Patients with an incurable bowel condition have faced a postcode lottery of treatment, NHS advisers said yesterday.
This must become a thing of the past, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence said.
Its new guidance sets out how care for patients with ulcerative colitis can be improved.
It says doctors should take time to talk to patients and their families, explaining symptoms and treatment.
NICE says the use of the right drugs and treatments means that doctors can aim to achieve remission.
Professor Mark Baker, of NICE, said: “Ulcerative Colitis is a chronic condition that can cause much distress.
"There is no cure but it is possible to control the symptoms for long periods of time, leaving those who suffer able to live life to the full as much as possible. This is demonstrated by Manchester United’s Darren Fletcher who until recently was able to play both top flight football for his club and captain the Scottish team all whilst having his ulcerative colitis symptoms controlled by medication.”
Dr Ian Arnott, a physician who leads the UK inflammatory bowel disease audit, welcomed the guidance.
He said: "The recommendation for greater dialogue with patients about the condition and the treatment options available is vital to supporting the delivery of patient-centred care.
"Ulcerative colitis is a lifelong condition and so better information about the effects of having colitis can help with the management of it and in turn potentially improve quality of life for both patients, and their families and carers.”
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