Long-term conditions. 3: Being an expert patient.

This third article in the series focusing on long-term conditions explores the patient perspective. Drawing on the experiences of seven people affected by a variety of long-term conditions, it illustrates how the journey towards being an expert patient is often lengthy and traumatic. Pre- and post-diagnosis phases are narrated, and the process of becoming an expert patient described. The articles suggests that there is significant potential for the development of a reciprocal relationship between patients and health professionals framed by mutual learning and advice.