Member May: PM&R in the care of individuals with Motor Neuron Diseases (1.25 CME)-Session Recording

Video Transcription

Video Summary

In this insightful webinar, Dr. Christina Ghanem, Dr. Eliana Howard, Dr. Nassim Raad, and Dr. Sabrina Paganoni delve into the vital role physiatrists play in the care for patients with neuromuscular diseases, especially ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) and SMA (spinal muscular atrophy). Dr. Eliana Howard emphasizes the profound impact physiatrists can have on patients with ALS through interdisciplinary care, which improves the quality of life and can extend life expectancy. She advocates for physiatrists leading ALS care, given their holistic management skills that focus on person-centered care. <br /><br />Dr. Nassim Raad highlights her work with adult patients suffering from spinal muscular atrophy, underscoring the physiatrists' unique ability to manage complex, lifelong conditions as treatments improve patients' life expectancy. She articulates the importance of a comprehensive approach involving pulmonary, nutritional, and orthopedic care—all areas where physiatry excels. <br /><br />Dr. Sabrina Paganoni discusses her transition from clinical care to research leadership, highlighting her involvement with the Healy ALS platform trial, an innovative approach to ALS treatment research. This design, adapted from similar successful models in oncology, allows for concurrent testing of multiple treatments, vastly accelerating the possibility of finding effective therapies.<br /><br />Throughout the session, the essential collaboration between disciplines and the advancement of research and care through teamwork are emphasized. They discuss the benefits of neuromuscular fellowship programs, alongside highlighting the importance of maintaining a broad awareness of advancements across different specialties and integrating those into regular patient care. This well-rounded approach not only optimizes care for patients today but sets the groundwork for future medical advancements.

Keywords

physiatrists

neuromuscular diseases

ALS

SMA

interdisciplinary care

holistic management

spinal muscular atrophy

comprehensive approach

Healy ALS platform trial

research leadership

neuromuscular fellowship

collaboration