MCG ALS Clinic
The MCGHealth Neuroscience Center and The ALS Association of Georgia, Inc. (ALSA of GA) joined forces in 2004 to create the MCGHealth ALS Clinic, a major initiative to serve ALS patients and their families in the Central Savannah River Area and beyond. The MCGHealth ALS Clinic is one of 31 nationally certified ALS practice sites in the United States and the only one in Georgia. The MCGHealth ALS Clinic features a comprehensive, coordinated approach to patient care. While patients and caregivers stay in the comfort of private treatment rooms, specialists address the unique concerns of ALS. What is ALS?
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), commonly known as "Lou Gehrig's disease," is a progressive neuromuscular disease that attacks, and eventually kills, the nerve cells and pathways in the brain and spinal cord. ALS inhibits all voluntary muscle action, leaving individuals paralyzed while mental faculties and senses remain unaffected. The MCGHealth ALS Team
Physicians
Once a diagnosis is made, each patient is assigned to one of these physicians and will see this same physician during each clinic visit. Physical Therapy
A physical therapist will assess the patient's needs for physical therapy, provide treatments, and recommend home exercises as needed. Occupational Therapy
An occupational therapist will assess the patient's need for occupational therapy and train the patient on the use of assistance devices. Respiratory Therapy
A respiratory therapist will assess the patient's needs and provide necessary treatments or equipment. Registered Dietitian
A registered dietitian will train patients and caregivers on the special nutritional needs of ALS patients. Nurse Manager
A specialist works with all patients and caregivers to coordinate an efficient response to needs identified during each clinic visit. Speech Therapy
A speech therapist will work with patients to improve speech patterns. Social Work
A social worker is available to assist with management community resources and hospital services. Augmentative Communication
A specialist is available to explain augmentative devices and to train patients on the use of this equipment.  The ALSA of GA
Staff members from ALSA of GA are available to discuss the programs and services provided by the organization. To contact ALSA of GA, call 888-636-9940 or visit www.alsaga.org. MCGHealth ALS Support Group Meetings
The ALS Support Group is an essential tool in helping patients, families, friends and caregivers of those effected by ALS. These informal meetings provide opportunities for individuals to share their personal experiences and learn more about strategies for preserving the independence and quality of life for ALS patients and their loved ones. Participants learn they are neither alone nor without help. Meetings are free and open to all patients, family members and friends. Second Thursday of each month
11 a.m.- 2 p.m.
MCGHealth Ambulatory Care Center, 1447 Harper Street
4th Floor, Room BP-4306 Lunch is provided. To reserve a spot, please call the ALS Association of Georgia at 888-636-9940.
To learn more
For more information or to schedule an appointment with the MCGHealth ALS Clinic, call 706-721-2681 or 800-736-CARE (2273). |