CHERRY HILL, N.J., June 15, 2005 (PRIMEZONE) -- The Multiple Sclerosis Association of America (MSAA) is proud to announce the continuation of one of its most popular programs -- the MRI Institute. This program is designed to help financially challenged people with multiple sclerosis (MS) obtain a MRI (magnetic resonance imaging). The Institute is supported by Serono, Inc. and Pfizer, Inc, co-marketers of the MS therapy Rebif(r) (interferon beta-1a). Since its inception, the MRI Institute has helped over 800 individuals who have MS obtain an MRI. The donation from Serono, Inc. and Pfizer, Inc. will allow MSAA to expand the Institute to provide almost 500 MRIs this year alone. Also, for the first time ever, the MRI Institute will offer support for cervical spine MRIs. Applications for the MRI Institute are available by calling MSAA at (800) 532-7667, extension 120.
In a survey conducted by MSAA last fall, 250 individuals who received MRIs through the Institute clearly demonstrated the benefits of getting an MRI to monitor the status of their MS. Over 80% of those responding to the survey took one or more positive steps to more effectively manage their MS. These changes included making lifestyle changes (diet, exercise, etc.), seeking out information from MS experts, and making important decisions in consultation with their physicians on appropriate treatments after receiving the results of the MRI.
"Today, the MRI is recognized as one of our most powerful tools to gauge the effectiveness of therapy and monitor the progress of the disease," explained MSAA's Vice President for Programs & Services Robert Rapp. "Going from 200 MRIs in a year-and-a-half to 400 in a 12-month period is a remarkable step. This expansion planned for 2005 provides a greater opportunity for individuals facing the many challenges of MS to more easily manage the treatment of the disease."
During the 2004 calendar year MSAA paid for or provided other assistance for 390 MRIs for MS patients. MSAA started the MRI Institute in fall of 2002 to help uninsured and underinsured individuals with MS obtain MRIs to aid in their treatment. MSAA has fully or partially funded these MRIs with the assistance of a nationwide network of more than 1000 imaging centers that offer MRIs to the Institute at a reduced rate. Advocacy services are also available for those with MS who are having difficulty obtaining approval for a follow-up MRI through their insurance carriers.
"We are pleased to be able to continue supporting the MSAA MRI Institute in its important mission to provide increased access to MRIs," says Carole Huntsman, vice president of marketing for Serono, Inc. "With greater access to MRIs, physicians have an additional tool to help them monitor and manage MS activity and treatment response over the long-term."
The MRI Institute is open to anyone in the United States with a confirmed diagnosis of multiple sclerosis. Individuals with MS who would like to participate need documentation of financial need and a written request from their physician for an MRI. Additional information can be found on MSAA's website at www.msaa.com.
The Multiple Sclerosis Association of America is a national nonprofit charitable organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for people affected by multiple sclerosis. MSAA offers programs and services including a toll-free Helpline (1-800-532-7667); support groups; equipment ranging from grab bars to wheelchairs; home modifications; MRI funding and insurance advocacy; educational literature including a quarterly magazine, The Motivator; Lending Library; cooling program for heat-sensitive individuals; awareness events, and more.
The most common neurological disorder diagnosed in young adults, multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disease of the central nervous system. This disorder damages or destroys the protective covering (known as myelin) surrounding the nerves, causing reduced communication between the brain and nerve pathways. Common symptoms include visual problems, overwhelming fatigue, difficulty with balance and coordination, and various levels of impaired mobility. MS is not contagious or fatal.
The Multiple Sclerosis Association of America logo can be found at http://www.primezone.com/newsroom/prs/?pkgid=1392