Because it is a gene-based disorder, the importance and the role of the patient's family cannot be underscored. The Huntington's Disease Program offers medical care for the patient, but also hope and solace for the family. Our goal is to help families cope with the disease. Initial evaluation consists of consultations with Drs. Duffy and Deckel.
Patients also consult with the psychiatric nurse and the program social worker.
Depending on the individual's needs, further consultations may be made with the geneticist, the neurologist and members of the rehabilitation team. Once the initial assessment is completed, a treatment plan is devised and presented to the patient and his family members. Patients may decide to pursue further care with the Huntington's disease program or with their own physicians. If immediate medical care is warranted, program staff will help patients find that care in their communities. The Huntington's disease program also contains a research component, compiling data and clinical information that may someday lead to more effective treatments or perhaps even a cure.