 |
 |
Hi List Friends I have not seen a reference to this article on the list. I think it worth repeating. Sorry I can't scan it and my typing skills are kaput. A recent issue of Neurology' [1999;52(Suppl 3):S21-S25] has an interesting article by D G MacMahon on the development of Parkinson Nurse Specialists in the UK. A PNS knows a great deal about neurology, Parkinsons, psychological problems (anxiety, psychosis and dementia), resources in the community and human nature. A PNS also has formal qualifications earned through study and work experience. In the UK research projects are studying the work of PNS and their cost and savings in the UK health system. We don't have PNS in Canada but we have Movement Disorder Clinics (10 - 12). Most of these clinics have a specialist nurse who educates, counsels, and supports the patient and caregiver as they go through the stages of Parkinsons. In 18 years with Parkinsons I have seen quite a few neurologists and two Movement Disorder Clinics. There is no way that I would live in a community which did not have a specialist nurse and a Movement Disorder Clinic. Anne Rutherford