2026 Symposium on Multidisciplinary Care of Patients with ALS - Recording

INSTRUCTIONS - START HERE

Wednesday, October 7, 2026, 8:00 AM - Tuesday, August 3, 2027, 11:59 PM, Online


Specialties - Neurology, Rehabilitation
Professions - Occupational Therapist, Occupational Therapy Assistant, Physical Therapist, Physical Therapy Assistant, Speech-Language Pathologist


This course will provide attendees with an improved awareness of the considerations required for best management of patients with ALS and their caregivers. A review of the general disease features and progression will be provided, as well as an update on strategies for symptom management and current medication/respiratory support options. Attendees will be educated on resources and equipment specific to this population, so that all professionals interacting with the patient and caregiver have awareness of the unique considerations and collaboration required for care of this clientele.

SPEAKERS:

Dr. John Novak, Neurologist and Director of the OhioHealth ALS Clinic; Melinda McGuire, ALS United; Lauren Nidiffer, PT; Michelle Wilkes, SLP; Christy Burke, Kris Parrish, and Jennie Thompson, OT.  

AGENDA:
45 minutes: Introduction – overview of symposium and multidisciplinary care.

30 minutes: ALS – diagnosis and pathology of disease

1 hour: Approach to the treatment of patients with ALS including interventions, respiratory care, and importance of reducing diagnostic delays

15 minutes:  Think ALS

30 minutes: PT Considerations for rehab professionals

45 minutes: SLP Considerations for rehab professionals

30 minutes: OT Considerations for rehab professionals

45 minutes: Assistive technology and wheelchair considerations

30 minutes: Home Modifications/Accessibility considerations

30 minutes: ALS United Local resources

15 minutes: Patient perspective

15 minutes: Q&A



Objectives
After completion of this activity, participants will be able to:

  1. Recognize the impact of medical decisions on quality of life.
  2. Identify key considerations in home accessibility, adaptations, and safety with regard to Therapy Interventions.
  3. Define strategies for management of swallowing and communication issues specific to ALS.
  4. Understand the options for the treatment of respiratory issues in ALS.
  5. Understanding where the direction of current ALS research is headed, including a look at alternative treatments.
  6. Appreciate the physical and emotional challenges faced by individuals with ALS
  7. Identify key considerations in equipment, exercise, and safety with Therapy Interventions.


$50 registration fee.



7 CEU approved by the Ohio Physical Therapy Association, Ohio OTPTAT Board - OT Section and the Ohio Board of Speech and Hearing Professionals.   



Non-Physician Attendance (6.00 hours), Ohio Board of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology (6.00 hours), Ohio Physical Therapy Association (6.00 hours)