Book Review

“Managing Long-term Conditions and Chronic Illness in Primary Care” is an essential guide for healthcare practitioners who want to enhance their knowledge and skills in managing complex chronic diseases and long-term conditions. The author, Judith Carrier, presents a practical and evidence-based approach to care, taking into account the needs of the expert patient and aiming to reduce unnecessary hospital admissions.

One of the strengths of this book is its multidisciplinary perspective. It is not limited to nursing professionals but also offers valuable insights for allied health professionals working in the primary care environment. The content is thorough and up-to-date, reflecting recent changes in the curriculum. The inclusion of case studies on HIV and dementia, as well as content on mental health, expands the book’s relevance and applicability to a wide range of healthcare professionals.

The book emphasizes the physical and psychosocial impact of living with long-term conditions, highlighting the importance of holistic care. It provides practical guidance on effective case management, self-management, and the role of the expert patient in their own care. The inclusion of behavioral change strategies and motivational counseling demonstrates the book’s focus on empowering patients to make positive changes in their lives and improve their overall well-being.

The author’s clear writing style and use of case studies, fact boxes, and pointers for practice make the book accessible and engaging. It is evident that Judith Carrier understands the challenges faced by healthcare practitioners on a daily basis and provides practical solutions that can be implemented in the primary care setting.

As a nursing student, I found this book to be an invaluable resource. It covers all the essential topics related to managing long-term conditions and provides a comprehensive understanding of the subject. The case studies helped me apply the theoretical knowledge to real-life situations, and the fact boxes summarized key information in a concise manner. I believe this book would also be a great companion for healthcare professionals during their community placements.

In conclusion, “Managing Long-term Conditions and Chronic Illness in Primary Care” is an excellent resource for healthcare practitioners looking to enhance their skills in managing complex chronic diseases. It provides up-to-date and practical guidance that can be applied in the primary care environment. I highly recommend this book to nursing and allied health professionals, as well as students studying modules on long-term conditions.