What is MS?
MS is a chronic, unpredictable disease which affects the central nervous system (the brain, optic nerves, and spinal cord). It is believed to be an autoimmune disorder (a disease in which the body’s immune system attacks the person’s own tissue).
How do you diagnose MS?
There is no one test which diagnoses MS. A complete history and physical is first on the list when MS is suspected. An MRI of the brain and sometimes of the cervical (neck area) spinal cord may reveal lesions typical of MS. Bloodwork will probably be done to rule out “look alike” diseases such as Lupus, and Sjogren’s. In a few cases, where other tests are inconclusive, a lumbar puncture (spinal tap) may be required.
Is there a cure for MS?
There is no cure yet. However, there are FDA-approved drugs to slow or "modify" the course of the disease. Additionally, there are many technological and therapeutic treatments to assist people in managing symptoms and leading productive lives.
What are the treatments for MS?
There are a number of treatments currently available. To treat the disease itself, there are several injectable drugs available. These are Avonex, Betaseron, Rebif and Copaxone. Intravenous treatments for MS are methylprednisolone (a steroid), Tysabri, Cytoxan, and Novantrone.
How do I make an appointment?
Please call us at (404) 351-0205 option “0” or you may email us at appointment@mscatl.org .
Where are you located?
3200 Downwood Circle, NW Suite 550 Atlanta, GA 30327 in the Buckhead area.
What are your business hours?
Our switchboard is open from 8:00am to 5:00pm.
Which Doctor should I choose?
We have 8 Board Certified Neurologists with a sub-specialty in Multiple Sclerosis to choose from. If you have not been referred to a specific Neurologist, our appointment desk operator will help you to make your selection based on your schedule and ours. If you need to be seen sooner or feel you are having an exacerbation, our recommendation is to see one of our 2 Nurse Practitioners.
What is a Nurse Practitioner?
Nurse Practitioners are unique health care providers. They are registered nurses who have a specialized Master’s Degree in nursing and expertise in patient care. Nurse Practitioners are an integral part of our model of care at the MSCA. They are specially trained in MS care and always work in conjunction with a patient’s attending physician.
What can Nurse Practitioners do?
Assess and manage medical problems. Take health histories and perform procedures and exams. Order tests and interpret test results. Prescribe medications with advice from the physician.
What types of services do Nurse Practitioners at the MSCA provide?
Ongoing assessment and management of MS and its symptoms. Management of exacerbations. Information about medications and their side effects. Counseling and education on health maintenance Programming and refilling of intrathecal pumps.
Do you take my insurance?
While we take many different types of insurance, you should always check with your insurance provider. The number should be on your insurance card to verify coverage. Make sure you have a referral if your insurance requires it.
What if I do not have insurance?
Self-pay is available and our billing department can discuss your options more in depth at (404) 351-0205 option "2", option "4", option "1". We do have a charity care policy available for those who qualify.