The role of family physician in the diagnosis, treatment, monitoring and rehabilitation of patients with multiple sclerosis

Abstract:

The number of patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) in Croatia is on the rise and their age range is increasing. MS is caused by multiple factors, and the clinical presentation is very diverse. The family physician approaches the patient and his problem holistically. An additional advantage compared to other specializations is the long-term relationship with patients and their families. Within its activitiesthe family physician has a unique possibility of preventive action, diagnostics, treatment, monitoring and rehabilitation of the patient. In doing so, the support of the health care system, the patient’s family and society as a whole is necessary. Timely diagnosis, active treatment and rehabilitation can lead to an improvement in the expected treatment outcomes. For the success and uniformity of treatment procedures and methods, it is necessary to form and agree on a set of guidelines based on current scientific evidences and to harmonize administrative procedures within the public health system with them.

Key words:
family doctor; multiple sclerosis; patient engagement; rehabilitation; role of the family; treatment procedure