NICE guidelines for Parkinson's
The NICE clinical guidelines for Parkinson's make recommendations to doctors, nurses and other NHS professionals on the most clinically effective and cost effective treatment for people with Parkinson's.
The guideline covers England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
We want everyone with Parkinson's to get the level of care outlined in the NICE guidelines. Too often people don't get the care and support they recommend.
Download the full NICE guidelines for Parkinson's (PDF, 155KB).
NICE stands for the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence. It was set up to:
- improve access to healthcare
- improve the quality of healthcare
Its guidelines include recommendations for all healthcare staff - including doctors and nurses - on appropriate treatments, drugs, therapies, services and all aspects of care.
NICE has identified the recommendations below as priorities.
Referral to an expert for an accurate diagnosis
People with suspected Parkinson's should be referred without delay and untreated to a specialist with expertise in the differential diagnosis of the condition.
Expert review
The diagnosis of Parkinson's should be reviewed regularly (every 6 to 12 months).
Personalised care and treatment
A person with Parkinson's should have the opportunity to discuss their individual circumstances including symptoms, preferences and goals before starting any treatment.
Access to physiotherapy and occupational therapy
Physiotherapy and occupational therapy should be offered to people with Parkinson's early in the condition. Physiotherapy should include advice and information on physical activity.
Access to speech and language therapy and dietary therapy
Speech and language therapy should be offered to people with Parkinson's who are experiencing problems with communication, swallowing or saliva control. Dietary therapy should also be considered if specialist advice is needed.
Palliative care
People with Parkinson's and their carers should be offered detailed information on the progression of Parkinson's and future management of the condition.
People with Parkinson's, their family members and carers, should have the opportunity to discuss palliative care requirements at any stage of the condition.