Health Hydra: Confronting the challenge of multimorbidity in the NHS and be

Multimorbidity, the presence of multiple long-term conditions (MLTC), is one of the greatest challenges confronting healthcare systems globally. In England, more than one in four adults live with two or more chronic conditions, with the burden disproportionately affecting deprived communities. These conditions often cluster in complex and unpredictable ways, posing significant challenges for care delivery, coordination and resource allocation.

This lecture delves into the multifaceted nature of MLTC and addresses critical questions facing primary care. Key topics include the skill mix and training required for primary care teams to manage multimorbidity, strategies for developing patient-centred care pathways that minimise treatment burden, and the integration of preventive approaches into routine practice.