Your GP will usually be your first point of contact. In some countries there are Parkinson’s Disease Nurse Specialists who act as a ‘bridge’ between you and your doctor, answering queries or referring you to other professionals who can help.
There are many other professionals you can request to see, often referred to as the multidisciplinary team (MDT). The MDT is a group of specially-trained professionals which your doctor will bring together to treat each of your symptoms, including the emotional and psychological, as well as the physical. Using their various skills they can help you to manage your condition as effectively as possible. The team’s wide ranging expertise will enable them to advise on a number of aspects of Parkinson’s which specifically affect you, from medication and mobility to drooling and diet.
Remember that you are a key part of the team and it’s important to try and build good relationships with all involved, so that you feel comfortable in discussing any problems that you may have. The MDT will want to include you in making decisions about your care, and by monitoring your symptoms and how effective treatment is will be invaluable information to them.
If you are interested in seeing the multidisciplinary team you will need to speak to your doctor who should be able to arrange this on your behalf.
The professionals who are part of your team may vary depending on the country in which you live, there is no standard template for who is included in the MDT and professional titles may vary between countries too. Moreover, the MDT members will vary depending on your individual needs and will change as the illness progresses.
