Sources of evidence

Anyone with haemophilia, clotting factor deficiency or von Willebrand’s disease, however mild, will have access to a Comprehensive Haemophilia Care Centre. People with moderate and severe haemophilia are likely to use the centre along with anyone with mild haemophilia and haemophilia related joint problems. Often the centre will be used for all health needs not only those related to haemophilia. This is because haemophilia complicates any type of medical treatment – e.g. dentistry. A range of professionals will be involved with care and these include the treating haematologist, the specialist nurse, specialist physiotherapist and social worker.

The consultant or specialist nurse at the centre will be a good source of information on severity of haemophilia and clotting replacement therapy required.

The specialist physiotherapist will be the best source of information on mobility and joint problems. Anyone with such problems is likely to have had a joint scoring assessment. Joint score information for the lower limbs may be enough to confirm reduced mobility. If difficulties with care related to upper limb joint damage are claimed, further medical evidence in the form of a factual report in addition to joint scores is recommended. If neurological problems are claimed, either of these sources will be able to provide evidence of disabling effects.

Amended November 2009