Multiple sclerosis care units in Latin America: Consensus recommendations about its objectives and functioning implementation

Abstract

Objective Currently, there are several reasons to promote worldwide the concept of multiple sclerosis care units (MSCU) for a better management of affected patients. Ideally, the MSCU should have some human and technical resources that distinguish and improve the care of affected patients; however, local, and regional aspects should be considered when recommending how these units should operate. The objective of these consensus recommendations was to review how MSCU should work in Latin America to improve long-term outcomes in MS patients.

Methods A panel of neurology experts from Latin America dedicated to the diagnosis and care of MS patients gathered virtually during 2019 and 2020 to carry out a consensus recommendation about objectives and functioning implementation of MSCU in Latin America. To achieve consensus, the methodology of “formal consensus-RAND/UCLA method” was used.

Results Recommendations focused on the objectives, human and technical resources, and the general functioning that MSCU should have in Latin America.

Conclusions The recommendations of these consensus guidelines attempt to optimize the health care and management of MS patients by setting how MSCU should work in our region.