A new video and podcast series has been launched which aims to support people living with psoriasis who are waiting to access specialist healthcare services.

Waiting lists for dermatology services are some of the longest in the country. According to the latest figures available from the National Treatment Purchase Fund, at the end of February, there were 39,324 adults waiting for a dermatology outpatient appointment. Over 12,000 of these had already been waiting at least 12 months and of these, 8,586 had been waiting for at least 18 months.

Psoriasis is a chronic, systemic inflammatory skin disorder that affects at least 73,000 people in Ireland. It is an immune condition that causes symptoms on the skin and sometimes the joints. For many people living with psoriasis, access to specialist dermatology care is key to taking control of their condition, but thousands are experiencing major delays.

The new video and podcast series - PsO Let’s Talk Psoriasis - by Janssen Sciences Ireland UC is hosted by broadcaster, Dr Ciara Kelly. It aims to bridge the gap in support by providing access to expert guidance from leading healthcare professionals to help people manage their psoriasis while they wait to access specialist care.

“The key for a person who is newly diagnosed with psoriasis is to understand that with access to modern therapies, 99% of psoriasis patients can have their disease controlled adequately.

“While waiting lists continue to be an issue that has worsened through the pandemic, people living with psoriasis can take steps to manage their condition while they wait. This video and podcast series is an ideal platform to provide vital information in an accessible format from the healthcare professionals they are waiting to see,” explained consultant dermatologist at St Vincent’s University Hospital, Prof Brian Kirby.

Content for the series has been informed by feedback from people living with psoriasis in Ireland. They highlighted the need for information and support during the long waiting times to access specialist care. They also highlighted the need for greater education on the possibility of developing a related inflammatory form of arthritis - psoriatic arthritis.

Damien Broderick, who was diagnosed with psoriasis as a teenager, recalls that his entire front and back “was just one big, large scale”.

“You could barely see any of my normal skin. My entire life was put on hold - relationships, sport and exercise - any situation that might lead me to expose my skin was off the table. I wish I knew then what I know now as there's a lot we can do to make sure our lives are not dictated by psoriasis,” he said.

Topics covered in the series include treatment options, managing a flare, paediatric psoriasis, mental health and nutrition. A range of healthcare experts are involved including consultant dermatologists, nurse specialists and a clinical psychologist, as well as people impacted by psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis.

The series is available free of charge here.