Sources of evidence
| Sources of Evidence | Information Provided | Limitation of Evidence |
|---|---|---|
| Parent / carer | First source of information and associated evidence. | Does not have specialist knowledge. |
| GPFR | The GP may be able to confirm the diagnosis and may have access to records of home care provided.
Becker Muscular Dystrophy - The GP will be able to confirm the diagnosis and prescription of relevant drugs |
The GP may not have details of treatment received and may not see the child regularly about their condition. If it is one of the rarer conditions the GP may not be able to provide any useful information. |
| Hospital FR – best source of evidence - Hospital Neuromuscular Disease Specialist who will be able to confirm the diagnosis. | The diagnosis will be the most important piece of information in the medical evidence particularly in the rarer types, it is recommended that this information comes from the treating consultant who will be able to give the most accurate prognosis and information on disabling effects.
Becker Muscular Dystrophy - Evidence is only likely to be required when cardiomyopathy or limited mobility is claimed. Information including evidence of cardiac function should be available from the neuromuscular disease specialist or cardiologist. Evidence of reduced mobility should always be obtained from the Consultant Neuromuscular disease specialist. |
When contacting a specialist try to use the specialist co-ordinating care rather than those dealing with individual muscular dystrophy related problems such as respiratory and heart failure. This will ensure that a more complete picture of disability and related needs is provided. In all cases this will be the neuromuscular disease specialist. |
