Academic Centers: A Double-Edged Sword in Neurological Care
Academic medical centers are uniquely positioned to lead in neurological care,serving as hubs for specialists and cutting-edge treatments for diseases like multiple sclerosis and Alzheimer’s. Though, this concentration of expertise creates notable access challenges, leading to inequities in care.
While these centers excel in diagnosis and understanding teh latest scientific advancements, their location frequently enough requires substantial travel – a barrier for many patients. Factors like transportation, time off work, and distance, notably during inclement weather, limit access for those who need it most. This results in lengthy wait times, sometimes several months, for appointments.
In neurological disease,”Time is Brain,” meaning delays in diagnosis and treatment can exacerbate damage and worsen outcomes. Recognizing this paradox, academic centers have a responsibility to expand their reach beyond direct patient care. This includes forging innovative partnerships to ensure broader access to neurological expertise throughout their region and state, ultimately striving for more equitable healthcare delivery.
