“Tinkers to Evers to Chance”. Maybe the most famous Double Play combination in MLB history! Now granted, that was 1905 to 1910 and perhaps a bit “Dated” for this audience. Maybe a more recent example of Trammell to Whitaker to Any Schmoe, of the 1977 to 1995 Detroit Tigers, who hold the Major League record of 1,918 Double Plays works better for most. Either way, the importance of your Medical Team combination, can not be under stated when fighting for your life.  

When facing a rare and fatal disease like Multiple System Atrophy (MSA), the journey can be overwhelming, filled with uncertainty and fear. But amidst the darkness, there is a glimmer of hope that can shine brighter than ever – a strong medical team. In this post, we’ll explore the vital role played by three key players in the fight against MSA: your Primary Care Physician (PCP), your Neurologist, and an experienced Clinical Neurologist who specializes in your rare disease.

The Beginning of the Journey

For many of us diagnosed with MSA, the initial diagnosis can be a shock. We find ourselves navigating uncharted territory, often with little knowledge of the disease or its progression. This is where our first hero comes into play – the Primary Care Physician (PCP). Your PCP is your first line of defense, the healthcare professional who knows you best and coordinates your overall care. While they may not be specialists in MSA, they play a crucial role in recognizing symptoms, conducting initial tests, and referring you to the right specialists. Many PCP’s won’t even know what MSA is. It’s that much of mystery in the Medical field.

The Neurologist’s Expertise

As MSA is a neurological disorder, the role of a Neurologist cannot be overstated. A skilled Neurologist is well-equipped to identify the specific neurological symptoms of MSA and begin the process of diagnosis and treatment. They are your guide through the complex world of neurological testing, MRI scans, and other essential assessments. A strong partnership with your Neurologist is essential for managing MSA effectively.

The Rare Disease Specialist

MSA is an exceptionally rare disease, and not all Neurologists have experience in treating it. This is where the third member of our lifesaving triad comes into play – the experienced Clinical Neurologist who specializes in Parkinson’s Disease and associated Parkinsonism’s like MSA. Finding such a specialist can be challenging, but it’s a pursuit worth every effort. These experts possess in-depth knowledge of MSA, its various subtypes, and the most up-to-date treatment options, like current Clinical Stem Cell trials. They can provide invaluable insights and tailor your treatment plan to your unique needs.

The Importance of Perseverance

While building this dream team of healthcare professionals is crucial, it’s equally important to highlight that it might not happen overnight. The journey towards finding the right PCP, Neurologist, and MSA specialist can be a challenging one, marked by misdiagnoses, dead ends, and frustration. But remember, your life is worth the search. Don’t settle for less when it comes to your healthcare.

A Unified Front Against MSA

In the battle against MSA, it’s not just about individual expertise; it’s about the synergy between your PCP, Neurologist, and specialist. They need to work together seamlessly, sharing insights and collaborating on your treatment plan. As a patient, you are the captain of this team, and your role is to ensure open communication and coordination among them.

Conclusion

Facing a disease like MSA is undoubtedly one of life’s greatest challenges. However, with the right medical team by your side, it becomes a battle that’s not just worth fighting but one that can be won. Your PCP, Neurologist, and an experienced Clinical Neurologist specializing in MSA are the superheroes you need in this journey. So, don’t give up. Keep searching until you find your dream team, and together, you can defy the odds and find hope amid the darkness of MSA. If you are in or around Newport Beach CA, here is the contact information, for my Dream Team. Call them asap and get started on your journey of hope. You can tell them “Coach” sent you 😉

Dr. Nancy Love, MD (PCP)

Dr. Mindy Kaye Bixby, DO (Neurologist)

Dr. Michele Tagliati, MD (Specialist)