A spatial analysis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) cases in the United States and their proximity to multidisciplinary ALS clinics, 2013.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal motor neuron disease that typically results in death within 2-5 years of initial symptom onset. Multidisciplinary ALS clinics (MDCs) have been established to provide specialty care to people living with the disease.

Objective

To estimate the proximity of ALS prevalence cases to the nearest MDC in the US to help evaluate one aspect of access to care.

Methods

Using 2013 prevalence data from the National ALS Registry, cases were geocoded by city using geographic information system (GIS) software, along with the locations of all MDCs in operation during 2013. Case-to-MDC proximity was calculated and analyzed by sex, race, and age group.

Results

During 2013, there were 72 MDCs in operation in 30 different sta

SUBMITTER: Horton DK 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5815888 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature