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<p>The decision on whether to include arthritis or any other musculoskeletal conditions
in joint strategic needs assessments is one made locally.</p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p>In
March 2013, the Department published statutory guidance to support health and wellbeing
boards undertake joint strategic needs assessments and joint health and wellbeing
strategies. The guidance emphasises the importance of understanding and addressing
the needs of the local population, but does not specify the inclusion of any individual
medical conditions.</p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p>The Secretary of State for Health
has not held any recent discussions with the Secretary of State for Communities and
Local Government on this issue.</p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p>
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