I am from the UK but now living in Australia, so I have experienced treatment in both countries. The main difference I have noticed are that in UK, I had to wait about 9 months before my first appointment with a rheumatologist even though I was in a great deal of pain.

Here in Australia I was able to see a rheumatologist in about 4 weeks.

My prescriptions for methotrexate were severely rationed in UK, in that my doctor could only prescribe 4 weeks worth at a time. This was always concerning when I wanted to travel as I was afraid of running out of my prescription while away. Here in Aus. I have about 9 months supply in my fridge right now. A prescription for Methotrexate here costs $5.50 (about £3) and lasts about 6 months.

I am now also taking Simponi which I administer myself, which also costs me $5.50

I am also allowed 6 visits per year to see a physio therapist at no cost.

On the whole, I think I am very well looked after here in Australia and the warm climate is better for my joints.

In the UK I seemed to spend a lot more time seeing my GP as I was always needing new prescriptions or stronger pain killers etc.

I think the actual treatment is much the same, it’s just managed better here in that we don’t have to wait months to see a specialist.

I'm from Sunderland Tyne and Wear. 👋

I live in Washington Tyne&Wear

I live Musselburgh Scotland.

Me 😊 I live in the midlands