GPs and other health professionals play a vital role in the coordinated care of a person with MS.
Significant progress has been made in MS treatment and therapies and many people can live well with the disease, control relapses, and even prevent further progression of the disease. By working together health professionals can achieve the best possible prognosis for their patients.
Once MS has been diagnosed GPs should continue to be the primary care physician providing support and monitoring of symptoms and treatments. You will need to communicate with the patient’s neurologist and advise them of any changes to symptoms or blood test results. You can also play an important role in connecting your patient with specialist MS services and information to help them achieve the best out of life. If you are managing a patient with MS for the first time, MS Queensland can provide you with information and resources about MS and connect you with specialist providers of MS therapies and care.
A GP will refer a patient to a neurologist if MS symptoms are present and MS is suspected. It is generally a neurologist who will make the initial diagnosis of MS. Neurologists will develop a treatment plan and prescribe any medication or drug therapy. They can also make referrals to specialist services such as physiotherapy, occupational therapy and neuropsychology.
Allied and community health professionals also have a vital role to play in managing a patient with MS. Specialist care may be provided by physiotherapists, speech therapists, occupational therapists, neuropsychologists, ophthalmologists, MS nurses, and social works, each with skills and experience to help manage the varying symptoms of MS.  If you are new to the field of MS and would like to learn more about treatment and management of symptoms, MS Queensland can provide you with information and assistance, and connect you with specialist providers who may be able to assist.
MS Queensland offers a wide range of services to support people living with MS. For your patient to access these services we require proof of diagnosis by a doctor and for the patient to register with us as a customer. Once they’re registered they will be connected with one of our staff who can assist them with information about MS and access to services and supports.
