New Center Focuses on Treatment of Multiple Sclerosis
 ort Sanders Parkwest and Fort Sanders Regional Medical Centers have opened a new multiple sclerosis center focusing on the diagnosis and treatment of symptoms and disabilities associated with MS. The center is the first of its kind in East Tennessee and will offer a variety of services in two convenient clinic locations.
 More than 350,000 Americans have been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, a neurological disorder that generally affects people between the ages of 20 and 50. Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disease which affects the central nervous system by destroying myelin, the covering surrounding the nerves in the brain and spinal cord.
Symptoms of MS can include visual problems, bowel and bladder complications, partial or complete paralysis, speech and swallowing difficulties, and cognitive and memory problems. Symptoms vary in intensity, frequency and duration. Some people experience only minor symptoms while others show progressive long-term dysfunction. MS patients often have limited endurance and chronic fatigue. Multiple sclerosis affects more women than men, and Tennessee has a relatively high incidence of the disease.
The Multiple Sclerosis Center's early intervention program is aimed at slowing disease progression, relieving disability, and promoting wellness and independence. Diagnostic testing and treatment will be led by the center's medical directors. Berta Bergia, M.D., a board certified neurologist, will direct the MS clinic team at Parkwest Medical Center in West Knoxville. Sibyl Wray, M.D., also a board certified neurologist, will direct the clinic at Fort Sanders Regional Medical Center in downtown Knoxville.
With the availability of services at these two outpatient clinics, MS patients may face fewer hospital stays. They can receive state-of-the-art medical care while remaining at home or on the job with minimal disruption to their daily routines.
Services offered at the MS Center clinics include physical, occupational and speech therapy, psychological services, social services, and education, as well as referrals for fitness/wellness programs, home health, durable medical equipment, and the opportunity to participate in clinical drug trials.
The Fort Sanders MS Center worked closely with the National Multiple Sclerosis Society – Tennessee Chapter in designing the center. The two organizations will continue to share referral and clinical trial information, along with foster family and community support resources.
For more information about the Fort Sanders Multiple Sclerosis Center call Judy Hester, R.N., at 541-1984. Some medical coverage may require a referral from a primary care physician for appointments.
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