The Power of Choice: Advancing MS Care Through Expanded Options for People with MS and HCPs
Paulo Fontoura
Experienced Pharma R&D Leader, Physician-Scientist and Board Member
As a neurologist, I have had the immense privilege of working to improve the understanding of the distinctly significant – and ever evolving – impact of multiple sclerosis (MS) on the lives of those living with this disease.?
Importantly, this has been rooted in the desire to introduce new scientific innovations that can better manage the impact of MS on the day-to-day life of people living with MS.?
As we continue to see prevalence rates increase, with an estimated 2.8 million people globally now living with MS, the need for a variety of management strategies adapted to patient needs has never been more critical. To address this, I believe that increasing optionality in managing MS holds immense promise in enabling patients to focus more on their lives, and less on their disease.
Taking into consideration all factors when it comes to disease management
When it comes to the management of a chronic condition like MS, personalisation is key.
It’s important that we remember that each person living with MS has unique needs and preferences and a one-size-fits-all approach may not always be best suited to them and their lives.
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Personal preferences and lifestyle factors are critical in determining the best course of care. For neurologists and? care providers, it’s important? to have open dialogues with their patients. These conversations should take into consideration a patient’s long-term health goals and lifestyle priorities, so that they can be more assured? that treatment plans will minimally disrupt their lives, while enabling more time for the things that matter most, both now and in the future. This personalisation and understanding of patients’ specific needs is fundamental in improving both patient quality of life and outcomes, such as disease progression.
Roche’s unwavering commitment to the MS community?
I am proud to be part of Roche’s ongoing commitment to the MS community, and we’ve made significant strides in recent years to improve the treatment of MS through continued innovation and research.
We are steadfast in our belief that, in partnership with the MS community , colleagues and industry, we will not only understand the true needs of people with MS, but also? continue to advance the science and? doors to new options that can make a meaningful difference in their lives.
As a closing thought – I’d like to hear from you, where do you see the greatest opportunity in expanding optionality across the MS management landscape, and its value for people with MS?