Caring for people with chronic conditions – a health systems perspective

Perhaps the greatest challenge to face health systems in the twenty-first century will be to develop effective responses to the growing burden of chronic diseases. The multi-system nature of many chronic diseases, as well as the diverse needs that they create, requires a multifaceted response. Yet while it is clear that the traditional relationship between an individual patient and a single doctor is inappropriate, it is much more difficult to define what is the best model. At the same time it is recognised that many chronic conditions require active participation by informed patients. Countries are now experime…