Menorca severe obesity group led by surgery patients

Menorca, in the Balearic Islands, is adding a peer-led group for people with severe obesity: patients who have had weight-loss surgery share their experience to help others manage the condition and change their habits. Balearic health minister Manuela García learned about the group on Thursday 5 November during a training day at Hospital Mateu Orfila on the island. The event brought together trained patients and carers from across the Balearics to refresh their knowledge of chronic illnesses.

Help from people who have been through it

The group uses a new guide written by the nurses who oversee the programme in Menorca. Its leaders have undergone weight-loss surgery, also known as bariatric surgery, and taken part in health promotion programmes. They draw on that experience to help others cope with the illness and the changes in habits needed to improve their quality of life.

A wider network of patient support

The Active Patient Programme began in Menorca in 2018. It now has 39 trained patients who can run workshops for people with chronic illnesses. Peer-led groups on the island have already covered breast cancer, diabetes and fibromyalgia.

At Thursday’s training day, patients and carers updated their knowledge of emotional wellbeing, exercise adapted to chronic illness and sexual health for people living with long-term conditions.

Topics: Health

Source: Europa Press / Mallorca.com