We are thrilled to share some incredible news that directly impacts our practice and the care we provide to our patients. The World Health Organization (WHO) has taken a significant step forward by including essential medicines for MS on the Essential Medicines List (EML) in 2023. This decision marks a momentous occasion in the global healthcare community, providing hope and improved access to treatment for the approximately 2.8 million people worldwide affected by this chronic and debilitating disease.
Three essential medicines have been approved for the treatment of multiple sclerosis and added to the WHO EML. These medications have shown promising results in delaying or slowing the progression of MS, making them crucial additions to our treatment options.
Read more about the endorsement here.
The WHO Essential Medicines List (EML) is a vital tool that guides governments, health facilities, and procurers in making informed decisions about which medicines offer the best value in terms of benefits for individuals and communities. It is a comprehensive list of the most essential and cost-effective medicines needed in a health system to address priority health conditions.
By adding these essential medicines to the EML, the WHO aims to improve access to treatment for people living with MS worldwide. The inclusion of different medicines with varying routes of administration, prices, and recommended uses provides flexibility in choosing the most appropriate treatment for individual patients and different healthcare settings. This will lead to greater equity and affordability, making treatment more accessible to those in need.
The endorsement of essential medicines for multiple sclerosis by the WHO is a monumental achievement with profound implications for people with MS worldwide. The Multiple Sclerosis International Federation (MSIF) played a crucial role in advocating for the inclusion of these vital medications on the Essential Medicines List (EML).
Through tireless efforts, MSIF raised awareness about the unmet needs of MS patients and the urgency of improved access to effective treatments. Their collaboration with healthcare professionals, policymakers, and patient communities emphasized the importance of expanding treatment options for MS.The incorporation of cladribine, glatiramer acetate, and rituximab on the EML signifies a momentous achievement, bringing hope to people with MS globally. As MS nurses, we are deeply grateful for MSIF's dedication and commitment to advocating for better treatment options and improved access to care for MS patients.
Read more about MSIF's efforts here.
The WHO's endorsement of essential medicines for multiple sclerosis is a significant milestone that holds the promise of transforming the lives of millions of people living with this condition. As MS nurses, we stand at the forefront of this change, ready to embrace the opportunities it brings and provide exceptional care to our patients. With the addition of these three game-changing medicines, we can offer improved treatment options, better outcomes, and brighter prospects for those affected by multiple sclerosis.
