Multiple Sclerosis

The Multiple Sclerosis (MS) program at The Nebraska Medical Center is a partnership between the hospital and the University of Nebraska Medical Center. Focused on improving the quality of life for hundreds of Multiple Sclerosis patients each year, the program is proud to be affiliated with the Consortium of Multiple Sclerosis Centers (CMSC). Assistance is available from a variety of professionals that may help individuals with MS lead a more healthy and active lifestyle. Proper care and treatment can enhance quality of life and slow the progression of the disease for many individuals.

About Multiple Sclerosis

Topics in this article include:

What is multiple sclerosis?
Symptoms of multiple sclerosis
Symptom categories of multiple sclerosis
Diagnosing multiple sclerosis
Rehabilitation for multiple sclerosis

Therapy and Disease Management

The Multiple Sclerosis Program offers a team of specialists who diligently work together to provide the best care possible. This dedicated team, led by physicians who are specialists in MS, review the needs of each individual and establish a plan of care based on those needs.

Currently there is no cure for MS, however all the health services which may be necessary for an individual living with MS are readily available at The Nebraska Medical Center. Studies show that early treatment with disease-modifying therapies are crucial in delaying the development of disabilities. The team offers expert knowledge of the medications used to delay progression of the disease and to manage relapses or flare-ups of the disease. When needed, assistance from a variety of specialty areas is coordinated to manage symptoms and make the best quality of life possible.

Treatment Team

Primary Care Physician

For routine health maintenance as well as care for other chronic and acute medical illnesses, the patient’s primary care physician will take the lead. The primary care physician serves as the first contact for any health problems that arise and that are not clearly related to MS.

Mid-level Providers and Multiple Sclerosis Medical Director

In most cases, a patient’s plan of care will be established by the program medical director during their initial visits. At later visits, a mid-level provider will be assigned.

For complex cases, the medical director will oversee the plan of care. Complex cases are discussed amongst staff at weekly MS meetings to address them promptly. And to ensure standardization of care, the MS program at The Nebraska Medical Center follows research-based guidelines.

Consulting Physicians

Collaboration with other specialists in the region to assist in symptom management and MS complications is very common. When appropriate, our staff may refer patients to a specialist close to home.