Contributions
Abstract: 243
Type: Hot Topic
Abstract Category: N/A
Access to DMTs in the UK has traditionally been lower compared to rates of access in other European countries, although data shows that access in the UK is improving. However, unacceptable levels of variation in access to treatment exists.
Variation is driven by a number of factors, including: the way in which treatments are commissioned; differing eligibility criteria for treatments; prescribing attitudes and behaviour; the infrastructure available to deliver treatments; quality access to specialists; the extent to which people with MS accept their diagnosis; and the extent to which people with MS are informed about their treatment options. Critically this can mean that people with MS are not able to access the right treatment at the right time. This is of particular concern given that the Association of British Neurologists (ABN) recommend that treatment with a DMT should start as early as possible for people who are eligible to take one.
The number of DMTs available on the NHS has increased significantly in the last decade. More effective treatments now exist with new modes of administration, and an increasing level of choice of treatments has undoubtedly been a factor in increasing access to DMTs. However, increasing treatment choice also means the decision to take a treatment is more complex than ever. Ensuring neurologists and people with MS fully discuss treatment options, framed around the individual goals and needs of the person with MS, is therefore necessary. Organisations such as the MS Society have a critical role in ensuring people with MS have the knowledge they need to make an informed decision.
Disclosure: Michelle Mitchell: nothing to disclose
Abstract: 243
Type: Hot Topic
Abstract Category: N/A
Access to DMTs in the UK has traditionally been lower compared to rates of access in other European countries, although data shows that access in the UK is improving. However, unacceptable levels of variation in access to treatment exists.
Variation is driven by a number of factors, including: the way in which treatments are commissioned; differing eligibility criteria for treatments; prescribing attitudes and behaviour; the infrastructure available to deliver treatments; quality access to specialists; the extent to which people with MS accept their diagnosis; and the extent to which people with MS are informed about their treatment options. Critically this can mean that people with MS are not able to access the right treatment at the right time. This is of particular concern given that the Association of British Neurologists (ABN) recommend that treatment with a DMT should start as early as possible for people who are eligible to take one.
The number of DMTs available on the NHS has increased significantly in the last decade. More effective treatments now exist with new modes of administration, and an increasing level of choice of treatments has undoubtedly been a factor in increasing access to DMTs. However, increasing treatment choice also means the decision to take a treatment is more complex than ever. Ensuring neurologists and people with MS fully discuss treatment options, framed around the individual goals and needs of the person with MS, is therefore necessary. Organisations such as the MS Society have a critical role in ensuring people with MS have the knowledge they need to make an informed decision.
Disclosure: Michelle Mitchell: nothing to disclose