Comprehensive ALS Center
A collaborative approach to ALS treatment and management
The Penn Medicine Comprehensive ALS Center has been providing compassionate care to individuals living with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) since 1999. Guided by specialists with unparallelled expertise in diagnosing and treating ALS, our Center provides advanced neurodiagnostic testing and a thorough review of each patient’s medical history to ensure optimal care and outcomes.
ALS manifests differently from person to person and can affect different parts of the body and progress at various stages. For this reason, the team – which is made up of experts who specialize in neurology, pulmonology, nursing, physical and occupational therapy, speech therapy, nutrition, social service, and genetic counseling – works together closely and seamlessly to make sure we’re taking care of all our patients’ needs.
Compassionate services and support for ALS patients
Patients who choose Penn Medicine for ALS treatment benefit from the most personalized care throughout their journey. Our services include coordinated care with primary physicians, ongoing individualized care, research opportunities, and education about the disease process and the latest research initiatives for both patients and their families. Specialized services such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy and nutrition are also available.
Genetic testing and counseling for ALS risk assessment
Approximately 10% of all ALS cases have a genetic component. Known as familial ALS (FALS), many patients have a family history of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Parkinsonism, young onset or atypical dementia, or atypical psychiatric disease, making genetic testing critical to understanding their risk of developing the disease. We offer onsite genetic counseling to guide patients and families through the often-difficult process of making decisions about genetic testing and interpreting test results.
Advancing ALS research
Penn Medicine is at the forefront of genetic research, striving to expand therapeutic options for ALS patients, ultimately enhancing symptom management and quality of life for individuals affected by the disease. As members of the Clinical Research in ALS and Related Disorders for Therapeutic Development (CReATe) Consortium, our providers actively participate in studies that contribute to advancing knowledge of ALS and paving the way for improved therapies and diagnostic methods.
Comprehensive ALS care for veterans at the VA clinic
For military veterans with ALS, Penn Medicine operates a multidisciplinary clinic at the Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical Center. Our clinic, located at 3900 Woodland Avenue in Philadelphia, is staffed by a diverse team, including neurologists, palliative care nurse practitioners, respiratory therapists, and representatives from the Paralyzed Veterans of America. For those unable to visit the clinic in person, secure telemedicine visits are available.