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Multidisciplinary ALS Clinics in the USA: a comparison of those who attend and those who do not
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and Frontotemporal Degeneration
  • Helen E. Stephens
  • Stephanie Felgoise, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
  • Jared Young
  • Zachary Simmons
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
6-1-2015
Abstract

Optimization of quality of life (QoL) is perceived by many as the primary goal for patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), often via multidisciplinary clinics (MDCs). The aim of this study was to examine the differences in QoL, physical function, and social problem-solving skills for individuals with ALS attending MDCs compared to non-attenders. An online survey was completed by 295 people with ALS in the United States. Results showed there were no differences between the groups in global QoL, measures of physical function, or social problem-solving skills. Attenders and non-attenders of MDCs reported similar use of treatments for their ALS, although attenders received more health care services from nurses, therapists, social workers, dieticians, and in home care providers. In conclusion, other instruments may be needed to assess the benefits of MDCs. Qualitative studies of attenders and non-attenders of MDCs may reveal important differences that could guide care.

Comments

This article was published in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and Frontotemporal Degeneration, Volume 16, Issue 3-4, June 2015.

The published version is available at http://dx.doi.org./10.3109/21678421.2014.994530

Copyright ©2015 Informa Healthcare.

Citation Information
Helen E. Stephens, Stephanie Felgoise, Jared Young and Zachary Simmons. "Multidisciplinary ALS Clinics in the USA: a comparison of those who attend and those who do not" Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and Frontotemporal Degeneration Vol. 16 Iss. 3-4 (2015) p. 196 - 201
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/stephanie_felgoise/6/