Question 1

What makes the OhioHealth ALS Clinic different?

Accepted Answer

The OhioHealth ALS Clinic uses a multidisciplinary approach, bringing all your ALS specialists together in one visit, one location. You receive an individualized care plan designed around your needs — without traveling to multiple appointments.

Question 2

Who is part of the ALS care team?

Accepted Answer

Patients are cared for by a specialized team that may include fellowship‑trained neurologists, physical, occupational, speech and respiratory therapists, dietitians, social workers, nurses and a care services coordinator. This team works together to monitor symptoms and support quality of life.

Question 3

What should I expect at an ALS clinic visit?

Accepted Answer

Patients typically visit the ALS Clinic every two to three months. Before your appointment, an ALS nurse calls to understand your needs. During the visit, you stay in one exam room while specialists come to you for consultations and planning.

Question 4

How is care coordinated outside of clinic visits?

Accepted Answer

Care doesn’t stop after your appointment. Between visits, a care services coordinator checks in to monitor symptoms and needs. The clinic team also helps schedule therapy, coordinate referrals and connect families with OhioHealth Home Care and medical equipment when needed.

Question 5

Can I contact the ALS team between visits?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Patients and families have direct access by phone or email to physicians, therapists and the clinic coordinator. Most questions are answered within hours — not days — so concerns can be addressed quickly.

Question 6

Does OhioHealth work with ALS organizations?

Accepted Answer

Yes. OhioHealth shares resources and collaborates closely with ALS United Ohio, helping ensure continuity of care and familiar support both in clinic and through community programs.

Question 7

Are the neurologists experienced in ALS care?

Accepted Answer

Yes. OhioHealth ALS neurologists specialize in identifying ALS, including early and subtle symptoms, and take time to help patients and families understand the disease and make informed care decisions.

Question 8

What is the ALS Rapid Access Clinic?

Accepted Answer

The ALS Rapid Access Clinic helps people with suspected ALS get answers sooner by providing direct access to neuromuscular specialists without unnecessary referral delays. Patients can typically be evaluated within 4 to 6 weeks, helping speed diagnosis and treatment.

Question 9

What are the benefits of the OhioHealth ALS Rapid Access Clinic?

Accepted Answer

Patients receive coordinated care from neuromuscular experts, with access to specialized evaluations, disease-modifying therapies and clinical trial opportunities when appropriate. The clinic also helps streamline care coordination and communication among patients, families and referring providers. For questions, contact the OhioHealth ALS care coordination team at ALSClinic@OhioHealth.com or (614) 788-2458.

Question 10

Why does earlier ALS diagnosis matter?

Accepted Answer

Diagnosis delays can be significant. Earlier evaluation through rapid access means care can begin sooner, symptoms can be managed earlier and patients can plan with greater clarity and support.

Question 11

What is the THINK ALS screening tool?

Accepted Answer

THINK ALS helps providers recognize early signs of ALS, such as speech changes, limb weakness, increased reflexes and primarily motor symptoms. If symptoms are progressive, providers are encouraged to refer patients for specialized evaluation.

Question 12

How do I get referred to the OhioHealth ALS Clinic?

Accepted Answer

If you or a loved one may have ALS, talk with your provider about a referral to the OhioHealth ALS Clinic. Providers can also call the ALS Clinic line at (614) 788‑2458.

Question 13

What is ALS?

Accepted Answer

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), sometimes called Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a progressive disease that affects the nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord that control muscle movement. Over time, these nerve cells stop working, which causes muscles to weaken and shrink. As ALS progresses, it can affect the ability to move, speak, eat and breathe.

There is currently no cure for ALS, and symptoms typically worsen over time. However, treatments and supportive care can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

Question 14

What are the symptoms of ALS?

Accepted Answer

ALS symptoms can vary from person to person, but they often begin with mild muscle weakness and gradually get worse over time. Common early symptoms may include:

Muscle weakness in the arms, legs, hands or feet
Muscle twitching, cramps or stiffness
Trouble walking, tripping or dropping things
Slurred speech or difficulty swallowing As ALS progresses, symptoms may include:
- Increasing muscle weakness and loss of movement
- Difficulty speaking, chewing or swallowing
- Trouble breathing
- Uncontrollable laughing or crying at times

Over time, ALS can lead to a loss of the ability to move independently and perform daily activities, as the muscles needed for movement and breathing become affected.

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