Arthritis (rheumatology service)

Arthritis (rheumatology service)

Coronavirus COVID-19 information

Here is all the the latest advice, information and news announcements on Coronavirus (COVID-19). You can also find the latest information about shielding the extremely vulnerable from coronavirus.This information is updated frequently so it's important to refer back to it regularly.

There is also rheumatology specific advice on the National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society website.

You can assess your risk by referring to the tool on the Versus Arthritis website. This will advise you on either social distancing, self-isolating or shielding. You can find out guidance on shielding on Gov.uk website.

Blood tests (phlebotomy service​)

​​The Hospital’s Phlebotomy Department (Blood Tests) is located at the General Hospital. It's open from 8.30am to 3.45pm from Monday to Thursday and 8.30am to 12.45pm on Friday. This is mainly for:

• emergencies
• patients with previous abnormalities
• patients who have recently started new treatments

You now need a timed appointment for the Hospital Phlebotomy Department . You can call them on +44 (0) 1534 442464 to book a slot.

It's preferable to have your test done via your GP. The frequency of tests can sometimes be reduced temporarily, unless you have had any problems. This is at the discretion of the Rheumatology Department or your GP.

Drugs can now be delivered to your home. If you need this service, contact us +44(0) 1534 444653 when you order your prescription and provide your telephone number. 

Our service

The rheumatology service aims to provide comprehensive, individual care for patients with inflammatory arthritis.

We are based at:
Westmount Assessment and Rehabilitation Centre
Westmount Road
St Helier
JE2 3LP

We offer the following services:

• specialist service for patients with all types of rheumatological conditions

• monitoring and management service for new patients with inflammatory arthritis

• assessment and monitoring of patients undergoing biologic therapies

• a telephone advice helpline for patients and families

• podiatry service, based at the Jersey General Hospital. Referral is required from a medical professional

• occupational therapy. Referral is required from a medical professional

Your prescribed drug treatment

You can access the Versus Arthritis website for information and advice.
If you are experiencing side effects or problems, contact your GP or the nurses on +44 (0) 1534 443053.

Our rheumatology staff

The rheumatology service is staffed by the following people:​

• Dr Mike Richardson: consultant for rheumatology
• Dr Jon Bevan: Consultant Physician with specialist interest in rheumatology
• Jane Abraham: Clinical Nurse Specialist, telephone +44 (0) 1534 443053
• Julie Le Sueur: Clinical Nurse Specialist
• Justine Rabet and Jean Barnett: Medical Secretaries, telephone +44 (0) 1534 443060 or +44 (0) 1534 443071)
• Lynn Butel: Private Secretary (telephone +44 (0) 7700 810001)

Local charities and supp​ort groups

There are a few local charities and support groups that can help.

Pain Support Jersey

Pain Support's aim is to offer help to people suffering with persistent pain and to guide and promote the understanding of pain in the community, whilst helping their members to manage chronic pain and live fulfilling lives.  
They offer gentle exercise sessions, led by pain specialists, in Coronation Park at Millbrook at 10.00-10.45am and 11.00-11.45am on Tuesday and Friday each week. They also offer social events and activities - further information can be found on www.painsupportjersey.com / Facebook at Pain Support Jersey Charity / Twitter @CharityPain / Mobile 07797 952165.

National Ankylosing Spondyliti​s ​​Society (NASS)

This group runs hydrotherapy and gym sessions on Monday afternoons from 4.30pm to 5.30pm at the Jersey General Hospital. Each session costs £6.

Email Martin Postlethwaite or call him on +44 (0) 1534 618095. Find out more information on the NASS website.

Further support, advice and guidance

Call the National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society patient helpline on 0800 298 7650.

You can also get more information on the Psoriasis Association website, Fibromyalgia association UK and National Osteoporosis Society​.