Follow-up is done to a too low degree and is generally lacking regardless of disease group. For example, only 6 percent of patients with Parkinson's disease and psoriasis have received at least one doctor's visit per year, five years in a row, measured from five years after their diagnosis. For multiple sclerosis, it is around 10 percent.
There are also differences between women and men as well as between regions. People in areas with good socio-economic conditions receive more follow-up visits to doctors.
When continuous follow-up of patients with chronic diseases is not done, it can in the long run lead to increased need for care interventions and reduce their opportunities for an independent life.
