AQW 31936/22-27

Mr Nick Mathison
Alliance Party
Strangford

Tabled Date: 24/09/2025
Answered On Date: 09/10/2025
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister of Health to detail the proportion of multiple sclerosis patients currently accessing psychology services.

Answer:

Services for people with multiple sclerosis (MS) are provided as part of wider Neurology services in each Trust area. Historically, information such and new and review outpatient activity associated with patients with a diagnosis of MS has been included in the wider reporting of neurology services.

Within secondary care people with MS under the care of a Neurologist can be referred to a range of other disciplines, including psychology and are managed as internal referrals within a Trust setting. This level of information is not subject to reporting as part of performance management arrangements.

I fully recognise the importance of psychological support to patients diagnosed with a long term condition. This recognition is reflected in my Department’s 2021-31 Mental Health Strategy which directs the service to develop care on a whole person and whole system basis for patients with chronic conditions. The suggested models to deliver this involve greater integration of psychology within MDTs and additional training for staff from other disciplines in the recognition and referral of patients. The aim is to ensure that those with physical ill health that leads to mental ill health receive the care and treatment they need.