Neuromuscular centre recognised for outstanding care

The Oxford Muscle Service, part of Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (OUH), has received a Centre of Excellence award for the outstanding care delivered to patients at the John Radcliffe Hospital.

Awarded by national charity Muscular Dystrophy UK, the honour also recognises best practice and the team's commitment to improving health and care for people living with muscle wasting and weakening conditions.

Dr Sithara Ramdas, Consultant Paediatric Neurologist and Paediatric Lead for the Oxford Muscle Service at OUH, said: "It is an absolute honour to receive the Muscular Dystrophy UK's Centre of Excellence Award in recognition of the ongoing care and support that the Oxford Muscle Service provides to patients in Oxfordshire and the surrounding counties."

The multidisciplinary team includes adult and paediatric neurologists, cardiologists, respiratory specialists, physiotherapists, and family care advisors.

As a team, they care for 1,500 patients each year for neuromuscular disorders, a broad range of conditions where the function of voluntary muscle and/or sensory nerve function is affected.

Dr Sithara Ramdas added: "Our multidisciplinary team takes great pride in providing holistic care to patients with neuromuscular disorders of all ages as well as their families. With our single service model, we are also able to ensure there is seamless transition of clinical care from our paediatric to adult service.

"We remain passionate about research, leading and collaborating on an expanding portfolio of neuromuscular clinical trials so patients can access world-class research close to home."

The Oxford Muscle Service can provide a lifeline for those living with a muscle wasting or weakening condition, including the Blackmore family, from Wantage, who have been supported by the team since 2018, when Evie, 12, and Martha, 9, received their diagnosis.

Mother Leanne said: "Over the last five years since the diagnosis of our two daughters with FSH Muscular Dystrophy, the Oxford Muscle Service has provided wonderful and continued physical and emotional support for all of our family. We are extremely grateful and lucky to have this team on our doorstep."

A total of 24 neuromuscular centres across the UK, including Oxford Muscle Service, were recognised with excellence awards.

Catherine Woodhead, Chief Executive of Muscular Dystrophy UK, said: "We would like to congratulate the John Radcliffe Hospital team that has been recognised with a Centre of Excellence award after a robust and rigorous assessment of their service by leading neuromuscular experts and members of the muscle wasting and weakening community.

"These centres strive every day to ensure they promote best practice and provide an exemplary service."

Pictured: Oxford Muscle Service team