ABSTRACT
As a chronic neurodegenerative disease, Parkinson's disease requires a close cooperation between different specialist disciplines in order to ensure the best possible quality of life for patients. A problem that has been identified is the inadequate communication between the protagonists (e.g. caregivers, physicians and therapists), especially at the sectoral interfaces. Due to structural hurdles, the current process and supply chains for Parkinson's disease do not reflect successful cross-sectoral care. Against the background of the new Digital Care Act in Germany that refunds patient-centered digital healthcare applications (DiGA), innovative, digital care and communication structures can now be established and thus comprehensively revolutionize the care of chronic diseases, such as Parkinson's disease. In this review examples and case application scenarios are presented and critically discussed.
Subject(s)
Neurodegenerative Diseases , Parkinson Disease , Caregivers , Germany , Humans , Parkinson Disease/diagnosis , Parkinson Disease/therapy , Quality of LifeABSTRACT
Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is a highly efficient, evidence-based therapy for a set of neurological and psychiatric conditions and especially movement disorders such as Parkinson's disease, essential tremor and dystonia. Recent developments have improved the DBS technology. However, no unequivocal algorithms for an optimized postoperative care exist so far. The aim of this review is to provide a synopsis of the current clinical practice and to propose guidelines for postoperative and rehabilitative care of patients who undergo DBS. A standardized work-up in the DBS centers adapted to each patient's clinical state and needs is important, including a meticulous evaluation of clinical improvement and residual symptoms with a definition of goals for neurorehabilitation. Efficient and complete information transfer to subsequent caregivers is essential. A coordinated therapy within a multidisciplinary team (trained in movement disorders and DBS) is needed to achieve the long-range maximal efficiency. An optimized postoperative framework might ultimately lead to more effective results of DBS.
