The neurodegenerative disease amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), or Lou Gehrig's disease, causes the progressive loss of motor neurons in the muscles that control voluntary movement. The nerve cells that control voluntary muscle movements such as walking and talking are affected by ALS. In addition to muscle weakness, twitching, cramps, stiffness, slurred speech, difficulty swallowing, breathing problems, and cognitive or behavioral changes, ALS symptoms vary from person to person. ALS cannot be cured, but treatments are available to slow down its progression and improve patients' quality of life.
In direct primary care (DPC), patients receive unlimited access to their primary care physician for a flat fee every month. Patients and doctors are able to establish a direct and personal relationship without the middlemen of insurance companies and third-party payers. As a primary care provider, DPC offers a variety of services, including clinical and laboratory services, consultative services, care coordination, and comprehensive care management.
Patients with ALS may benefit from DPC in several ways, including:
With fewer patients than traditional primary care doctors, DPC doctors can spend more time with each patient. This allows them to listen to your concerns, understand your medical history, perform a thorough physical examination, and provide personalized care and advice. A doctor can also be reached by phone, text, email, or video chat at any time.
More comprehensive care: DPC doctors can provide a variety of services for your ALS, such as diagnosis, treatment options, medication management, lifestyle counseling, and referral to specialists. Additionally, they can help you navigate the health care system and coordinate your care with other providers.
Because DPC doctors do not accept insurance or bill third parties, they can offer transparent and fair pricing for their services and pass those savings on to you. In addition to saving money on copays, deductibles, and coinsurance, you can also get discounted prices on medications, labs, imaging, and other tests through your DPC doctor.
Some of the ways in which DPC can improve ALS patients' outcomes and satisfaction are as follows:
Controlling your ALS symptoms better: You can diagnose and treat your ALS faster if you have more time and access to your doctor. You can also get regular follow-ups and adjustments to your treatment plan as needed. This can help you reduce your symptoms and improve your quality of life.
By taking more comprehensive care from your doctor, you are more likely to prevent or treat complications that may arise from your ALS. As an example, you can receive treatment for infections or other conditions caused by your impaired immune system as well as psychological and emotional support.
A more affordable doctor can help you avoid the financial stress and hassle that come with traditional primary care, leading to a better level of satisfaction with your care. You can also enjoy the convenience and flexibility of contacting your doctor whenever you need them. You can also build a long-term relationship with your doctor who knows you well and cares about you.
You can create a personalized ALS management plan with DPC that suits your needs and preferences. Your DPC doctor will help you create a plan that includes:
You will receive a detailed assessment of your condition, including the stage and progression of your ALS, the possible causes, risk factors, and the impact on your physical and mental health.
It may include medications such as riluzole or edaravone, non-drug therapies such as physical therapy or speech therapy, or clinical trials for new treatments.
Based on your goals, expectations, medical history, allergies, and other factors, we recommend the best treatment option for you.
Medications prescribed or referrals to specialists if necessary.
Keeping track of your progress and response to treatment through regular visits or virtual check-ins.
If necessary, your treatment plan will be modified based on your feedback or changes in your health.
Counseling on how to cope with ALS challenges and changes.
As a famous quote says: “Life is 10% what happens to me and 90% how I react to it.” ALS is a challenging condition that affects millions of people around the world. With DPC, you can have a partner in managing your ALS who will help you react positively and live a fulfilling life.
