDP, equivalent to £96 billion a year. The report - The value of action: mitigating the impact of neurological disorders in the United Kingdom - was produced by The Economist Impact Unit and commissioned by pharmaceutical company Roche.
The report states that interventions such as preventative care, therapeutic treatment, and rehabilitation could reduce these costs by more than £30 billion if care was improved. But the lack of an overarching government strategy, insufficient staffing and expertise, and inadequate access to care mean this potential saving is not currently being realised. The fragmented approach to care means people are often unable to access the diagnosis, treatment and support they desperately need.
The research estimates the direct costs of just ten neurological conditions to health systems in the UK, as well as the indirect economic burden of lost productivity for people affected by neurological conditions and their friends and family.
The report found that, in 2019, the aggregate estimated cost came to 4.3% of GDP or £96bn. The real economic cost is likely larger, given there are more than 600 different neurological conditions. Of the costs considered in the calculation, roughly half (53%) come from the 'indirect' cost of lost time in potential employment. This could be avoided with the right treatment, care, financial, and employment support.
The Neurological Alliance, together with the MS Society, Parkinsons UK, Epilepsy Action and the Association of British Neurologists, met in Westminster to mark the launch of the report, and renew calls on MPs to support the creation of a UK Neuro Taskforce.
In 2023 more than 19,000 people and 100 organisations, including Neuro Therapy Network, signed a petition calling on the government to establish a Neuro Taskforce, which would set out a clear plan to improve care for people affected by neurological conditions. Once established, the Neuro Taskforce will provide the framework to implement efficient and coordinated care that meets people’s needs and addresses economic challenges.