Parkinson’s Foundation looks to expand its network of care
US medical centers can now apply for Parkinson’s excellence status
The Parkinson’s Foundation invites U.S. medical centers offering outstanding Parkinson’s disease clinical care and resources to join its Global Care Network as Centers of Excellence.
Applications from academic medical centers in Delaware, Kentucky, Missouri, Nebraska, New Jersey, Ohio, Texas, and Washington will be given priority. Special consideration will also be given to applicants in regions underserved in quality care and those without a foundation-designated center.
The deadline to submit a letter of intent is Sept. 30, and new designees will be announced next summer. Applications must be submitted on the foundation’s website.
“Further expanding the Foundation’s footprint of quality care settings ensures that all people with Parkinson’s disease can obtain the care they need to improve their health and quality of life,” John L. Lehr, foundation president and CEO, said in a foundation press release. Lehr said the announcement shows its “commitment to making a difference in underserved communities across the country and improving the lives of the more than 1 million people living with [Parkinson’s disease].”
Joining the Global Care Network
About 40% of people with Parkinson’s lack access to care from clinicians with specialized training in neurological diseases and disorders. As the number of people with the disease in the U.S. is expected to reach 1.2 million by 2030, the foundation seeks to increase the proportion of patients receiving comprehensive care and support.
The Global Care Network includes 54 Centers of Excellence, 40 of which are in the U.S., nine Comprehensive Care Centers, and a Network of Excellence. Collectively, they serve more than 200,000 people with Parkinson’s disease.
To become a Center of Excellence, academic medical centers that apply must provide comprehensive care that addresses the full range of issues faced by people with Parkinson’s, including motor and nonmotor symptoms, have treated at least 800 patients over the last year, and deliver high-quality care in accordance with evidence-based treatments. They must also include a team of neurologists trained in neurological and movement disorders, a neurosurgeon, mental health professionals, physical and occupational therapists, and social workers.
To be named a Center of Excellence, a facility must also commit to clinical education and training for healthcare professionals, provide educational resources and programs to people with Parkinson’s and their families, and promote clinical research and trials.
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