National Multiple Sclerosis Society Inland Northwest Chapter

Programs: Research: to move us closer to a world free of ms, each year the inland nw chapter contributs towards the national multiple sclerosis societys investment of an estimated 48. 3 million to support more than 380 research projects around the world aimed at stopping ms in its tracks, restoring function, and ending the disease forever. The society collaborates worldwide to develop solutions for everyone affected by ms, including a recently launched international progressive ms alliance, and accelerates commercial development of promising research discoveries, new ms therapies and research tools through fast forward.

client services: an extensive variety of programs, services and resources are provided for people living with ms and affected by ms, including family members, caregivers and other members of their support systems. Many community based programs are available to facilitate education, recreation, physical and emotional wellness, connection with others with ms, and family communication. The financial assistance program is comprised of a range of initiatives that support independence, safety, health and quality of life for people living with ms, as well as their families. The program offers guidance and resources to help contain the financial impact of ms.

community program services: the society collaborates with dozens of other community organizations, focusing on access to health care, rehabilitation, treatments and therapies; long-term care; disability rights issues; vocational training and rehab, wellness and fitness; and outreach and education to rural and underserved populations.

society activities: costs associated with funding constituent and community service, public education, and professional education conducted nationwide (beyond the chapters territory) for the benefit of individuals living with multiple sclerosis. This past year, more than 200,000 people living with ms received information, emotional support, and connections to resources and programs through the societys ms navigator program. In addition, more than 100,000 people attended groups and programs, and over 300,000 people engaged in conversations and accessed information and support through the societys social media channels. Public education: there are many ways the society educates the public about multiple sclerosis including the societys annual ms awareness campaign, public service announcements, momentum, the societys flagship magazine distributed quarterly to people with ms, healthcare providers, supporters of the society and more. Chapters also distribute ms connection to their constituents, a regular newsletter that includes local announcements and information on upcoming programs and services, and more. In total, more than one million people receive society publications, newsletters and momentum each year. Professional education and training: professional education and training represents activities or programs designed to improve the knowledge, skills and critical judgment of physicians and other healthcare professionals engaged (directly or indirectly) in providing client services by keeping them abreast of new diagnostic techniques, therapies, etc. The society provides information and education to thousands of health care professionals through the society's clinical care network and website, the society's md on call program, and educational materials for physical and occupational therapists, mental health professionals, nurses and cna's and others. A free electronic newsletter is distributed quarterly to more than 10,000 health care professionals, and the society's diagnostic and symptom management smartphone app has been downloaded nearly 12,000 times.