OhioHealth announced on Apr. 27 that new approaches to diagnosing and treating multiple sclerosis are improving outcomes for patients. The update comes during National Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Month, which is dedicated to education, advocacy, and action regarding the disease.
Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disorder that affects the brain and spinal cord by causing the immune system to attack the myelin sheath, which slows communication within the body. Symptoms can vary widely but may include fatigue, difficulty walking, memory issues, bladder problems, and pain.
Jacqueline Nicholas, MD, System Chief of MS at OhioHealth said that reviewing a patient’s symptom history has traditionally been important when determining treatment options. However, she said providers are now considering moving away from symptom-based diagnoses toward viewing all symptoms as part of one disease. “We had no treatments before the 1990’s and now we have over 20 treatments for multiple sclerosis, and counting. There are many ongoing clinical trials. We’re even looking at therapies used in the cancer world that may be able to shut down MS long term.” Nicholas also said early diagnosis can help people face fewer physical problems and provide more freedom throughout their lives: “This patient centered approach to care at OhioHealth has allowed patients more flexibility and comfort.”
OhioHealth promotes compassionate care while serving communities across a 50-county region in Ohio according to the official website. The organization includes a network of 16 hospitals and over 200 ambulatory sites according to its official website.
The healthcare provider employs about 35,000 people including associates, physicians and volunteers according to its official website, aiming to enhance community health through comprehensive services with a focus on accessibility for all—including those in need according to its official website. OhioHealth serves as a charitable outreach of the United Methodist Church according to its official website.
OhioHealth is recognized as a not-for-profit healthcare provider committed to community well-being through its services; it has grown into a key regional network operating medical facilities across Ohio while earning repeated honors for its workplace environment according to its official website.
