Suma Surendranath explains why the services these specialist professionals provide are so valuable to patients and the healthcare system

Since the role was introduced in the UK in 1989, the number of Parkinson’s nurses has increased to 350. They are an integral part of the care people with the condition require, providing expert management of medication as well as emotional support. This article explores their work, its benefits and how Parkinson’s UK supports them to care for those affected by the condition. It also profiles the career of PD nurse specialist and chair of the Parkinson’s Disease Nurse Specialist Association Jacqueline Young.