Conferences & Events

Multidisciplinary care in Parkinson's disease and parkinsonism from science to practice - the 11th National Conference

11th July 2006 - Royal College of Physicians, London

Organised by MEP Ltd for the British Geriatrics Society Parkinson's Disease Special Interest Group

This conference focused on the rarer parkinsonian syndromes, in particular progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) and multiple system atrophy (MSA).

The first two sessions highlighted the clinical pointers for accurate diagnosis, as well as the genetic and neuropathological findings, which are beginning to explain the diversity of what is seen in the clinic.

These were followed by presentations on symptoms that are especially problematic in these conditions - autonomic dysfunction (the hallmark of MSA), communication difficulties, cognitive/psychological changes, and swallowing. Other sessions concentrated on the rapidly changing area of specialist equipment and technology and how best to support patients and carers in the light of feedback from the PSP Europe Association helpline.

The day ended with a presentation that considered the challenge of translating recommendations such as the National Service Framework for Long-term Conditions and the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) guidelines on Parkinson's disease into improved services for patient care when dealing with the reality of commissioning in our ever-changing National Health Service.

To download a copy of the report - please click here